Essential Beach Vacation Packing List (Free Printable)

Summer is so close we can practically taste the Mai Tais! If you're planning a beach getaway with your family this year, you're probably already dreaming about palm trees, white sand, and pineapple drinks with little umbrellas in them.

But first - reality!

Sorry, didn't mean to kill the vibe there. But as we all know, planning beach trips (especially with kids in tow) is challenging! How to make sure you bring all the essential items? Why, a super handy Beach Essentials Vacation Packing List, of course!

Download our Beach Vacation Packing List free printable to help you organize your next vacation. Then, let's take a look at what should go on it!

Must-Have Travel Documents for a Family Beach Vacation

These days, most of your essential travel documents can be kept on your phone - but it's still a good idea to put these on your beach vacation packing list so you know you haven't missed anything:

• IDs (esp. driver's licenses if you plan to rent a car)
• Passports (if you're flying)
• Visas
• Tickets to any shows or tours you plan to take
• Hotel confirmations
• Health insurance cards (which you hopefully won't need!)
• Pet imports (if you're taking Fido)

Clothing & Accessories to Pack for the Family

You bought a whole new swimsuit for this trip - don't forget it! Some essential clothing items to include in this section of your beach packing list are:

• Swimsuits
• Kids' swimsuits (check out our buying guide here)
• Cover-ups
• Pair of flip flops
• Pair of walking shoes / lightweight sneakers
• Water shoes
• Pair of shorts, tees, tanks, daywear
• Hat
• Evening wear
• Dressy pair of sandals
• Rash guard
• Mesh bags for dirty clothes
• Light jacket

Looking for a fun new swim look before you head off? Check out this stunning shimmery one-piece, this cute floral bottom, or this bold striped top.

Personal Care Essentials

Fun in the sun becomes way less fun if people are dehydrated, hungry, or sunburned. Don't forget these essential personal items for sunny days at the beach.

• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Aloe vera
• Pain relievers
• Lip balm
• Baby wipes for quick clean ups
• Diapers
• Reusable water bottle and plenty of water
• First-aid kit

Don't forget to bring along your usual essential toiletries, too: toothbrush, lotion, hair dryer, makeup & makeup remover, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and maybe even some gentle rinse-free detergent for soaking salty swimsuits.

And if keeping kids hydrated on long beach days is challenging, check out our list of fun summer drinks for kids.

Family-Friendly Tech to Bring to the Beach

Must-have items to slip into your beach tote.

• Kindle (or other e-readers)
• Phone
• Waterproof phone case or pouch
• Portable bluetooth speakers
• Headphones
• Tablets for kids
• Chargers!!!
• Cables
• Backup batteries (a game changer!)

Other Beach Essentials You Shouldn’t Forget

Let's not forget the ultimate beach vacation packing list items: beach toys! These essentials provide fun, comfort, and much-needed shade.

• Beach towel
• Beach chairs
• Beach wagon
• Beach bags
• Beach cooler
• Beach tent
• Beach blanket
• Beach umbrella
• Snorkel
• Flippers
• Goggles
• Sand toys
• Portable games
• Beach balls

Download Your Free Printable PDF Beach Trip Packing List

Don't stress! Download our free beach vacation checklist to make your family beach vacation packing a breeze this year, and you'll be knee-deep in Mai Tais in no time!