What to Bring with You on Your Beach Vacation

How many times have you gone to the beach for your summer vacation and realized that you left something behind?

Don't worry - it happens to the best of us. Use your beach packing list to help you pack everything you will need for a great trip to the Gulf Coast. This packing list includes all the essentials you need to enjoy some fun in the sun! Take a look at our quick list of the top 11 things to bring to the beach on your vacation:

1. Floatables

Ever since they became a huge hit on Instagram, funny & chic oversized floatables have become everyone's favorite item for the beach. You can get anything from unicorns to giant pieces of pizza! They are an essential item for any girls' trip or family getaway - and there are even great places to buy them on the Gulf Coast! 

2. Beach Towel

You can't make a trip to the beach without a towel! Everyone needs a good towel to dry off after a swim in the Gulf or laying out and soaking up some sun. Need a towel for your vacation? Check out our favorites from the OBA Store. 

3. Portable Cooler

For any day trip to the beach, you're sure to want some cold drinks and snacks. Traditional coolers are heavy and a pain on the beach - so we suggest lightweight, portable coolers to hold all of your goodies.

4. Swimsuit - or suits!

You're heading to the beach, so you obviously need a swimsuit, or you aren't beaching the right way! We suggest traveling with at least 2 swimsuits so you always have an extra dry one on hand.

5. First-Aid Kit

Keeping a first-aid kit in the car while on your vacation, or even bringing it to the beach with you, is something you definitely won't regret. You will be relieved when it comes in handy!

6. Sunglasses & Hat

For those of you who don't typically wear sunglasses, remembering to pack a pair might not be at the top of your list. Make sure to protect your eyes from the sun on your trip to the Gulf Coast! And bring a hat too! It can help when the sun starts bearing down too much. 

7. Book or Magazine

Laying down for hours without entertainment not really your style? Bring some light reading to fill the void while your family is playing in the sun.

8. Radio

There's nothing like beach jams! Energize the atmosphere with your favorite jams - but be sure to respect your beach neighbors.

9. Baby Powder

Goodbye sandy feet! Use baby powder to get the sand off - it works like magic. You'll be glad you did!

10. Beach Chairs & Umbrella

If you aren't planning on renting chairs and an umbrella from our local Beach Services, you'll want to make sure to bring some. Beach sun can be harsh, so bring an umbrella and chairs for a shady retreat.

11. Sunscreen

The obvious things can sometimes be the most overlooked! We want to stress that the more sunscreen you use, the longer you can spend in the sun while you are here.

Going to the beach should be relaxing and stress free, but most of the time trying to get you, your children, family and all of the necessary equipment can be stressful and tiresome. We hope this list helped you narrow down what you REALLY need for your summer vacation at the beach! 

Published by Shelby Berry
Thursday, June 21, 2018