Wondering what to pack for a tropical beach vacation? I’ve got you covered. I’ve used this packing list many times for beach vacays! Plus I’ve included a free editable packing list Google Doc at the end of this post!
Tropical Beach Vacation Packing List
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What to Pack for a Tropical Beach Vacation: Clothing
Swimsuit
Of course you’re going to need a swimsuit! I like to bring both one and two pieces when I travel… sometimes after a night of frozen tropical drinks, a one piece feels way more covering 😉 Below are some of my favorites, but I have saved A TON on this Amazon list and am always adding more!
Cover-up
A light, breezy cover-up is always a must-pack item for any beach vacation.
Sandals
Cute, colorful sandals are a must for vacation at the beach! Check out some of these fun ones.
What to Pack for a Tropical Beach Vacation: Accessories
Sunhat
This is my hands-down favorite straw hat. Especially in the summer, you can see me wearing it in 90% of my Instagram photos.
View this post on InstagramIf you need me this summer, I’ll be at the @whotelatx pool ✌🏼#whotelatx #downtownaustin #whotel
A post shared by Chelsea Bancroft | ATX (@onechelofanadventure) on
I love the ones that have fun sayings on them too! Saved several like the one below on here.

Beach Bag
A good beach bag is a MUST! One of my favorite designers, Kelly Wynne just launched a new beach line and I am dying over their Bring on the Beach Bag!

Amazon surprisingly has some really cute, affordable bags (like the one below), saved a bunch of them here!

Jewelry
Not a necessity, of course, but a beach vacay is the perfect excuse to break out some fun, statement earrings!
It would be such a tragedy to lose your wedding or engagement ring, which is why I love the idea of wearing a cheap dupe while traveling! You can find shockingly cheap ones out there. The one below is from amazon.com and less than $12 — NO JOKE! There are also some really great ones on Etsy.

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What to Pack for a Tropical Beach Vacation: Toiletries
Sunscreen
I mentioned in my Must-Have Travel Beauty Products post that this Neutrogena Hydro Boost is my favorite sunscreen!
Self Tanner
I know there are tons of self tanners out there, many of which are pretty expensive. Personally, I use Jergens Instant Sun Mousse (I get the Deep Bronze color) and love it… it’s super cheap and dries in 60 seconds!

Chapstick
Sun, sand, and salt can be tough on lips. Always bring chapstick when I pack for a tropical beach vacation! This is my favorite one.
De-tangling Brush

Something about the sand and salt water always does a number on my hair… I swear by wet brush, it’s one of those beauty products I NEVER travel without.
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What to Pack for a Tropical Beach Vacation: Other Things to Bring
Beach Towel
I personally love a really big beach towel… nothing is more annoying than laying out on the beach and having your calves and feet hang off the towel getting all sandy.

Waterproof Phone Case
Nothing ruins a phone faster than saltwater and sand… protect your phone with a waterproof case! Also lets you take some cool underwater photos!
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Chelsea Bancroft | ATX (@onechelofanadventure) on
Waterproof/Sandproof Speakers
Hanging out on the beach is always better with music — just be sure to bring one that is sand and waterproof! This JBL Flip 4 is one of the most popular ones!

Water bottle
I like to use vacuum insulated water bottles because they keep your drink colder for longer and don’t “sweat” and get condensation everywhere.

BONUS: Customizable Beach Vacation Packing Check List
I typically make my packing lists in a google doc and list out everything I need for a trip. I adjust it for whatever destination I am going to, but for the most part it stays the same…. sharing my beach vacation packing list here!
Click the photo and it will take you to the actual Google doc that you can “make a copy” of and then edit for yourself!
Any tropical beach items that I forgot on this packing list? Let me know in the comments below or DM me on Instagram! Looking for more travel gear recommendations?
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xx Chels
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