Get vacation ready with my newly updated Resort Wear Shop! Whether you’re headed on Spring Break or planning a tropical getaway soon, I’ve included everything you need to pack for a beach vacation including the best vacation outfits and beach accessories. I’ve also included a packing or shopping tip for each item you should bring!

What To Pack For a Beach Vacation

1. Cute Dresses

A cute dress (or two!) is a must-pack if you are headed to a warm-weather destination. I typically bring at least one casual dress and one maxi or midi dress to wear to dinner. Shop my current favorites below!  I also shared a Best Dresses for a Beach Vacation last week.

Packing Tip: Don’t have much room in your suitcase? You can always dress up a casual dress with a pair of statement earrings and a stylish clutch or straw bag that I share later in this post.  Also, be sure to check out my How to Pack in a Carry-On for a Week for all my packing tips!

2. Flattering Swimsuit

If you are going to be relaxing poolside or at the beach, I highly recommend packing 1-2 flattering swimsuits. There’s nothing worse than getting on vacation, putting on your swimsuit, and feeling uncomfortable. Invest in a good swimsuit that makes you feel confident! I shared my favorite places to shop for flattering swimsuits online earlier this week and am sharing more of my favorite one-piece and bikini styles below.

Packing Tip: This may sound simple but try your swimsuits on before you pack them, especially if you bought a new one! Make sure that you won’t be constantly tugging at it and that it gives you the right amount of coverage.

3. Stylish Cover Up

A stylish cover-up is essential for any resort vacation. I like to buy one that is versatile enough to wear over a swimsuit but also could be worn to lunch or drinks. I’ve linked several that will take you from sand to sidewalk while looking effortlessly chic.

Shopping Tip: When shopping for a cover-up, think about what color bathing suits you own or plan to buy. A more neutral cover-up in colors such as white, black, or navy will go with just about anything!

4. Great Beach Bag

A great beach bag to carry all your necessities as well as your family’s is a big must!  I need to get my girls their own bags now as mine gets pretty heavy!  This collection of beach and pool-ready bags has just the one that will fit your needs from fun but sturdy straw to fun clear and color combos and coated canvas.

Shopping Tip: When you buy your bag, think about how you will use it.  Do you carry things for just yourself or a family of 5?  Another tip for packing is to put your beach bag inside your carry-on like I do using the MZ Wallace bag.  It protects it and allows you to bring more easily!

5. Lightweight Tops & Classic Shorts

For everyday wear on your beach vacation, you’ll want to pack quite a few lightweight tees with coordinating shorts. These are great for shopping, excursions, and anything else you may have planned. From basics to the best denim, you will wear these picks for vacation and beyond.

Shopping Tip: I always recommend having at least a favorite white and black top, one pair of jean shorts, and a good pair of white denim in your closet. These classic styles will go with everything in your closet!

6. Fashionable AND Comfortable Sandals

The last thing you want when you are on vacation is to have blisters or complain about your feet hurting! That’s why I make sure to bring sandals that are both fashionable and comfortable. These sandals and these wedges are my go-to’s. Don’t forget to also bring at least one pair of flip-flops like these for the pool and beach. Check out more of my favorite sandals and flip-flops below.

Packing Tip: When it comes to packing wedges or heels, consider how many times you would wear them on your trip. Is it just once out to a nicer dinner or would you wear them every night?  I try to take one versatile pair!

7. Fun Accessories

Take a simple vacation outfit to the next level with the right accessories. From elegant sunglasses to raffia earrings and straw bags, you can’t go wrong with the styles I’m sharing.

Packing Tip: I love to pack all of my accessories in one of these bags! It keeps them organized and makes it easy to see everything inside.

8. Clean Sunscreen

While some vacation destinations will provide sunscreen, it’s always a smart move to bring your own. Getting a sunburn can ruin a trip. That’s where re-application of sunscreen is key! I’ve put together a boutique of all of the clean sunscreens my family loves and uses.

Shopping Tip: Another great way to ensure that you don’t get a sunburn is by wearing a sun-protective hat and UPF 50+ clothing on vacation.

I hope this post helps you when you’re figuring out what to pack on your next beach trip or tropical getaway. I’ve included a few other posts below I’ve written as well that you’ll want to check out before you go on vacation.

Don’t miss out on these posts!

• I share all about how I pack for a week in a carry-on in this post! My friends and family are always amazed at what I can fit.
• You can shop more women’s resort wear finds and beach accessories in my original Resort Shop post here. 
• Want to get a healthy glow before your trip? Check out my post on the best clean self-tanners!

Xo,

Alicia

PS – Get more inspiration in recent posts 

• 11 Best Places to Buy Swimsuits Online, 
• The Resort Shop,
• Five Tips for Organized Travel,
• New Resort Arrivals from Avara,
• Best Dresses for a Beach Vacation
• Best Straw Bags and Totes

 Did you know you can also easily shop my Instagram Feed, too?