surf trip packing list

The Ultimate Surf Trip Packing List

You’ve probably been thinking about your next surf trip for a long time. Weeks, months, maybe even years have gone by as you’ve been working away dreaming about this trip… and it’s finally time. Hallelujah! You’re so close to the honey you can almost taste those sweet waves of your future. You just need to get there. And in the meantime, try not to forget those easily forgettable things, like, you know, your surfboards.

Personally, I wait until the last minute to pack. I could have planned the trip two days ago or two years ago, it’s like it somehow appears out of nowhere and I’m left scrambling to hyper pack at the last minute. But whether you’re a meticulous I’ve-had-my-stuff-packed-for-a-week-already packer, or a last-minute fast-packing maniac, you want to make sure you have all the essentials you’ll need on a surf trip. Especially if you’re going to more remote locations where there ain’t no neighborhood surf shop.

After going on what was essentially a yearlong surf trip, we learned a few things along the way. In an effort to help you have an awesome surf trip and preserve your brainpower for wave maneuvers, we’ve put together a comprehensive surf trip packing list with all the essentials and then some.

There’s always that person who needs to use everyone else’s wax (every day)… which is fine. But you don’t really want to be that guy/gal. Be prepared so you can focus your efforts on what really matters: being stoked.

Surf Trip Packing List

Ah, the great surfboard dilemma. How many surfboards should I take? What if it’s pumping and I break a board or two? What if it’s lack-luster and I need a board for crummy conditions? There is no shortage of scenarios traveling surfers can come up with to provide reasons to need to purchase and bring another surfboard.

But for most people, on most surf trips, two to four boards are plenty. Also, some airlines will tax you for packing more than two surfboards in a bag, so be sure to read the fine print of any airline surfboard bag fees so you know what to expect. Depending on your surf ability and where you’re going, you can typically get away with taking just two surfboards.

You might take two go-to surfboards that you feel comfortable surfing in most conditions. Or one high-performance shortboard and one groveler, or a high-performance daily driver and a fish. Whatever tickles your fancy, here are a couple of surfboard articles and roundups to inspire your neverending quiver growth:

• Shortboard Buyer’s Guide >>
• Longboard Surfboard Roundup >>
• Surfboard Shapes 101 / The Ultimate Guide to Modern Surfboards >>
• 15 Surfboard Brands With Epic Style >>

Surfboard Bag

Your bag is the only thing between your surfboards and an agro luggage handler at the airport, so choose your bag wisely. While you want to keep it light, the more padding the better to make sure your precious shred sleds make it unscathed. Use your wetsuit, rashguard, and/or towel for extra padding in your board bag. Your surfboards should fit nice and snug, but not too tight. For example, if the largest board you’re bringing is 6’2”, a 6’4” surfboard travel bag will be a good option. A couple of bags we recommend are:

Shortboard bags:

• Channel Islands Surfboards Charcoal, Cx2 Double Surfboard Bag
• Pro-Lite Rhino Surfboard Travel Bag

Longboard bags:

• Pro-Lite Rhino Surfboard Travel Bag – Longboard
• DaKine World Traveler Surfboard Coffin w/ Wheels

One of the most useful things you can have on a surf trip is a soft rack. If you’re headed to one location like a surf camp or something and the crew is picking you up, you’re good to go, but if you plan on traveling independently at all, a soft rack will make your life so much easier.

Many taxi/tuk-tuk drivers (even in popular surf destinations ) won’t have options to tie your boards on the roof, and they might try to haggle you into paying more for a large van to fit your boards. Or maybe they have a couple of ropes… which I wouldn’t advise trusting. Having soft racks will allow you to take a normal-sized taxi, or easily strap your boards to the roof if you rent a car.

TIP 1: If you’ll be taking taxis or cars on your trip, have a photo of the board racks being used on a car so you can show the driver. Many times there is a big language barrier and drivers are worried that the racks might hurt their car or fall off. Being able to show drivers a photo of the racks in use will work wonders.

TIP 2: You didn’t read it here (shhh), but many car rental companies aren’t cool with you strapping boards to the roof, even with your soft rack. One lady in Australia told us that our rental contract would be null and void if we strapped anything to the roof. We told her we did not plan on doing that and then, well, we might have done it anyway. So I’m not recommending that you break any rules here… just giving you a heads up that if you do plan on strapping boards to the roof, ahem, perhaps make plans to do it on the down low.

Recommended racks:

• Pro-Lite Double Surfboard Soft Rack
• FCS Double Soft Surfboard Car Racks

Surfboard Fins • at least 2 sets

Shocker, you’re going to want to bring surfboard fins. As with a few items on this list, you want to bring a spare set in case shit happens, which it inevitably will. Especially if you’re unprepared for it. And especially if you’re headed to a remote area where you can’t easily get replacements. If you’re feeling really fancy and organized you can pack your fins in a fin wallet .

• FCS II Performer – Thruster Fins
• FCS II Accelerator – Thruster Fins
• Future Fins John John Techflex Tri Fin Set
• Future Fins FAM2 Alpha Thruster Fin Set Carbon-Yellow L

Leashes • 2 – 3

Leashes break, so make sure you’re prepared and have back-ups on hand. Perhaps take a thinner 5mm leash for smaller days and a thicker back up for bigger surf.

• FCS Surf Leash
• Creatures of Leisure Pro Surf Leash

Fin Keys • 2

Fin keys are easily lost so bring a back up just in case.

• FCS Surfboard Fin Key and FCS Fins Grub Screws
• Leatherman Shooter Surfer Pocket Tool

Pack a coup ofle blocks of your favorite wax because it might not be easily available on your trip. And double check the water temp at your destination to make sure you have the right temperature wax.

• Sticky Bumps Surf Wax
• Mr. Zogs Original Sexwax

Ding Repair Kit

It hurts a little inside when our boards are dinged, but it hurts a whole lot more if you’re staying on a deserted island without a way to repair your board. Okay, so maybe people don’t often hang out on deserted islands, but the point is that it’s always a good idea to have a way to patch small dings on your own. There are a few different types of ding repair.

• Solarez is good for patching small dings. For foam boards get  Solarez UV Cure Polyester Ding Resin and for epoxy boards get  Solarez UV Cure Epoxy Ding Resin
• Phix Doctor Universal Travel Surfboard Ding Repair Kit
• Ding All Super Polyester Repair Kit for foam surfboards, and Ding All Epoxy Super Surfboard Repair Kit for epoxy surfboards

Reef Booties

If your feet are made of steel, then move along, but if you’re headed to unknown reef breaks, you might want to have a pair of reef booties on hand. I know, I know, they’re not the coolest things ever, but what’s less cool is your feet getting all slashed up on the first day of your trip. Just sayin’.

• O’Neill Wetsuits Superfreak 2mm Tropical Split Toe Booties
• FCS Surf SP2 Reef Booties

You might love the feel of velvety tropical water on your body as much as the next guy or gal, but sometimes your skin needs a break. Rash guards are always a relief if you’re getting rashed, need a break from the sun, or you need a tiny bit of warmth in breezy or morning conditions. Yeah, you could also use a shirt, but rashguards dry fast and don’t become a soppy mess after your session.

Men’s

• RVCA Men’s Mesh Surf Tee Rashguard
• RVCA Men’s Long Sleeve Rashguard

Women’s

• Roxy Whole Hearted Short Sleeve Rasghuard
• Billabong Sol Searcher Short Sleeve Rashguard
• Billabong Sol Searcher Long Sleeve Rashguard
• Surf suits like this  Billabong Peaceful Palms Bodysuit are always a great option as well. Check out our roundup of awesome surf suits here .

Wetsuit (if applicable)

It goes without saying (but I’m going to say it anyway) that having the right wetsuit for the right conditions can make or break your trip. Make sure to research the water temp and general conditions so you know what to expect and can pack accordingly.

If you’re headed to tropical waters, even a 2mm wetsuit top can be nice to have if it’s windy or dawn patrol. Stuff your wetsuit between your boards in your board bag for extra cushioning and you’re good to go.

• If you’re in the market for some new rubber, here’s a wetsuit guide for men’s wetsuits , and a guide for women’s wetsuits .

Swim or Dive Fins

If the surf isn’t cooperating, or you want to do some underwater exploring in your extra time, it’s always nice to have your own fins on hand. DaFin swim fins are compact and easy to throw into your board bag.

• DaFin Swim Fins

If you’re headed to colder climates, pack some earplugs to prevent Surfer’s Ear and stay comfortable on your trip. Cold water, water-borne pollution, and disease can all damage your hearing, so better safe than sorry.

• Creatures Unisex SurfEars 20 Ear Plugs

TRAVEL GEAR

In a carry-on backpack, pack your tech (camera, laptop, etc), books, and any other valuables. In case your luggage is lost, it’s always a good idea to bring a pair of boardshorts or swimsuit in this carry-on. And if you’re traveling a long distance it doesn’t hurt to bring a toothbrush and toothpaste to freshen up.

Alternatively, if you’re a low profile light packer, you can try to forgo checking your luggage and just take a carry-on backpack or small luggage. The only thing that can be tricky here is if you’re bringing a proper stash of sunscreen plus other liquids, you’ll have to check your bag.

Epic surf trips made easy.

Explore luxury done-for-you surf vacations with Lush Palm Private Retreats.

Men’s Backpacks

• COR Surf Island Hopper Travel Backpack 38L
• COR Surf Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack
• Breakwater Supply Submersible Backpack
• Dakine Ranger Travel Pack

Women’s Backpacks

• Dakine Women’s Heli Pro Backpack – 20 L
• The North Face Women’s Surge Transit Backpack
• Herschel Supply Co. Little America Backpack, Ash Rose
• The North Face Recon Luxe Backpack

Beach & Travel Towel

In the past, I would have never taken a towel on a trip because I assumed they would take up too much space in my bag. But that was before I was introduced to Turkish beach towels . Turkish towels are compact, lightweight, they dry super fast, and an added bonus is that they’re pretty darn good-looking. After making their acquaintance I never travel without one.

• Turkish beach towels

It’s always a good rule of thumb to pack light, but this especially applies if you’re taking a board bag as well. The more compact the better. You could go for a duffel bag, roller, or a larger hiking backpack, but whatever you go with, you probably don’t need anything bigger than a 55L bag. Unless you’re going on a surf trip in Iceland. In which case feel free to pack a ginormous bag filled with warm stuff.

• Pacific Gear Wheeled Rolling Duffel Bag
• Herschel Novel, Woodland Camo
• Dakine EQ Duffle Bag 50L
• Herschel Novel , Paint Pour Black

If boat trips are in your plans, a dry bag comes in handy. A dry bag will keep a few comforts nice and dry in the boat (or if the weather is bad), and you can also bring your camera without worry. You can also use a dry bag to store your wet gear and keep it separate from everything else. We’ve listed a couple of bags below, and you can also check out our roundup on the best dry bags .

• Earth Pak Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack, 10L
• Quiksilver Sea Stash Backpack

Water Bottle

In case you didn’t know, plastic pollution has reached catastrophic levels to the point where if we humans don’t make some major changes, there will be more plastic than fish in the sea by 2050. Yeah, it’s really freaking bad.

Hopefully, you’re conscious of plastic consumption at home (if not, do some research and help save the planet pretty please!), but it’s a great thing to avoid single-use plastics when you’re traveling as well. The water issue can be tricky if you’re traveling internationally and can’t drink the tap water, but many restaurants and hotels around the world are making water more available so you can fill your own water bottle and skip the plastic bottles.

Many airports also have water taps so you can fill your bottle up. Your bottle just needs to be empty when you go through security and then you can fill it up on the other side. Save the planet and save money? It’s really a no-brainer.

• S’well 25 oz Stainless Steel Water Bottle, Teakwood
• Corkcicle 25 oz Insulated Canteen Travel Water Bottle
• Hydro Flask 32 oz Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Socket Adaptor (for International trips)

One of the easiest things to forget when traveling internationally is a plug adaptor for your tech. If you remember at the airport, it’s double the price, and if you forget until your destination you might have to go on a wild goose chase while trying to communicate “adaptor” in a foreign language. Been there, done that.

• Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit – This kit has 2 US outlets, 2 USB ports, and includes adapters compatible with 200 countries.

Travel Insurance

As much as we’d all like to have safe and healthy travel adventures… shit happens. And when it happens in a place with not-so-great healthcare, you might have to get helicoptered out or have major treatment in a foreign country. Medical bills can rack up insanely fast, so we highly recommend getting travel insurance (and make sure it covers surfing and ocean-related activities).

World Nomads  is a great travel insurance company that offers reasonable packages that cover surfing and most ocean-related sports.

• Get a fast quote with World Nomads here >>

Medications & Immunizations

If you take any medication, make sure to plan ahead so you’ll have enough for your trip. If you’re traveling afar, make sure you’re up to date on any recommended immunizations for travel to that country. Visit the CDC website below to learn about immunizations and health recommendations for any country in the world.

