Sun basking, beach, coconut trees, and sand between your toes, just the thought of it is enough to transfer you to a world of serenity. We all crave a tropical getaway, whether in Bali, Hawaii, or Maldives, the tropical essence prevails everywhere. Now that you have decided where to go on your tropical vacation, the next step is packing. Keep one thing in mind: packing for a tropical vacation is very different from packing for any other trip. You need a lot more than just swimsuits and sunscreen. To simplify this process, we have made a complete itinerary of what to pack for a tropical vacation.
1. Clothing
Keep one rule in mind: the clothes should be flowy and lightweight, whether swimsuits or dresses. Here are some must-pack clothing items.
Swimsuits
Of course, the number one item in your packing list would be bathing suits or swimsuits. Pack at least two swimsuits in case you need them.
Beach cover-ups or robes
The best way to transform your bathing suit into an everyday tropical outfit is to layer it with a robe or, preferably, a beach cover-up. A kaftan, kimono, or palazzo pants can elevate your overall beach look.
Beach dresses
Add some tropical touch to your outfits by packing lightweight and breezy dresses. Vibrant colours and floral prints go best with the tropical theme.
Tank tops and shorts
Lastly, tank tops and shorts are the best choice for water sports and outdoor activities where you want to be comfortable.
2. Shoes
You can't just take your everyday shoes to the beach, so these are the two best options for shoes.
Flip flops or sandals.
You can easily walk around in them on sand and in water. Moreover, flip-flops and sandals also look good with your beach outfits.
Water shoes
If you go for boating or other water sports, you can't go in flip flops, and even your regular shoes won't do in the water. So, water shoes are the best alternative.
3. Accessories
Apart from the basics, these are accessories you need on a tropical vacation.
Sun hat
Usually, it is very sunny on the beach so it's better to have a good sunhat with you.
Tote bag.
Those classy bags won't do on the beach. Have a good, vibrant tote bag that goes with your outfits and is big enough to carry all your beach gear.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are the best accessory for me. With the right pair, you can rock your whole look. Also, I prefer to pack more than one pair.
Water bottle
Ensure you have a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on the beach.
4. Skincare
These skincare products will protect you from the sun and ensure you look fresh and radiant on your trip.
Sunscreen
It is the number one essential on a tropical vacation. Go for a high SPF and broad-spectrum sunscreen for your body and face. I like to pack tinted sunscreen for my face because it saves the need for foundation.
Aloe gel or after-sun lotion
If you get sunburnt under the sun, aloe gel and after-sun lotion will soothe the skin and help you recover within hours.
Bug repellant
As you will be outdoors, you can be exposed to bugs, mainly mosquitoes, in such tropical locations, so make sure you have a bug repellant to your rescue.
Dry shampoo
Beach water can make hair rough and oily, so dry shampoo is essential for taming frizzy hair.
Lip balm with SPF.
You might not use lip balm with SPF daily, but it is a must-have here.
Some basic makeup
Besides that, you need a good moisturizer, waterproof mascara, vibrant nail paint, and any other makeup products you want.
Anti-bacterial wipes
Lastly, it would help if you always had anti-bacterial wipes because you never know when you need them.
5. Beach gear
These are some things that you will specifically need on the beach.
Beach cooler
Who doesn’t need a chilled drink on a hot sunny beach? Have your portable beach cooler with you to keep your drinks cold.
Blanket
When you want to relax under the sun, have a lightweight beach blanket with you to lounge on.
Towels
No robes and coveralls can do the work of a towel after a dip in the water. For that, pack some lightweight towels with you.
6. Miscellaneous
Now that we have covered each category, these are the few essentials that make it with you on almost every trip.
Portable charger
There are no charging plugs for devices on the beach, so it's better to have a portable charger with you.
Kindle or a book
Sunbathing can be a bit boring, so a book or Kindle is the perfect option to keep you busy.
Waterproof phone case
If your phone isn't waterproof, remember to keep a waterproof phone case with you.
Waterproof Go pro or camera.
Who doesn't want perfect beach sun-kissed photos and videos? A waterproof GoPro is excellent for beach photos, but if you don't have one, don't worry—a good camera is no less good.
Documents
Finally, essential documents you must have when travelling are your ID card, passport, and visa. Ensure you carry photocopies of all crucial documents, as you might need them.
Bottom line
This itinerary on what to pack made me want a tropical vacation. These places have a lot to offer, from sandy beaches to vibrant coral reefs and fresh sea breeze. We want you to make the most of your vacation and not fuss over an essential you forgot to bring. So, keep this list with you when you pack; it will save you a lot of time and any potential regrets about things you forgot to pack. So let your hair loose, enjoy the sand under your feet, and embrace the natural beauty of the tropical paradise that awaits you!
