Saturday, September 13, 2025

What to Pack for a Seashore Trip: A Full Guidelines

As somebody who lives in Los Angeles and travels typically for work, each with and with out my household, I spend numerous time on the seashore—from weekday escapes round California seashore locales like Santa Monica and Malibu, to sun-soaked seashore locations all over the world. I most lately visited French Polynesia and Mexico and will probably be heading to Bodrum and Kos subsequent. Over time, I’ve honed my seashore bag necessities all the way down to what actually works: objects which are purposeful, sturdy, and make the day extra satisfying.

I’ve examined numerous merchandise on sand, within the surf, and on the go, and that is every little thing I personally depend on repeatedly. Whether or not you’re heading to a tropical resort, your native shore, or planning a full-on seashore trip, these are the must-haves I by no means hit the sand with out.

Raen Keera Cat's Eye Sunglasses

Credit score: Raen

With my delicate eyes, I by no means head to the seashore (or anyplace exterior, frankly) with out sun shades—and I’ve discovered the onerous means that my good sunnies should be protected in an actual case, not simply tossed right into a tote bag. Between the sunscreen spills (that may typically strip lens coatings), rogue granules of sand, and the chaos of youngsters and miscellaneous accidents, flimsy cloth pouches don’t reduce it. I all the time pack my sun shades in a sturdy onerous case, so they really survive the journey.

I additionally love massive sun shades for eye-protection—to not point out coolness and elegance. This Raen pair are stylish and fashionable, however nonetheless timeless, sure to final season after season. Simply as necessary: they arrive with a structured case that makes it straightforward to maintain them protected if you’re not carrying them.

J.Crew Factory Packable Straw Hat

Credit score: J.Crew Manufacturing unit

I’ve tried a lot of seashore hats through the years—and I’ve additionally by accident destroyed many after getting them moist or cramming them into my bag or into overhead bins. This hat stays on Survivor Island. It’s basic, fashionable, sturdy, and truly gives actual solar safety because of the large brim.

I additionally love that it’s eminently packable, so I can toss it in a tote and even checked suitcase with out worrying about it getting crushed. The straw is gentle, however structured, and the form holds up superbly even after being stuffed right into a seashore bag or carry-on. It provides simply the correct amount of polish to a easy swimsuit-and-shorts look—and helps me keep away from an excessive amount of solar publicity, particularly on my face.

Walmart Ocoopa Diveblues Microfiber Beach Towel

Credit score: Walmart

I all the time appear to require extra protection than a typical seashore towel gives—and that is much more true once I’m hitting the seashore with children (who usually are not identified for his or her spatial consciousness)—so an outsized seashore towel is a should. This microfiber towel measures a beneficiant 71 by 32 inches, so it is spacious sufficient for lounging with out my ft or belongings touching the sand.

Regardless of its beneficiant measurement, it folds down compactly, making it straightforward to suit right into a seashore bag with out taking over a lot area. What I significantly admire about this towel is its quick-drying microfiber materials. After a swim, it dries quick, so you do not have to take care of a soaked-through towel for the remainder of the day. The material can also be gentle in opposition to the pores and skin, including to the consolation. Plus, the colourful colours and patterns are full of life and simply recognizable on the seashore.

Journey + Leisure


Amazon Gaiatop Portable Handheld Folding Fan

Credit score: Amazon

I’ve grow to be much less heat-tolerant as I become old, so I journey with a conveyable handheld fan as of late. This compact, foldable model is extremely light-weight and matches simply into my seashore bag or perhaps a journey purse. Regardless of its diminutive measurement, it delivers a meaningfully highly effective breeze with two velocity settings, and it actually helps preserve you cool.

This fan’s 180-degree foldable design helps you to use it as a handheld fan or set it on a flat floor (like a towel or cooler prime) for hands-free cooling. Plus, it doubles as a energy financial institution with its 1800mAh battery, so it is a terrific backup to cost your telephone in a pinch. The gentle, protected blades are additionally a considerate contact, particularly when utilizing it round children. It expenses moderately shortly—in about 2.5 hours—and the battery lasts between 14 to 21 hours, relying on utilization.

