Beyond your swimsuit and good sunscreen, there are several other essentials that are a must-pack for a beach vacation. Remember you’ll be outdoors a lot, it will likely be sunny and the air will be humid. So keep all that in mind when deciding what to pack. Here are our top 10 recommendations including some obvious ones (beach towel, sunscreen etc.) and some not so obvious ones (a large water bottle, power bank etc.).  

1. Beach Wear 

It will be hot and humid, so pick lightweight beach wear that keeps you cool and wicks sweat easily. Here’s what to include: 

• At least two pieces of swimwear. 
• Loose and breathable clothes that you can wear over swimwear. 
• A hat to protect you from the sun. Our Kronos travel hat is perfect for dudes. 
• Sandals or some other comfortable shoes that are suitable for the beach.  

Don’t just pack clothes to wear at the beach. You’ll also need regular wear for exploring town, going out to eat and other non-beach activities. Just make sure it is lightweight and moisture-wicking. For guys, our HercShirt 3.0 t-shirt and Tank Top are great for the beach. The best part is that they are odorless and self-cleaning.  

2. Beach Towel

Get a beach towel that’s large, soft, highly absorbent and quick drying. Most bath towels are too thick and dry too slowly to work well as a beach towel. So just get a towel that’s designed specifically for the beach. 

If you prefer a multi-purpose bath towel that’s also great for the beach, we recommend the HercLéon Tegan Towel 3.0. It is soft, absorbent, quick drying and antimicrobial (it stays clean and fresh smelling even after multiple uses). 

3. Shade  

Next, you are gonna need some sort of shade unless you are going to a beach resort where they provide shaded beach loungers. But even then, it’s a smart idea to carry your own shade just in case you want to sit somewhere else. 

A simple beach umbrella works great for most situations. If you need something more extravagant, consider getting a beach canopy or tent. These offer a larger shade that can shelter an entire family.  

4. Sunscreen 

This one is obvious. Look for a broad spectrum (UVA + UVB protection), water-resistant, and high SPF (30+) sunscreen. Make sure it is sunscreen you’ve used before, so you don't get surprised when it looks ashy on your skin or causes a reaction.  

5. Sunglasses 

Sunglasses aren’t just for looking cool at the beach; they also protect your eyes from the bright sunlight. Pick large sunglasses with UV protection, polarized lenses (reduces glare off the water) and easy portability.  

6. Book/Magazines/Kindle 

A beach vacation typically involves lots of idle time just basking in the sun and enjoying the views. Believe it or not, that could get boring pretty quickly. So carry something to occupy your time. 

A novel is a classic way to enjoy yourself at the beach. Look for something light and fun. Magazines are also great; pack a few of your favorites or pick them up from a local newsstand (or the airport). If you are not big on physical books or want to minimize your load, carry a kindle. 

If you only have your phone, get a pair of headphones or earbuds and listen to podcasts, music, or audiobooks.  

7. Power Bank 

Even if you have a book with you, you’ll likely end up spending a lot of time on your phone whether it’s scrolling social media, taking photos, chatting with friends or listening to audiobooks. So your phone will drain quickly. 

If you don't want to keep going back to your hotel room, pack a power bank and bring it to the beach. It’ll keep your phone juiced up all day. Just remember to recharge the power bank in the evening. 

8. Refillable Water Bottle

The combination of hot weather and high humidity at the beach can lead to dehydration. You lose lots of water through sweating, and it’s important to continually replace it. And no, Margaritas and Piña Colada are not enough to keep you hydrated. 

Carry a large refillable water bottle (or buy one at your destination) and fill it up when you go to the beach. Even better, get an insulated water bottle that keeps your water cold.  

9. Beach Toys (if Your Have Kids)

If you are going on a beach vacation with your family, don’t forget to pack a variety of beach toys. Otherwise, your little ones won’t give you any peace. 

10. Beach Bag 

Finally, get a beach bag to carry your phone, sunscreen, keys, books and other items. 

Anything else we have left out?