A beach vacation is a great way to unwind. Just picture a whole week under the sun, soaking in the ocean, and enjoying quality time with loved ones. Whether you're headed to a tropical island, a coastal getaway, or even a local beach, there's a sense of excitement that comes with the idea of spending days by the sea. However, to truly make the most of your beach escape, careful planning is essential. 

Beach Vacation Necessities: Packing Like a Pro

When it comes to preparing for your beach vacation, keeping a few general tips in mind can make a world of difference. First and foremost, packing smart is the name of the game. Packing smart for your beach vacation is all about selecting the right beach essentials that will keep you comfortable, stylish, and prepared for all the fun in the sun. 

This means choosing versatile clothing items that can easily mix and match to create various outfits, save space, and ensure you're well-prepared for different activities. Additionally, making a checklist of beach vacation essentials can help prevent last-minute panics so you don't forget any must-haves.

Packing for a Tropical Getaway Vacation

Going on a tropical vacation is a dream for many, offering a chance to escape to some of our favorite dreamy destinations including the Andaz Costa Rica Resort, Hamilton Princess & Beach Club in Bermuda, and El Conquistador Resort in Puerto Rico. 

These luxurious havens set the stage for unforgettable getaways, with pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant cultures waiting to be explored. For tropical getaways like these, packing the right essentials is key to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Here's a list of items you need to bring on a tropical getaway:

Clothing

• 2-3 Tops 
• Tank tops
• Blouse
• Tshirts
• 2-3 Bottoms
• Shorts
• Pants
• Jeans
• Skirts
• 1-2 Dresses
• Sundress
• Evening dress

Accessories

• 1 beach bag, dry bag, or tote
• 1 beach towel and/or blanket
• Beach Umbrella or Sunshade
• 2 coverups
• Beach chairs

Footwear and Sun Protection

• 1 pair of shoewear (flip flops, beach sandals)
• Sunscreen with high SPF
• 1 pair of sunglasses
• 1 wide-brimmed hat

Electronics and Entertainment:

• Waterproof phone case
• Beach reads
• Beach toys (beach ball, frisbee)

Health and Safety

• First aid kit
• Insect repellent
• Any necessary medications

Hydration and Toiletries

• Reusable water bottle
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Travel-sized toiletries

Travel Essentials

• Passport or any important IDs
• Travel documents or itineraries
• Transportation tickets (plane, bus, train)

Swimsuits and Swimsuit Accessories for Beach Vacation

• 2-3 Swimsuits
• Bikinis, tankinis, Swim tops
• Swim bottoms, swim skirts
• One piece swimsuits
• Swim dresses
• 2 Swimsuit cover ups

Here are a few examples of the types of swimsuits that are perfect to pack on your next beach vacation.

This bright floral swim dress is designed with a pop of color that will help you stand out from the crowd. Featuring a flattering V-neck and a gracefully skirted bottom for added modesty, this swimsuit combines style with charm. Whether lounging by the resort pool or enjoying the ocean at the beach, this swimsuit is the ideal choice for a relaxing and stylish escape.

Want to show off more skin? Then this matching bikini set should definitely make your swimsuit checklist for your resort vacation. The bold and feminine paisley print, paired with vibrant hues, ensures that all eyes will be on you whether you're lounging by the pool or strolling along the beach. Adjustable straps give a customized fit and the high-waisted bottoms offer a flattering silhouette with moderate coverage. This chic bikini set is more than just swimwear; it's a statement piece that deserves a prime spot on your resort checklist.

This playful swimsuit cover up is a long-sleeved tunic with a colorful floral print. It has a deep V-neckline and is made of a lightweight and airy fabric, making it perfect for a beach day or pool party. The cover up is both stylish and functional and can be worn over a swimsuit to provide extra coverage. For example, you could wear it with sandals and a sun hat for a casual beach look.

How many bathing suits should I bring for a 7 day vacation?

One of the common questions that often arises when packing for a 7-day beach vacation is, "How many bathing suits should I bring?" The answer depends on your preferences and planned activities, but having at least 2 or 3 bathing suits is a good rule of thumb. 

This allows you to rotate between bathing suits, ensuring you always have a dry swimsuit ready for use. It's especially useful if you plan to spend a lot of time in the water, as wet swimsuits can be uncomfortable to put on repeatedly. 

Tankinis can be a fantastic choice for those who want the versatility to mix and match their tops and bottoms. This allows you to create different looks and find the perfect combination for your style. However, it's also important to remember to pack other essentials like a cover up for when you're not in the water, or a rashguard if you want additional sun protection. These items will not only keep you looking stylish but also help you stay comfortable and safe during your water adventures.

Ultimately, the number and style of bathing suits you bring depend on your personal preferences and the activities you have in mind, but having a small collection of different styles ensures you're well-prepared for a week of seaside adventures.

How many swimsuits for a 7 day resort vacation?