Longchamp Le Pliage Filet

Credit score: Nordstrom

Irrespective of the place I journey—whether or not it’s to the Mediterranean or a Tahitian island—I all the time spot stylish Europeans carrying some model of a Longchamp bag. This extremely sensible and stylish mesh type is timeless, elegant, and endlessly versatile. It is light-weight, breathable, and simple to shake the sand out, so it stays on the seashore the place it belongs.

The bag holds far more than it seems prefer it ought to and nonetheless manages to really feel polished, not cumbersome. The basic leather-based trim provides it that signature upscale vibe, and the entire thing folds up flat, so it’s straightforward to pack for trip. It’s the sort of bag that by no means goes out of fashion—and someway works simply as properly on the seashore because it does within the metropolis. (Simply ensure that your small, free objects are in smaller pouches so they do not fall out of the mesh holes.)

Amazon Case-Mate Pelican Marine IP68 Waterproof Phone Pouch

Credit score: Amazon

Once I’m on the seashore, I need to have the ability to take pictures, examine messages, and even simply carry my telephone with out continually worrying about sand or water injury—and this waterproof telephone pouch provides me further peace of thoughts to make use of my tech. It is ultra-secure, genuinely waterproof, and nonetheless permits full touchscreen entry, so I can snap pics or scroll to remain up to date with out taking my telephone out, which is essential when my fingers are sandy or moist. It comes with a lanyard and has a cosy, easy-to-grip design, so I don’t fear about dropping it within the ocean or pool.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

Credit score: Amazon

Wi-fi headphones are a beach-day important for me—I don’t need any cords to get tangled, moist, or sandy. I want one thing compact, sturdy, and that really works properly; for me, that is these AirPods. Large bonus is that they work seamlessly with the Discover My app, so you do not have to panic in the event that they go lacking within the shuffle.

The sound high quality is nice, and the noise-cancellation properties assist block out wind and chatter once I simply need to zone out. The comfortable match and water-resistance additionally imply they work equally properly for lounging or strolling alongside the shore.

Amazon Kindle (2024)

Credit score: Amazon

Nothing is extra decadent for a seashore day than a very good ebook, however packing paperbacks or hardbacks simply isn’t sensible for me. They will get warped by humidity, smudged with sunscreen, or crumpled within the backside of a tote. After all, they’re additionally heavy for journey. That’s why I all the time convey an e-reader as an alternative. It’s lighter than a single ebook and lets me carry a complete trip’s value of studying in a single slim machine. I’ve had nice luck with the glare-free display of the Amazon Kindle that’s straightforward to learn even in vibrant solar, and the battery lasts for weeks—not hours. Plus, this mannequin is surprisingly sturdy, however there are many Kindle circumstances to select from in order for you further safety.

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3

Credit score: Amazon

Music simply makes any seashore day extra enjoyable, however not each transportable speaker is provided to deal with sand, water, and precise out of doors use. This one is as much as the duty. It’s compact sufficient to toss in my bag with no second thought, however highly effective sufficient to ship clear, punchy sound throughout a large space, even with waves crashing within the background. (Do be conscious of your seashore neighbors, in fact.) The Wonderboom 3 is waterproof, dustproof, and it even floats, and it has a loop for clipping to a seashore umbrella or chair. The 14-hour battery life means you’ll be able to cost it as soon as and use all of it day.

Amazon Coola Clear Sunscreen Spray

Credit score: Amazon

With a really fair-skinned son and a household historical past that makes us particularly cautious, sunscreen is mission-critical over right here. We reapply typically, and we slather it on. This model goes on shortly and evenly, even on my son who’d fairly be doing something on the planet aside from holding nonetheless for SPF utility. I like that it’s reef-friendly, water resistant, and doesn’t depart that chalky white forged that some mineral sunscreens do. Plus, it smells nice and doesn’t irritate delicate pores and skin. The convenience of utility is essential as a result of with regards to solar safety, comfort makes an enormous distinction in how properly we really stick with the routine.

ulta Lanolips Sun Balm SPF 30

Credit score: Ulta

My lips are likely to get dry and sunburned quicker than the rest on the seashore—and never all SPF lip balms are created equal. I preserve coming again to Lanolips Solar Balm as a result of the feel is so clean and hydrating, because of the lanolin-based components. It looks like a wealthy, nourishing therapy fairly than a waxy layer, and it really lasts even by way of salty seashore air and hours within the solar.

