Knowing exactly what to pack for a beach holiday is the difference between a relaxed departure and a last-minute panic at the airport. Whether you are heading to the Algarve, the Greek islands or somewhere further afield, this complete checklist covers everything you need, from your tan-through swimwear to the small extras that are easy to forget. Print it, screenshot it, or work through it the night before you fly.
Swimwear: pack more than you think
Swimwear is the one thing you will wear almost every day, so it pays to bring at least two or three pieces. A wet costume rarely dries in time for the next morning, and having a spare means you are never caught out. A mix of a statement one-piece and a coordinating bikini gives you options for the beach, the pool and a beach-club lunch.
This is where tan-through swimwear earns its place in your case. The lightweight fabric lets sunlight pass through the material, helping you tan more evenly and reducing the harsh lines left by traditional swimwear. It also dries far quicker than conventional fabric, so it is ready to wear again sooner. Our one-shoulder styles double as flattering statement pieces you can throw a skirt or shorts over for lunch. If you have questions about how the fabric works or how to care for it, our FAQ page has the answers.
Important: tan-through fabric offers only partial sun protection. You still need to apply and regularly reapply a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen over your whole body, including the areas covered by your swimwear, and avoid the hottest part of the day (roughly 11am to 3pm). Tan-through swimwear is about a smoother, more even tan, not skipping sun protection.
Sun protection essentials
Sun care is the category most people under-pack. As a minimum, bring a high-factor broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), a separate face SPF, an after-sun or aloe gel to soothe skin in the evening, and a lip balm with SPF. A wide-brimmed hat and good sunglasses protect the delicate skin on your face and around your eyes. Buy full-size sunscreen at home rather than relying on finding your usual brand abroad, and remember that liquids over 100ml need to go in your checked luggage.
Beach bag must-haves
Your day bag does a lot of heavy lifting on a beach holiday. Pack a quick-dry beach towel or a lightweight sarong, a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, and a small dry bag or zip pouch to keep your phone and passport safe from sand and splashes. A good book or e-reader, a portable charger and a hair tie or two round things out. If you are travelling with little ones, add a few beach toys and extra snacks.
Clothing beyond your swimwear
Think in terms of easy, breathable layers. Light dresses, linen shirts and shorts work for daytime, while one slightly smarter outfit covers dinners out. Pack a cover-up or kaftan you can pull straight over your swimwear, a pair of sandals plus trainers if you plan to explore, and a light jumper or wrap for cooler evenings and air-conditioned flights. Choosing pieces in a shared colour palette means almost everything mixes and matches, which keeps your case light.
Documents, tech and health
Keep the boring-but-essential items together so you can find them fast. That means your passport, any visas, travel insurance details, boarding passes and a couple of payment cards. Bring the right travel adapter for your destination, charging cables, and headphones. For health, pack any prescription medication in your hand luggage along with basics like paracetamol, antihistamines, plasters and any motion-sickness or upset-stomach remedies you might need.
Clever extras that make the trip easier
A few small additions punch above their weight. Packing cubes keep your case organised and make living out of a suitcase far less chaotic. A foldaway tote gives you room for holiday shopping on the way home. Laundry-detergent sheets let you rinse out swimwear in the sink, and a travel-size stain remover saves the day when the sun cream or ice cream strikes.
The night-before checklist
Before you zip up, run through the essentials one last time: swimwear, sun protection, documents, phone and chargers, medication, and enough outfits for the days you are away. Weigh your case if you are flying with a strict baggage allowance, and keep swimwear, a change of clothes and your valuables in your hand luggage in case your hold bag is delayed. Browse the full tan-through swimwear collection before you go so your holiday wardrobe is sorted well ahead of departure.
Pack smart, protect your skin, and you can spend less time worrying about what you forgot and more time enjoying the sunshine.
