Packing for Beach: What to Bring and What to Skip

When you’re packing for beach, the process of selecting clothes, gear, and essentials for a day or trip centered around sun, sand, and sea. Also known as beach packing, it’s not about throwing everything you own into a bag—it’s about knowing what actually matters. Most people overpack. They bring ten towels, three pairs of flip-flops, and a cooler full of snacks they’ll never eat. Then they’re stuck lugging around junk while trying to walk to the water. You don’t need all that. You need the right things, in the right amounts.

Sunscreen, a protective lotion applied to skin to block harmful UV rays. Also known as sunblock, it’s the one item that can make or break your trip. Skip the cheap stuff. Get a reef-safe, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Apply it before you leave the house—don’t wait until you’re already burning. Beach towel, a large, absorbent cloth designed for drying off after swimming or lying on sand. Also known as tourist towel, it should be quick-drying and sand-resistant. Skip the fluffy hotel towels. Bring a microfiber one—it packs small, dries fast, and won’t turn into a sand trap. And yes, you need a waterproof bag for your phone, keys, and wallet. Wet pockets ruin everything.

Hydration, the act of drinking enough water to maintain body function in hot, sunny conditions. Also known as beach hydration, it’s more important than your sunglasses. You’ll sweat more than you think. Bring at least two liters of water per person. Skip the sugary drinks—they make you thirstier. A reusable bottle with a carabiner clips to your bag so you don’t lose it. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat. Baseball caps don’t cover your neck. And sunglasses? Not optional. UV damage adds up fast, even on cloudy days.

You don’t need a beach umbrella unless you’re staying all day. A pop-up canopy is overkill for a few hours. A light cover-up works better than a full swimsuit change. And leave the heavy books at home—download an audiobook instead. Beach reading is a myth. Sand gets in everything. Bring a small ziplock bag for wet swimsuits. It’s the small stuff that saves your day.

People think packing for beach is about looking good. It’s not. It’s about staying comfortable, safe, and not carrying unnecessary weight. You’ll spend more time walking to the water, sitting in the sun, and washing sand off your feet than you will lounging with a cocktail. So pack smart. Pack light. Pack only what you’ll use.

Below, you’ll find real tips from people who’ve been there—what worked, what didn’t, and what they wish they’d known before they left. No fluff. No ads. Just what actually helps when you’re standing on the shore with the sun high and the tide coming in.