How to pack the Essential Beach Packing List

Whether it's going to be two days or two weeks, when going on a beach vacation, you need to have all the essentials with you. Depending on the destination and your choice of accommodation, the list of requirements may vary, but there are things you cannot do without.

1. Things you can ditch at home

Unlike other types of vacations, a beach vacation doesn't require you to bring all your regular vacation stuff; there are a few things you can leave at home. If you stay at a Maldives over water bungalow – a place like Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, for example – chances are you won't need to bring your towels and other basic toiletries. Most resorts provide their guests with towels, body wash, lotion, shampoo and other basic hygiene items. However, you need to make sure that you call the resort and find out what they provide and what they don't.

2. Medication kit

If you are planning to vacation in a tropical destination, the temperature there will most likely give you headaches. In which case, you need to have your headache relieving medication with you. While you can pop into the nearest pharmacy and find what you need, it's best if you don't need to worry on that front.

3. Mosquito repellent

You need to put emphasis on mosquito repellent when going on a beach vacation. Mosquito bites can take all the fun out of the equation, so make sure you have a mosquito repellent with you.

4. Sunscreen, SPF lip balm and sun hat

Harsh sun rays can be damaging to your skin. While you dream of lounging at the beach, you need to think of ways to protect your skin from harmful sun rays. Lathering your skin with sun lotion with a good percentage of SPF is paramount, and you also need to use SPF lip balm and wear a sun hat before heading out.

5. Swimsuit

This is a no brainer. You need your swimsuit on your beach vacation – pack at least two to three swimsuits.

6. Swimsuit cover-up

You should have something like a sarong to wear over the swimsuit. If you are travelling to a destination with temples and monasteries, you are going to need something to cover yourself with.

7. Tank tops and shorts

You need at least three shorts and three tank tops for your beach vacation. Shorts and tank tops come in handy when you want to head down to the beach or stroll around the resort – make sure your tank tops and shorts are made of light material that would help you withstand the heat.

8. Sundresses and evening wear

If you prefer, you can alternate your tank tops and shorts with sundresses, or have all the choices if you are undecided. You are going to need your evening wear as well – having clothes that you can wear for dinner is essential if you decide to stay at a resort.

9. Makeup

Bring whatever you usually need for night-out.

10. Electronics

There are a few electronics that you cannot do without on any vacation. You need your mobile phone wherever you go, and along with it, you need your charger. Don't forget your camera as you'll want to take loads of pictures – consider getting a waterproof camera as well. You are also going to need a phone pouch that's waterproof. Depending on your destination, you will need a travel adapter. Needless to say, having your power bank is essential when travelling. Bring your headphones to listen to music while lounging, and your laptop is a must-have as well.