What belongs in your beach bag: packing list for a beach holiday
Off to the beach!
Is a beach holiday part of your annual travel routine? Perhaps you prefer to stay close to your accommodation, or maybe you are the kind of person who searches every day for a new, secluded cove that is still untouched by tourists? Regardless of your preference—and whether you favour fine sandy beaches or rugged pebble shores—you should ideally store your day essentials in a beach bag.
With a beach bag, you always have everything you need within easy reach. At the end of the day, simply take out your swimwear and towels and hang them up to dry. Everything else can stay inside, ready to go for the next day.
Packing list for a day at the beach
Some basic essentials should always be with you:
- Swimwear
- Towel and blanket
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Headwear
In some countries and at certain beaches, entering cafés, bars, or shops in swimwear is not allowed. A bathrobe, sarong, or kimono can be quickly slipped on, allowing you to get dressed again with minimal effort and avoid getting your everyday clothes wet.
Depending on how long you stay, the temperature, and the amount of sun, you may also want to bring:
- Beach shelter, windbreak, or sun umbrella
- Inflatable pillow or small beach chair
- Flip-flops, sandals, or beach shoes
- Insect repellent (especially important at lakes)
- Plastic bag or dry bag for wet items
For entertainment:
- Book or e-reader
- Smartphone and possibly headphones
- Playing cards
- Sports equipment such as a ball, snorkel, etc.
And last but not least: cash for the ice cream truck or parking ticket, as well as enough water and some snacks—or even a proper picnic—are essential for a perfect day at the beach!
At the beach with children
If you are travelling with children, one beach bag will probably not be enough. It can be practical to pack a separate bag for the kids. Alongside swimwear and spare clothes, you can include a bathrobe, swimming aids, or nappies (if still needed). Don’t forget wet wipes, a sun hat, children’s sunscreen, and—of course—beach toys.
However, make sure to leave at home anything that could get ruined or damaged after swimming in the sea or playing in the sand.
Best left at home
Whether you live near the beach or are staying in a holiday home or hotel, there are some items you should avoid taking with you: jewellery and valuables are safer stored away than in a beach bag, and large, bulky items such as deckchairs should only be taken if you know you won’t have to carry them far.
At many beaches, you can rent loungers—or, at the North and Baltic Seas, beach chairs. Otherwise, a towel in the sand or a lightweight mat with a backrest is perfectly sufficient.
Taking souvenirs from the beach: is it allowed?
Some holidaymakers—especially those with children—like to collect shells, search for amber or fossils, or take home a small jar of sand from each beach visit. Whether this is allowed depends largely on the destination. In some countries, taking sand or natural items home can lead to hefty fines. Be sure to check in advance so your return journey doesn’t end in trouble.
The right beach towel
At the beach, many people prefer a lightweight towel that dries quickly yet is still large enough. We have put together a great selection of beach towels for you here: Find beach towels at MÖVE.