Tropical Vacation Packing List: What to Pack for a Perfect Getaway (2024)

Ahhhh, palm trees swaying, white sand in your toes, and crystal blue waters as far as your eyes can see. Is there anything better than going on a tropical vacation? Just writing this is making me feel more relaxed…

In this comprehensive tropical vacation packing list, I will help you pack like a pro for your sun-kissed adventure. I’ve been to tropical destinations all over the world (some of my all-time faves include Bali, Hawaii, and Belize) and I have a ton more tropical places on my bucket list! At this point, I’ve gotten the art of packing for the tropics down to a science.

From sandy beaches to vibrant coral reefs, tropical destinations have no shortage of fun activities to get into. To ensure you make the most of your getaway, I've curated a meticulously crafted list tailored specifically for tropical destinations. With my recommendations on the best attire, swimwear, sun protection, and sporting gear, you'll be fully equipped to enjoy every moment of your tropical escape.

In my experience, when I do the work to pack and plan appropriately on the front end, it saves me a ton of time on the back end so that I can relax and enjoy. So let's dive in!

what to pack for a tropical vacation: the basics

First and foremost, let’s talk basics. I take these staples with me on every single trip I go on. No matter which tropical destination you are headed to, you will want to bring along these travel essentials:

• Luggage Set - This luggage set by Amazon Basics is perfect for packing up all your adorable resort outfits. It’s especially great if you are planning to check in your bags because it is durable and spacious. And if you have the budget to splurge, this suitcase is the best luggage on the market.

• Carry-On Bag - This is my go-to carry on bag when I’m going on shorter trips and want to skip checking in luggage.

• Toiletry Bag - I never forget to bring along a great waterproof bag to keep all my toiletries in.

• Makeup Bag - This set of makeup bags are beautiful and functional. I throw my daily items like lipstick, powder, hand lotion, etc. in the smaller bag and throw it in my tote. I use the larger one for the rest of my makeup.

• Travel Bottles - I keep all my liquids in these bright and cheerful bottles.

• Medications & First Aid Kit - Pack any important prescription medications and over-the-counter meds that you might need.

• Neck Pillow, Sleeping Eye Mask & Earplugs - Crucial for getting some shut eye on flights.

• Electric adapter & Power Bank - These two items are my tried and true staples for staying charged and connected while traveling.

• Filtered Water Bottle & Electrolytes - I always try my best to stay hydrated is perfect for filtering water from the fountains at airports, and it’s way cheaper and better for the planet than buying plastic bottles. I love flavoring my water with to boost hydration.

• Travel Insurance - A must-have to protect yourself against any unforeseen mishaps. Seriously, don’t skip this. Speaking from personal experience where I’ve had to use it, it’s cheap and totally worth it.

• Passport - If traveling abroad, don’t forget to pack your passport and any necessary travel documents like visas.

whaT to wear on a tROPICAL VACATION: beach attire & accessories

Planning outfits for your exotic vacation is half the fun! I love the bright colors, airy fabrics, and adorable accessories that scream “I’m on vacation!” From full-coverage swimsuits to adorable beach totes and everything in between, I’ve got you covered with options that are both stylish and comfortable.

Swimsuits

Of course the number one item you will need to include on your packing list for a tropical vacation is some great bathing suits.

I get it, shopping for the right swimsuit can be unnerving. If you are anything like me, the thought of throwing on a revealing swimsuit is extremely anxiety-inducing. I personally love one-pieces because I feel more protected and confident in them, but I love seeing women of all sizes rocking cute bikinis!

With a healthy dose of self-love and relying on swimsuit brands that have figure-flattering styles, swimsuit shopping can be transformed into a fun experience in preparation for your tropical escape! These are my go-to shops for flattering swimsuits in a range of styles and price points:

Designer Swimsuits:

• Revolve - Seriously, these guys have the most stylish and unique swimsuits around. And they offer a ton of options in one-pieces and bikinis depending on your preference.

