You’re heading out for your beach vacation? Lucky you! Assuming the weather is good, you’ll be soaking in the sun, digging your toes into the sand and maybe catching a few waves on your rented jet ski. All that’s left to do is pack your bags. But how do you determine what’s essential when you can only take one bag? Here’s some advice to help you make the tough choices.
1. Two quick-dry bathing suits.
It’s a rookie mistake to only pack one bathing suit, but chances are you’ll be swimming more than once a day and who wants to put on a wet pair of trunks?
2. Sunscreen and lotion.
Sure, you can pick up sunscreen once you’re there, but why put off your first trip to the beach with a detour to find a nearby drugstore? Sometimes the hotel gift shop will sell sunscreen, but you might get charged an arm and a leg. The same is true with lotion. Chlorine and salt water can dry out your skin, and you’ll want to have a good non-comedogenic (won’t clog your pores and make acne worse) lotion to lather on after the shower. If you’re going to a foreign country like Mexico, they may not have your brand.
3. Slides, sneakers, and dressier shoes, sandals or moccasins.
Chances are, you’ll live in your slides, so invest in a comfortable pair that’s waterproof. You’ll also want to take a pair of sneakers for sightseeing or walking the town. Depending on where you decide to go to enjoy the nightlife, you’ll also want a pair of dressier shoes, sandals or moccasins.
4. Shorts, jeans, and khakis.
Cargo shorts are a good bet when you’re on vacation because they give you plenty of pockets that button closed. Jeans work for cooler casual nights and khakis can work for day or evening.
5. A lightweight waterproof jacket, sweatshirt, and collared shirt.
In addition to any t-shirts and polos that you pack for vacation, you’ll need to include a collared shirt (for more upscale nightlife venues) and a sweatshirt and lightweight waterproof or water-resistant rain jacket for weather fluctuations.
6. Sunglasses, a waterproof watch, and a hat.
A hat and sunglasses will help protect your face and eyes from the glaring sun. The waterproof watch will help ensure you’re not late for your flight—even if you forget to take it off before you go snorkeling.
