Whether you are planning a family friendly beach trip or a tropical couples retreat, this packing list can ensure you have what you need to enjoy your time at the beach. 

• A Beach Blanket. This beach blanket/mat from Amazon is our favorite item to take to the beach. This is perfect for playing in the sand with your kids without actually having to sit in the sand. It also works great if there is a shortage of beach chairs. The sand falls through the mat making it easy to use and pack up.

• Liquid IV or another electrolyte drink. Traveling and days at the beach can be very dehydrating. Liquid IV is a small packet of electrolyte powder to mix with water that will keep you hydrated while you are soaking up the sun.

• Reef Safe Sunscreen  Of course we can forget the sunscreen! You are most likely going to spend a considerable amount more on sunscreen if you buy it on vacation versus buying it at home and packing it. We love Sun Bum for the scent. After hours of being in the sun it’s easy to reapply with a Sun Bum or Baby Bum face stick. Blue Lizard is another great reef safe option and has a lid that changes color according to the UV index. 

• Bug Spray: Mosquitos and sandflies are common in the Caribbean. You are most likely to deal with these pesky insects in the evening. 

• Swimsuit Cover Up  Finding a stylish and practical cover up can make for a great day at the beach. Whether you are relaxing to the sound of the surf or heading to a beach bar this item can help you feel stylish and comfortable. This adorable cover up is comfortable to wear all day and to multiple settings. I’ve ordered one in black and apricot. Apricot did not suit my skin color, but the black one is great.

• Packable Sun Hat:  After burning my scalp (mostly my part) multiple times on Caribbean adventures I never travel without a sun hat. Finding a foldable sun hat takes the stress out of packing it in your suitcase. 

• Plan for a relaxing day at the beach with earbuds or set the mood you want with a waterproof speaker.

• Dry bags or waterproof iPhone pouch: If you plan on paddle boarding, kayaking, or any type of water sport a waterproof carrier for your phone is a must. Dry bags are great for longer adventures if you want to bring a few more items such as chapstick or sunscreen. 

• Reusable water bottle/tumbler cup/ reusable straw. Cut down on waste and costs by bringing your own water bottle. Packing your own also ensures you won’t go thirsty. Another great way to cut down on waste is bringing your own tumbler cup for cocktails at the beach and a reusable straw. 

• Active sandals (Chacos), Water shoes. I’m usually a barefoot beach goer even if I’m on rough rock. However, many prefer water shoes or active sandals for the rougher terrain on some beaches. Chacos or active sandals are a great idea if you are planning on hiking on your Caribbean adventure. 

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