*If you’ll be traveling to multiple destinations, it’s also good to note that some countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination if you’re arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever (which includes countries in Africa, Central, and South America).

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Surf Helmet

If you’re gunning for heavy waves on shallow reef consider bringing a surf helmet. We’re looking at you Indo and Fiji.

• Gath Surf Convertible Helmet

Whether you’re headed to the tropics or not, sun protection is a must. Bring a hat (plus a spare) to protect your face and head when you’re not in the water. Baseball caps work, but for more protection consider a wide-brimmed straw hat or a (kinda very dorky but making a comeback) bucket hat.

I never thought I would consider a surf hat, but after a couple of blazing hot days of sun exposure in Indo one time, I was practically begging for a hat to strap to my face. Never underestimate the power of the sun.

• Brixton Bells Extra Wide Brim Straw Fedora Hat
• Dakine Surf Trucker Hat
• FCS Wet Bucket Surf Hat

Bring two pairs of sunglasses in case you lose one. A good rule of thumb is to take one cheap pair that you don’t mind losing, and one good-quality polarized pair to protect your eyes from glare. Then you can bring different sunglasses out depending on your daily excursions.

Or you can take one pair that can do it all with Rheos Sunglasses . Rheos makes sunglasses with water people in mind – they are super lightweight, polarized, and they float! So no more losing glasses to the depths of the ocean.

• Rheos Coopers Floating Polarized Sunglasses
• Electric Men’s Knoxville Xl Polarized Sunglasses
• Zeal Optics Unisex Essential
• Rheos Palmettos (Aviator) Floating Polarized Sunglasses
• Electric Danger Cat Sunglasses With Polarized Lens
• Raen Optics Remmy 49 Polarized Sunglasses

One of the most important things you can pack is some good-quality sunscreen (and plenty of it). In many surf destinations, sunscreen can be pretty expensive and it’s almost always worse quality than what you can get at home. It’s a good idea to try and bring with you all the sunscreen you’ll need.

To protect from strong sun and stay on in the water, make sure you have some good face sunscreen with zinc and a high SPF. We’re big fans of Sun Bum’s Signature Sun Care line. This zinc-based formula is fragrance-free so it won’t sting your eyes and it’s really effective at staying on in and out the water. Our go-to sunscreens in the past have been:

• Sun Bum SPF 50 Signature Sunscreen  (for face)
• If we know we’re going to be out for a long session in strong sun, we’ll put on a layer of the SPF 50 Signature Sunscreen and then add a layer of this tin on top of it for extra protection. This stuff has a tint, but that’s what’s so effective in protecting your skin so embrace it.
•   Sun Bum SPF 50 Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion (for body)

That being said, there is plenty of research suggesting that there are ingredients in certain chemical sunscreens that are harmful to coral reefs, so there is a movement to make the switch to reef safe sunscreens  made from more natural ingredients and don’t harm coral reefs. Here is a list of great reef safe sunscreen brands >>

Insect Repellant

If tropical islands are on your agenda, be prepared for those pesky bugs. Especially mosquitos. I don’t like the idea of dousing my body in Deet every evening so I’ve done some serious research on natural insect repellants and found a keeper:

• REPEL Lemon Eucalyptus Natural Insect Repellent

Mini First Aid Kit

Reef cuts, bug bites, cuts, and stomach issues are just a few common things surfers often encounter on surf trips. It’s always a good idea to be prepared with a mini first aid kit so you don’t have to run around finding basic first aid when something comes up.

Also, keep in mind it takes open wounds much longer to heal in the tropics and there’s a serious risk of contracting infections so be sure to take care of your wounds to avoid infection. I’ve seen some nasty infected abscesses on surfers’ feet that started out as tiny cuts. True story. And yes, I wish I could unsee them.

Basic Surfer First Aid Kit

• New on the market in 2017, this miracle gel does the job of hydrogen peroxide, Neosporin, anti-itch cream, Betadine, and after-sun lotion. Yes, it’s a real thing. And yes, it works wonders. Read more about ACTIVE Skin Repair here . Or you can buy it directly on their site here . Use the discount code ‘LUSHPALM’ at check out for 20% off your order .
• Get these from your doctor in case you get a severe case.
• Aspirin, Band-aids, Benadryl, Gauze, Tape, Small scissors

OTHER STUFF THAT’S NICE TO HAVE:

• RVCA Densen Packable Backpack
• Venture Pal Packable Backpack
• Stashable hooded raincoat/poncho (especially if it’s monsoon season)
• Headlamp flashlight
• Mosquito net
• Yoga mat (pack in board bag)
• Waterproof/ Surf Watch
• One or two ALOHA Collection wet bags to carry wet stuff and sunscreens
• Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life, by William Finnegan
• All for a Few Perfect Waves: The Audacious Life and Legend of Rebel Surfer Miki Dora, by David Rensin
• Breath, by Tim Winton
• Travel-size Duct Tape

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4 thoughts on “The Ultimate Surf Trip Packing List”

Rash Guard Stick to protect against chafing. Rash Guard Shorts for under your shorts for chafing on your genitals etc.

Good call, Marc!

Concise and comprehensive. Well done~!

Thanks, Mark! Cheers

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Surfing Checklist – Ultimate Packing List for Your Surf Trip

For most of us, our love for surfing gets us going to places where the surfs are worth going on a long drive to. Sure, the local surf spot is an excellent place to surf, but sometimes, our adventures call us to far beaches.

Surf trips are fun, and nothing spoils it better than leaving something behind – your sunscreen , the jar of wax , or sometimes even your surfboard. So ditch your forgetfulness and bookmark this surfing checklist so you won’t forget about anything on your next surf adventure.

Your Surf Travel Bag

Before we go to the detailed list of what you need to bring, it is important to think through the bags you will put those things into. After all, it is where your most valuable goods will be kept.

The best bags for a surfing trip is waterproof or water-resistant. The last thing you need is for your bag to leak and for what’s inside to get moist or drenched.

Bear in mind that even a bag designed to repel water may not be able to handle getting submerged entirely. You can protect your essential items in these situations by putting them in dry bags or Ziploc bags.

Surfing Checklist – What To Bring Surfing

Packing for any trip gets anyone excited. The items you have in your luggage are pretty much based on how you picture the place you are going – the things you will do, the spots you will go. But, sometimes, the excitement gets the best of us that we forget some of the important stuff.

Whether you are the last-minute packer or the meticulous ahead-of-time packer, you want to be sure you have everything you need for your surf trip . Most especially, if it’s a remote location you are going to, where there aren’t neighborhood surf shops to run to.

The dilemma about surfboards always lies in how many you should take on a trip. Most of the time, surfers get too excited about the surf they’re traveling to that they come up with reasons to need to bring more than one surfboard .

In reality, two to four boards are too much. Moreover, airlines will tax you for stuffing two boards in a bag. So if you are traveling by air, be sure to read the airline surfboard bag  fees to know what to expect.

Soft Surf Racks

If you travel independently to a surf camp , a soft rack is a handy essential you shouldn’t forget. Unfortunately, most modes of transportation in popular surf destinations won’t have options to tie your boards on the roof. Some may even convince you to rent a van to fit your boards instead.

A soft rack will let you take a normal-sized cab to strap your boards to the roof safely.

Fins And Fin Keys

At least two pairs of fins will do just in case something happens, and you are in a remote area where you can’t quickly get replacements. Pack your fins along with fin keys in a fin wallet.

Leashes may break, so be sure to pack in back-ups—a thinner 5mm leash for smaller days and thicker ones for bigger swells.

A couple of blocks of your favorite wax should be tossed into your luggage, too, as they might not be readily available on your trip. Be sure to know the water temp at your surfing destination to know which kind of wax to bring.

Ding Repair Kit

Getting our boards dinged can be frustrating. But, there is something more annoying – dinging your board and not being able to repair it. A ding repair kit  ready can be helpful.

Your feet might be able to handle the sand, but they may not be able to endure the unknown reef breaks. Reef booties may not look cool but you don’t want to injure your foot along the way.

Wetsuit, Rash Guards, and Long Johns

The soft tropical water may feel lovely on your skin, but sometimes, our skin needs a break. A rash guard is a good relief if you get rashed or need a bit of warmth for your breezy ride. A cotton shirt may do, but rashguards dry faster and don’t become soppy after your surf session.

Mask, Fins, and Snorkel

Sometimes, surf just might not cooperate. A good dive or underwater exploring is always a nice alternative so it won’t be bad to pack a few diving gear, too.

Travel Essentials

Never leave home without the essential documents you will need to board a plane o cross a border. Suppose you are traveling to another country, research important details like required vaccinations and stuff.  And, do not forget to make photocopies of these documents.

• Address book
• Emergency Contact
• Credit card company
• Contacts for the area you are visiting
• Prescriptions
• Photocopies of prescriptions, passports, license
• Spare passport photos

Personal Hygiene and Clothing

While most hotels include toiletries with your accommodation, it is still better to be ready with your own.

• Toothbrush, toothpaste & toothpicks
• Small Towels
• Toilet Paper
• Vaseline or diaper rash

If you aren’t sure what clothing to bring, think of what you would want to wear before and after your surfing session. Here’s a list of clothing items to get you started.

• Walk shorts
• Collared shirts
• Long-sleeve tees
• Long, lightweight pants
• Pullover-fleece
• Socks , light cotton
• Hiking boots or slip-on shoes

First-Aid Kit

Don’t waste a lovely day at the beach just because you don’t have a bandage to cover your cut with. Getting bruised and scraped is always bound to happen. So be sure to have antiseptic wipes, saline solution, an assortment of bandages, waterproof tapes, etc.

• Eyeglasses/contact lenses
• Contact lens solution
• Antibiotics
• Antibiotic / Cortisone Ointment
• Gauze pads and surgical tape
• Steristrips
• Pain relievers
• Medicine for hay fever, other prescriptions
• Ace Bandage
• Meat Tenderizer – good for ant stings and some jellyfish stings

Not Necessary But Nice To Have

This list may not be necessary but is sure fun and safe to have. As most would say, it’s better to have it and not need it than not have it and need it.

• Phone & adapters
• Digital camera (lenses, memory sticks & charger)
• Tripod or monopod
• Bug Repellant
• Waterproof Bags
• Plastic garbage bags
• Water bottle
• Clothes Pins
• Mosquito net
• String or cord
• Reading material
• CDs or Videos
• Radio and batteries
• Fishing gear

The key to a great trip is preparation. But, don’t fret too much if you forgot about a thing or two. As long as you have your surfboard and boardshorts, it will still be a fun surfing trip . And, please – we didn’t mention this on the lists but don’t forget to bring money!

Related Resources

• How Long Does It Take to Make a Surfboard?
• What Causes a Surfboard to Turn Yellow?

Luke is an avid athlete and the driving force behind Surfhungry, a vibrant online platform dedicated to sharing the joy and passion of surfing and water sports with enthusiasts around the world. With a deep-rooted love for the ocean and a lifelong commitment to riding waves, Luke’s journey as a surfer has inspired him to create a community where like-minded individuals can come together to celebrate their shared passion.

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21 Surf Trip Packing List Items

Planning for surf trips is an exhilarating feeling. It ’ s probably taken a ton of research, planning, and decision-making to get to this point.

Choosing where to go and when to go is a feat of its own. After all the choices and now that you ’ ve settled into an upcoming surf trip, the packing comes next.

Packing can be very daunting because it ’ s vital that you bring everything you need, not under-pack, not overpack, and not forget the essentials. Stressful, right?

Don ’ t worry, leave the surf trip packing list to us and just focus on gathering the items.

Most people wait until the last minute to pack but not you this time! We ’ re going to help you plan ahead so you don ’ t have to stress at the last second.

Instead, you can relax and think about how excited you are for your surfing trip.  

This list is for you, no matter what type of packer you are. If you ’ re a last-minute packer or an organized and ahead of schedule kind of packer, this list will help you make sure you ’ ve gathered all the essentials.

While in a foreign location, you never know if you ’ ll be able to purchase what you need in a pinch. It’s better to make sure you’ve packed everything you need. You got this!

The Ultimate Surf Trip Packing List

Keep reading for the list of must-have items and other items to consider bringing on your surfing trip of a lifetime:

1. Surfboard or Surfboards

Some travelers choose not to bring any larger gear like their surfboards and instead rent one. But there is nothing like surfing your own board.

Most avid surfers bring their boards because they know what works for them. And you never know what kind of boards you can rent.

Most high-level surfers bring 2 to 4 surfboards with them so they have options for all surfing conditions and in case something happens to one of their boards.

If you have a board you love or are comfortable with, you should bring it on your trip because trying to rent and learn a new board while also surfing new waves can be difficult and eats up a lot of time.

