The Ultimate Beach Essentials Packing List: Must Have Items for Your Seaside Getaway

Must Have Beach Essentials

These are the core items that should go in your bag for any beach visit; short or long, solo or family.

Beach Towel or Blanket

A soft, absorbent beach towel or large sand-free beach mat is a must. For families, bring a large picnic blanket that folds up compactly.

Sun Protection

• Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen
• Lip balm with SPF
• After-sun lotion (like aloe vera)
• Sunhat or bucket hat
• UV-protection sunglasses

Swimwear & Cover-Up

Swimwear that suits your activity – bikini, swim trunks, wetsuit or rash vest if you plan to surf or paddleboard. A lightweight beach cover-up or sarong is perfect for walking along the promenade or grabbing an ice cream from a nearby kiosk.

Beach Bag Essentials

Everything you’ll want at your fingertips while sitting on the sand.

Waterproof Bag or Dry Sack

Ideal for protecting your phone, wallet, and other valuables if you decide to go in the water.

Snacks & Hydration

Pack plenty of water to stay hydrated. Include fresh fruit, sandwiches, energy bars or seaside snacks like crisps. Consider a cool bag or mini beach cooler to keep drinks cold.

Beach Entertainment

• Books or e-reader
• Magazines
• Bluetooth speaker (with low volume etiquette!)
• Beach games (frisbee, bat & ball, paddleball)
• Inflatable toys or bodyboards

First Aid Kit

Include plasters, antiseptic wipes, tweezers (for splinters), and antihistamines for bug bites or allergies.

Family Beach Day Must-Haves

Shade Options

A UV beach tent, windbreak, or large umbrella is essential for families with young kids or older relatives. Kent’s beaches can get busy so bring your own shade!

Baby & Toddler Essentials

• Swim nappies
• Portable changing mat
• Buckets, spades & sand toys
• Extra clothes and muslins

Foldable Chairs or Lightweight Stools

Perfect for longer beach days or pebble beaches like Dungeness or Shakespeare Beach.

Optional but Genius Add-Ons

• Flip-flops or water shoes – especially for rocky beaches or tide pools
• Hairbrush and detangler spray
• Portable charger for phones and devices
• Hand sanitiser and wipes
• Spare plastic or reusable bags – for wet clothes or litter

Tailor Your Beach Bag for Kent Beaches

Kent’s coastline offers a variety of beach types – from sandy shores like Sunny Sands to pebble beaches like Whitstable. Here’s how to adapt:

• Sandy Beaches: Bring a dustproof bag and baby powder to remove sand easily.
• Pebble Beaches: Foldable chairs and thick-soled sandals are a game changer.
• Secluded Beaches (like Shellness): Pack extra food, water, and check tide times.
• Busy Beaches (like Viking Bay): Travel early and pack light for easier transport.

Conclusion

A little prep goes a long way. Whether you’re headed to a Blue Flag beach like Minnis Bay, a hidden gem like Mermaid Beach, or a bustling favourite like Margate Main Sands, having the right beach essentials ensures your day is stress-free and memorable.

This beach packing list is designed for everything from a quick afternoon dip to a full-day family holiday on the coast. Save it, screenshot it, and share it with your fellow beach lovers!

Frequently Aasked Questions: Beach Packing Tips for UK Trips