How To Pack For A Beach Vacation

A couple weeks ago, we took our kids up to Lake Tahoe for a family vacation. This packing list, adapted from The LUCKY Shopping Manual, was really helpful and versatile. (I updated the styles since the book was published in 2003.)  I didn’t think I would need two coverups, but with young kids, you’d be surprised at how dirty you can get with just one day on the sand, and I didn’t even go in the water! I packed a jacket (not on the list) and never wore it, but did pull on my v-neck cashmere (always thrown in last minute) that I didn’t think I would wear. Get FREE BEACH VACATION PACKING LIST

How not to overpack for a beach vacation

Pink Buff Tank | Navy Boyfriend Tank | Striped Beach Pants | Yellow Linen Sweater | Flat Fringe Sandals |Weekender Bag |Striped Tote | Small CrossBody | White Embroidered Tunic |Orange Eyelet Tunic | Navy Swimsuit | Striped Swimsuit | Bangles | Flip Flops| Light Dress |Summer Pants | Pareo/Sarong|Panama Sunhat|

The coordinating colors and prints make getting dressed simple and quick. Utilize your time relaxing and enjoying loved ones.  See my three outfits below.

Get FREE BEACH VACATION PACKING LIST

BEACH VACATION OUTFITS

BEACH OUTFIT: White Embroidered Tunic |  Striped Swimsuit | Panama Sunhat|  Flip Flops| Striped Tote

BRUNCH OUTFIT: Light Dress |Flat Fringe Sandals |Bangles | Pareo/Sarong|Necklace

SUNSET STROLL OUTFIT: Navy Boyfriend Tank|Orange Eyelet Tunic  |Summer Pants |Flat Fringe Sandals |Striped Tote |

How to pack for a 5 day beach vacation

1. If you plan to go hiking or be more active than just relaxing on the sand, pack shorts or a romper, sneakers/athletic shoes, and a light jacket.
2. The beach can get windy; having a sweater and long pants will keep you warm in the breezy weather.
3. When you put your travel capsule together, start with practicality (what activities will you be doing) then style.
4. Always pack your favorite clothes that are most appropriate for the occasion. You’ll wear them over something new and stylish, but impractical.
5. STYLE: Maximize the versatility of your capsule by narrowing down your number of prints and colors (2-3). I always start by selecting one print. Then I pick one other coordinating print. Finally, I build my capsule by adding other basics, using the colors from my “anchor” print and a coordinating neutral.
6. EXAMPLE: I based this capsule off the striped drawstring LOFT pants. The coordinating colors were navy, peach/coral, and yellow.
7. Afterwards, I selected my prints: striped pants and a striped swimsuit. I picked solids for the other capsule items and used coordinating colors and prints for accessories (striped tote: coordinating color, pareo: coordinating color and print,  shoes: one coordinating color, one neutral.)
8. All tops can be worn with all bottoms.
9. Limit your prints to a couple key wardrobe items (pants or a top) and utilize prints on accessories so the capsule is more versatile.
10. MOST IMPORTANT: wear what is comfortable. It’s a vacation; you want to relax without worrying that your pants will be too tight if you eat dessert, or if your adorable new sandals are pinching your toes!

**Don’t forget to PIN the packing list. I guarantee you’ll want it later.

Get FREE BEACH VACATION PACKING LIST

COMMENT OF THE WEEK:

“I am older than 40 but I really love classic styles…classics look good on anyone, no matter your age.” Cheryl

Thank you for your comment on the Jackie O Style – Simple Chic post Cheryl. I couldn’t agree more. All ages are welcome at Gamine & Stripes, delighted to have you stop by!

PLEASE SHARE: What do you pack when you travel to the beach?

We are linked up with:Jo Lynne Shane|  | The Pleated Poppy |The Mummy Chronicles |Shopping My Closet | Posh Classy Mom |Elegance and Mommyhood | Doused in Pink | Shelbee On the Edge | More Pieces of Me | Sincerely Jenna Marie

This post contains affiliate links.  If you click on a link or purchase an item from a link, I may make a commission. I’m so grateful for your support-thank you!