You also never know if there will be places to rent or purchase gear unless you look it up ahead of time, and some surfers visit remote locations which may not have surf shops and places to find the equipment you need.

It’s best to bring your own board so you can get the most out of your trip. Depending on your surfing level and the location you ’ re going to, consider bringing anywhere between 1 to 3 boards.

It’s best if your boards are of different styles or lengths so that you’re prepared for all possible surfing conditions. Don ’ t forget that airlines will charge you for bringing your surfboard.

2. Board bag

After you have planned your surf trip, it is time to purchase a surfboard bag.

If you ’ re traveling with your surfboard, a bag to cover it is vital. Taking your surfboard on a plane without putting it in a sock or bag will lead to scratches, dings, and your board will take a beating.

If you are flying, you will most likely want a travel bag with wheels to make hauling it around in the airport that much easier. Especially if you have a longboard.

Having a bag for your surfboard is an absolute must. Even if you’re not taking it on a plane, you ’ ll still want to travel with it in a bag while you get to your surfing destination to protect it. Bags are also great for storing your surfboard when you’re not using it.  

The more padding a bag has, the better. There are all kinds of options out there, but if you ’ re a frequent surf traveler, you should go with one that is heavy-duty and provides a lot of padding and support.

Another pro tip is to put your wet suit and other light gear inside the bag which will provide extra padding during your surfboard’s trip to its destination.

This will also save space in your personal luggage. Win-win. Some  surfboard bags  may also fit more than one surfboard, which is something to consider if you’re bringing multiple boards on your trip.

3. Extra Pair of Surfboard Fins and Keys

Before you head out on your surf trip, you will want to think about bringing extra fins. Of course, you ’ ll need surfboard fins if you ’ re bringing your surfboard but bringing an extra pair is always a good idea in case your fins get damaged.

Fins take up very little space, so it’s best to take precautions and bring an extra set. You should also take the fins off your board during your travels so they don ’ t break or get dinged.

Make sure you also have your fin keys so you can easily get your fins on and off.

4. Comfortable Surf Suit

Another item that might be obvious but is necessary to mention is a surf suit that you will feel comfortable in.

A surfing trip usually means a lot of swimming and time spent in the water so bring a few surf suits that are not going to fall off while you are surfing.

If you don’t feel comfortable in the water, you are not going to surf your best. It is important to feel comfortable and not like you are going to fall out of your bathing suit.

Be sure to try it out before your surf trip to ensure that you are comfortable in it. You want to be as comfortable as possible in the water.

5. Wet Suit

Depending on your surf destination, you more likely than not will want or need a wet suit during your surfing trip, unless you are in a tropical place. It ’ s essential to research the area ahead of time to determine if you need one and, if so, which thickness level.

Not having a wet suit or not having a thick enough wet suit can ruin your entire trip because if you ’ re super cold, you won ’ t be able to last in the water for very long and therefore you won ’ t have a good time.

Even if you ’ re going to a tropical location, you may still need a light wet suit. If you don ’ t think you need one it’s good to bring one anyway because it could be cold in the mornings or the weather could change.

There is no reason not to pack a  wet suit  if you ’ re bringing your surfboard because it ’ ll easily fit inside your board bag and will act as extra padding.

6. Rash Guard

A rash guard shirt is very important to protect your skin against the water and your board. You may not need it when you first arrive because your skin won ’ t be irritated yet, but after a while of rubbing against your skin, you may start to feel a rash coming on.

If you ’ re wearing a wet suit or long sleeve surf suit you won’t need a rash guard so keep this in mind, but it ’ s good to bring these types of shirts on your trip anyway.

They ’ ll protect your skin from getting irritated while hiking, biking, or doing other outdoor activities. A rash guard-specific shirt is better than a regular shirt because it dries faster and is made for this kind of use.

7. Travel Towel

Standard towels are very bulky and take up way too much room when packing, but there are tons of lightweight and compact towels on the market for bringing on vacations and packing in a bag. These  towels  are fast drying, absorbent, compact, and made of microfiber, so they barely take up any space and pack well.

They ’ re perfect for bringing on your trip, so you don ’ t have to worry about air drying, buying, or finding a towel to use somewhere.

8. Bag for Gear

A backpack or tote bag is a must for any travel. It can be used as a personal bag on your flight and then you can use it to carry your items to the beach like your towel, water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, etc.

It ’ s hard to forget this item since personal items will need to be packed for the plane anyway like headphones, a book, wallet, phone, chargers, and more.

Wax won ’ t take up too much space in your bag so it’s a great item to pack. This  wax  is a cult favorite and will stick to the board and create sticky bumps. Wax is important because it gives you a grip when you ’ re surfing.

Make sure to research the water temperature before your trip to ensure you have the correct type of wax for the best possible experience.

10. Leashes

Make sure you bring your surfboard leash because it ’ ll save you from potentially endangering other surfers, swimming long distances chasing after your board, and from your board getting damaged.

Especially when you ’ re in a new area you don ’ t know as well, it’s best to be safe and use a leash to avoid anything from happening. It ’ s also a good idea to bring an extra leash with you in case your first one breaks. An extra leash  takes up barely any space, so why not.

11. Board Repair Kit

A ding is terrible enough, but not having a way to fix it is worse. A  board repair kit  takes up minimal space in your bags and can save the day.

Patching a ding will protect your board in the long run and make you feel better about the situation.

12. Zinc Sunscreen Face Stick

If you are going on a surf trip, you are going to be spending a lot of time in the water and in the sun. You want to make sure you bring plenty of zinc for your face to protect it from sun damage. Make sure you get something that is waterproof, reef safe and will last the whole time you are out in the water.

13. Reef Safe Sunscreen 

You want to make sure you protect your skin while you are protecting the ocean. Read your sunscreen and make sure that it is safe for the ocean, if not invest in some good quality reef sunscreen like this one. If you love the oceans you want to make sure you are protecting them while you are playing in them.

14. Polarized Sunglasses

You only get one pair of eyes, so make sure you protect them. If you haven’t already, invest in a good pair of polarized sunglasses. They will not only keep from your eyes sunburning, but you also want get a headache from squinting

15. Hat for Surfing

I used to make fun of all the old surfers in the water that wore these, then one day I realized it not only protects your face from the sun, but it also helps to shade your eyes so you can see the waves better. Once you wear one, you will never go back. Trust me!

16. Water bottle

Nothing like having a nice long session in the water and coming out and not having anything to drink. Invest in a nice water bottle that will keep your water cold while you are out in the waves. They are easy to hide on the beach and so refreshing to have nearby when you are done ripping waves.

17. First aid kit

You never know what could happen when you are out surfing. There are sea urchins, reefs, surf fins, and other surfers. We all hope that nothing will happen when we are out catching waves, but when it does it is always good to be prepared. This first aid kit is small is easy enough to fit in your day bag.

Did you even go on a surf vacation if don’t have photos or videos to show your friends and family? This GoPro will help you document your trip in and out of the water.

19. Soft Racks

If you are planning on renting a car on your surf vacation and driving around and finding other surf breaks, you are going to want to bring some soft racks that you can throw on your rental car. This will make your life much easier carrying your boards to the next surf break.

Dry bags are great if you have anything you don’t want getting wet, like a cell phone. Yes, cell phones are all waterproof these days, but from my experience, it’s always better to keep them dry. If you plan on doing any boat trips to breaks on your surf trip a dry bag will come in handy.

21. Cooler Backpack

Nothing better than getting out of a sick session and having a cooler of ice-cold beers waiting for you on the beach. This cooler backpack is awesome because you can still carry your board down to the beach as well as your cooler : )

Conclusions

Now that you have an upcoming surf trip planned and a packing list for the ultimate surfing extravaganza, you’re ready for a good time.

Remember to research the surf destination ahead of time to be prepared for the weather, water conditions, and other local information you may need.

Plan and pack thoroughly and have a good time. Trying foreign waves is an exhilarating experience. Surfs up!

Do you have a special item that you never forget to add to your surf trip packing list? Say so in the comments below

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19 things you need to pack for your surf trip

June 9, 2022

Even if you’re heading out on one of your many surf trips in your renovated van, or if you’re going on your first solo adventure, there are things to keep in mind while packing and getting ready. Here’s our full surf trip packing list that covers everything from your boards to insurance papers!

How long have you been daydreaming about heading out on a surf trip? Weeks? Months? Years? Well, since you’re reading this post then we can only assume it’s about time. Congrats! While being caught up in the excitement and anticipation of the trip, there are things you need to pack and stuff to get ready before you’re out the door. Sure, you can get by and buy your things at the destination, but it might be easier and cheaper to have everything sorted out before you go. We're here to help! Here’s our list of what to pack!

Which surf destination are you travelling to? 

The destination of your surf trip is a key part of deciding which boards, wax and wetsuits to bring with you. Your bag will look very different when going to Sri Lanka than it would if you’re going to Iceland. Some good questions to look into before starting to pack are:

What’s the air temperature?

What’s the water temperature?

When’s the best season to go?

Are there any surf shops or repair shops around?

What kind of waves and breaks are there?

Packing list: what to pack for the ultimate surf trip

Alright, now that we have figured out where to go and what the conditions are, let’s get packing! If you’re going to a remote location it is nice to know you’re all stocked up with your surf gear. Sometimes shit happens, so it’s good to be prepared from the start, especially when you don’t know if there are any friendly neighbourhood surf shops around. Good luck packing and make sure to have an amazing time out there! 

2. Surfboard bag

If you decide to bring some surfboards with you on your trip, make sure that you’ll have a good quality bag that keeps the boards safe. Some airlines are doing a really good job of dinging surfboards up, which is a very frustrating thing to realize once getting off a long flight. So try to avoid this happening as much as possible by padding your board/boards with wetsuits, beach towels and rash guards for extra protection in the bag.

3. Fins and leashes

Surfboard fins: It’s a no-brainer to bring fins with you, but we’ll list them anyway since it’s very annoying to forget them at home. It is also a good idea to bring one or two spare sets of fins just in case anything happens. Having some extra fin keys and screws wouldn't hurt either, they are just as easy to pack as they are to lose. 

Leashes: You don’t want to enter the water without a leash, so have a few extras with you in case it breaks. One or two extra leashes in different thicknesses and you’ll be all set to not lose your board in any waves. Some extra leash ties are also a good idea to bring with you.

4. Surfboard wax

Bring some blocks of wax with you when you go, you never know how easily you’ll find a good wax around your destination. As we mentioned in the beginning, remember to check the temperature in the water, you want the wax to be the right temperature!

8. Turkish beach towel

Bringing a big and bulky beach towel might not feel like the highest priority when trying to pack light. It's clumsy, takes up loads of space and takes forever to dry. Therefore we suggest you bring a light-weight towel instead, like a Turkish beach towel, they take up less space and dry faster.

9. Ocean friendly sunscreen

At most surf destinations, catching heaps of sun is inevitable. So remember to bring plenty of waterproof sunscreen with you! In places like Bali, the UV index is very high so make sure that your sunscreen has a high SPF. And don't forget a balm for your lips as well! We recommend you buy a sunscreen that is Oxybenzone-free since these are more ocean-friendly. Aftersun and Aloe Vera are also good to bring in case you get burned. And don’t forget to pack environment-friendly zinc! 

10. A reusable water bottle

Speaking of the environment, make sure to invest in a reusable water bottle. There’s enough plastic at the beaches and in the ocean, as it is, you don’t want to add on to that! Try to avoid buying any single-use plastic water bottles and get an environmentally friendly aluminium bottle instead. You’d be surprised by how many restaurants, hotels and airports provide water fill-ups!

11. Soft racks

Packing a soft rack with you can make the difference between a smooth trip to the breaks and a frustrating journey. Attaching your board to the top of the car or tuk-tuk with soft racks will be easier than trying to attach it with something else on the spot, and less expensive than ordering a big car to transport your board.

12. Surf repair kit

Getting dings on your boards is never fun, but when it happens it’s good to have the tools with you to fix them. 

13. Human repair kit

Also known as a First aid kit! It’s not only your boards that can get cuts from the reefs, remember to pack a kit with some first aid tools to keep yourself safe. Some basic things to bring are waterproof band-aids, pain killers, a small scissor, bandages, alcohol pads and a hand sanitiser. A salve for muscle relief and an insect repellent is also smart to include.

14. Your meds

If you’re taking any prescription medicines, make sure to be out in time to refill your prescription and to have enough with you to last the whole trip. Some destinations also require you to have taken a vaccination before your departure, so make sure that you keep yourself updated on that! 

We already covered the surfboard bag, but there are a few other bags that are good to bring with you on your trip:

Carry-on backpack or hand luggage: Be smart about what you choose to bring with you on the plane! Remember that there’s always a risk that your checked-in bags get lost or delayed, so make sure that you keep the important things in your carry-on. Like your computer and camera. Your charger, toothbrush and adaptors are good to keep close to. Also, pack a pair of swimwear with you, if your bags get delayed then you can at least enjoy the wait by the pool or ocean!