• Shopbop - Another one of my go-to shops for incredible designer one-pieces and bikinis.

Budget Swimsuits:

• Eomenie - I love this brand because their swimsuits have built-in tummy control and are super flattering, but you would never guess it because the styles are sexy and on trend.

• Amazon - Amazon has seriously upped it’s fashion game in recent years, and they have a ton of adorable styles available at budget prices.

Swimsuit Coverups

Wearing an exotic kaftan, kimono, or luxurious palazzo pants can really hammer in the fact that you are on a tropical vacation. I love the way they feel on the skin and how they can elevate a basic swimsuit into a stylish outfit.

You’ll be wearing these a lot as you lounge around on the beach or by the pool, so it’s worth getting some that you feel great in.

I love the coverups at Revolve and Shopbop. I also like packing a sarong - it comes in super handy and has multiple other uses including a blanket on the plane, a shawl for when it’s chilly, and even works as a lightweight beach blanket.

I hand-picked some beautiful and functional coverups for you:

Beach Dresses

While coverups are for lounging during the day, beach dresses serve an entirely different purpose. They are perfect when you are strolling the streets in a tropical town or for nice dinners after days spent in the sun. Aside from my go-to’s of Revolve and Shopbop, I am obsessed with these beach dress purveyors:

• Anthropologie - This is my all-time favorite store to buy summer dresses from.

• Farm Rio - This Brazilian brand is next level. Their dresses are the epitome of beach dresses, with fun vibrant colors and unique patterns. They are just so.much.fun!!

If you are working with a tight budget, these breezy, adorable dresses are great and super affordable:

Shorts & Pants

Tropical destinations can get hot, so I love taking along shorts for casual days of roaming around, and light, airy pants for a more dressed up look. By the way, these black jean shorts by Agolde are my all-time favorite pair of jean shorts:

Lightweight Jacket & Shawl

It can get chilly in the evenings when you’re in the tropics. I always bring along a jean jacket because it provides the perfect amount of warmth and matches with everything. And when I need something a bit fancier to keep me warm, I cover up with a bright shawl like this one. It’s also a super smart idea to bring a rain jacket because the tropics have temperamental weather - I have been caught in more than one rainstorm in paradise!

Sandals

Having a few great pairs of sandals can make or break your tropical vacation. Nothing ruins a trip faster than having uncomfortable shoes! Ideally, you will have sandals for the beach, to walk long distances in, and to level up your gorgeous resort outfits.

These are my absolute favorite sandals of all time:

• Birkenstock - I am obsessed with these sandals. I wear them all the time, for casual and for dressy occasions. They are sooooo comfortable and look so good on!

• Reef - For beach time, it doesn’t get any better than a pair of Reef flip-flops. I own multiple pairs of these and I swear by them. They are the most comfortable shoes I own and they dry off super fast after getting wet, which is perfect when you go from the beach to street and everywhere in between.

• Havaianas - These are top sellers for both men and women. They practically scream “Hey, I’m on vacation!” I love all the bright colors and styles they come in, and that they are super affordable.

• Tevas - Tevas are my go-to’s for the outdoors because they dry fast, are strong enough for trekking, and look pretty great too.

In addition to my favorite beach sandals, I also love these incredibly stylish sandals for dressing up. (By the way…clear sandals are the ultimate travel hack because they go with everything!):

Beach Tote

I think beach bags are one of the best parts of going on a tropical vacation! They are so fun and colorful, and they take every outfit the next level! I am in love with these gorgeous beach totes:

Sunglasses

When it comes to packing for your dream getaway, sunglasses are errrrrrrrything! Personally, when I find the perfect pair of sunglasses, I feel like a movie star trying to go incognito. My favorite pairs are linked below, including my favorite brands of all time:

• Ray-Ban - When it comes to sunglasses, Ray-Bans are the gold standard. They are truly timeless - I am still rocking my grandma’s hand-me-down’s from the 70’s!

