The Ultimate Beach Packing Guide: What to Bring to Tropical Destinations

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3min read

Published 4 April 2025

Flight Centre Author

Guest Blogger


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Planning your next beach holiday? Whether you’re heading to the shores of the Seychelles, the tropical islands of Thailand, or the beaches of Bali, packing smartly can make all the difference. Nobody wants to be stuck in paradise without suncream! 

But with the right preparation, you’ll be able to focus on soaking up the sun and enjoying the waves instead of worrying about what you’ve left behind.

Don’t Forget Sun Protection

A successful beach holiday starts with sun protection. Sunscreen is essential, and it’s best to choose a reef-safe, broad-spectrum option with SPF 30 or higher. Pair this with a wide-brimmed sun hat and sunglasses to keep both your skin and eyes safe from harmful UV rays.

Don’t forget a hydrating after-sun lotion to soothe your skin after a day in the sun, and lip balm with SPF to protect your lips. These small items are non-negotiable for any tropical getaway. 



Pack the Right Beachwear

Obviously, one of the most important things to bring to a beach is….the beachwear. Your beachwear choices truly can make or break your holiday. Pack at least two or three swimming costumes so you always have a dry one ready.

Lightweight cover-ups are a must for slipping on after a swim, especially if you’re planning on heading from the beach to lunch, dinner, or drinks. Plus, they make you less likely to burn. If it’ll be warm (we hope so!) then breathable clothing like linen or cotton shorts, dresses, and tops will keep you comfortable in the tropical heat.

Comfortable sandals are essential, and water shoes can be a lifesaver if you’re planning to explore rocky beaches or tide pools. In places like Mauritius with coral reefs, water shoes can also stop you from cutting your feet. 

Finish it off with a stylish tote bag. They’re perfect for carrying your beach essentials, while reusable bags are handy for packing wet clothes or sandy items. Some totes even have a waterproof section for your wet shoes or costume. Find inspiration for your next beach destination.

When it comes to organising your beach bag, simplicity is key. Include the basics: sunscreen, sunglasses, a water bottle, and a towel. Use reusable bags to separate wet and dry items, and keep valuables like your phone and wallet in a waterproof pouch. A lightweight beach blanket or towel can be rolled up to save space, leaving room for extras like snacks and a book. 

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beach
beach

Must-Have Beach Gear

Beach gear can make or break your day by the ocean. A good beach blanket provides a comfortable place to relax, and a quick-dry towel is a practical choice for drying off without lugging around extra weight.

For those long days under the sun, a beach umbrella or portable shade will keep you cool and out of the direct heat of the sun. If comfort is a priority or if you’re travelling with older family members, then a few lightweight, foldable beach chairs are worth bringing along.

And for your devices, a waterproof phone case and a power bank are practical additions so you can keep snapping photos and stay connected if there’s a problem.

Entertainment can make sure your beach holiday doesn’t get boring, especially if you’re planning a lot of downtime. Pack a good book or a Kindle for quiet moments, and consider a portable speaker if you want to enjoy some music by the waves. Just make sure to be mindful of other beachgoers!

Games, whether they’re travel-sized board games or a deck of cards, can add some fun to cloudy days or evenings. Snacks are another beach essential—non-perishable options like trail mix or granola bars are easy to pack and great for keeping energy levels up. 

How to Pack for Different Trip Lengths

So, how do you pack for a seven-day beach holiday versus a shorter one?

Start by planning a mix of outfits that can be re-worn or mixed and matched. For seven days, you’ll typically need three to four casual day outfits, two to three evening outfits, and at least two swimming costumes. For shorter trips, like a four or five-day beach escape, two swimming costumes, two casual outfits, and one dressier option should suffice. The key is to avoid overpacking by choosing versatile pieces that work for a ton of different occasions.

Before heading off, check if your accommodation provides things like beach towels or umbrellas, as this can save you from bringing unnecessary items. This is especially important if you’re flying internationally, rather than driving to a local beach destination. 

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beach
beach

Smart Packing for Toiletries and Essentials

Packing your toiletries and essentials smartly can save you both time and hassle.

Rolling your clothes instead of folding them is a great way to save space in your luggage, and packing cubes can help keep everything organised. If you’re flying, remember to keep your essentials in your hand luggage to avoid any disruptions if your checked baggage gets delayed.

Organise your items with a compact travel kit of miniatures, including basics like a toothbrush, razor, and deodorant. Bring antibacterial wipes for quick clean-ups and a small first aid kit stocked with plasters, antiseptic, and eye drops for any minor emergencies. 

Book Your Beach Getaway with Flight Centre

A beach holiday is about relaxing and enjoying the moment, and with this packing guide as your secret weapon, you’ll be well-prepared to do just that. From sun protection to beachwear, every item you pack should help you have a fun and stress-free getaway.

Ready to book your dream beach holiday? Contact your local Flight Centre travel expert and start planning today!

beach
beach
beach
Flight Centre Author

Guest Blogger


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