Dry bag: Use a dry bag to either keep your things dry or use it to keep your wet beachwear safely separated from your other stuff.

Beach bag: For a chill day at the beach you just need some sunscreen and a good book, then it’s nice to bring a simple tote bag with you.

18. Adaptors

Easy to bring but a nightmare to forget! Have a look at your destination and see if you need to bring any plug adaptors. It’s never fun when your phone battery gives up, way less so when you’re travelling to a new place! Getting your adaptors at the airport will just cost you unnecessary time and money, so make sure you have it with you. 

19. Downtime essentials

It's a nice idea to bring things to do when you’re waiting for the waves. A good book, game, sketchbook or a deck of cards can make the time pass by before the good swells come.

Some extra things to bring on your surf trip are:

Ear plugs: At colder surf spots, earplugs can be the saviours to prevent you from getting so-called Surfer’s Ear (=hearing loss due to cold wind and water exposure). 

GoPro or a nice camera: It is always fun to film yourself and your friends when you're riding the waves, later you can use the footage to analyze your progress or to post on your socials! 

Surf watch: This is a fun tech for the real surf nerds! 

Skateboard: When the water is flat you can practise your surfing on land with your surf skate.

Now you are all set to go! But if you want more inspiration, check out this post with our top tips for planning the perfect surf trip .

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Surf Essentials: The Ultimate Surf Trip Packing List for Beginners

Gearing up for a surf adventure and not sure what you need to pack? 

Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with this complete surfing packing list for beginners informed by my own surf adventures around the world.

Note: This list assumes that you’ll be renting your board and accompanying gear at your surf destination.

1. Rashguard (“Rashie”) : Even if you’re surfing in warmer water (over 70° F / 21° C), you’ll need a “rashie” – a quick-drying, long-sleeved, and fitted shirt that offers protection from the sun and board rash. Surf camps often provide them, but I like to bring my own with at least UVP 50+ protection like this one from Roxy. I wear my bathing suit underneath it.

2. Wetsuit (if applicable) : For surfing in colder water, you’ll need a wetsuit. You can buy one, but I recommend renting one at your surf camp or wherever you take lessons. These are bulky and can take up a lot of space in your luggage, and when surfing in cold water, a wetsuit is often included with board rental since the water is too chilly to surf without it.

3. Zinc Sunscreen : As someone prone to painful sunburns and tans that fade too fast, the discovery of zinc sunscreen for surfers was a game changer for me. My favorite brand is Suntribe , which lasts forever in the water and is reef safe. (Read my full article on skin protection while surfing here ).

4. Reef booties : I bought these for my first surf camp in the Dominican Republic to protect my feet from spiky sea urchins and never stopped wearing them for surf sessions. I love that they protect my feet from rocky reefs, sea creatures, and the sun. I use this pair from O’Neill – I like the split toe for improved balance and they aren’t too thick. These are made for warm water, but I’ve occasionally used them in the chilly Atlantic waves in the summer time.

5. Surf leggings : These are fast drying athletic tights that women (and men) can wear while surfing. These not only offer excellent sun protection, but also protect from chafing and board rash. They no longer make my favorite pair from Roxy, but you can find lots of options with a quick Google search. If you don’t want to wear leggings, longer board shorts are a great option as well.

6. Surf hat : I’m obsessed with my surf hat from Dakine. It offers excellent sun protection for my face and neck, clips on securely under my chin, and even has a little storage area at the top that I’ve never actually used. I’ve seen other people lose their hats in the surf, but this Dakine hat is a keeper.

7. Swimsuit : Perhaps goes without saying, but this is critical not only for wearing underneath your rashie while surfing but also for beach time and pool time post surf. For the ladies, I recommend bringing a one piece bathing suit for surfing.

8. Quick dry towel or surf poncho : I always pack this quick dry towel from Amazon, but discovered surf ponchos (like these ones from Slowtide ) on my last trip to Bali (sort of like the towel version of a Snuggie, the blanket with sleeves – and these are also great for changing out of your wetsuit). I haven’t purchased one yet, but I’m strongly considering it for my next surf trip!

9. Small dry bag or backpack : For beach outings, it’s helpful to have a small pack where you can store your towel, a little money, sunglasses, sunscreen, reusable water bottle, your change of clothes, and anything else you may need when you venture out to your surf session.

10. Other items to consider:

• Travel insurance that covers surfing: Always get travel insurance and make sure the policy includes surfing. My favorite is Safety Wing , which I use for my everyday travel. They cover surfing if you’re adequately supervised and wear appropriate safety equipment at all times. World Nomads ’ insurance is pricier, but their Explorer Plan ensures you’re fully covered when it comes to more extreme sports like surfing and it doesn’t have as many coverage restrictions.
• Go Pro: Have a Go Pro? Get your instructors to take some shots of you on the water! 
• Soft padded surf helmet: I know some surfers who wear soft padded helmets for safety purposes. I bought one from Gamebreaker a couple years ago and have never worn mine, but they’re great if you’re worried about safety and want some added protection.

Want to learn more about surf destinations for beginners around the world? Check out my posts here .

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What To Pack for Any Type of Surf Trip: Men's Guide

There are two types of gear when packing for any surf trip: the “must-haves” and the “nice-to-haves.” Keep this in mind as you start to weigh the costs of being underprepared vs. lugging extra board bags and paying overweight luggage fees.

To help with the math, we’ve outlined what we believe are the essentials for any given surf trip. It basically answers the question: “What is the bare minimum I need to pack to make sure I’m surfing in comfort?”

Packing Essentials for Any Surf Trip

Although it’s the most cumbersome and takes up the most space, packing your own surfboard is still recommended over renting or borrowing. You’re going to be dealing with a lot of new variables in unfamiliar waters, and it’s always nice to have control of the most important one (a surfboard you know and trust).

However, there’s no “one size fits all conditions” surfboard, so have a good understanding of the type of waves you’re traveling to and the swell forecast. If conditions are likely to be much bigger than what you typically ride with your go-to board, you should consider bringing an extra “step-up” (a board 2 inches longer) or more. The goal is to pack as few boards as necessary but still have a back-up plan if your main board breaks or is too small. This will vary by individual and destination.

Travel Board Bag

Whether you’re heading an hour down the road or halfway around the world, you want your board(s) to be protected when you travel. There are a handful of light, protective bags on the market both for air travel and road trips. Our recommendation is to use a board bag no more than a few inches longer than your surfboard. You want it to be packed tight so there’s minimal movement within the bag itself.

Surfboard Accessories

The first layer of accessories is critical and should be kept together in one “don’t-leave-home-without-it” kit:

• Fin Systems: Bring your favorite set of fins and at least one backup pair. If they’re anything other than FCS2, make sure you bring fin keys and several slightly larger Allen wrench backups in case one gets stripped. It happens. A lot.
• Leashes: Leashes not only save your board from damage, they also make great bartering tools in popular surf areas. Bring a few if you can, and make sure you have at least one thicker 6 or 8-foot leash in case conditions creep up into the well overhead zone. Bonus: bring a couple of extra leash strings in case one breaks as well.
• Wax: You’ll be amazed at how hard it is to find wax when you desperately need it. Eliminate the stress. Understand the water temp you’re heading to and pack a few bars with the right formula. You might even make a friend when you’re the only one in the parking lot with wax.
• Roof Straps: These may not seem essential, but there are countless times when roof straps have made all the difference for a traveling surfer. Whether they solve the rental car space crunch or enable you to hire a taxi or uber, these easy-to-pack straps will be your lifelines more often than you think.
• Repair Kit: Travel inevitably increases the chances of your board getting damaged. To help mitigate the risk, bring your own UV-cured resin repair kit. They’re easy to pack and will prevent minor dings from becoming major headaches.

Surf Accessories

After your surfboard must-haves, here are four additional surf-session essentials that will enable more time in the water and less time searching for the nearest surf shop.

Wetsuit: After your board, it’s the most important thing to pack if you’re heading to waters 69°F (20°C) or below. See our “ Wetsuit Guide ” on what’s best to wear for what water temp. Important tip for surf trips: decide what suit you’ll likely be wearing most and bring two of those. Chances are you’ll have multiple sessions per day and putting on a sopping wet wetsuit will dampen any good mood.

SHOP WETSUITS

Boardshorts and UV Surf Shirt: e/surf/buying/mens-wetsuit.html">If water temps in your destination are in the high 60s (19°C) and above, make sure you have the right boardshort and UV surf shirt setups for the bulk of your sessions. Our “ Boardshort Guide ” and “ Rash Guard Guide ” can steer you in the right direction. Wetsuit jackets also help a ton when the water is warm but the wind is not.

SHOP BOARD SHORTS

Surf Hat: Surf trips usually mean longer sessions and more time in the water. A surf hat can help with those extended hours under the sun with permanent, built-in shade. A must-have for high-heat and tropical destinations.

SHOP SURF HATS

Backpack or Dry Bag: A wet/dry backpack or dry bag (specifically for surfing) is a big help on any surf adventure. It allows you to contain all your surf essentials in one place and be easily mobile and prepared for those day missions. Pack an empty one in your boardbag so it can stay separate from your other non-surf travel gear.

SHOP BACKPACKS

Towel or Changing Towel: Trust us, changing in the parking lot without a towel can be awkward — especially if you’re a visitor. Be sure to pack a towel or two in your boardbag. They’ll be right there when you need them most, plus, they double as padding for your board. If you prefer not to risk a towel-change malfunction, changing robes are another good option and can also easily fit in your board bag.

Water Bottle: Bring your reusable water bottle with you to stay hydrated with a lighter footprint. Important: Avoid unnecessary dings. DO NOT pack your water bottle in your board bag.

Sunscreen: It doesn’t matter if it’s cold or warm. Sunscreen will prevent you from feeling the burn. Bring it — and buy only reef-safe sunscreen.

Ear Plugs: Few things end a surf trip faster than an ear infection. Even if you’re not a regular ear-plug wearer, it’s a good idea to bring a pair. There’s no telling how your inner ear might react to foreign waters.

Swim Fins: This might not seem intuitive, but a good pair of fins can be your insurance policy to having fun on any surf trip. If you break your boards, a good bodysurf (enabled by a good pair of fins) is almost guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

What To Add for a Day Surf Trip

If you’re planning to extend your surf search for a full day, it’s good to consider a few add-ons to keep you hunting.

Small portable coolers serve as your own personal refueling station wherever your mission takes you. Make sure to pack it with plenty of liquids and easy-to-eat, high-energy foods.

Day Trip Clothes

Tops: En route, you’re going to want to make sure you’re wearing light, comfortable and easy-to-pack layers. Depending on air temps, the t-shirt/hoodie combo is a common go-to. If there’s a potential for rain or you’re traveling by boat, make sure you bring a lightweight waterproof shell. If it’s cold, layer a weatherproof lined jacket or technical fleece over your hoodie/tee.

SHOP T-SHIRTS

Bottoms: Lightweight trail pants are a great option for any excursion, cold or warm. If shorts are in order, make sure to choose a pair with zip pockets and additional storage.

Hats: Sun protection, warmth, comfort, bad-hair-day control… hats and beanies provide many benefits on any all-day surf trip. Find what fits your needs best and add it to the list.

Shoes/Socks: If any kind of proper hike is in order, slippers or bare feet aren’t going to cut it and may tear up your feet before even paddling out. Consider all the potential paths you might take toward the surf and add on hiking shoes and comfortable socks if you need to hoof it for a half-mile or longer.

Beach Umbrella: A beach umbrella or covering helps you create shade wherever you need it. Important: make sure your umbrella is easy to pack and fits in a board bag. You don’t want it to take up an extra hand.

Speaker: Portable speaker options are limitless and add a soundtrack to fond memories. Keep it pocket-size to minimize bulk.

Changing Mat: There are a handful of packable changing surface options that could make the pre and post-surf transitions dirt and sand-free. If you do choose to bring one, make sure it’s weightless and packable.

What To Add for a Weekend Surf Trip

If you’re extending your day trip to a long weekend getaway, consider adding a few more essentials to keep you ready for whatever.

Extra Boards & Accessories

More days equals more time in the water and more time to experiment with equipment. If you have the room, we recommend bringing that one “alternative” board you’ve been dying to try but just haven’t been willing to sacrifice a whole session for. Asym, mid-length, fish… roll the dice!

Backpack or Duffle Bag

We recommend two bags for any extended road trip. One for storing “non-surf” essentials (layers, an extra change of clothes, toiletries) and one wet/dry bag for your surf treks. That way, you’ll minimize the risk of a soggy sweatshirt.

SHOP TRAVEL BAGS

(h3) Weekend Trip Clothes

T-Shirts and Shorts: As a general rule of thumb, two of each should get you by.

