The Ultimate Beach Packing List for Rain or Shine

A family at the beach walks toward the shore. They carry beach supplies like a cooler, beach blanket, inner tube, etc.

Before you dip your toes into the ocean, you'll need the perfect beach trip packing list to make your day a breeze! Whether you're taking a day trip to your favorite local spot or you’re going on a week-long getaway, being prepared is key. In this guide, you’ll learn all about the must-have beach gear for your trip so you're all set from sunrise to sunset!

Key Takeaways

Uncover what to bring to the beach for the day — from beach umbrellas and sunscreen to all the must-have beach day favorites.
Learn what to take to the beach for a week: everything you'll need for the journey, your stay, and those beach day must-haves.
Taking a last-minute trip to the beach? Revisit our beach day packing list for a quick recap of what to bring.
Check out our family beach vacation packing list infographic to recap for your next epic week-long beachside stay.

What to Bring to the Beach for the Day

Need to know what to bring to the beach for a day? Even if it's a short trip, being well-prepared with the right gear isn’t ever a bad thing. We’ve organized our beach packing list into eight convenient categories to make packing a breeze:

For the Drive
For Sun + Weather Protection
For Food + Water
At the Beach

For the Water + Safety
Beach Swimwear + Footwear
For Fun on the Beach
For Preparing to Go Home

A mom, son, and dad hold hands as they walk down the beach between some palm trees on vacation

This beach trip packing list might seem a little daunting for your family or needs. That said, you might not need everything mentioned in this list. Tailor it to fit the needs of your family as well as your commute time before you head to the beach.

For the Drive

Maps + GPS
Money + ID
Cellphone + Waterproof Phone Case
EZ Pass or Coins for Tolls
Emergency Contacts

For Sun + Weather Protection

For Food + Water

Beach Coolers + Drinkware
Ice Packs
Paper Plates + Cutlery + Napkins
Hydro Flask
Koozies
Juice + Soda + Food
Snacks
Water Bottles
Food Storage Bags
Hand Sanitizer + Wipes

At the Beach

For the Water + Safety

Beach Swimwear + Footwear

For Fun on the Beach

For Preparing to Go Home

Comb + Brush
Deodorant
Medication + Vitamins
Change of Clothes
Fresh Towel

Day Beach Trip Getaway Essentials

When it's just a day-long escape to the sandy shores, every moment counts. Check out these beach day trip essentials that help make your beach day nothing short of spectacular:

Beach Bag

A spacious beach bag is a game-changer. You’ll have room for all your essentials, including that plush beach towel. Many beach bags come in vibrant designs and patterns so they double as stylish accessories!

Choose waterproof beach bags that are easy to keep clean.
Opt for beach bags with additional pockets and inside zippers for organizing your items.

Beach Towel

A beach towel is an absolute must-have for any seaside escape. For a week-long getaway, pack 2-4 towels per person. This ensures you always have a fresh one on hand while the others are drying or being washed.

Opt for oversized beach towels that are absorbent.
Cotton beach towels are soft, durable, and moisture-wicking.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is your beach day's unsung hero — even when lounging under a beach umbrella. Shield your skin from the sun's rays by opting for a water-resistant formula that stands up to both sweat and ocean dips.

Stick with an SPF between 30-100 for maximum coverage.
Reapply your sunscreen every few hours and bring plenty of extra bottles with you so you don’t run out.

Beach Chairs

While you may not want to lug a beach chair across the sand, once you set it up, you’ll be glad you did! There’s nothing better than reading comfy at the beach.

Stick with lightweight beach chairs with built-in handles for easy carrying.
Some beach chairs recline for a relaxed, sun-napping-approved position.

Beach Umbrella

Beach umbrellas are perfect for those sizzling summer days when there are no clouds in the sky. Invest in a high-quality beach umbrella that you can take on endless summer getaways.

Check to see if your umbrella offers UV protection.
Full-sized umbrellas will provide a larger area of shade.
For smaller umbrellas, you should ideally take one for each member of your group.

Sun Shelters

Sun shelters and pop-up canopies are a crowd favorite — especially for families with young kids. They offer a haven from the relentless sun: ensuring the little ones aren't exposed all day.

Get to the beach early to set up your sun shelter. These need extra space on the sand.
There are different types of sun shelters available, including tent-like ones and canopy types.

Beach Wagon

Academy Sports + Outdoors XL Folding Wagon with Tailgate and Strap

Hauling multiple bags across the sand? There's a better way. A beach wagon can better transport all your seaside essentials. Say goodbye to the struggle and hello to convenience!

Look for collapsible beach wagons that are easy to transport in the car.
Beach wagons with large wheels can handle sand, rocks, and bumpy terrain.

Beach Attire for the Whole Family

Heading to the beach without the perfect outfit? Not on our watch! Dive into our curated selection of beachwear essentials — from swimsuit cover-ups to must-have sunglasses.

Food + Fun on the Beach

From firing up the grill to exploring the ocean — beach trips are all about indulging in sun-soaked activities. Dive into our beach trip packing list to elevate your sunbathing, snorkeling, and culinary adventures.

Beach Safety + Preparedness

When it comes to beach days, it's all about the details. From cooling that unexpected sunburn to making sure the little ones have their trusty floaties, it's essential to be prepared.

Don't forget those often-overlooked items like a first aid kit or rainwear. Check out our other must-have items for a safe beach day.

Other Beach Day Trip Gear Ideas

Stand-up paddle boards
Fishing equipment
Car ride/beach entertainment (like portable speakers, magazines, etc.)

What to Take to the Beach for a Week

From plenty of sunscreen to a few smart items like detergent for freshening up your beachwear, we've got you covered. Prepare for your beach destination with our beach trip packing list and ensure you’re perfectly prepped for a week of sun, sand, and surf.

For the Drive
For Packing + Walking to the Beach
At the Beach
For Sun + Weather Protection
For Food + Water

Beach Swimwear + Footwear
For Cooking + Making S’mores
For Fun on the Beach
Packing Essentials for a Weeklong Stay
For the Water + Safety

An open trunk displays beach essentials, including a beach ball, cooler, and towel.