The SPF 30 safety is stable, and I like that it doesn’t have that bizarre sunscreen style or chalky end. It’s a type of tiny issues I by no means pass over of my seashore bag—and it makes an enormous distinction in how comfy I really feel all day.

Calpak Insulated 17L Soft-Sided Cooler

Credit score: Calpak

In some elements of the world, the seashore is alive with distributors promoting snacks and drinks and every little thing else—however they are often fairly sparse in my residence metropolis of Los Angeles. So I by no means head to the seashore with out my very own snack and drink stock, and a gentle cooler is the ticket to conserving objects contemporary and chilled (and saving cash on the seashore snack bars).

I like this soft-sided Calpak cooler as a result of it’s surprisingly roomy with out being cumbersome, and the design is so stylish it really seems like a weekender bag. It retains every little thing chilly for hours, even on the most popular days, and the easy-to-carry shoulder strap makes it sensible for longer treks from the automobile to the sand.

YETI Rambler 26 oz Bottle

Credit score: YETI

I’ve a number of of those Yeti Ramblers as a result of they are surely the gold commonplace for conserving drinks chilly—like, endlessly. Even after hours within the scorching solar, the ice inside continues to be clinking round. Plus, the 26-ounce measurement is beneficiant sufficient that I don’t need to continually refill it to remain hydrated. I additionally love the large mouth and durable deal with, which is tremendous straightforward to hold (or clip to a wagon or bag). Honest warning: it’s on the heavy facet, particularly when it’s full—however to me, the long-lasting chill is 100-percent value it. I all the time convey no less than one for myself and one for every of the children.

Beek Warbler Leather Platform Platform Leather Slides

Credit score: Beek

In terms of seashore footwear, you want one thing that’s straightforward to slide on and off, gained’t collapse if it will get moist, and ideally nonetheless seems polished sufficient for a seaside lunch (with pics!). My Beeks are far more supportive than flip-flops, with a cushioned sole and a refined elevate that provides a little bit peak with out sacrificing consolation—even if you’re strolling on boardwalks or uneven paths to the seashore. They’re additionally superbly made, with buttery leather-based straps that really feel luxe and get even higher with put on. (Bonus: Beek donates meals to youngsters in want with each pair bought, so you’ll be able to be ok with the acquisition, too.)

TA3 Brazilian Plungey Swimsuit

Credit score: TA3

I’ve been carrying TA3 swimsuits because the model first launched, and I’ve tried tons of types; over time and iterations, the engineering will get higher—higher construction, extra consolation, and smarter shaping. This go well with specifically affords an unbelievable cinching impact because of a lace-up again that sculpts with out digging in, and the material feels supportive in all the suitable locations. This plunging model is daring but flattering, and nonetheless feels safe sufficient for swimming. I additionally love that the leopard print someway works as each an announcement and a impartial—fashionable, however straightforward to combine and match with any cover-up, hat, or sandal I throw on.

Tommy Bahama Cotton Clip Jacquard Cover-up Shirt Dress

Credit score: Tommy Bahama

I’ve tried all types of seashore cover-ups through the years, however I preserve coming again to a button-down type for versatility. A shirtdress-style cover-up works as a prime layer over a swimsuit, however it might additionally double as an precise outfit—whether or not I’m grabbing lunch, strolling by way of city, or heading by way of the resort foyer. I like that I can throw one on and immediately really feel put collectively, even when I’m nonetheless carrying a washing go well with beneath. This model is light-weight and breathable, however nonetheless has a pleasant texture that elevates it from the same old beachwear. The longer size affords nice protection, and the relaxed silhouette makes it tremendous straightforward to put on. Costume it up with jewellery and sandals or preserve it informal with flip-flops and a seashore tote—it really works both means.

Our Full Seashore Journey Packing Listing

What to Know Earlier than Packing for the Seashore

Go for light-weight clothes

Once I’m heading to the seashore, I attain for mild, breathable materials like linen, cotton, or moisture-wicking blends. Not solely do they assist preserve you cool below the solar, however additionally they dry shortly in the event you get splashed or sweaty (or toss them over a soaking swimsuit). I’ve discovered the onerous means that something too heavy or clingy simply feels depressing within the warmth—particularly as soon as sand will get concerned. I normally throw on an outsized button-down, breezy cover-up, or different sun-protective clothes that may go from the seashore to a lunch spot without having a full outfit change.

