Summertime is the perfect time to take a beach trip! If you’re not sure what to pack, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we will list everything you need for a fun and relaxing beach getaway. From swimsuits to sunscreen, we will tell you what to bring so that you can make the most of your trip!
Not only do you want to remember the essentials on your beach trip, but you’ll want to bring some special extras that can really make your trip more enjoyable.
Here is a cohesive list that is broken down into different categories so you can make sure you have everything you need for your beach vacation!
Toiletry Items to Pack
Toiletries
- Tissues
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Aloe vera
- Deodorant
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Soap or body wash
- Hairbrush or comb
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Lotion
- Face Moisturizer
- Lip Balm
- Razor
- Makeup
- Wet wipes
- Floss
- Nail Clippers
- Nail file
- Contacts
- Saline Solution
Health
- Medications
- Pain relievers
- Allergy medicine
- Digestive aids
- Vitamin C
- Multivitamins
- Antibacterial ointment
- Bandaids (first aid kit)
- Hand sanitizer
- Tweezers
- Sanitary pads
- Tampons
How to Pack Your Toiletries and Health Items
These items can often be small, sharp, or even dangerous. Because of this, it’s important to be very organized and methodical when you pack them. You don’t want a young child or pet to be able to get a hold of anything that could potentially hurt them.
Get a toiletry organizer bag to make your life easier when it comes to packing these items. They have many customized pockets so that you can securely store everything you need.
If you’re traveling with liquid items, be sure to put them in a baggie or container just in case they leak. You’ll also want to do this if you have lots of small items, such as cough drops.
For your pills, if possible, try to use a weekly pill organizer. Not only will this make packing easier, but it will also help you keep track of whether or not you take your medication while you’re on vacation.
Electronic Items to Pack
Electronics
- Cell Phone
- Waterproof phone case
- Portable speaker
- Portable charger
- Charging cords
- Wall adapter
- Camera
- Tablet
- Laptop
- GoPro
How to Pack Your Electronics
Your electronic items are simultaneously some of the more fragile and expensive items you’ll be bringing along on your beach trip. Because of this, these are the items you should be mindful of when packing.
If you’re bringing a laptop, make sure it’s in a padded case. You’ll also want to pack your cords and chargers in a separate bag so that they don’t get lost in the shuffle. Ziploc bags are great for this. There are also cord organizer cases if you’re bringing several along with you.
As for your camera, it’s best to invest in a waterproof case. That way, you can take pictures in and around the water without having to worry about damaging your camera.
If you’re bringing several bags, it’s best to have one specifically designated for your electronics. That way, you can easily find everything when you need it, and make sure to check this bag with extra care.
Finally, don’t forget to charge everything beforehand. This will save you an extra step when you need to use your electronics on vacation and buy you some time before you need to find an outlet if you’re too excited to wait to catch some waves when you arrive.
Clothing Items to Pack
Keep in mind that this packing list is best suited for someone visiting North Myrtle Beach in the summer. If you’re packing for spring, fall, or winter, exchange some of the warmer weather items for sweaters and long-sleeve t-shirts instead.
Clothing
- Tank tops
- T-shirts
- Warm shirt or sweater
- Button-down shirt or blouse
- Shorts
- Pants
- Socks
- Sandals
- Walking or hiking shoes
- Water shoes
- Belts
- Sarong
- Dresses
- Bras
- Underwear
- Rain jacket
- SPF rash guard top
- Swimwear
- Pajamas
- Light jacket
- Cover-ups
- Wetsuit
How to Pack Your Clothing
The best way to approach packing your clothing is by first deciding what activities you’ll be doing on your trip. Will you be hiking? Going out to nice restaurants? Spending time in the water? Once you know what you’ll be doing, you can start to put together outfits.
A good rule of thumb is to pack mostly neutral-colored clothing that can be mixed and matched.
Since you’ll be spending time in Myrtle Beach, it will most likely be hot, so go for breathable clothing and fabrics. Linen and polyester are always good options. You’ll also want to pack at least one long-sleeved shirt or sweater for cooler evenings, which are common along the beach.
And, of course, don’t forget your swimsuit! You may even want to bring two suits per person so you have one to wear while the other is drying out. A change of clothes is also a good idea to carry around in a plastic bag in case you get wet or dirty having fun.
