I’ve packed for a lot of beach trips — some that were perfectly planned, and some where I totally forgot half the things I actually needed. After a few trial-and-error packing moments, I’ve landed on a solid set of beach essentials that make the day easier, comfier, and a lot more fun. This post contains Amazon affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my adventures! Here’s what I throw in my beach bag before heading out:
🥤 Stanley Cup
I’m a chronic sipper, and this keeps my drink cold basically all day — even if I’m baking in the sun. I usually fill it with water, iced coffee, or a cocktail before I head out and just keep refilling it throughout the day. Total game-changer.
🧺 Pack Towel
I love this towel. I initially got it for camping trips, but found it to be the perfect travel beach towel. It’s super lightweight, dries fast, and doesn’t take up a ton of space in my bag. It also doesn’t hold onto that damp, musty beach smell like some towels do, which is a huge win.
🕶️ Sunglasses
I have prescription sunglasses from Zenni that I use on the daily. About once a year, I’ll usually order a couple of cheaper prescription pairs to gear up for beach season. That way, if one gets lost in the ocean (it happens…) I’m not too upset.
🌊 Reef Safe Sunscreen
I found the Bare Republic brand while I was in the Virgin Islands and haven’t looked back. It smells amazing and goes on so smoothly. I love that it’s reef safe — especially when I’m in or around the ocean.
🌞 Reef Safe Face Sunscreen
Also discovered this Raw Elements one in the Virgin Islands. I like it for my face, but I wouldn’t use it on my whole body — it doesn’t spread quite as well as Bare Republic. Still, it’s nice having something gentle just for my face.
🌱 Aloe
I already know I’m going to need it. Even with sunscreen, I usually miss a spot (or two), and aloe saves me every time. If I don’t bring it along, I know I will end up having to buy some anyway.
💋 SPF Chapstick
One of the worst sunburns I’ve ever had was on my lips. It legit looked like I had lipliner on and it hurt so bad. I’ve never forgotten SPF lip balm since — it’s now one of my first things I pack.
🩴 Birkenstocks
These are my ride-or-die beach shoes. They’re light, water-resistant, and they float if they fall off in the water (yes, I’ve tested this). Super easy to wear with anything and great for post-beach wandering too.
🎒 Coleman Cooler Backpack
Okay, I know it’s not the cutest cooler, but it’s been such a solid option. We originally got it for our wedding and I’ve been using it ever since. It’s easy to carry, keeps everything cold, and I don’t worry about it getting roughed up like I would with a fancy cooler.
🏝️ Dry Bag
I bought a set of these for a kayaking trip and now I bring them on any kind of water adventure. They’re perfect for keeping things dry if I’m near the water or hopping on a boat. Total peace of mind.
🔊 Beats Pill
If the vibes are right, I love having music at the beach. My family has used a Beats Pill for years on beach trips and it’s still going strong. It’s compact, loud enough, and super easy to toss in the bag.
🎧 Wired Headphones
I love my wireless ones, but I don’t trust them at the beach. Between the sand and water, I’d rather just use my wired headphones so I can listen to audiobooks or music while I lay out or take a nap.
📖 Kindle E-Reader
I always pack my Kindle in a case for beach days. It holds a bunch of books, doesn’t mind the sun, and I don’t have to worry about sand getting in the pages. It’s one of my favorite ways to spend a few hours on the beach.
👜 Beach Bag
I usually pack a lightweight, foldable beach bag that I can use throughout the week. If I have a little more room in my luggage, I’ll bring my canvas tote too — it’s a bit more durable and good if I’m carrying more stuff.
🤿 Snorkel
I got this snorkel mask for a past trip and now I just bring it with me instead of renting one every time. It’s lightweight, doesn’t fog up too much, and way more comfortable than some of the rental ones I’ve used.
🧢 Ball Cap
My go-to sun and bad hair day solution. I usually bring one of my Durham Bulls or Wisconsin Badgers hats to rep a little home pride while keeping my face shaded.
So that’s what’s in my beach bag — nothing too over the top, just the stuff I’ve learned makes a big difference for a low-stress, fun day by the water. Whether it’s a full-on beach vacation or a quick lake day, these are the things I keep reaching for.
Let me know in the comments below if you’ve got a beach must-have I need to add — I’m always looking for new recs!
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