SHOP SHORTS

Hoodies or Fleece:  Find the hoodie you could live in for months and bring that one. No need for extras.

SHOP HOODIES

Jacket:  If needed, pick a jacket that provides both insulation (warmth) and protection from the elements.

SHOP JACKETS

Sandals:  Easy to pack. Always convenient.

SHOP SANDALS

Electronics & Equipment

• Phone Charger: A portable phone charger in addition to a USB charger can be helpful – especially if you’re adventuring in an area with limited service. Batteries tend to drain quickly in these zones.
• Action Camera: It’s always fun to share highlights from a successful surf mission – whether it’s you or your friends. Including a waterproof action camera gives you the best chance of showing your crew “what it was really like.”
• Portable Shower: Having a way to rinse off with fresh water – especially after a good surf session somewhere off the grid – can feel better than a spa treatment. There are a number of easy-to-pack portable shower options out there. A good one to add as long as you don’t have to carry it too far.
• Hanger or Makeshift Clothesline: We already mentioned how “un-fun” putting on a wet wetsuit can be. Bring along some paracord and set up a line between two trees near the campfire. Dry, smoky wetsuits are better than cold, soggy ones.
• Surf Bucket: If traveling by car or truck, a surf bucket is great to keep all the wet things in one place while in transport. Important: don’t let them marinate for more than a day.

• Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Overnight trips mean overnight essentials. And while individual needs will vary, we’ll venture to say dental hygiene is the first thing you want to have covered.
• Bodywash: Keep it simple. Bring a one-bottle solution that will keep you fresh for a few days. No need to bring the entire glam squad.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: A small bottle helps prevent small cuts from infection.
• Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes rule the night. If you’re in a place where there’s a lot of them, make sure you have something to keep them at bay.
• Triple Antibiotic Ointment: Another must-have to help ward off infections. Apply after the hydrogen peroxide.

What To Add for an International Surf Trip

An overseas surf trip shows true commitment – that you’re willing to endure a few travel inconveniences in order to score an abundance of exotic waves. The recommendations below give you a better chance of making the extra effort worth it.

Luggage & Carry On

Your carry-on (preferably a good-size backpack with multiple compartments) should be your life kit. If you lose your luggage and boards and everything else, what’s in your carry-on might be able to save your trip. That might include an extra change of clothes, a pair of boardshorts, laptop, toiletries and all of your critical personal items. Check-in luggage should be tight. Surf trips aren’t fashion shows. Bring gear that you can wear over and over again.

International Trip Clothes

International surf trips might inspire extracurricular activities beyond your targeted surf destination. Here are a few apparel items and accessories to add to your consideration list:

Packable Puffer Jacket or Windbreaker:  An outer shell, whether it’s for warmth, protection from the elements, or both, is helpful in both climates. Keep it as light and packable as possible.

Dress Shirt:  Popular surf destinations and nightclubs go hand in hand. If you’re looking to celebrate an all-time trip or want to kick one off, make sure you have a button-down woven – preferably with a print that stands out from the rest.

SHOP SHIRTS

Boots, Beanie, Gloves (if cold): Keeping the extremities warm will make all the difference in cold climates. These three items will do just that for you.

SHOP ACCESSORIES

Sandals: Useful for many reasons in both warm and cold climates. A good pair of sandals should be with you wherever you go.

Waist Pack: A waist pack (yes, they’re cool again!) can keep all of your key valuables safe, secure and away from prying hands.

Mini First Aid Kit

The more remote you are, the more you should be prepared for what “could” go wrong. Here are some additional First Aid recommendations to the above that might make a difference if help is a long way away.

• Waterproof Tape/Gauze: This combo will keep most pesky reef cuts padded, protected and – most importantly – keep YOU in the water.
• Painkillers/Anti-Inflammatories: Lots of surfing will create soreness and stiffness in muscles you didn’t even know you had. Anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen can help take the edge off.
• Epinephrine Auto Injector (EpiPen): An EpiPen is your best solution to severe allergic reactions.
• Iodine Tablets: Don’t just hope the water is safe to drink. Add a guarantee to your h2O by bringing along Iodine tablets for water purification. Especially useful when you’re camping and drinking water from streams and rivers of unknown origin.
• Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is one of those things you never need until you actually do. And the more trips you take, the more likely you will. Investing a little extra up front could save you when the travel gods are not in your favor.
• Book: Time on the road creates “white space” to unplug, and a novel is one of the best companions to have on a good, long surf trip. Where to start? We recommend a few of surfing’s most acclaimed novelists, including Kem Nunn, Tim Winton and William Finnegan.
• Travel Pillow: Prevent a bent neck before you get off the plane. Travel pillows will make economy middle seats almost bearable. Almost.
• Adapter: Before your trip, do research on what outlets your destination country uses. Bring a universal adapter with you to eliminate any stress on the phone/laptop-charge front.
• Gifts From Home: One of the biggest benefits of traveling abroad (beside the waves) is connecting with new people, cultures and communities. Think about some small, unique items you can bring from home to share with your new friends. It brings the world closer together!

Being a good traveler is an exercise in preparation, planning, discipline, humility and also being flexible enough to go with the flow. Follow these tips on packing for any type of surf trip, and you’ve immediately increased your chances of having a good time. Bon voyage!

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Surf trip packing list

Going on a surf trip can be amazing fun, but before you go, make sure you have everything you need to make sure you don't miss anything on your trip.

The prospect of having surf trips is quite fun and, hell yeah, rightly so! Imagine traveling to an exotic new beach, discovering overlooked surf destinations, and going on boat trips when you're not surfing. It's impossible not to get excited over these and smile all the time.

But... every rose has a prick, and that smile might be overshadowed by the need to prepare a travel bag and the anxiety that accompanies it.

What's the weather going to be like? Will there be mosquitoes? Will there be ruthless insects or greenery that won't agree with me? Will there be vampires, sharks that developed a taste for surfboards, ghosts of the surfers past who haunt the shores? How many boards do I really need? Do they have the ocean there or do I have to pack that , too? Well, I can't carry the ocean, can I? Oh, what about the sun, though?

Okay, you can stop and calm down now because we're here to tell you about all the essentials of surf packing and put your mind at ease. When preparing for your surf trip, you can just open this article, tick all the boxes, reintroduce that smile to your face, and board your plane proudly because you're not forgetting anything. Probably for the first time in your life, too!

Packing Your Surfboards

We can hear you saying: "Oh, did you think I was going on a surf trip without the most essential surf gear? What do you think I am? It's a goddamn no brainer!", but you're traveling, and you probably have a nice little collection of boards. Then, the question is, which one or ones you are going to carry?

Well, that kind of depends on where you're on your surfing journey. If you're only a beginner surfer, no one can expect you to carry a fun board or a step-up shortboard on your first surf trip as you've probably only ridden thick long boards so far. But hey, don't leave the page yet because the recommendations we have for advanced surfers might just come in handy when you're on your next surf trip as a more experienced surfer.

Wherever you might be going, you need at least three types of boards. Of course, you can bring along your favorites or the one best suited to your riding skills, but if you're not sure about the wave conditions, the three below will help you be ready for everything:

• A funboard : Funboards are called fun because they're designed to be fun. Even when you're advanced enough and want to test yourself on challenging waves with boards shaped just for you, having a funboard on a surf vacation is definitely recommended.
• A shortboard : If you're going on a surf trip, you probably want to ride unbroken waves that you cannot get on your local breaks. Then, a shortboard is a must because they're the best when it comes to catching unfamiliar waves.
• A step-up : You don't know what kind of breaks you're going to visit or how much you'll need to paddle? In case things get serious, reefs get dangerous, and you need more paddling power and speed, your step-up shortboard will be there to help you.

Surfboard Travel Bag

A surfboard bag is essential because how else are you going to carry your precious boards safely? Just packing them in any board bag won't help.

Especially when you're going to travel long-distance with connecting flights and you don't have a rental car, the dangers you put your boards through multiply with a board bag that's not chosen carefully. First and foremost, these bags will be handled by baggage handlers, whose labor is too repetitive, whose moves are somehow mechanized, and who hardly care about what they're handling anymore.

Moreover, you never know how much you're going to have to walk or in what conditions you're going to carry your boards once you're off the plane. Therefore, having a surfboard bag that'll endure the hardships long-distance traveling will throw your way is of crucial importance unless you don't want to surf and you're okay only with sightseeing.

The safest board bags are those that are sturdy and only a few inches bigger than your board: not too tight and not too loose either. Also, you need to be careful about the padding that the bag provides. If the already-present padding of the bag doesn't allow you to have peace of mind, you can always provide extra padding by using your beach towel, wetsuit, and rash guard.

How do you plan to travel once you're off the plane? Are you going to take a taxi and scandalize the local taxi drivers with the sheer volume of your luggage? Because, believe us, no matter how much they're used to carrying surfers around, they're going to act shocked by those and demand more cash.

Are you going to rent a car and have an endless debate with the lady at the car rental that has a strict policy against strapping luggage on the roof of the car and threatens you with declaring your rental contract null and void? Because believe us, that's a common way of conduct all around the world.

The best-case scenario is your friends waiting at the airport with their car that can carry anything, but still, there's the possibility that their cars don't have any installed racks. If you pack surf racks, though, you will be comfortable with any of these scenarios.

Just make sure those are soft racks so that the cars don’t get damaged. Also, keep in mind that the car rental companies will still have a problem with your racks no matter how soft they are. So, if you're renting a car, make sure you strap your boards away from their eyes.

Other Surfboard Items You Need to Pack

Just because you successfully packed your boards, it doesn't mean that you're ready to go yet. Unsurprisingly, you need your fins and some other items for taking care of the board as anything can happen at any time.

However, you probably don't want to pack everything related to your surfboard, either. Here’s a comprehensive list of items that you'll definitely need.

(Extra) Surfboard Fins

Yes, it's obvious that you need them, but the need to pack some extra fins as well might not be that obvious. Especially if you're going to surf reef breaks in a remote location. Anything might happen to your first-choice fins and you might find yourself in a situation where it's impossible to buy replacements.

In addition to fins, you can get a fin wallet to carry them in a well-organized manner. Also, you might think that bringing only one fin key will suffice, but even if you're famous due to your impeccable attention to detail, fin keys have a way of getting lost. So, it's better to pack a few extra just in case.

Ding Repair Kit

Again, we wholeheartedly wish that nothing uncanny happens to your precious boards, but you pretty well know that dings happen. They might happen during the trip, they might happen because you dropped your board, they might happen because some local kids didn't like your face, or they might happen because your partner is bored with your surfing obsessions and wants you to spend some time with them.

If you pack a ding repair kit (or a solar easy fix kit), you won't have to depend on others in surfing spots where you don't know many people. That way, you can easily repair the small dings by yourself and drive your relationship that's already on shaky ground toward the edge of a reef.

We're not only going to tell you not to forget your surf wax and leave it at that here. You should also pack a couple of extra blocks of wax and pack different water temp waxes so that you're not surprised by a foreign climate.

Wax is easy to remember, but like fin keys, your wax comb can easily escape your attention. You can easily pack these small items in a little compartment of your duffel bag.

To put it shortly, you're going to a place you don't know (probably). You don't know what kind of surfing conditions you'll have. You might ride small waves but you might need to engage in some bigger surf, too.

Moreover, leashes tend to break whether due to constant friction or an unnoticed mistake on the production line. Therefore, it's better to pack at least a few of them so that you have at least two which you can use depending on the wave condition.

Other Essential Items for Surf Packing

Now that we have secured your most essential surf gear, your boards, and what you may need to carry and take care of them, we can delve into other items you'll need on your surf trip.

• Rash guard : You might like being topless, but sun exposure and tropical or cold water will certainly take a toll on your skin. To prevent that, a rash guard is a must for any surf packing list.
• Surf helmet : You don't know if the waves will be dangerous or the wave lineups will be crowded by beginner surfers who can ditch their boards any time. Being prepared for those with a surf helmet will definitely not hurt.
• Reef booties : It totally depends on where you're going, so you don't need to pack a pair when you're going to walk only on sandy beaches and gravel roads, but for those who're going to visit reef breaks, reef booties are a must.
• Dry bag : We don't know where you're going, but let us tell you that you never know when tropical climates will surprise you with a rain shower. In such conditions and also on boat trips, a dry bag will be a lifesaver by protecting the wet gear inside.
• Beach towel : Well, it's not one of the items you cannot find on your way to the airport or in your surf destination, but why pay extra money if you already have one? Also, as we said, they may provide extra padding for your board bags.
• Wetsuit : It depends on the water temperature where you're going, but pack a pair of them regardless.
• Sunscreen : Needless to say, you'll be exposed to a lot of sun when surfing, so don't forget to bring along sunscreens for your body and face. Also, make sure they are waterproof!
• Water bottle : As a surfer, you carry a responsibility for the ocean and preserving its habitat, so you know that buying water sold in plastic bottles is not good for our planet.
• Ear plugs : It's obvious why you would need them, but it's another one of small objects that you might easily forget.