Accessory Items to Pack
Accessories
- Beach towels
- Beach blanket
- Sunglasses
- Sun protection hat
- Floaties (if traveling with a child)
- Neck fan
- Beach tote
- Dry bag
- Goggles
- Jewelry
- Binoculars
- Nose plug
- Eye mask
- Ear plugs
- Snorkel
- Reusable water bottle
How to Pack Your Accessories
Beach towels are a must when packing for a beach trip. Not only will they help you dry off, but they can also be used as a blanket or to sit on. There are quick-dry towels that are perfect for this, as they take up less space in your bag and dry more quickly.
Keep these items as organized as possible. Some of them may be able to fit into your toiletry bags, such as ear plugs, nose plugs, or even goggles. You can also get a packing cube or separate bag to place these items in.
Sports + Beach Equipment to Pack
If you make the smart decision to book a vacation rental home or condo instead of a hotel, the property will most likely have beach gear readily available for you to use while on your vacation. They might even have beach toys and sports equipment.
Just be sure to ask when booking what items are included with your rental so you don’t pack any unnecessary items.
Large Activity and Sport Equipment
- Beach umbrella
- Beach chairs
- Coolers
- Boogie boards
- Surfboards
- Skimboards
- Bodyboards
- Kayak
- Paddleboards
- Blow up raft
- Golf clubs
- Racquets
- Balls
- Beach safe
How to Pack Your Large Activity and Sport Equipment
If you’re planning on bringing larger equipment, you’re most likely driving to the beach. It’s important to chat with your vacation rental host and see if they already provide any of these items. For example, some beach houses will have boogie boards or beach umbrellas for guests to use.
If you’re bringing your own equipment, make sure to pack it securely so that it doesn’t get damaged in transit. You can use rope or bungee cords to tie everything down and prevent it from moving around too much.
Investing in bike racks or a hitch-mounted carrier is also a good idea if you have larger items. This will keep them out of the way and make it easier to get in and out of your car.
Keep an eye on any valuables you bring to the beach. Take any large items off of your car and move them into a secure location, such as your rental house, when you’re not using them. There may be storage areas on-site or a gated parking lot you can use.
Miscellaneous Items to Pack
Miscellaneous Items
- Credit Cards
- ID
- Insurance cards
- Travel insurance information
- Vaccine card
- Food and snacks
- Books
- Journal
- Emergency numbers and contacts
- Face masks
- Printable or photocopied map of the area
- Cash
- Guidebook or app
- Travel pillow
How to Pack Your Miscellaneous Items
These odds and ends can be challenging to know where to pack. Take any paper documents, such as your travel insurance information or vaccine card, and place them in a waterproof case or plastic bag. This will prevent them from getting damaged if they get wet.
Your face masks should also be stored in a safe place where they won’t get lost. An easy way to do this is by keeping them on a lanyard around your neck or in a small pouch.
As for food and snacks, it’s always a good idea to bring along more than you think you’ll need. This is especially true if you have dietary restrictions. Non-perishable items like granola bars or nuts are always good to have on hand, as well as plenty of water.
The Benefits of Packing Smart for Your Beach Vacation
Here are some benefits of packing smart for your beach vacation:
You’ll Save Money
People often need to buy things like sunscreen, sunglasses, and other items when they arrive at their beach destination. While some of these items may be provided by your vacation rental home, it’s never guaranteed unless it’s been explicitly stated.
By packing these items ahead of time, you can save yourself both money and hassle. It’s usually more expensive to buy these small items in touristy areas, so it’s best to bring your own from home.
You’ll Have More Fun
When you have everything you need for a great beach day, you can relax and enjoy yourself without having to worry about missing anything. You may think of bringing some fun items like a book you’ve been meaning to read or a tablet with movies pre-loaded onto it to pass the time.
You’ll Be Popular with Your Travel Companions
If you bring extra beach items, your friends and family will be sure to thank you! No one ever knows when they’ll need a band-aid, a coozie for their drink, or a pair of extra sunglasses. By being the one who remembered to pack these items, you can be the hero of your beach trip and a lifesaver.
You’ll Stay Organized
Having everything in its place will help you relax and enjoy your trip. No more wasted time looking for that missing sunscreen! Since time is one of the most important currencies on vacation, you’ll be able to use it more wisely by being organized.