Search for water resistant or waterproof objects

Once I’m packing a seashore bag, I all the time search for water resistant or waterproof objects—as a result of even when I assume I’m staying dry on a given outing, the seashore has different plans. Between moist children, moist towels, sweat, sunscreen, and the occasional high-tide creep, issues get damp. Waterproof baggage and pouches assist preserve necessities like my telephone, pockets, and ebook protected from moisture and sand. I additionally like utilizing a water resistant tote or backpack that gained’t get soaked by way of if I set it down on moist sand or towels. Waterproof baggage and pouches are a type of small particulars that make an enormous distinction in conserving the seashore day stress-free.

Pack mild or spend money on a seashore wagon

If I am touring solo, I normally attempt to preserve issues minimal—a towel, sunscreen, water bottle, and the necessities. However once I’m hauling gear for the entire household or a bunch of pals, a foldable seashore wagon is a complete game-changer. It lets me load up towels, snacks, umbrellas, and sand toys with out making 100 journeys again to the automobile. I used to withstand bringing further gear, however having wheels has made the entire course of means much less chaotic and comfy, so I’d as properly simply convey alongside every little thing we would want, an effort that saves cash and boosts consolation general.

Steadily Requested Questions

  • How do you pack an ideal seashore bag?

    For me, an ideal seashore bag begins with a light-weight, outsized tote that’s straightforward to shake the sand out of—ideally a mesh or water resistant type. I pack the necessities first: sunscreen, sun shades, a wide-brim hat, and a big, quick-dry towel. I all the time throw in some type of leisure—an e-reader or headphones to hearken to an audiobook—plus lip balm with SPF and a reusable water bottle. I additionally convey a small pouch for valuables like my keys and bank card, and a plastic bag or moist/dry pouch for swimsuits or something damp.

  • What ought to I pack in my seashore cooler?

    My go-to seashore cooler technique is all about conserving it easy and refreshing. Load it up with loads of chilly water, contemporary fruit (assume grapes or watermelon slices), and some pre-made snacks like reduce veggies and hummus or veggie-friendly wraps. If I’m bringing alcoholic drinks for adults (solely in areas the place that is allowed, in fact!), I’ll add canned cocktails or chilled rosé in insulated wine tumblers. I additionally stash just a few frozen juice bins in there—they double as ice packs and make for a kid-friendly deal with as soon as they thaw.

  • How do you carry your telephone on the seashore?

    At this level, my telephone is an appendage (anybody else?) I take advantage of it on the seashore for pictures, music, podcasts, nearly every little thing—so there isn’t any means I am leaving it within the automobile or resort. That mentioned, I do not pack for the seashore with no waterproof pouch to seal it in if I am taking it close to the waves, or no less than some sort of waterproof tote or clutch to zip it up in once I’m on the sand. I’ve ruined loads of telephones (and laptops and e-readers) with water injury on the seashore, so now I preserve something I need to keep dry (like headphones, chargers, and my pockets) sealed in a zippered, water resistant bag or case.

  • The best way to preserve your bag protected on the seashore?

    If I’m heading into the water, I attempt to preserve my valuables minimal—primarily simply my automobile key (if I drove), my telephone, and a bit of money or bank card if wanted. I stash them in a water-proof pouch that I both put on or tuck deep in my bag, below a towel and out of sight. Should you’re actually fearful about theft, you can take into account bringing a lockable seashore bag or transportable journey protected to safe valuables to a chair or umbrella. However this strategy is a bit fussy for me—I might fairly preserve it low-key and produce as few valuables to the seashore as potential.

Why Belief Journey + Leisure

Alesandra Dubin is a journey and life-style author {and professional} product reviewer, who continuously hits the seashore in her hometown of Los Angeles—particularly Santa Monica and Malibu—in addition to in locations everywhere in the world. Her favourite seashores on the earth may be present in French Polynesia for dreamy solitude and Rio de Janeiro or the Mediterranean for his or her full of life atmospheres. For this story, she coupled her personal expertise packing for seashore days with testing outcomes from T+L editors to compile a radical seashore packing checklist—concise sufficient for compact packing, however full sufficient that you will have every little thing you want on the prepared.

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