3 Smart Tips for Packing for a Girls’ Trip to the Beach

Sun, salt, and sisterhood!

Whether you’re lounging in the sun, diving into an aquatic adventure, or simply enjoying shared laughter, a beach trip with your besties is a wonderful way to celebrate friendship. But packing for a girls’ trip to the beach (or anywhere, really!) comes with one major dilemma: pack light or pack everything?!

We have good news. You can do both, kind of, if you pack right! Follow these tips to blend packing practicality with that vacation vibe.

Choose versatile options

Pack clothing, shoes, and even accessories that can pull double duty. You’ll have everything you could possibly need, without struggling to zip your suitcase.

• Pack wrinkle-free cotton dresses that can serve as both beach cover-ups and pretty daytime outfits.
• Grab workout gear with an athleisure edge that can go from the gym to brunch.
• Bring dresses, skirts, and tops that transition easily from day to night, with just a switch of accessories. Stick to a color palette that makes mixing and matching easy.
• That brightly-colored sarong? It can pull triple duty: scarf, beach cover-up, and skirt or dress. The ultimate beach packing hack!
• An oversized tote bag can hold everything you need for the day, whether you’re heading to the beach or exploring a fun beach town.
• A packable, wide-brimmed beach hat will keep the sun off your face and elevate your other outfits.
• A pair of cute and comfy sandals for walking and one dressier pair for going out are usually all you’ll need—choose metallics or neutrals that match all of your outfits.
• If you’re planning to work out, bring sneakers that look good outside of the gym, too. Sneakers and a summer dress = an Instagram-worthy casual beachside outfit!

Bring your beach kit

Heading to the shore requires its own set of necessities!

Make sure you include these beach needs when you’re packing for a girls’ trip to the beach.

• Pack at least 2 swimsuits, so you’ll always have a dry one on hand. Pack different styles, too: one with small or removable straps for working on your tan, and one in an athletic style for fun beach activities such as paddle boarding, body surfing, or snorkeling.
• Keep your skin safe from the sun. A high-SPF sunscreen is a must, along with SPF chapstick, and oversized UV-protection sunglasses. And because sunburn is always a possibility, make sure you pack a soothing after-sun lotion, too.
• Staying hydrated is essential on those hot, sunny beach days. A reusable, insulated water bottle will stay cool all day long—even when you don’t.
• Beachside vendors are notorious for overpriced, unhealthy snacks! Bring your favorite treats from home to avoid getting hangry on your trip.
• Add your favorite beach bag extras: that juicy novel or an e-reader, a waterproof phone case, and a portable charger.

Streamline your beauty routine

The beach vibe is all about natural beauty, so feel free to leave your oversized makeup bag at home. Instead, opt for a few simple products to look put-together while emphasizing your vacay “glow.”

• Replace heavy foundation or powder with a tinted moisturizer. Bonus points if it has SPF!
• Makeup sticks are a 3-in-1 space saver. In shimmery shades of bronze or peach, they can be used on your eyes, cheeks, and lips for a casual, sun-kissed look. A quick swipe of waterproof mascara will complete your natural look.
• Saltwater and sunshine are tough on hair. Pack a leave-in conditioner and smooth it through your hair whenever you’re hanging around your hotel room or Airbnb with your girlfriends.
• Instead of your usual fragrance, opt for a body spray or mist that feels, and smells, light and fresh on hot, humid days.

Packing for a girls’ trip to the beach is easy. Just focus on versatility, sun protection, and simplicity, and you’ll be ready to enjoy a fabulous, worry-free beach getaway with your favorite girlfriends!

Want one more way to keep your girls’ trip worry-free? Ship your luggage to your beach hotel or Airbnb with LugLess. No hauling your bikini-filled suitcase around the airport, no hassles at baggage claim. So you can travel the same way you vacation: happy, relaxed, and stress-free.