Heading out on a Beach vacation soon, but not sure what to pack? Not to worry, this post provides the ultimate beach vacation packing list that covers everything you need to spend time on the beach worry-free. 

7 Day Beach Vacation Packing List

Beach Essentials

What differentiates this packing list from your standard packing list is the beach-specific items that you need to take along with you. In this section we’ll get into details on the essential beach items, and further down you’ll details on what to pack for women, men, and for babies.

Sandproof Picnic Mat

No one likes carrying home sand with them, right? Well the cool thing about this mat is that the sand just falls right off when you pick it up. This mat measures 83×79 inches, which means that it is big enough for the whole family. In addition, this mat is lightweight and easy to fold up, meaning that you can take it with you anywhere. I should also mention that in addition to being sandproof, it is also dirtproof, allowing for ridiculously easy cleanup. 

Beach Canopy

While some enjoy sitting in the sun all day long, it’s not actually the best thing for your skin. Bring your own shade by packing a beach canopy. What I love about this one is that it can be set up in a few different ways, to account for the changing position of the sun. 

To keep it sturdy, it comes with a mini shovel and custom sand anchors. Don’t worry, setup is easy though. And can withstand strong winds and crashing waves, keeping your canopy in place all day.

Microfiber Towels

Do you hate that your regular towels take up so much space? Well you should certainly consider getting some microfiber towels to take along your next beach vacation. What I love about them is that they are much thinner than regular towels, but just as effective in getting you dry. As an added benefit, they dry very quickly and are lightweight as well. 

Waterproof Phone Pouch

Even if you don’t plan to do underwater photos, it’s always a great idea to do what you can to keep your phone safe from the elements (and your wet hands). I like these waterproof pouches because they are effective, yet easy to use. One thing to note though, there is no protection for deep water diving. So be sure to just keep them in the shallow edge of the “pool” if you will. 

Beach Bag 

The beach bag is pretty much an essential part of the beach going experience. What is great about this Mesh Beach Tote Bag, is that it has a built-in cooler. You should be able to fit in your snacks, swimwear, towels and reading materials in addition to cool beverages given its larger size. It comes in several colors, including teal, black, pink, and white so that you get the one that is the most “you”. 

Beach Chair

Some of us prefer to sit in a beach chair to laying out on a towel for most of the day. If the weight and size of a carrying a beach chair has been holding you back, then look no further than Cliq Camping Chair. Known as the “most funded portable chair in crowdfunding history”, this chair folds up to the size of a water bottle! This chair sets up in about 5 seconds, and can handle up to 300 pounds. 

Beach Cup Holders

Worried about your beverages falling over while hanging out on the sand? This set of 4 beach cup holders feature feet that permit them to stand up easily. In addition each has a bottle opener at the bottom, so you won’t have to worry about carrying one of those separately. What’s great is that you can use these to hold your other valuables while on the beach as well. 

Snorkel

If you are heading to a beach that has at least some reefs, you’ll be missing out if you don’t bring your snorkel along. This snorkel by Greatever, is anti-fog and leak-proof. It’s also eco-friendly, being made of food-grade silicone. 

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are essential for any trip that comes with a lot of sun. Don’t forget to bring your “sunnies” to keep your eyes safe from the sun’s rays as well as help with overall visibility.

Beach Clothing for Women

One of the most fun parts about going to the beach is the attire that you wear at the beach. Nothing like being able to wear close to nothing in the hot sun. Here are a few beach essentials that you need to take with you:

One Piece Swimsuit

I don’t know about you, but I was so glad when the one piece swimsuit came back in style. It really takes off the pressure on trying to work on those abs, right? This feminine suit by CUPSHE is adorable, and flattering on many body types. 

Bikini

Another gift to the swimsuit world has been the high-waisted bikini bottom. This swimsuit by TemptMe has a cute halter top and printed bottom, and really has that vintage feel. 

Cover-Up

A flowy and lightweight dress is the perfect option for a beach coverup. This coverup by AS Rose Rich just screams vacation, don’t you think? And it comes in a variety of colors too.

Beach Sarong

Another option to the cover-up is getting a sarong. The great thing about sarongs is that you can tie them so many ways and that you can use them as a make-shift towel if needed. This sarong is just beautiful, isn’t it?

Beach Hat

A great way to keep yourself safe from the sun (and still stylish) is to bring along a nice big beach hat. I love this hat by Lazom because it is large and floppy and comes in a variety of colors. The black really speaks to me, but perhaps you prefer straw and/or some wording on your hat.

Flip-Flops

If there is one area where I think you should be a bit cheap is on the flip flops you bring to the beach. They don’t tend to last too long, given the sand, but definitely a beach necessity. 

Swim Shoes

Now sometimes flip flops just won’t cut it. Especially if you plan to spend time snorkeling at the beach and the beach is rocky and/or full of coral reefs. To be on the safe side, it’s a good idea to take swim shoes along with you as well. And pro tip: make sure these fit you snugly, they’ll just be added weight to your feet if they are too big. 

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Beach Clothing for Men

For you gents out there, here are the essential items that you should carry with you on your beach vacation: 

Swim Trunks

These shorts by Kanu come in a variety of colors, so you can find the one that best suits your style. They feature an elastic waist, cargo pockets, and a mesh lining on the inside. In addition, they are lightweight, dry quickly, and offer protection from the sun.

Swim Shirt

Now, it’s possible you haven’t used one of these before, but a swim shirt is a great addition to your standard beach swimwear. What are the benefits, you ask? Well this swim shirt by Speedo offers UV protection, is water resistant, and quick drying. In addition, it is pilling proof, which means you’ll get to use it for a long time.