12 Key Pieces To Put On Your Beach Vacation Packing List

Published by
Rachel Aschenbrand-Robinson

Click to shop; Image via @summerofdiane
Deciding what to pack for a beach vacation can be tricky. In the pre-trip excitement, it’s tempting to throw as many cute summer pieces into your suitcase as you can, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve had a proper getaway (hello, hi). But no one really wants to lug overstuffed baggage through an airport, into an Uber, on a plane, and then back again–so packing light and smart is important. That’s of course where a vacation packing list comes in handy.

There are a few pieces that should always be on your beach packing list, no matter where you’re headed. Aside from necessities like toiletries and maybe your passport, you’ll want to stock your travel wardrobe with a few multitasking must-have clothing and accessory picks. These are the types of items that can be mixed and matched, dressed up or down, and worn from beach to town.

Because unplugging for a few consecutive days should be both stress-free and stylish, we’ve curated a packing list for beach vacations that you can use now and keep for later. From breezy frocks to woven straw extras, these are the key items that will ensure you look great whether you’re sipping an umbrella drink on the sand or stepping out to dinner.

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1. Beach-to-Town Sundress:

A breezy dress in vibrant, vacay-ready colors is perfect for poolside lounging, sightseeing in town, or dinner under the stars.

2. White Crop Top:

Nothing says summer fun in the sun like a little white top–bonus points if you opt for one that ties in front. Pair your crop top with shorts or layer it over a strappy sundress or jumpsuit.

3. Woven Carryall:

If you don’t bring a straw bag, did you even go on vacation? A tote that’s roomy enough for the beach but sleek enough for other outings is a packing win.

4. Neutral Sandals:

Barely-there sandals in goes-with-everything neutral colors will literally take you from day (in a swimsuit and shorts) to night (in a flowy dress).

5. Breezy Maxi Dress:

Speaking of flowy dresses, a gauzy open-back maxi is laid-back and sexy at the same time–and easily dressed up or down. Plus, a white dress is particularly perfect for beach goddess vibes and can be styled with everything from brights to neutrals.

6. Summer Sweater:

A lightweight knit always comes in handy on vacay. When the ocean breeze picks up, layer it on over your maxi dress, wear it with cutoffs, or throw it on as an impromptu swim cover-up!

7. Straw Hat:

Stylish sun protection is a must–and a straw hat with grosgrain trim is perfect for the beach, the lake, or any time you feel like elevating a summer outfit.

8. Distressed Cutoffs:

No warm-weather wardrobe is complete without denim cutoffs, right? Right. The distressing takes any outfit into effortlessly cool territory, whether you wear these over a swimsuit or with a feminine top.

9. Perfect Swimsuit:

Never underestimate the power of a great swimsuit. A sleek, sexy one-piece can double as a bodysuit–just add shorts, a skirt, jeans, or wide-leg pants, and you’ve got an instant outfit (and more room in your suitcase)!

10. Statement Earrings:

Colorful baubles are the easiest way to elevate a laid-back vacation look: They add a punchy pop to white tops and dresses and kick colorful pieces up a notch.

11. Wide-Leg Jumpsuit:

Who doesn’t love a one-and-done? A comfy-cool jumpsuit is another dress-up-or-down pick you’ll never regret packing.

12. Oversized Sunnies:

Glam, retro-inspired sunglasses = jetsetter vibes, and gold oversized frames are totally timeless. Need we say more?

Which of these picks are on your vacation packing list? Show us your getaway style on Instagram @Lulus and head to our Vacation Shop for more beach-ready looks!

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