What to Pack for a Tropical Vacation + Packing Tips!

The worst part about going on vacation? PACKING. We all dread it, wait till the last minute, and end up scrambling & throwing random things in a bag. Let’s not do that this time! Find my master list below as well as helpful tips for packing for your trip strategically!

What to Pack for a Tropical Vacation + Packing Tips!

Skincare Essentials-

• Sunscreen – Forget it and you’ll end up paying $30+ for one bottle. Yea, no thanks. Go with an SPF 30 so you’re protected, but not so much that you won’t be able to get a tan!
• Face Sunscreen – Please, please, please don’t tan your face! You will age super rapidly and it will be so sad. Protect your youth to the max with at least SPF 50!
• Aloe – Because if you don’t burn, someone else probably will, and once again you don’t want to pay $30 for a measly bottle!
• Burn Gel – This is a real hack you guys. This not your ordinary aloe. This is EMERGENCY ROOM STRENGTH burn gel – I know sounds a little extreme but that’s because it works. I’m not kidding when I say if you put this on after you get sun burnt it’ll turn into a tan the next day!

• Illuminizer – Mix this with your moisturizer or foundation for a glow that makes it look like you’ve already been on the beach for weeks!
• Bronzer –  Because you won’t be tanning your face (right?) you’ll want it to match that tan!
• Glitter Drops – This product is a star on and off the beach! These drops are so versatile, you’ll want to use them everywhere. I like to highlight my cheeks, dab it on my eye lids, and maybe even on my collarbone if I’m feeling #extra. It just gives you this gorgeous natural glow (especially in photos!) and you’ll sparkle like a mystical fairy 😉
• Waterproof Mascara – Hit the pool, or jump in the ocean while keeping those lashes in tact!
• Lipstick – I love a bright pink lipstick for the beach! Get an oil based one like this to keep your lips moisturized as well.

Must Have Accessories-

• Sunglasses – It’s a no brainer! Pack a few pairs to protect your eyes and switch up your instas 😉 I always recommend bringing a cheap pair you wouldn’t mind losing for any water sports or excursions!
• Tote Bag – You’ll kick yourself if you forget this one! It will be your saving grace for storing your phone, headphones, book, and room key! 
• Sun Hats – Because you need to protect that beautiful face! Really, tan everything else but please not your face. Besides sun hats just make you look so very posh!

• Bikinis – I strictly wear bikinis the first few days so I can work on my tan and am set the rest of the week!
• One Pieces – After a few days of heavy eating/drinking you might want a bit more coverage (I know I do!) so throw in a few one pieces for the final days

Outifts –

• Shorts – Throw these on over your bikini & you have an instant easy look that you can take on & off with ease
• Two Piece Sets – They’re cute, easy, & take the guess work out of choosing an outfit!
• Maxi Dresses – Is there anything more romantic than a long flowy dress blowing in the wind as you walk down the beach? I always go for something light, flowy, & with a fun print.
• Midi Dresses – You can only wear these short & flouncy dresses so many times a year, so take advantage!
• Flowy Pants – They’re fun to wear + light and breezy

Shoes-

• Flip Flops – Slip them on & off with ease. Ideal for when you’re hanging by the beach/pool all day
• Sandals – For a fancier look, when you want your shoes to be a little more secure
• Wedge Heels – These are perfect for when you go out to dinner or a night on the town!
• Sneakers – In case you’re going on any excursions you’ll want to bring a pair so you can hike, zip line, or horseback ride without the fear of losing your shoes in the process! & Don’t forget some socks 😉

Packing tips

1. Make a list – There’s nothing more frustrating than forgetting the essentials on your vacation. Make an itemized list and check it twice – don’t forget those random but totally necessary items like underwear and sunscreen!
2. Roll your clothes – I got this tip from Oprah and it’s so helpful. Rolling your clothes is quick, easy, and leaves you with so much more room in your suitcase!
3. Double zip-lock your liquids – It’s happened to the best of us. You arrive at your destination and your shampoo exploded all over your clothes. Let’s NOT have that happen and double zip-lock all of your liquids
4. Bring extra bags – Especially for a beach vacation you’re going to want some waterproof bags, or even just grocery bags to hold your dirty (and maybe still wet) clothes on the journey back!
5. Cross-Packing – If you’re extra like me your going to want to check a bag + have a carry on. One thing I highly recommend is what I call CROSS-PACKING. Cross-packing is setting aside at least two outfits + few essentials you might normally put in your checked bag & putting it in your carry-on. Why? Well in case the airline loses your luggage of course! If you have any super expensive items you would be heartbroken to part with then keep them in your carryon so they stay safe & sound.

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