Beach Packing List

Dawn R. Levesque, Demand Media 

usatoday.com

 

Play in the sand instead of standing in line on your vacation. (Photo: kids feet in sandy beach fun image by Nicky Jacobs from Fotolia.com )

 

 

 

 

Just the Essentials

Ensure you pack essentials such as credit cards, cash and traveler checks. Confirm that you have your driver’s license, medical insurance cards and any membership cards you may need such as AAA in your wallet or purse. Make photocopies of your credit cards, identification or driver’s license, medical insurance cards and prescriptions, and store them separately. You’ll need eyeglasses, sunglasses, contact lens and
solution. Place all prescription and over-the-counter medications and a first-aid kit in a sealable plastic storage bag. Secure itineraries, tickets and any reservation confirmations in an easily accessible location such as a day pack. If traveling overseas, add vaccination documents and passport to the day pack. Make photocopies of these items as well.

 

Beach Wear

For beach days, pack two swimsuits, one beach cover-up or large T-shirt, two rash guards, one baseball hat or wide-brimmed sun hat and flip-flops or waterproof sandals per traveler. Pack a light sweatshirt or sweater for chilly mornings and evenings, and a lightweight nylon jacket if there is a probability of rain in the forecast. If your accommodation doesn’t supply beach towels, add two per person to the travel bag.

Beach Bag

When flying to your destination, pack a foldable beach bag in your luggage; keep beach gear to a minimum. If driving, assemble the beach bag beforehand so it’s ready upon arrival. Gather buckets and shovels or assorted empty containers, Frisbee, beach or soccer ball, swim goggles, aqua socks and a waterproof camera. Take enough sunscreen for the trip’s duration. Add a beach blanket, water bottles and sealable plastic bags for collecting seashells or transporting wet swimsuits. “It may make sense to pick up a few items at your destination, such as beach mats or a broad-brimmed hat,” according to Judith Gilford, author of “The Packing Book: Secrets of the Carry-on Traveler."

Beach Extras

Before loading up the car, verify if you can rent or will have access to beach chairs and a beach umbrella. Also, enquire about renting or obtaining boogie boards, surfboards, snorkel or scuba gear and life preservers before amassing more beach gear.

Baby

Traveling with a baby will require a pop-up beach sun shelter in addition to a collapsible stroller and car seat. Pack baby wipes and enough diapers to take you through two to three days; with the intention of purchasing more after arrival. Bring formula, baby food, bottles or toddler cup. Take travel-sized bathing supplies, bibs and pacifiers. For babies under one year, bring lightweight, long-sleeved cotton tops and bottoms to keep skin covered. Pack waterproof sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher and a brimmed sun hat, according to American Academy of Pediatrics advice posted in the Healthy Children website.