The packing essentials for beach vacations at resorts aren’t quite the same as staying at a hotel or private rental.
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Even if you’re staying right on the beach, you don’t have the same resort amenities… and those resort amenities might have you wondering which packing essentials you actually need with you. (The same is true when you pack for a cruise. It’s hard to know what will be provided and what you need to bring with you.)
To add to the challenge, you need to be prepared for lots of sunshine and days spent poolside. Even if you spend a lot of time outdoors and don’t burn easily, you need to consider sun protection, reef protection, hydration, and more.
In short, you might be surprised to learn about modern packing essentials for beach vacations in 2025—especially if you’re new to topics like reef protection. Here’s what you need to know for your upcoming winter beach vacations at resorts.
8 packing essentials for beach vacations that many people forget: gear
Rash guards
Rash guards are lightweight layers made from synthetic fabrics that dry quickly and protect you from UV rays. They’re designed specifically for water, letting you protect your skin from any rough run-ins (coral, rocks, etc) and from sunburn.
Rash guards are packing essentials if you burn easily. If you get a little careless on your first day of vacation, rash guards let you continue enjoying time in the sun while protecting your skin more than sunscreen.
Functional hats
Don’t just bring a basic baseball hat for vacation. You should be focused on hats with wide brims, breathable fabrics, and UPF ratings of 50+. They offer comfortable sun protection throughout the day. Sunday Afternoons, for example, has a great lineup of functional, wide-brimmed hats that suit men and women. You can find high fashion, casual, sporty, and more designs.
Polarized sunglasses
Don’t forget about your peepers! Polarized sunglasses have a specialized film that filters out certain light waves that cause a blinding glare—you know, like the midday sun on smooth, crystal clear waters. Polarized sunglasses also come with added protection for your eyes, offering UVA and UVB protection. As with hats, you can find plenty of polarized sunglasses that are made for beach days. I recommend shopping at Sunski.
Spare sunglasses
Polarized sunglasses aren’t cheap because they’re specialized. However, I also recommend bringing a cheap pair of sunglasses that you can use as spares. Or, if you’re feeling a little more protective of your polarized sunglasses, you can bring your spare pair with you on adventurous excursions. That way, you won’t risk losing or damaging your polarized pair.
Dry bag
Dry bags are watertight bags that are often used by backpackers and athletic travelers who need to keep tech and similar gear protected from the elements. They’re usually made from PVC or Nylon, using a rolling top to create a secure seal. They’re a great way to keep your wet beach gear from dampening the rest of your items if you’ll be out all day or if you’re heading out on a day trip.
Waterproof bag
What’s the difference between a dry bag and a waterproof bag? Dry bags are designed to be fully impenetrable, while waterproof bags are designed to repel water. Waterproof bags are great for beach days, as they also provide protection against sand and are easy to clean after the fact—even if they’ve been holding damp, sandy towels and shoes all day.
Tumbler
I’m usually a proponent of leaving your large Stanley or Yeti cup at home—but that’s not the case when it comes to packing essentials for beach vacations. This is the perfect time to bust out that tumbler. It’ll keep your cocktails (or mocktails) ice cold until you’re ready for another.
Waterproof solutions for taking pictures in the water
Lastly, don’t forget to bring a waterproof solution for your phone. These come in all shapes and sizes, from waterproof sleeves to sleek, hardshell cases. I’ll let you choose the best option for your smartphone—just consider this your reminder not to leave it behind!
6 packing essentials for beach vacations: toiletries & medicine
Reef-safe sun protection
Did you know that many beachside resorts are cracking down on sun protection? Many sunscreens and sunblocks contain chemicals that harm coral reefs and marine life. When you shop around for sun protection for your next beach vacation, look for a lotion that has the ‘reef-safe’ label. That means it doesn’t contain any chemicals that will damage local reefs and the marine life that call them home.
After-sun care
Similar to rash guards, having a reliable after-sun care routine can help you offset any unpleasant sunburn incidents. Once again, you can choose a solution that works for you, whether a basic aloe vera lotion or a brand-name soothing gel.
SPF lip balm
Don’t forget about your lips! Because lips are more sensitive than other parts of the body, most SPF lip balms are already reef-safe.
Dramamine
If you plan on getting out on the water, don’t forget to pack Dramamine. Whether you’re eyeing a wild banana boat ride, a calming sea kayaking tour, or a catamaran sunset cruise, don’t forget to factor in rocky waters. Even if you don’t normally get woozy due to waves, that might not be the case if you’ve been sipping on Mai Thais all day.
Dramamine can also help you manage any day trips that include long rides in small vans. I’m not usually prone to car sickness, but I’ve gotten a little nauseous on multiple day trips because it usually involves sitting for an hour or so crammed into a car with other travelers.
Your favorite hangover cure
Consider this your reminder: You should be packing your go-to OTT medications. When it comes to packing essentials for beach vacations at resorts, don’t forget that you will (probably, hopefully) have a bit of a hangover at least one day. Bring your hangover cures with you!
Baby powder
Baby powder can help you manage any uncomfortable chafing, which happens quickly in hot climates where sweating is inevitable. But I have a secret travel tip for you: Baby powder also works well to get sand off your sweaty skin. Just sprinkle some baby powder onto the sandy spot, rub it in, then brush it off once it’s dried.