When getting ready for a 7-day beach resort vacation, be sure to pack 3 swimsuits, which should include swim tops and bikini bottoms. Additionally, ensure you have at least 3 stylish swim cover ups in your travel gear. Your beach resort getaway offers numerous opportunities to indulge in poolside relaxation and various water activities. Having three swimsuits allows you to rotate them over the course of your vacation, ensuring that you always have a dry swimsuit on hand to enjoy the resort's amenities to the fullest.

Additionally, having different styles or colors can add variety to your beach and poolside looks. Consider including a mix of one piece swimsuits, tankini tops, bikinis, swim skirts or even a stylish maillot swimsuit in your collection. Ultimately, the key is selecting a bathing suit that flatters your body type and a swimsuit color that complements your skin tone.

Packing Tips for a 7 Day Beach Resort Vacation

Preparing for a beach resort vacation offers an opportunity for a more diverse and enjoyable wardrobe compared to a basic beach trip. At a beach resort, you can look forward to packing for a variety of activities, from exploring the surroundings to dining at different restaurants, which allows for a more vibrant and versatile selection of clothing. The relaxed atmosphere and minimal dress codes mean you can focus on comfortable and casual attire, making packing a breeze. Additionally, the spacious accommodations at beach resorts provide ample room for versatile packing, ensuring a carefree and delightful vacation experience.

Here is a packing list for a 7-day beach resort vacation:

Clothing

• 7-10 Casual outfits for daytime wear (including shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, etc.)
• 3-4 Semi-formal or dressy outfits for evening wear (such as cocktail dresses, dress pants, skirts, etc.)
• 1 Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
• 2-3 Sets of comfortable sleepwear

Accessories

• 1-2 Jewelry
• 1 Scarves
• 1 Belts
• 1 pair of Sunglasses
• 1 Hat
• 1-2 Hair accessories
• 1 Watch
• 1 Money belt or travel wallet

Footwear

• 1-2 pairs of comfortable shoes for walking and shore excursions
• 1 pair of Flip-flops or sandals for the pool and beach
• 1 pair of dress shoes for evening wear

Swimsuits and Swimsuit Accessories for a Resort Vacation

• 3 Swimsuits
• Bikinis, tankinis, Swim tops
• Swim bottoms, swim skirts
• One piece swimsuits
• Swim dresses
• 3 Swimsuit cover ups

Here is more inspiration for the types of swimsuits and swimsuit cover ups to pack for your upcoming resort vacation.

This one piece swimsuit features a bold leopard print that will add heat to your summer look, and is perfect for lounging by the pool or strolling along the beach. The one shoulder strap adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, making this swimsuit a versatile and chic option for your resort wardrobe.

Tankinis have gained popularity due to their ability to provide more coverage compared to traditional bikinis while giving you freedom to move and all-day comfort. This versatile top is not only functional but also provides a flattering fit on a variety of body types through its shirred side details.

This bright swim skirt is designed with a vibrant stripe print and stylish slit at the front form movement. The skirt provides additional coverage to your bottom but also adds a playful sway to your every move. A lively combination of colors perfectly captures the spirited resort vibe. Beyond its eye-catching appearance, this swimsuit bottom will complement any solid or patterned swim top of your choice.

This cover up is a lovely and versatile piece that you can wear over your swimsuit. The cover up is a loose, flowy, and colorful garment with a beautiful floral pattern. V-neck and sleeves give you some breathability and coverage as the lightweight fabric drapes over your body. This swimsuit cover up is a great choice for your resort vacation since it’s easy to pack in your tote while adding style and elegance to your look.

Additional Packing Tips For Your Vacation

Packing for a beach resort vacation can seem overwhelming, but it's essential to keep in mind that you don't have to pack your entire wardrobe. By following the packing list provided above and adopting a light and efficient packing approach, you can ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic and unforgettable beach resort escape.

Here are some extra tips to make your packing experience even more enjoyable:

• Opt for rolling your clothes instead of folding them to save space in your luggage.
• Choose versatile clothing pieces that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits, giving you more options with fewer items.
• If you're flying to your beach resort, consider wearing your bulkiest clothing items on the plane to avoid the need for checked luggage.
• Ensure that all your luggage is clearly labeled with your name and contact information to prevent any mix-ups or losses.
• Pack a carry-on bag with all your essentials for the flight, just in case your checked luggage is delayed or misplaced.
• Most importantly, relax and fully savor your beach resort vacation – after all, you're on a well-deserved holiday!

Treat yourself to a Stylish Vacation with Anne Cole

As you embark on your journey to the perfect beach trip or resort vacation, it's essential to have a well-thought-out packing list that ensures every moment is truly memorable. Anne Cole offers a fantastic range of beachwear that can up your beach experience. From stylish swimsuits to comfortable cover-ups, we've got you covered. So, whether you're planning to unwind in the tropical paradise of Andaz Costa Rica, explore the vibrant Hamilton Princess in Bermuda, or soak in the stunning views of El Conquistador in Puerto Rico, Anne Cole has the perfect beachwear to take on your getaway. Don't miss the opportunity to make your beach resort vacation not just stress-free but also a fashion-forward and enjoyable one. Shop at Anne Cole and make a splash on your next beach adventure!