How to Pack for Your 30A Vacay

Getting ready for a beach vacation is an exciting time but it can also be stressful packing and making sure you’ve thought of everything you’ll need for fun in the sun. From sufficient sun protection to avoiding bringing half the sand on the beach home with you, there’s a lot to consider. Sure, you can always pick up anything you forgot in the area after you arrive but you’ll end up paying a lot more from a tourist-y convenience store than shopping your own bathroom closet for free. This beach vacation packing list will help guide you to make your packing process a lot easier and get you on your way to 30A feeling confident and prepared. Our list of beach essentials handles everything from the basics to the extras so you won’t forget a thing.

The List:

·       Sunscreen (Don’t skip the sun protection. A good, high-quality sunscreen for your body, SPF lip balm for your lips and, if you have sensitive skin, a high SPF facial sunscreen are essential! As lovely as the sun may feel, it is not your friend. Reapply often.)

·       Sunglasses

·       Sandals

·       Swimsuit and cover-up (consider bringing two suits so you can wear the other if the first is wet)

·       Tank tops and shorts

·       T-shirts, jeans, athletic shoes, belt, workout gear, a light sweater, dresses or other outfits for a date night, if needed. Think through what you plan on doing your vacation and consider keeping a simple wardrobe. Don’t bring any more than necessary. Here on 30A, locals and tourists alike prefer comfy beachwear and casual clothing. Even many of the expensive, nice restaurants are casual fine-dining so no need to break out the long dresses and bowties. A nice outfit, button down or simple dress is more than sufficient. Keep it light and breezy!

·       Hat

·       A good book

·       Cell phone and charger

·       Headphones

·       Pajamas

·       Underwear

·       Toothbrush, floss and toothpaste

·       Soap, deodorant, shampoo and conditioner

·       Hairbrush

·       Chapstick

·       Glasses or contact lenses, if needed

·       Facial cleanser and moisturizer

·       Body lotion

·       Water bottle

·       Hand sanitizer and face masks

·       Beach bag (consider a mesh beach bag you can shake the sand out of easily)

·       Debit/credit cards, cash

The Extras:

·       Sand toys for the kids

·       Goggles

·       Snorkel

·       Towels (if there aren’t any where you’re staying)

·       Beach umbrella or shade (If you’re traveling with little kids, check out the adorable beach tents available. They provide great shade and give the kids a safe and protected place to play on the beach.)

·       Beach blanket

·       Beach chairs

·       Beach sports games or balls

·       Floats

·       Cooler

·       Portable speaker

·       Waterproof phone case

·       Tablet or laptop

·       Camera

·       Water shoes

·       Hair styling tools, if needed

·       Shaving supplies

·       Makeup

·       Feminine-hygiene products

·       A plastic bag, reusable bag or something to carry home your wet items in

·       Wet wipes (they’re great for a quick clean up or wipe down)

The Tips:

·       You don’t need to overpack. One of the beauties of a beach vacation is hanging out in your bathing suit most of the time. You don’t need a bunch of fancy outfit changes so keep it simple with lightweight luggage. In fact, if you’re staying for a short period of time a carry-on bag or overnight bag may be sufficient.

·       Get organized. Sure, you can throw it all in a big bag and call it a day but keeping your items organized makes them easy to find. Sunglasses should be stored in their cases, clothes can be placed in packing organizers like cubes or bags, toiletries stored in the same zippered bag, etc. Compressing clothes can save you a massive amount of space and reduce the luggage real estate you need.

·       Don’t forget any important medication or prescription medication you need.

·       If you’re flying into 30A, make sure your travel documents and organized and easily accessible in the airport.

·       Leave it at home. Beach vacations are an invitation to take it easy and keep is simple. Check to see what amenities are offered at your 30A hotel or 30A vacation rental home. Many include a beach wagon, bikes, beach chairs, beach towels and more! Take advantage of what is offered so you don’t have to bring your own.