It will be summer again soon enough, and for many, that means answering the call of the sea. Or rather, the beach! Bringing too much stuff you spent a fortune on will kill the vibe, so pack these eight essential things and enjoy a stress-free coastal retreat without breaking your bank or your back!
Strategic clothing choices can make or break your lightweight packing efforts. That’s why you’ll want to focus on fewer multipurpose clothing items that you can mix and match. These include tank tops, shorts, compact sun dresses, and functional T-shirts. Try to go for breathable and moisture-wicking clothing that dries quickly and won’t stink up your bags.
What shoes you need depends on the activities you have in mind. If you’re staying glued to the beach, you may get away with flip-flops alone, although waterproof sandals work just as well. Ladies can also pull sandals off for an elegant evening look. Consider some sturdy walking shoes if you’re planning inland treks or exploring a city.
UV rays are no joke, so prepare adequately by covering your bases. Foldable wide-brim or straw hats are perfect for protecting your face and neck, while bright, especially white clothing is best at reflecting the rays. Complete the look with a pair of stylish UV-blocking sunglasses. Of course, sunscreen is a must, too. Make sure it has high SPF and doesn’t contain chemicals harmful to the environment.
The fact that coastal getaways are ideal for retreating from the world doesn’t mean you should leave civilization’s comforts behind. For example, an e-reader lets you devour the thickest books while being compact and light. Adventurous types may want to take an action camera to capture their surfing or underwater activities.
Naturally, you’ll bring your smartphone. Make sure it’s fully charged and bring a powerbank just in case. You’ll also want to ensure you can use it to access the internet or reach out for help. Modern smartphones have an eSIM chip that lets you use local networks and skip the hefty roaming fees. Set up a plan with a reliable eSIM provider before your flight, and you’ll be good to go.
It only takes a few essentials to make the time spent on the beach stress-free and more comfortable. For example, Ziploc bags to put your wet clothes in will help keep your other things clean and fresh. Microfiber towels dry you and themselves off while taking up little space.
Reusable bags and water bottles are practical and great for the environment. You can pack snacks or beach toys in the former and fill the latter up with water or other refreshing drinks. Put the water bottle in the freezer overnight and enjoy ice-cold refreshments for hours without lugging around a portable fridge.
Sand gets everywhere, and nothing beats blasting it away with a hot shower at the end of an exhausting yet fun day. Bring a piece of home with you through your favourite toothpaste, shower gel, and shampoo.
It’s better not to need one and have it than vice versa, so make room in your packs for a comprehensive first aid kit. Outfit it with bandages, scissors, and band-aids as well as pain and prescription medication. Add tweezers for splinter removal and some aloe cream for sunburn relief.
Who says packing is only physical? Enrich your journey digitally by loading your phone up with essential apps!
Some will help you book flights and accommodations at excellent prices. Others make navigating local roads or trails, using public transport, or finding secluded beaches a breeze. Learning a few phrases to make yourself understood by non-English-speaking locals is another good idea.
Remember to check out the best eSIM services and activate one before your trip. This way, you enjoy uninterrupted connectivity and the finest data package deals, allowing you to take full advantage of any app that needs online access.