If you’re heading for sun and surf, packing smart makes the whole trip easier. This checklist focuses on comfort, sun safety, and pieces that mix and match so you can get more outfits from fewer items—no overstuffed suitcase required.
Start With a Swimwear Game Plan
Suits
Aim for a mini swim capsule you can rotate through the week. Pack at least two suits so one can dry while you wear the other—browse plus size swimwear from Lands' End for mix-and-match options. Look for features like bra-sized tops, underwire or molded cups, adjustable straps, and supportive lining for a secure, comfortable fit. High-waist bottoms, longline bikini tops, and one-pieces with ruching are reliable choices that stay put in the waves.
Cover-Ups
Bring a lightweight button-up, a breezy midi dress, and a sarong or pareo. These pieces move from beach to boardwalk and can double as evening layers. A UPF rash guard or swim tee is handy for long boat days.
Support Pieces
Pack swim shorts or a swim skirt if you like extra coverage while walking or paddling. A soft, quick-dry bralette or bikini top can double as a base layer under tanks.
Pro tip: Try your suits on with planned activities in mind—sit, squat, and raise your arms to check for dig-in points or straps that slip.
Sun Safety You’ll Actually Use
Broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 for body, plus a mineral or water-resistant option for long swims.
Face stick or compact you can reapply without a mirror; don’t forget SPF lip balm.
UPF hat with a firm brim (consider a chin strap for windy beaches) and polarized sunglasses.
After-sun care: aloe gel or a lotion with soothing ingredients, and a hydrating overnight mask.
Pro tip: Set a phone reminder to reapply sunscreen every two hours—or sooner after swimming or sweating.
Comfort-First Clothing That Mixes and Matches
Think breathable fabrics and flexible waistbands. Build around a simple color story so tops, bottoms, and layers work together.
2–3 easy dresses (t-shirt, wrap, or tank styles)
2 pairs of shorts (one pull-on, one denim with stretch)
1–2 lightweight skirts or linen pants
Knit tanks and tees that don’t cling; add a breezy button-up for shade
A light cardigan or cropped jacket for chilly restaurants
Pro tip: High-rise bottoms with a wider waistband tend to stay comfortable on travel days and post-swim.
Footwear That Goes the Distance
Water-friendly sandals with arch support for docks and wet surfaces
Cushy slides or flip-flops for pool runs
Breathable sneakers for sightseeing
Blister patches and no-show socks as backups
Beach Gear and Handy Extras
Roomy beach tote plus zip pouches to separate sunscreen, tech, and snacks
Quick-dry microfiber towel and a mesh wet bag
Refillable water bottle; consider an insulated option to keep drinks cold
Waterproof phone pouch and a small cooler sling for day trips
E-reader or paperback and a portable charger
Toiletries and Skincare, Simplified
AM: gentle cleanse, vitamin C (if you use it), SPF
PM: cleanse (double-cleanse if you wore makeup), moisturizer, optional retinol on non-sun-intense days
Leave-in conditioner, anti-frizz cream, and a wide-tooth comb for saltwater tangles
Anti-chafe balm or powder for inner thighs and under-bust areas
Minimal makeup: tinted SPF or skin tint, brow gel, cream blush, and waterproof mascara
Travel-Day Essentials
ID, health insurance card, meds (in original bottles), and a small first-aid kit
Headphones, sleep mask, neck pillow, and a lightweight scarf
Healthy snacks to avoid overpriced airport options
Copies of bookings and an offline map of your destination
Smart Packing Tips
Roll knits, fold structured items, and use compression cubes to save space.
Pack suits and skincare near the top of your bag to hit the beach fast on arrival.
Rinse suits after each wear and rotate them to extend elasticity.
Keep a small laundry kit (stain pen, travel detergent) for midweek refreshes.
Quick Checklist
Swim: 2–3 suits, rash guard, cover-ups, mesh wet bag
Sun: SPF body and face, hat, sunglasses, after-sun lotion
Clothes: 3–4 tops, 2 shorts, 1–2 dresses, 1 skirt or pants, light layer
Shoes: supportive sandals, slides/flip-flops, sneakers
Gear: beach tote, quick-dry towel, water bottle, phone pouch, charger
Toiletries: cleanser, moisturizer, targeted actives, hair care, anti-chafe
Travel: documents, meds, first-aid, headphones, snacks, scarf
A little planning goes a long way. With supportive suits, breathable layers, and sun gear you’ll actually reach for, you can focus on long beach days and easy nights out—comfortably and confidently.