Essential Items for Any Trip

Travel insurance.

Travel insurance is not a must only for surf trips but for every time you travel abroad. However, it might be even more important for surfing trips since the most popular surf spots are in exotic places with different sorts of climate conditions and biodiversity. Even the local cuisine might give you some hardships.

Yes, it's one of the most boring parts of packing, but if it's any relief, getting travel insurance is quite easy and affordable.

First Aid Kit

Another boring but incredibly essential item on our list is a first aid kit. These are some essentials that are to be included in any first aid kit: antiseptics, antibiotics, painkillers, rubbing alcohol, spray plaster, lots of bandages, waterproof medical tape, sun protection, and so on.

However, you need to personalize the contents of the kit based on your medical needs, too. Needless to say, if you need to take a certain medicine due to a particular condition, make sure you have enough of it to last for the entirety of your trip.

Even though your trip might not coincide with your period, you never know what long-distance travel does to the constitution of a person, so don't forget to bring along tampons, or better, menstrual cups.

In addition to specific medical needs, you should pack stuff in accordance with your surfing needs as well. For example, if you're surfing on reef breaks, you need to plan ahead for potential shallow reef cuts you might suffer and pack skin closures, saline solutions, blister protectors, and medical-grade glues.

Other Items You Might Need

Maybe the sole reason behind your trip is surfing, but nobody is going to drop you off the plane on a wave break and pick you back up once you're tired, right? You still need to pack certain other items that are not necessarily related to surfing. We don't need to remind you that you need to pack your passport and driver's license, but there are still some items worth reminding:

• Duffel bag : They have lots of compartments and lots of space, and they're a must for any long-distance traveler.
• Duct tape : When it comes to securing things into their places, there is no better option. They can also save space and make life easier.
• Clothing suitable for any weather : As we repeatedly said and implied, you don't know how the weather can turn during your visit. Being ready for that is crucial, especially if you're visiting colder climates.
• Sunglasses : You are invincible in your sunglasses.
• Socket adapter and portable charger : Foreign countries sometimes have weird sockets that your current charger cannot fit into, so it's better to pack a socket adapter. Also, you might have some time away from power sources. In that case, your portable charger will run to your help.
• Mosquito net : Mosquitoes caused many sleepless nights and swollen feet and arms for us surfers. Don't let them ruin an otherwise perfect trip for you.
• Cross : So that you can ward off vampires and werewolves.

Wrapping Up...

Okay, now that we're at the end of our article, we can talk more candidly: packing for any trip anywhere is absolutely dreadful. We know many surfers who tried to travel abroad while their passports were back at home. As a result, they ended up helping their friends who were moving into a new house. In all honesty, that's a fate to be scared of! So, if you don't want that person to be you, make sure that you pack all the items on our list and tick all the boxes.

There's a commonsensical approach to packing: "Well, no matter how careful you are, things will get lost and you'll forget this or that, so don't sweat yourself..." That is wrong. Impeccable packing is possible, and you can totally pull it off!

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Things you Need to Pack for a Surfing Trip - A Packing List for your Next Surf Trip

Are you planning your  next surf trip  but feeling overwhelmed by what to pack? Whether you're a beginner or an advanced surfer, traveling solo or with family, packing for a  surf trip  requires careful consideration. The right gear and essentials can make or break your surfing experience. But don't worry, we're here to guide you through the process and ensure you're well-equipped for your next adventure.

Key Takeaways:

• The right gear and essentials can enhance your surfing experience on a  surf trip
• Packing light and organized can make your travel more efficient
• Consider the  surf  conditions and weather at your destination when packing
• Women and men surfers have specific packing needs
• You can save money by packing on a budget and  getting travel insurance

Essential Surf Gear: Make a Checklist and Packing List

When embarking on a  surf trip , having the right gear is crucial for a successful and enjoyable experience. We've compiled a list of essential  surf gear  to ensure you have everything you need for your next adventure.

By making sure you have all of these essential items, you'll be well-prepared for your  next surf trip . Don't forget to double-check your checklist before leaving and enjoy your time riding the  waves !

Packing Tips for All Surfers

When it comes to packing for a surf trip, there are a few universal tips that can make your life easier. Here are some of our tried and true recommendations:

Backpack and Dry Bag - Pack light and smart

When packing for a surf trip, it's important to pack light and smart. Avoid overpacking by planning outfits in advance and packing versatile pieces that can be worn multiple times. Choose a good quality backpack or dry bag that is durable and can withstand the rigors of travel and surfing.  Look for a backpack or dry bag with a water-resistant or waterproof material to keep your belongings safe from any unexpected splashes or rain. It's also a good idea to look for one with comfortable padded straps and multiple compartments for easy organization.

When it comes to packing, roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and reduce wrinkles. Pack essentials like sunscreen, water bottle, snacks, and a first aid kit in easily accessible pockets or compartments.

For your surfing gear, make sure to pack a good quality wetsuit, surf wax, spare fins, and leash in your dry bag to keep them protected from moisture and sand. Lastly, don't forget to pack any necessary documents, such as your passport, travel insurance, and a copy of your itinerary, in a waterproof pouch within your backpack or dry bag. By packing light and smart with the right backpack or dry bag, you'll be ready to tackle any surf adventure without the hassle of lugging around unnecessary items. 

Use packing cubes

Packing cubes  can help you stay organized and maximize space in your luggage. Use them to separate clothes by type or outfit, and easily find what you need without having to unpack your entire bag.  Packing cubes come in various sizes, making it easy to customize your packing to fit your needs. Use small cubes for socks and underwear, medium cubes for shirts and pants, and large cubes for bulkier items like sweaters or jeans.

Not only do packing cubes keep your items organized, but they also compress your clothes, allowing you to fit more into your suitcase. You'll be able to pack efficiently and keep everything in its place while traveling.

When it comes to packing for a trip, using packing cubes can make the process much smoother. You'll be able to easily see what you've packed and access specific items without having to dig through your entire suitcase. Plus, if you need to unpack and repack in a hurry, having your items neatly separated in cubes will save you time and stress.

Overall, packing cubes are an essential travel accessory that can make a big difference in how you pack and travel. With the ability to stay organized and maximize space, you'll wonder how you ever traveled without them. 

Bring a Turkish beach towel or travel towel

A  Turkish beach  towel is a lightweight and versatile alternative to a bulky traditional towel. It can also double as a beach blanket or sarong in a pinch.  These towels are typically made of 100% Turkish cotton, which is known for its absorbency and quick-drying properties. They are also known for their beautiful and intricate designs, making them a stylish addition to any beach or poolside ensemble.

When choosing a Turkish beach towel, look for one with a tight weave for maximum absorbency and durability. Many also come with tassels or fringe, adding a touch of bohemian flair. In addition to being great for the beach, Turkish towels are also perfect for travel. They take up minimal space in a suitcase or beach bag, making them ideal for on-the-go adventures. Plus, they can be used for a variety of purposes, such as a picnic blanket, scarf, or even a lightweight shawl.

Overall, a Turkish beach towel is a practical and stylish accessory for any beach or travel enthusiast. Its lightweight and versatile nature make it a must-have for anyone who enjoys spending time in the sun and sand. 

Sunscreen and First Aid Kit for Your Surf Trip

Surfing is a great way to enjoy the ocean and get some exercise, but it's important to take precautions to protect yourself from the sun and other hazards.

Sunscreen: Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. Choose a sunscreen that is broad-spectrum and has an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including your face, ears, neck, and hands, at least 20 minutes before going out in the sun. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you are swimming or sweating.

Rash Guard: A rash guard can help protect your skin from the sun and from rashes caused by rubbing against your surfboard. Rash guards are also helpful for keeping you warm in cold water.

Reef Shoes or Water Shoes: Reef shoes or water shoes can help protect your feet from sharp objects in the water, such as coral and rocks. They can also help you get a better grip on your surfboard.

First Aid Kit: A small first aid kit is essential for any surf trip. Your first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any other medications you may need.

Rash: A rash is a common skin irritation that can be caused by exposure to the sun, saltwater, or other irritants. If you develop a rash, wash the area with soap and water and apply a soothing lotion. If the rash is severe, see a doctor.

Reef Cuts: Reef cuts are cuts that are caused by sharp objects in the water, such as coral and rocks. Reef cuts can be painful and can become infected if not treated properly. If you get a reef cut, clean the wound with soap and water and apply a bandage. If the cut is deep or bleeding heavily, see a doctor.

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from the sun and other hazards while surfing.

Don't forget your swimsuit and wetsuit

This may seem obvious, but it's important to pack at least one  swimsuit  for your surf trip. Bring a couple if you plan to spend a lot of time in the water.  Additionally, if the water is cold or you'll be surfing in colder climates, don't forget to pack a wetsuit . It will keep you warm and protected from the elements while you're out in the water. Make sure to check the water temperature at your destination so you can pack the appropriate thickness of wetsuit for the conditions. Having the right gear will ensure that you can fully enjoy your time in the water while staying comfortable and safe. 

Pack wet gear

Surfers are no strangers to  wet gear , but it's important to pack the right items. Consider bringing a  waterproof  bag to store wet items and a waterproof  surf hat  to keep your head dry.

Bring one or two extra leashes

If your leash breaks mid-surf session, having a spare can save the day. Pack one or two extra leashes just in case.

Packing for Different Surf Conditions and Seasons

If you're planning on hitting the waves, it's important to be prepared for the different surf conditions and weather patterns you may encounter. In this section, we'll guide you through the gear and clothing you'll need to pack for an enjoyable  surf vacation , whether you're exploring popular  surf spots  or  colder water surfing . We'll also share tips for preparing for beach breaks and other types of surf environments.

Colder Water Surfing

If you plan on exploring  colder water surfing , be sure to pack a proper wetsuit and booties to keep you warm in freezing temperatures. Along with your surfboard, consider bringing along a hooded  rash guard  or a  surf hat  to protect your head and ears from the cold. Additionally, a waterproof case for your phone is a must-have to keep your device dry while snapping photos in the water.

Beach Breaks

Beach breaks require less specialized gear than reef breaks since the bottom is made up of sand as opposed to rock.  Pack accordingly  with swimwear, a quality  sunscreen , a handy  turkish beach  towel and a reliable  rash  guard to protect your skin from potential rashes. Keeping a  first aid kit  nearby is also highly recommended in the event of any injuries.

If you're heading to a  popular surf  spot, it's important to do your research ahead of time to determine what gear will be necessary. Often,  surf shops  at these locations will have everything you need, from  surfboard fins  to a waterproof  surfboard bag . However, it's still a  good idea to bring  along essentials, such as an extra leash, wax, and a  ding  repair kit to be fully prepared.

Surf Sessions

For longer  surf sessions , pack a reusable  water bottle  and snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day. A  dry bag  is also a must-have to protect your belongings from getting wet and is particularly useful if you plan on hiking to remote  surf spots . Consider bringing along one or two extra leashes as they can come in handy if one breaks.

Remember to always pack according to factors such as the weather, surf destination, and activities planned. By following these tips and tricks, you'll be ready to catch some waves and have a memorable  surf vacation !

Packing for Women Surfers

As a woman surfer, packing for a surf trip requires some extra considerations. We've put together some packing tips tailored to women surfers to ensure your surf adventure is as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

Bring Along

When packing for your surf trip, it's essential to  bring along  all the  surf gear  you'll need. This includes your surfboard, fins, leash, and wax. Additionally, it's a good idea to  bring one or two  surf hats to protect your face and scalp from the sun.

Find Surf Shops Catering to Women's Needs

When shopping for surf gear, look for  surf shops  that cater to women's needs. These shops often carry a range of wetsuits and swimwear designed specifically for women and offer expert advice on gear selection.

Pack Accordingly for Different Surf Destinations

Make sure to pack gear and clothing appropriate for the surf destination you're traveling to. For example, if you're heading to a tropical surf spot, pack lightweight clothes, swimsuits, and a waterproof bag for your gear. If you're traveling to a colder water surf spot, don't forget to pack a thicker wetsuit, booties, and a hooded vest.

Bring Multiple Swimwear Options

When packing for a surf trip, it's a good idea to  pack multiple  swimwear options. This way, you'll have a backup if one  swimsuit  is still wet or uncomfortable to wear.

Consider Surf Racks

If you're traveling with your own surfboard, consider investing in  surf racks  for your car. This will make it easier to transport your board to and from the surf spot.

Pack a Waterproof Bag

A waterproof bag is an essential item for storing  wet gear  and keeping your belongings dry. Consider packing one in your luggage to ensure you have a way to store wet clothes and surf gear.

