Beach Vacation Packing List

It’s that time of year when many of you are headed to warm weather destinations to get a much needed break from winter. I admit, I’m so jealous, but I’m channeling that jealousy for good by creating this beach vacation packing list for you. Think of this as more of a checklist and fill in with similar items you have. As you can see, I love neutrals; they make mixing and matching on vacation so easy. This packing list includes clothing, shoes, and accessories. I’m breaking down the why of each piece below, and be sure to scroll to the bottom for twelve beach vacation outfit ideas.

Beach Vacation Packing List

Tank Tops // Two basic tank tops in two different colorways – these pair easily with shorts or pants for daytime. Choose a style that you feel best in whether that be a high neck option or more of a scoop neck style.

Tube Tops (Cream & Black) // I’ll say it – I love a tube top. These can be worn at night with pants or even a long skirt (not included in the packing list but a good option for this type of vacation!) I actually own these two from Susan Monaco. One is more cropped and the other is longer.

Cotton Sweater // A lightweight cotton sweater is good for cool mornings or evenings or if you plan on being on boat. You can also wear it more as an accessory by styling it over your shoulders or tying it around your waist.

Button Down Shirt // This is my cover-up of choice. I like that I can use the cotton or linen button downs I already have in my closet without buying a coverup I’ll wear rarely. These cotton ones from Gap are a particular favorite of mine, and I own it in about five colorways. FYI, they fit very oversized.

Blouse // For dinners, I like having a nice top I can pair with linen pants. I love this more open button front style from Nation Los Angelos.

Brown Linen Shorts & Black Linen Shorts // I recommend having a couple pairs of lightweight shorts. I also own and recommend this pair from Na Nin which is a raw silk and has that perfect relaxed casual vibe. If you’re looking for an affordable option, check out this pair from Quince.

White Linen Pants // Linen pants are a bit more dressy than shorts. They pair nicely with tube tops in particular. Or you could even style your pants with your swimsuit for a beach outfit. The pair pictured here is from J.Crew, but I have this pair from Nation LA that are so chic.

Two Piece Swimsuit & One Piece Swimsuit // Some people like to pack several swimsuits and some people like to pack one. Personally, I typically pack two – a two piece and a one piece for variety sake.

Maxi Dress // A long maxi dress in cotton, linen, or even a lightweight knit is good for dinners with flat sandals or heels. Add some jewelry to dress up it up more.

Mini Dress // I love a little shift dress for a chic warm weather vacation. Again, you can dress it up or down by styling it with flats or heels, some additional jewelry, or a day or evening bag.

Black Sandals, Brown Sandals, Heeled Sandals, & Sneakers // These are typically the four pairs of shoes I’m packing. Two flat sandals (I almost always stick to flats when I’m on vacation), a pair of kitten heels for nights I want to be a little fancy, and a pair of sneakers for days when you’re possibly doing more sightseeing and plan to be walking.

Accessories // When you’re wearing simple and minimal warm weather looks, accessories can go a long way. I like having two pairs of sunglasses (one brown and one black), some jewelry (pendent necklace, bangle, earrings), a sun hat, and two bags – one for daytime and one for evening.

Beach Vacation Outfit Ideas

Below I’ve created twelve beach vacation outfit ideas. Some work better for days and some for evenings. I love the variety you can make with just a minimal packing list.

Shop The Packing List

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