My favorite vacation EVER is a cruise to a tropical island. Even though I basically live in paradise here in Florida, there’s nothing like a trip to a beach with turquoise waters and white sands. Hot sun, drink in hand, not a care in the world. Have I convinced you to at least book a vacation yet??

Well good! Then you’ll need this beach vacation packing list…

Sadly, I don’t have anything planned for this summer – but that doesn’t mean I won’t go anywhere! (My last cruise was planned 2 weeks ahead.) Either way, I can’t wait. You don’t have to go on a cruise to find your tropical paradise. I use this beach vacation packing list anytime I want to go to the beach!

Another awesome getaway is boating. Find yourself a friend who has a boat (unless you have your own, then lucky you!) Plan a day out in the sun. Bring lunch and lots of sunscreen. In that event, I’d suggest bringing a shirt with sleeves in case your skin needs a break.

Know what to bring but still a little inspiration? Below you’ll find some of my suggestions!

Packing for Fun in the Sun

Makeup Bag: You’ve got to have something to keep all your toiletries and makeup products in. Here’s a few ideas.

Packing Cubes: These are genius little bags that make packing a breeze. If you travel a lot, I highly recommend you invest in some packing cubes! They make it much easier to find your items and stay organized. (You know when you’re looking for a shirt and it’s at the bottom…the whole pile gets destroyed.)

Pajamas: Of course you could bring any old pair of pajamas, but why not get some fun and festive pj’s that mirror the vacation vibes. You can never have enough pajamas anyway.

Destination Essentials – Whatever Floats Your Boat

Straw Hats: There are some ADORABLE straw hats on the market today. Pom poms, sassy script, and more. There’s a straw hat out there that matches your personality perfectly.

Favorite Sunscreen: My personal favorite is SunBum. The lotion is perfect because it’s not greasy at all. I also love their packaging! The bottle gets darker as it provides less SPF – and I like to think of it as how dark you’ll end up…It’s a great visual for an SPF guide. SunBum also makes a lip balm that’s great for moisturizing and protecting. Best of all, you can pick it up at Ulta!

Swimsuits: If you’re still looking for the perfect swimwear, check out my swim guide! This is also a guide to finding your perfect swim fit. Look your best this summer by finding a suit in the style that works best with your body type. You’ll be more comfortable in your skin when wearing something that supports AND flaunts!

A few of my favorites are…

Coverups: I’ll link a few of the cutest ones I’ve come across so far. Keep your eyes out (and don’t get too upset if you miss one) because the swim lines are still rolling out.

Towels: My suggestion are these Tesalate towels. I don’t own any of these, but they’re on my list of things I want. They claim to be sand resistant! As someone who frequents the beach, I can tell you that anything that REPELS sand is going to be your best friend.

No matter how much you shake that towel there will always be sand, hitching a ride, spreading to your car and then your floor. There’s nothing worse than stepping on sand on hard floor. If you happen to try them out (or have tried them already), please leave a comment and let me know so I don’t have to be the guinea pig!

Day to Night Vacation Fashion Guide

Sundresses/Romper: Sundresses are my favorite vacation style. Best of all, you can multitask and use a sundress as a coverup. (More space in your suitcase for souvenirs..) 

Wedges: This is the perfect dressy vacation shoe. They’re heels, but more comfortable than any pump you’ll ever wear. If you’re going on vacation this year you’re in luck. There are so many wedge options available right now! You’ll want more than just one pair.

Sandals: Whether it’s flip flops or dressy sandals, they’ll go with everything when it comes to a vacation. This is one essential you really can’t go without.

Beach Bag: Don’t forget the bag that holds everything together! Beach bags come in all shapes and sizes. This year I’m on the hunt for the perfect straw bag that is equally fun and flirty.

The Last Minute Details

• Don’t forget to paint your toes! Check out my post on nail polish colors for every season. Painted toes on a vacation are essential with all the sandals you’ll be wearing!
• You can always bring a curling iron, but if you can, I’d recommend embracing the beachy wave that we always try to recreate! Give your hair a vacation from the damaging heat tools and let your locks be free.

I really want to go on a vacation now…If you found this useful, be sure to bookmark the page for reference! And share with your friends so they can be prepared too. Go pack for paradise!