You’ll Feel Safer
There can be some serious consequences to forgetting certain beach items, including sunburn, dehydration, or the potential for infection if there is an open wound. By packing everything you need, you can rest assured that you and your travel companions will be safe and healthy throughout the trip.
Additional Considerations When Packing For the Beach
Here are a few additional things to keep in mind when packing for the beach:
The Weather
Check the weather forecast before you leave so you know what to expect. If it’s going to be sunny and hot, pack light clothing and plenty of sunscreens. If it’s going to be cooler, make sure to bring a jacket or sweater.
Your Method of Travel
If you’re driving to the beach, you’ll have more space to pack than if you’re flying. This means you can bring larger items like umbrellas, coolers, and chairs. However, if you’re flying, be sure to check the airline’s baggage restrictions so you don’t get charged extra fees.
What’s Provided by Your Vacation Rental Home
Be sure to check what items are provided by your vacation rental home. This can include things like beach towels, chairs, and umbrellas. If these items are provided, you won’t need to pack them.
What You Need for Your Activities
Think about the activities you want to do while you’re at the beach. If you want to go surfing, you’ll need a surfboard. If you want to build sandcastles, you’ll need a bucket and shovel. If you want to go hiking, you’ll need hiking shoes, not just flip-flops. Make a list of the activities you want to do so you can be sure to pack everything you need.
How Many People Can Help You Carry Items
If you’re going on a beach trip with a bunch of friends, everyone will be able to carry their own stuff. However, if you’re going with your partner and 3 children, you’ll likely be doing most of the carrying. Keep this in mind when packing so you don’t overload yourself.
The Length Of Your Stay
The longer you’re staying, the more stuff you’ll need to bring. If you’re only going for the day, you can get away with packing less than if you’re staying for a week. Don’t pack more than you need or you’ll just end up lugging around extra stuff. One or two extra undergarments or tops are enough.
How Do I Not Overpack on a Beach Vacation?
A beach vacation is a perfect opportunity to get away from it all and relax. But what if you’re the type of person who tends to overpack? How can you make sure you don’t bring too much stuff?
As mentioned in this blog post, planning makes a huge difference when it comes to packing. If you don’t use a checklist in the first place, you’ll start randomly throwing items in and racing the clock. Checklists make sure that you’ve got everything you need without overdoing it.
Using the rolling method is another great way to reduce the amount of stuff you bring. This involves rolling your clothes up tightly and packing them in your suitcase. This will save space and prevent wrinkles.
Try stuffing items within other items in order to free up space. For example, you can put your socks in your shoes or put your undergarments in your hat.
Don’t bring full-sized products if you can help it. While a full-sized bottle of sunscreen may be needed for a whole family having fun in the sun, other things may be ok in small sizes, such as travel-sized shampoos, conditioners, and lotions.
Another way to lighten your load is to wear your heaviest items on the plane. This includes things like jackets, shoes, and belts. Wearing these items will free up space in your suitcase and make it easier to carry on.
When Should I Start Packing for the Beach?
Ideally, you should start packing for the beach a few days before your trip. This will give you time to make sure you have everything you need without feeling rushed.
Start by making a list of everything you need to bring. Once you have your list, start gathering items from around your house and packing them in a suitcase or bag.
The earlier you pack, the sooner you’ll see if you’ve run out of any items, which may require a trip to the store or a purchase off of Amazon. This will also give you ample time to do laundry so you can choose your outfits from all of your clean clothes.
Don’t wait until the night before or the day off to start packing. If you pack the night before, the process will likely take longer than you think. This means that you won’t get as much sleep as you anticipated, making you sluggish the next day.
If you pack the morning of, you will be rushed. This means you’re much more likely to lose items or forget something important. It will also make it hard to keep track of other family members’ packing lists if you’re all packing at the same time.
Packing in advance will help ensure that you have a relaxing and enjoyable trip.
The Bottom Line: The Ultimate Packing Checklist for the Beach
Now that you know what to pack for a beach trip, you can start planning your perfect getaway to Myrtle Beach. With a little preparation, you can be sure to have everything you need for an enjoyable and safe vacation. And don’t forget to have fun!