Should I pack beach towels or buy them there?

Pack a quick-dry travel towel if flying—it saves luggage space and resort towels often have restrictions. Buy regular beach towels if driving or staying somewhere without provided towels.

How much sunscreen should I bring?

Pack 1 bottle per person per week of beach time. A family of 4 goes through 2-3 bottles in a week-long beach vacation. Resort prices are 2-3x higher than home, so bring extra.

Do I need water shoes for every beach destination?

Yes for rocky coasts, coral reefs, and many international beaches. Sandy beaches in developed areas may not need them, but they're lightweight insurance against sharp shells and hot sand.

Can I pack aerosol sunscreen in checked luggage?

Yes, but not in carry-on. Aerosol containers over 3.4 oz must go in checked bags. Solid or lotion sunscreens have no restrictions and work better in wind anyway.

What to Pack for a Beach Vacation

Pack 2-3 swimsuits, reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+), a wide-brimmed hat, and quick-dry clothing. Bring a waterproof phone case and pack everything in a beach bag that closes securely. Most beach destinations have shops for forgotten items, but sunscreen and swimwear cost 2-3x more at resort stores.

Start with swimwear basics. Pack 2-3 swimsuits so you always have a dry one. Bring one conservative option for local customs and one sporty option for activities. Pack a cover-up that works as both beachwear and casual dining attire.
Sun protection is non-negotiable. Pack reef-safe sunscreen SPF 30 or higher (mineral-based with zinc oxide). Bring a wide-brimmed hat that won't blow off, UV-protective sunglasses, and a lightweight long-sleeve shirt for midday coverage. Many destinations ban chemical sunscreens, so check local rules.
Choose the right clothing. Pack quick-dry shorts, breathable cotton or linen shirts, and sandals that work on sand. Bring one nice outfit for dinner and flip-flops for the beach. Avoid white clothing that shows sand and salt stains.
Water and sand essentials. Pack a waterproof phone case, dry bag for valuables, and a beach towel (unless your accommodation provides them). Bring a reusable water bottle and snorkeling gear if you plan to use it daily—rental costs add up quickly.
Pack smart for activities. Include water shoes for rocky beaches, a beach umbrella or pop-up tent for shade, and a mesh bag for wet items. Pack a small cooler bag if you plan beach picnics. Leave cotton socks at home—they take forever to dry in humid conditions.

Should I pack beach towels or buy them there?: Pack a quick-dry travel towel if flying—it saves luggage space and resort towels often have restrictions. Buy regular beach towels if driving or staying somewhere without provided towels.
How much sunscreen should I bring?: Pack 1 bottle per person per week of beach time. A family of 4 goes through 2-3 bottles in a week-long beach vacation. Resort prices are 2-3x higher than home, so bring extra.
Do I need water shoes for every beach destination?: Yes for rocky coasts, coral reefs, and many international beaches. Sandy beaches in developed areas may not need them, but they're lightweight insurance against sharp shells and hot sand.
Can I pack aerosol sunscreen in checked luggage?: Yes, but not in carry-on. Aerosol containers over 3.4 oz must go in checked bags. Solid or lotion sunscreens have no restrictions and work better in wind anyway.