What To Wear for Your Week at the Beach

When deciding what to pack for a beach vacation, the key is to strike the right balance between what is comfortable and practical and what will be vacation picture-worthy and fashionable. These decisions can quickly become overwhelming, so we are here to help you break them down and make sure you pack in your travel bag just the right beachwear options for your week at the beach this summer.

Things To Consider When Packing Swimwear

When packing for a whole week at the beach, we recommend bringing at least two different swimsuits. This will ensure that each one has time to completely dry while you are off wearing the other. If you plan on spending a good amount of your beach vacation directly in the sun or participating in water sports activities, such as surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking, we also recommend a long-sleeved rash guard. A rash guard will not only protect you from board rash, but it will also protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

In addition to your swimsuits and rash guard, it is a good idea to bring along a beach cover-up to throw on after the beach or the pool.

What Types of Dresses or Skirts Should You Bring?

As far as dresses for beach vacations, the maxi dress is a classic go-to summery choice. Maxi dresses are long but flowy and breezy, so you’ll stay cool in them even at the peak of summer. The maxi dress is highly versatile and can be dressed up or down, depending on how you wear it. You could simply throw it on over your swimsuit and wear it all day on and off the beach. Alternatively, you could dress your maxi dress up with a pair of heels and some drop earrings for an evening out.

In the same sense, a fun and flowy midi skirt can also be a great option for a beach vacation that is both stylish and versatile. Your skirt can be worn with a casual t-shirt and sneakers, or with a blouse and stylish flats or heels.

The Perfect Tops and Shorts For Vacation

Bermuda shorts are classic vacation wear. This style was literally made for tropical weather and casual seaside strolls. You can wear these shorts with a tank top or t-shirt for a super casual look, or dress it up a bit with a button-down. When traveling to a hot and humid beach destination, choose lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen.

If you are planning on having a sporty and active beach vacation, you may want to bring a pair of moisture-wicking activewear shorts or yoga pants. In addition, consider at least a couple of supportive sports bras. Whether you decide to hike, surf, or do sunrise yoga on the beach, you will want to have the right activewear to keep you cool and comfortable.

How Many Pairs of Shoes Should You Bring?

It depends! The shoes you choose to bring on your beach vacation are arguably just as important as the clothing you bring. As with many of the options already discussed, you should first consider how you plan on spending your time at the beach and what types of activities you will be participating in.

Is your destination famous for its stunning vistas via rocky hiking trails? If so, you won’t want to forget your hiking boots or at least a pair of comfortable and supportive trail runners. Perhaps you are headed to a seaside town known for its markets and shopping. In this case, bring comfortable but stylish walking shoes. Bring a pair of heels or dress shoes for your night out. We also recommend bringing on any beach vacation a pair of water shoes or sandals that you don’t mind getting wet.

Accessories

As far as beach accessories go, you will, of course, want to bring a large canvas tote bag that can be used as a daytime bag for exploring and shopping. These bags are great for vacations because they are usually small enough to pack as a carry-on for air travel, and they can also double as a beach bag once you are at your destination.

If you are not from a particularly warm or sunny climate, it can be quite a shock just how blindingly sunny destinations closer to the equator can be. Having the right sunglasses and a good, wide-brimmed hat can be absolutely vital to enjoying your beach vacation this summer.