What you need to buy and pack for your upcoming overseas beach getaway
If there’s one thing we Brits love most, it’s jetting on a plane somewhere hot and soaking up the rays. And if you’ve booked a much-needed beach getaway, you need to make sure you’ve got all the essentials in your suitcase ready and raring to go!
Whether you’re heading for a spell in the Greek Islands or Spain’s sandy shores, getting the essentials together can be the difference between a hassle-free holiday and one you look back on with dread, rather than fondness.
The good news for you is we’ve pulled together a guide to walk you through each step of the packing process. Once you reach the bottom, you’ll have the advice you need on what to purchase, what to pack, and how to do everything in between in the most efficient manner possible. Before you can think of hitting the airport terminal, follow our suggestions first!
Swimsuits and beachwear
Deciding on the right swimsuits and beachwear isn’t just about fashion, it’s about finding items that make you feel confident and comfortable while you soak up the sun.
Whether you’re lounging on the sand or diving into the crystal clear waters, your beachwear needs to be functional, trendy, and suitable for all your beach activities. Don’t be afraid to push the boat out and wear something vibrant or patterned. Just remember, your beachwear is an expression of your personal style.
And there’s much more to beachwear than just swimsuits. Consider beach dresses, kaftans, or sarongs – whatever tickles your fancy. All three are perfect garments for when you want to cover up, such as if you’re heading for a casual beachside lunch. Make sure these items are lightweight, easy to pack, and quick to dry.
Don’t forget to bring a hat or two along too. Not only will a hat look great with your look, but it will also shield you from the sun while adding a dash of style.
Footwear
It’s easy to overlook the importance of quality footwear for a beach getaway, but your feet will thank you for the extra consideration (we promise!).
When it comes to beach holidays, comfort should be your number one concern, so pick footwear that’s sturdy enough for beach walks yet comfortable enough for leisurely lounging. Flip-flops are a classic choice, but you may also consider breathable sandals or water shoes for more adventurous activities like beach sports or kayaking.
If you need to stock up on new footwear, don’t worry about paying an arm and a leg either. You can check out Supersales who have discounts that can knock off a great amount of the total price. There are all the brands you love too, such as discounted Clarks shoes which can be the perfect footwear to throw on when heading for your evening meal. Their Clarks sale UK features all kinds of shoes, including sandals too.
Beach towels and blankets
Any beach holiday calls for the perfect beach towel or blanket. They’re an understated yet essential item on your packing list! Lightweight, fast-drying towels are the way to go. Microfibre towels, for example, aren’t just compact and quick-drying, but also sand-resistant, making them the perfect addition to your suitcase. Consider packing two of them, perhaps from a provider like 4inbandana for customizable options. One for lying on and another for drying off after a dip in the pool or sea.
For those who prefer a little more space to stretch out, a beach blanket could be your perfect companion. They offer ample room and can often be folded down into a surprisingly small size for ease of packing. Some beach blankets come with handy features too like sand pockets to prevent them from blowing away in the beach breeze. It’s wise to pick a vibrant design so you can spot your beach blanket when returning from the sea!
Sun protection
While many of us are drawn to the sun’s rays when going on a beach holiday, they can be harmful if you aren’t adequately protected. Sunburn can not only cause discomfort and potential long-term skin damage but put a damper on your holiday shenanigans. You don’t want to spend more time than you need to in your hotel room, so make sure you pack plenty of sun lotion for your jollies.
Whichever products you decide on, ensure your sun lotion has a high SPF. Aim for SPF 50 or above, and remember to apply it frequently, especially after getting out of the pool.
Sun protection doesn’t end with sun lotion either. Sunglasses are a staple and necessity for your beach holiday. They shield your eyes from the harsh sun while lowering your risk of eye-related conditions like cataracts. It’s best to only purchase sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection. Aside from their practical use, sunglasses can be a stylish accessory that adds a chic touch to your beach look. Therefore, take the time to find a pair that suits your style and elevates your beachwear.
Efficient packing
Cramming everything into your suitcase can often feel like a game of Tetris. Thankfully, there are proven strategies that can make packing more efficient. To begin, roll your clothes, rather than folding them. Taking this step not only saves space but helps to reduce wrinkles.
Next, make use of packing cubes. These handy containers not only compartmentalise your suitcase but keep your clothes neat and organised. This makes it easier to find what you’re looking for.
Another tip is to pack heavier items, like toiletries or shoes at the bottom of your suitcase. This will help keep your suitcase balanced when you’re whizzing through the airport. Finally, remember to set aside space for any holiday purchases. Lots of us like to pick up a souvenir or two, so if you do this, you won’t have to worry about leaving anything important behind!
Travel documents and currency
While we don’t doubt you’ll be full of excitement packing for your beach holiday, it’s important not to overlook the more administrative side, like your travel documents and currency. First and foremost, you need to double-check your passport to ensure it’s up to date. Also, check if you need a visa for wherever you’re heading to. Don’t forget to pack a copy of your travel insurance policy, alongside any other relevant documents such as ID cards or driving licenses.
Regarding money, it’s always recommended to carry a mixture of cards and cash. Research the local currency of your destination and acquire some before you head out on your travels. It’s always handy to have a small amount on you for initial expenses such as taxi fares.
When it comes to safety, the rest of your holiday budget can be kept on a prepaid travel card or your normal debit or credit card. In a nutshell, you should always have a backup plan in place should you lose your card while on holiday.
Getting all the essentials packed up and ready to go for your beach holiday shouldn’t fill you with stress. As long as you make use of our guide and use a checklist as you get going, you should find the process bearable and be left with a suitcase filled with everything you need. Now all you need to worry about is what cocktail to have on the beach!