• Target - I know what you’re thinking, "Target for sunglasses?!”. But really, Target has some incredible designer sunglasses at discounted prices. I always look there to find great deals.

• I always bring along multiple pairs of sunglasses for different outfits, so this sunglasses organizer is perfect for making sure nothings gets scratched or damaged.

Sun Hat

A sun hat is a must-have on your tropical vacation packing list. When you’re out on the beach or poolside all day, sun protection is key. As I age, I have become militant about keeping my face shielded. I don’t leave the house without a wide-brimmed sun hat, even on cloudy days. Hats keep our precious faces protected from harmful UV rays so we can look young for years to come.

I love having one hat in a neutral color and one in black to match with all my outfits. I use the first sportier hat below whenever I’m doing a physical activity or when it’s windy out - the drawstring keeps it firmly in place. And the other wide-brimmed designs are my go-to’s when I am lounging on the beach or poolside:

TROPICAL VACATION PACKING LIST: BEACh ESSENTIALS & WATER SPORTS GEAR

Whether you’re sipping pina coladas under a palm tree, snorkeling with tropical fish, or riding the waves, I’ve hand-picked the most reliable equipment to enhance your adventures. Prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with a solid mix of relaxation, excitement, and unforgettable memories!

Rash Guard

I LOVE snorkeling and surfing whenever I get the chance! But, the downside is that I always end up with weird burns or suntan lines.

Rash guards are lifesavers for keeping my body safe from too much sun. Plus, the cute styles make me feel like I’m Kate Bosworth in Blue Crush! I love everything by Roxy and Attraco- they have SPF and are quintessential beach girl vibes:

Snorkel Gear

Is there anything better than snorkeling in clear blue water, watching seaweed dance as schools of colorful fish swim by? Snorkeling in tropical destinations is truly one of the most magnificent activities, filling children and adults alike with a sense of wonder and the realization that there is an entire other world that exists beneath the water.

Rental snorkel gear is gross (so many other mouths have been on there!) and often of poor quality. Do yourself a favor and invest in a quality snorkel set to bring along on your tropical vacation:

• Snorkel, Mask & Fin Set - This comprehensive kit is a snorkeler's dream come true, providing everything you need for a remarkable underwater exploration. The panoramic view mask has a wide lens design that provides an expansive field of vision, the dry top snorkel ensures no water enters the tube, and the swim fins adjust to fit various foot sizes. It also comes with a travel bag for easy packing.

• Cressi Premium Italian Design Snorkel, Mask & Palau Long Fins Set - This set is the gold standard of snorkeling gear. It sets the bar for comfort, ease of use, and durability. If you are planning to do more than one snorkel trip and want gear that will hold up over time, it is worth the investment.

• Anti-Fog Spray - Don’t forget to bring anti-fog spray to keep your goggles clear and at peak visibility. This spray goes on both dry and wet masks.

Dry Bag & Phone Case

A dry bag and phone case should be on every packing list for a tropical vacation.

The phone case will protect your phone from unpredictable weather and splashes, allowing you to capture every breathtaking moment. And a dry bag safeguards your essentials like keys, wallet, passport, snacks, etc. so you can immerse yourself in your surroundings without worry. This best-selling set comes with both a dry bag and phone case for cheap!

I also love this wet bag to put my wet swimsuits or sweaty clothes in.

GoPro Camera & Protective Camera Housing

If you’re going to all the effort of flying to a tropical destination and snorkeling with manta rays, you have to capture it for eternity!

GoPro is the gold standard for capturing underwater footage. Don’t forget the waterproof housing case so you can take it underwater! (If you need a more budget-friendly option, this waterproof camera is also a good option).

Water Shoes

If you are doing any sort of activities that require your feet getting wet, a great pair of water shoes is your best bet. I love wearing them in the ocean so I don’t scrape my feet on rocks or touch icky things.

They are also great on boats and for climbing in and out of the water. Water shoes are just super practical for a wide range of water sports and outdoors activities.