Packing for Male Surfers

If you're a male surfer preparing for your  next surf trip , you'll want to take note of our packing tips to ensure you have everything you need for a successful and enjoyable trip.

Finding Surf Shops for Men's Gear

When it comes to finding gear for your surf trip, it's important to choose high-quality equipment from reputable  surf shops . Look for shops that specialize in men's surf gear and offer a wide range of options to suit different surfing styles and preferences. Some  popular surf  shops to consider include:

Bringing a Surf Hat

A  surf hat  is one of the most important items a male surfer can bring on a surf trip. Not only can it protect your face and neck from the sun's harmful rays, but it can also keep hair out of your face and improve visibility while surfing. Consider packing a waterproof hat, especially if you'll be surfing in rainy or windy conditions.

Packing Multiple Surfboard Fins

Having multiple  surfboard fins  can greatly enhance your surfing experience, especially if you're surfing in varied conditions. Packing two or three sets of  surfboard fins  in different sizes and shapes can help you adjust to different waves and make the most out of your surf trip. Don't forget to pack a  fin key  to make changing your fins easier!

Packing Tips

As a male surfer, you may be tempted to pack everything you own for your surf trip, but it's important to prioritize the essentials. Start by packing basics such as bathing suits,  rash  guards, and board shorts, and then add additional items based on the length and location of your trip. Consider a waterproof backpack or dry bag for storing your  wet gear  and protecting your electronics, and  always bring  a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on and off the beach.

Trying to pack  light? Roll your clothes to save space and prevent wrinkles, and use  packing cubes  to keep your gear organized.

Packing for Kids on a Surf Trip

If you're planning a surf trip with kids, preparation is key to ensuring everyone enjoys themselves. Here are some packing tips to help you  pack for a surf trip for kids :

Always Bring Essentials

It's essential to pack the kids' essentials, such as sunscreen, swimwear, a hat, water bottles, and sunglasses. Pack at least two swimsuits for each child, and don't forget a waterproof bag to store wet gear.

Pack Accordingly

Packing for kids requires additional considerations, such as selecting kid-friendly surf destinations and accommodating their needs.  Pack accordingly , and bring comfortable clothing for the trip, as well as items like a travel pillow and snacks that kids can enjoy during the journey.

Many Surfers, Pack a Couple

Pack a couple  of extra items, such as towels, sun hats, rash vests, and swimsuits, in case of emergencies. It's also a good idea to pack extra leashes, particularly when traveling with multiple surfers.

Surf Racks Are Popular with Families

Many surfing families use surf racks, as they are an excellent way to efficiently carry surfboards, especially when traveling with several surfers. Make sure to select a surf rack that suits your car's make and model, and ensure it's installed correctly before using it.

Also, Bring Familiar Items from Home

To make kids feel more comfortable, consider packing some familiar items from home, such as their favorite blanket or stuffed toy. This approach helps to provide a sense of familiarity, making it easier for them to settle into the new environment.

Packing on a Budget: Tips and Tricks

Planning a  surf trip on a budget ? No problem! We've got you covered with our top tips and tricks for packing everything you need without breaking the bank.

Bring Along Only the Essentials

When packing for a  surf trip on a budget , it's important to bring only the essentials and avoid overpacking. To determine what to bring, make a  packing list  and cross off anything that you can do without. This way, you can pack lighter and save money on baggage fees.

Packing light is key when traveling on a budget. By bringing fewer items, you can save money on transportation and have less to carry around. Use  packing cubes  to stay organized and maximize space in your luggage.

Get Travel Insurance

Getting travel insurance  is a smart move for any trip, but it's especially important when traveling on a budget. Accidents and unexpected events can happen at any time, and having travel insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection.

Pack Everything You Need

Packing everything you need for your surf trip is crucial, but it doesn't have to be expensive. Look for cost-effective gear options and consider buying used equipment. You can also save money by packing snacks and food instead of eating out for every meal.

Cost-Effective Gear Options

Packing on a budget for a surf trip can be a breeze with these tips. By bringing only the essentials, packing light,  getting travel insurance , and packing everything you need without overspending, you can have an epic surf adventure without breaking the bank!

Pack Right, Surf Tight!

At this point, you are well aware of how to pack for your next surf trip. With a comprehensive  packing list  and tips for all types of surfers, you're ready to hit the beach, catch some waves, and have an epic surf adventure!

Remember to  pack light  and smart, bringing only the essentials. Don't forget to protect your surfboard and gear during transit, and bring extra items like leashes and fins, just in case.

When you arrive at your destination, take time to explore the beaches and  surf spots , and enjoy the waves. And, of course, stay safe by following local guidelines, wearing sunscreen, and bringing a first aid kit for any unexpected accidents.

Most importantly, have fun and savor every moment of your  surfboarding  journey. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, a surf trip is an adventure that you will never forget.

So, pack your bags, grab your board, and get ready to ride the waves! Happy surfing!

Keywords: surf, surf trip, beach, waves,  packing list ,  surfboarding ,  travel essentials.

What should I pack for a surf trip?

When packing for a surf trip,  essentials you’ll need  include your surfboard, fins, wax, wetsuit, sunscreen, rash guard, leash, and first aid kit. Additionally, consider bringing a  ding repair kit , a waterproof dry bag, reef booties, and a  surf helmet  for added protection.

What should I pack for a surf trip depending on my skill level?

Beginners should focus on bringing their surfboard, wetsuit, sunscreen, rash guard, leash, and first aid kit. Intermediate and advanced surfers may also want to bring additional surfboard fins, a  fin  key, and a  ding repair kit  for board maintenance.

What should women pack for a surf trip?

In addition to the essential surf gear, women should consider bringing a surf hat for sun protection, multiple swimsuits, and waterproof bags for storing wet gear. It's also a good idea to  pack multiple  rash guards and a  Turkish beach  towel for added comfort.

What should men pack for a surf trip?

Men should pack the essential surf gear, including their surfboard, wax, wetsuit, sunscreen, leash, and rash guard. They should also consider bringing a surf hat, multiple surfboard fins for different conditions, and a waterproof bag for storing wet gear.

What should I pack for a surf trip with kids?

When traveling with kids on a surf trip, it's important to bring their surfboards, rash guards, wetsuits, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. It's also helpful to have extra essentials like towels, changes of clothes, and some familiar items from home to make them feel comfortable.

How do I pack for a surf trip on a budget?

To  pack for a surf  trip on a budget,  bring along  only the essential items you'll need,  pack light  to avoid extra luggage fees, and consider renting gear at your destination to save money. It's also a good idea to get travel insurance to protect your investment in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

What should I pack for a surf trip in different seasons?

When packing for different seasons, consider the water and air temperature at your surf destination. In colder months, bring thicker wetsuits, booties, and extra layers for warmth. In warmer months, pack lightweight and breathable rash guards, boardshorts, and a good sunscreen.

What are some important packing tips for all surfers?

It's always a good idea to  pack a couple  of extra leashes in case one breaks during your  surf sessions . Use packing cubes to organize your gear and keep your bag tidy. And don't forget to bring a surf hat to protect your face and neck from the sun's rays.

What are some essential items to pack for a surf trip?

Essential items for a surf trip  include your surfboard, fins, wax, wetsuit, sunscreen, rash guard, leash, and a first aid kit. It's also important to have a good quality  board bag  to protect your surfboard during transit and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Do I need travel insurance for a surf trip?

It's always recommended to have travel insurance for a surf trip. It provides coverage for unexpected events such as cancellation or interruption, medical emergencies, lost or damaged gear, and travel mishaps. Make sure you review the policy details and choose a plan that suits your needs.

What are the essential items I need to pack for the ultimate surf trip?

• Surfboard bag
• Wetsuit or rash guard
• Boardshorts or bikini
• Sunscreen and Sunglasses
• Water bottle and Snacks
• First aid kit
• Travel insurance

What Kind of Wetsuit, Booties, and Rash Guard Should I Pack?

The type of wetsuit, booties, and rash guard you need will depend on the water temperature and the type of surfing you'll be doing.

• Warm water (70°F and above):  A rash guard or thin wetsuit (2-3mm) is usually sufficient.
• Cool water (60-70°F):  A thicker wetsuit (3-4mm) is recommended.
• Cold water (below 60°F):  A thick wetsuit (5mm or more) is necessary.
• Recreational surfing:  A rash guard or thin wetsuit is usually sufficient.
• Performance surfing:  A thicker wetsuit is recommended to provide more warmth and protection.
• Big wave surfing:  A thick wetsuit is essential to provide warmth and protection in large waves.

Booties are recommended for surfing in cold water or on rocky beaches. They can help to protect your feet from the cold and from cuts and abrasions.

A rash guard can help to protect your skin from the sun and from rashes caused by rubbing against your surfboard.

Additional Tips

• If you're not sure what kind of wetsuit, booties, and rash guard to pack, consult with a local surf shop or a surf instructor.
• If you're planning on doing a lot of surfing, it's a good idea to invest in high-quality gear that will last.
• Make sure to try on your wetsuit, booties, and rash guard before you pack them to make sure they fit properly.
• Rinse your wetsuit, booties, and rash guard with fresh water after each use to prevent the growth of bacteria.

What kind of sunscreen should I pack?

Choose a sunscreen that is:

* Broad-spectrum * SPF 30 or higher * Water-resistant

What other items, like wax, water bottle, surf helmet and boardshorts should I pack for my surf trip?

In addition to the essential items listed above, you may also want to pack the following items:

• Reef booties:  These are recommended for surfing in rocky areas or in areas with sharp coral.
• Surf wax:  This is used to create traction on your surfboard.
• Fin key:  This is used to tighten or loosen the fins on your surfboard.
• Ding repair kit:  This is used to repair small dings or cracks in your surfboard.
• Ear plugs:  These can help to protect your ears from the cold water and from wax buildup.
• Surf helmet:  This is recommended for beginners or for surfing in large waves.
• Travel towel:  This is a compact and lightweight towel that is ideal for travel.
• Dry bag:  This is a waterproof bag that can be used to store your wet clothes and gear.
• If you're not sure what kind of wax to use, consult with a local surf shop.
• Apply wax to your surfboard before each surf session.
• Keep your surfboard clean and free of dirt and debris.
• Store your surfboard in a cool, dry place.

Boardshorts

Boardshorts are a type of swimwear that is specifically designed for surfing. They are typically made from a quick-drying material and have a relaxed fit. Boardshorts can be worn by both men and women.

A rash guard is a type of shirt that is designed to protect your skin from the sun and from rashes caused by rubbing against your surfboard. Rash guards can be worn by both men and women.

Do I pack my board in a surf board bag for travel?

The best way to pack your surfboard for travel is to use a surfboard bag. Surfboard bags are designed to protect your surfboard from damage during travel.

What are some tips for packing for a surf trip?

• Pack light. Only bring the essential items you need.
• Pack smart. Use packing cubes to organize your belongings and make the most of the space in your luggage.
• Pack for the conditions. Consider the climate and the type of surfing you'll be doing when packing your clothes and gear.
• Pack for safety. Bring a first aid kit and travel insurance in case of an emergency.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when packing for a surf trip?

* Overpacking. Don't bring more than you need. * Packing the wrong clothes and gear. Make sure you pack clothes and gear that are appropriate for the climate and the type of surfing you'll be doing. * Not packing for safety. Bring a first aid kit and travel insurance in case of an emergency.

What are some additional tips for planning a surf trip with the perfect waves?

• Choose the right surf destination. Consider your skill level, the type of waves you want to surf, and the time of year you want to travel.
• Book your flights and accommodation in advance. Especially if you're traveling during peak season.
• Get travel insurance. This will protect you in case of lost luggage, medical emergencies, or other unexpected events.
• Learn about the local surf culture. This will help you avoid any misunderstandings or cultural faux pas.

What is a ding repair kit and should I pack it for my surf trip?

What do i pack for cold water surfing list of items.

What kind of wetsuit do I need for cold water surfing?

For cold water surfing, you will need a wetsuit that is at least 4/3mm thick. A 5/4mm or 6/5mm wetsuit may be necessary for extremely cold water.

What other gear do I need for cold water surfing?

In addition to a wetsuit, you will also need:

• A hooded vest or beanie
• A surf poncho or towel
• Warm clothes to change into after surfing

What are some essential items to pack for a cold water surfing trip?

• Hooded vest or beanie
• Surf poncho or towel
• Warm clothes
• Water bottle
• Ding repair kit

What are some additional tips for packing for a cold water surfing trip?

• Pack light and avoid overpacking.
• Bring a variety of clothes so that you can layer up or down as needed.
• Pack waterproof bags or containers for your gear.
• Make sure your surfboard is properly packed and protected.
• Bring a camera to capture your surfing adventures.

What is a soft rack and is it handy for Surf Travel?

A soft rack is a type of surfboard rack that is made from soft, flexible materials, such as foam or rubber. Soft racks are typically attached to the roof of a car using straps or suction cups.

