If you’ve never been on a beach vacation, you might be wondering about all the essentials you need to pack and prepare to have a great time. Whether you’re planning a couple’s getaway or a family trip, we are sharing our favorite travel tips for your next beach vacation. Take a look.
1. Learn About the Destination
Do your research on everything you can find about the destination. From the best restaurants to popular tourist spots, use this information to prepare a detailed itinerary (that you may or may not follow). Before finalizing the dates, make sure you check the weather forecast. Getting stuck indoors because of a storm is the last thing you want on a beach getaway.
2. Sunscreen is a MUST
You will likely spend a lot of time outdoors, so don’t forget to pack plenty of sunscreen with high SPF. It is also advised to look for a sunscreen that’s safe for the ocean. Go for a mineral sunscreen that doesn’t contain Oxybenzone and Octinoxate.
Besides sunscreen, you should also carry bug spray.
3. Find Beach-Side Accommodation
If you’re going on a beach vacation, you should have easy access to beaches. Therefore, avoid booking accommodation that is too far from the seashore. You don’t want to waste time traveling long distances. Check out a selection of Outer Banks beach rentals to ensure you don’t have to travel far on your East Coast trips.
4. Look for Fun Activities
If you want to do more than just lazing around on the beach, then find out the activities the destination has to offer. Many beaches offer a variety of water sports for tourists. You should also look for any festivals or events happening in the city and book tickets.
5. Pack Beach-Friendly Clothing & Accessories
Packing the right clothing and accessories is necessary to ensure a comfortable time. After all, you don’t want to get a nasty sunburn on the first day of your break! Your packing list should include a sun hat, UV-protected sunglasses, and breezy clothing. Also, remember to pack flip-flops or water shoes.
6. Carry Few Books
In case you’re planning to visit a quaint little beach town, chances are there won’t be much for you to do except spend time on the beach. This is the perfect opportunity to catch up on your reading. Carry at least a few books or an e-reader.
7. Take A Large Beach Bag
When you’re going to the beach, you will have to carry many things with you including sunscreen, sunglasses, towels, flip-flops, keys, money, books, and so on. To make things easier for yourself, take a large beach bag that you can throw everything in.
8. Get Plastic Bags & Watertight Containers
On a beach vacation, you will probably go swimming in the ocean at least once. To protect your jewelry, electronics, and other belongings from water damage, keep a few small ziplock bags and watertight containers.
9. Learn About Rip Currents
Rip currents are fast-moving waters that can suck you in. Even a good swimmer may not be able to make it back to the shore safely. You should learn how to identify a rip current as well as how to get out of it.
10. Stay Hydrated
You should take a reusable water bottle that you can frequently fill up and stay hydrated. Being constantly in the sun also dries out skin and hair. Always carry a facial spray to ensure your skin is adequately hydrated. For hair, find a long-staying leave-in conditioner.
While this is not an exhaustive list, it includes the most important items for a stress-free experience. Happy vacationing!