I love these by Simari. They are unisex and come in a bunch of cute colors and designs. These water shoes are super cheap so you won’t feel guilty tossing them if you don’t want to drag them back home after your vacation. I also love the unique straps on these shoes, and the toe-detailing and barefoot feel of these shoes.

Beach Blanket

I also have days when I am less into water sports and more into lazing around, and as much as I love the sand, I hate getting it in everything. I use this easy-to-travel-with beach blanket to lounge on. It comes in different sizes and colors, and with stakes so it won’t blow away in the wind.

Towels

A travel towel is a great addition to your packing list for a tropical vacation. I take mine with me everywhere I go to dry off fast, for yoga, and even to wipe spills. If you prefer something more luxurious, I love this Turkish towel and these high-quality terry towels that are reminiscent of poolside cabanas.

Beach Reads & Things to Prevent Boredom

Beach vacations are my absolute favorite time to get caught up on reading and journaling! No deadlines or distractions and plenty of time to kill equals the perfect environment to do your thang! These are my tried and true beach bring-alongs to prevent boredom:

• Beach Reads - It’s finally time to dive into those spiritual books you’ve been wanting to read. Download your books on a Kindle.

• Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker - Yes, be that person. You’re on vacation, damnit!

• Noise Canceling Headphones - If you don’t wanna blast music on the beach or poolside, Bose makes my absolute fave headphones, and they also come in earbuds.

• Journal - My journals are where I reach the most profound revelations. Beach time is a great time to be introspective and get some quality journaling in.

• Guidebook - Beach time is also a great time to read up on your tropical destination. The best guidebooks on the market are hands down Lonely Planet.

tropical vacation checklist: beauty essentials

These must-pack products will keep you looking fresh, radiant, and protected under the sun. From lightweight sunscreens and hydrating mists to frizz-taming hair serums, these beauty heroes will ensure you’re ready to make a splash.

• Sunscreen - The #1 must-have item for your tropical vacation is sunscreen. A high SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen will protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent sunburn. I use Obagi on my face because I am not taking any chances with my money maker! For my body, I use reef-safe sunscreen by Sun Bum because it works so well and smells amazing. (Hawaii banned sunscreens that are not reef safe, so it’s compliant).

• SPF Lip Balm - A lip balm with SPF protection keeps lips moisturized and shielded from the sun. I like to use a tinted SPF lip balm to add a pop of color to my lips.

• After Sun Lotion - A soothing and hydrating after-sun lotion or aloe vera gel calms and nourishes skin after a day in the sun.

• Hydrating Facial Mist - I am obsessed with Caudalie Beauty Elixir Face Mist and take it with me everywhere I go. It smells so nice, is super refreshing, and keeps my skin cool and rejuvenated throughout the day.

• Waterproof Mascara - A waterproof mascara defines your lashes and avoids any smudging from the heat or water. I am a die-hard fan of Armani Eyes to Kill waterproof mascara.

• Anti-Frizz Hair Serum - The tropics turn my hair into a frizz ball, so using this serum is a life-saver.

• Facial Wipes - These wipes come with a coconut scent and have aloe and vitamin C to leave you super fresh. Perfect for quickly freshening up and removing sweat and dirt throughout the day.

• Nail Essentials - Nail clippers, files, nail polish remover pads, and your favorite nail polish shades for a put-together and vibrant tropical look.

• Insect Repellent - A reliable insect repellent will keep pesky bugs at bay during outdoor activities.

Well, there you have it! A super, duper comprehensive tropical vacation packing list. I hope you’re feeling excited and well-prepared for your sun-kissed adventure.

The key to a worry-free and enjoyable vacation is to pack smartly.

Don’t forget to embrace the natural beauty, let the sun warm your skin, the ocean breeze tousle your hair, and the mellow vibes rejuvenate your spirit. Your tropical adventure awaits, and now you’re all set to enjoy every blissful moment in paradise!

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