What are the benefits of using a soft rack?

Soft racks are lightweight and easy to install, making them a good option for surfers who travel frequently. They are also less expensive than hard racks.

What are the drawbacks of using a soft rack?

Soft racks are not as secure as hard racks, and they can be more difficult to use in windy conditions.

What is a surfboard bag?

A surfboard bag is a protective cover for a surfboard. Surfboard bags are typically made from durable materials, such as nylon or canvas, and they may have padding to protect the surfboard from bumps and scratches. These are great for packing your surfboard and other items.

Why should I use a surfboard bag?

There are several reasons why you should use a surfboard bag:

• To protect your surfboard from damage during travel.
• To keep your surfboard clean and free of dirt and debris.
• To make it easier to carry your surfboard.

What are reef booties and do they protect from reef cuts?

Reef booties are a type of footwear that is designed to protect your feet from sharp objects, such as coral and rocks, when walking or surfing in shallow water. Reef booties are typically made from a durable material, such as neoprene or rubber, and they may have a reinforced sole for added protection.

Why should I pack and wear reef booties?

There are several reasons why you should wear reef booties when surfing or walking in shallow water:

• To protect your feet from sharp objects.
• To provide traction on slippery surfaces.
• To keep your feet warm in cold water.

What are surfing ear plugs and should I pack them?

Surfing ear plugs are a type of ear plug that is designed to protect your ears from water and other debris while surfing. Surfing ear plugs are typically made from a soft, flexible material, such as silicone or neoprene, and they may have a flange or other design to help keep them in place.

Why should I wear surfing ear plugs?

There are several reasons why you should wear surfing ear plugs:

• To protect your ears from water and other debris.
• To prevent surfer's ear, which is an infection of the ear canal caused by prolonged exposure to water.
• To improve your balance and hearing while surfing.

You should also read:

10 must-see surfing movies that will stoke your stoke, best surf schools and surf camps, protect your ears: a guide to surfing earplugs.

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Home » The Ultimate Packing List for Female Surf Trips

The Ultimate Packing List for Female Surf Trips

If you’re packing up for a surf trip (perhaps you were inspired by our rundown of the 8 Best Women’s Surf Retreats to hit up this year) we’ve done you a solid and put down a go-to handy list of what you might want to take with you.

Covering everything from surf kit, apparel, skin, and hair care we’ve got you covered with your one-stop pack list, (with plenty of surf essentials for the guys in there too). This is a list that deserves the highest accolade; printed and put on the fridge.

Surf C hecklist

Now, a surf trip’s gotta start with your kit and equipment. If you’re taking your own boards, make sure you pack ‘em in a well-padded board bag so your trip doesn’t get off to a nasty start once you unpack and uncover a bunch of dings from transit.

– Leashes (a spare is always good).

– Wax (check the water temperature of where you’re headed) and a wax comb.

– Two sets of fins (if you’re going remote, trust us).

– Fin keys (again…pack a spare).

– Ding repair kit.

– Surf booties .

– First Aid Kit: an easily packable kit could save your bacon if you get yourself into any scrapes or pick up a dodgy belly.

We’re big fans of multi-purpose space-saving clothing. As many female surfers know, finding a bikini that doesn’t try to rid itself of your body after a wipeout or that creates an enduring wedgie is crucial to a fun surf.

– The Sisstr Odisea one piece swimsuit was created to stay put in the water and looks rad to boot.

– If you like more coverage, the Sisstr Seven Seas Long Sleeve Spring Suit will have you paddling out with protection and style.

– OLAS leggings are UPF 50+, high-performance, 4-way stretch leggings perfect for surfing and saving your legs from any friction rub or sunburn.

– We love the new range of Sisstr spring suits , offering some sweet colour options and a variety of different cuts.

– The new Outerknown/GOT BAG collab offers some great waterproof travel bag options for those jet setting in search of warmer waves or if you’re simply heading out for a beach day, Sisstr have some awesome tote bags and backpacks .

– Surf hats become a vital part of many a surfer’s suncare arsenal, saving your mug and eyeballs from sun damage. The FCS Surf trucker Bucket is a stay-put option with ample coverage.

– A pair of sandals and one pair of kicks should do you on a trip, we’re into Vans Ultrarange VR3 x JuJu Surf or the REEF Cushion Vistas .

– A change towel is a must for any surf trip, offering ample coverage for those quick street to surf transitions. One of our favourites is the new FCS Poncho . If you just want a great beach towel for soaking up the rays, the Slowtide Horizon Yoga Towel is super compact for travel, and their Polar Fleece Blankets are perfect to cosy up in as the sun sets.

– Sunglasses are a must. We’re big fans of the Sunski range, with their super sustainable frames and quirky colours to choose from. Tried and tested by the Wavelength staff and perfect protection for your peepers.

It is kinda crucial to protect your skin against damaging UV rays., especially if you’re headed to warmer climes where the sun is much stronger.

– Salt & Stone’s SPF 50 suncream is water and sweat resistant, offering ample paddle-out protection.

– SunBum’s Lip Balm will keep your kissers crack-free, with a soothing blend of coconut oil and aloe vera….they even come in a pina colada fragrance for the ultimate tropical escape.

– Salt & Stone’s facial lotion is super hydrating and perfect to slather on your face once out of the surf and showered.

– Ocean Mist by Pacha Kama is a 3-1 moisturising spray for body, face, and hair, so does a job of keeping you hydrated and moisturised in one swoop.

-If your skin is feeling parched AF, a hydrating mask like Laneige’s Water Sleeping Mask or Summer Friday’s Jet Lag Mask work wonders to nourish.

Protecting your hair from the sun and seawater can become an easy part of your pre and post-surf routine. A little bit of TLC can keep your tresses healthy, happy, and snappage free. Before heading out into the water, give your hair a freshwater rinse, as it helps your hair from absorbing too much drying saltwater.

A few sprays of a leave-in conditioner like Sun Bum 3-1 leave-in spray or Kerastase Soleil Creme UV Sublime (the whole Kerastase Soleil range is excellent for sun-scorched tresses) provides a protective layer, and tying back in a ponytail or a loose braid can save you from a lot of tangles. A good freshwater rinse as soon as you’re out of the surf should also save your bonce from knotting and splitting.

Shampoo and conditioner bars are easy to pack and way more environmentally friendly than plastic bottles. Eco Warrrior’s Dry Hair Shampoo Bar is a zero-waste bar and a super hydrating intensive conditioner like It’s A Ten will bring damaged and fried hair back to life.

Slathering the ends of your hair in coconut oil as a hair mask overnight can be a life-saver. Coconut oil is also a great moisturiser, makeup remover, and lip balm. Always take a tub!

Hair oils like Moroccanoil’s staple work a wonder on damaged ends. If you have afro or textured hair, Briogeo products have an incredible range of hydrating care products to slather on your hair post-surf.

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Ultimate LUEX Packing List for Your Next Surf Trip To A Distant Paradise

So, I’m getting super excited about an upcoming 2-week boat ride through the Mentawais. My OCD brain is also already obsessing over my packing list, because out there (in the middle of nowhere), I won’t be able to just run out to a shop to pick up something I forgot to carry along. I’m also already thinking about what to bring because my particular brand of packing OCD can be oxymoronically summarized as; make sure I’ll have everything I need AND make sure I pack as little as possible.

You don’t want to bring more than can comfortably fit into your board bag and a small carry-on bag. If you are anything like me, your board bag is going to take up 100% of your maneuvering and bag-carrying coordination/ninja skills.

So here are a few thoughts on packing for a tropical surf trip. I know there are some nutjobs out there who have been going on surf trips to Iceland and all that… serious kudos to those guys, but I will not voluntarily be freezing my ass off on a surf vacation and stick to rubber-less longitudes and latitudes for now.

Go easy on the clothing

Functional, lightweight T-shirts/tanks and shorts for your everyday wear and a long-sleeved T or light hoodie for the plane, the scorching days when you don’t have a lot of sun cover, or for if your roommate likes the air conditioning a lot colder than you do.

For the Gals. Lightweight mumus and sarongs are my best friend because they are so multi-functional, Use them as towels, beach blankets, pyjamas, cover-ups, scarves and everything in between, plus they are easy to stuff in your board bag to fit whatever shape you need for padding and protection. Leggings are also ultra multi-functional: yoga, surf, plane, PJs. And of course your favorite bikinis and swimsuits.

( For guys, I imagine that this list looks like 3 T-shirts, one long-sleeve, some rashguards, boardshorts, a towel… done. Your lives are so easy)!

The best destinations for boardshorts and bikinis

One of the hottest and the most reliable surf spots in the world - and you can have it, no matter what!

Tropical surf all year long - there is always a spot for you in Indonesia!

A surfer's dream without heavy waves - perfect for beginners and warm water surfing.

For everyone who’s been to a tropical surf destination before – you know, for everyone else; oh you will know!! Skin protection is crucial, especially if you don’t want to look like a red lobster on day 2 which prevents you not only from laying in the sun but most probably will keep you out of the water too. I usually pack a couple of rashguards, leggings, boardshorts as the basics. Maybe consider a surf hat, lightweight towel, and a neoprene vest as well.

Think about baggage limits and oversize fees when packing your surf gear

2-3 surfboards – tops! You should preferably be comfortable riding all of them, but one should be your all-around favorite. Your backup(s) should be for bigger or smaller waves than you would use your old faithful for… depending on what you can expect from the swell in that location at that time of year.

Related article: The Ultimate List of Airline Surf Baggage Policies

My editor never brings more than 2 boards and, to be fair, I usually only ride my favorite board. But I’ve seen plenty of people snap or buckle boards on trips, so having a spare shortboard in your bag doesn’t hurt.

Other usual suspects that are crucial on a surf trip are:

• Tropical wax, base wax, wax comb.
• An extra leash – or two.
• Extra fins.
• Ding repair kit of your choice.

My latest addition to my ever-growing perfect packing list is a Yoga Mat, which comes in handy when the hard deck of your surf charter is just too hard for your afternoon nap and of course to stretch before your surf sessions. I also bring the foldable pocket reef booties. I like knowing they’re available to me, even though I’ve never used them, and they take up no space.

A good board bag is crucial.

Some people get professional-level packing accouterment… custom cardboard rail protection, etc. I don’t think they’re necessary and they disintegrate anyway when wet. If you’re worried, slice a pool noodle floatie or pipe insulator in half and put those around your rails. I do typically go for some bubble wrap in between and around my boards.

I use packing cubes for my clothes (yep, that darn OCD again), and I place them in the empty spaces around the noses of my boards, between the tails and the bag, and along the tail and nose rails.

Tech & Miscellaneous for the slower days

• Laptop/iPad, stocked with plenty of movies, tv series, and surf videos for lay days and travel days.
• Kindle/paperback. Again, make sure you’re entertained. Oh, and don’t try to read something super profound or heavy on your trip. Keep it light, adventurous, surf-related, or inspiring (Finnegan’s Barbarian Days should top your list if you haven’t read it yet).
• A universal adaptor that will work for all of your gadgets.
• Phone & phone charger – duhhh!
• Camera/drone? I use my phone for pictures, and I just haven’t gotten into the go-pro/drone thing, so all that takes up too much space for me. There will be a professional photographer on my boat trip, too. But if you’re into it, feel free to go nuts with the filming gear.
• Snacks of your choice. Dried fruit, nuts, jerky, dark chocolate whatever floats your boat and keeps you fuelled and ready for your next surf sesh.
• Charged power bank – might not seem that way, but LIFESAVER.
• USB/external hard drive to download pictures/videos of your surfing.
• I always bring a small notebook/journal to document moments I don’t want to forget.

Depending on where I’m headed, and if I have space, sometimes I’ll bring candies/little trinkets for the local kids. The simplest things can brighten up their day, and yours.

Meds & First Aid for those nasty reef cuts and general health

I am an 80% believer in certain vitamins and supplements. Magnesium for muscle recovery and for good sleeps. Turmeric pills and ibuprofen to reduce muscle inflammation. Zinc, echinacea, and vitamin C in case you start feeling snotty. Probiotics and digestive enzymes to help your gut deal with food changes. Charcoal pills in case you eat something your stomach doesn’t agree with.

Then, the real meds. Dramamine in case you have a rough boat crossing. Zzquil in case you can’t fall asleep. Immodium in case you get a bad case of the …you know what I mean. A pack of cypro or other antibiotics to use prophylactically if you have to get stitches after surfing questionable water, or in the event, you do get an infection or some sort. Steroid cream for a bad/infected rash or skin reaction. A few heavy-duty painkillers like tramadol as a backup, because there are some situations that ibuprofen can’t help (when you’re on a boat, the nearest clinic may be a long way away).

A GOOD first aid kit. Mine always contains basic bandaging supplies (gauze, tape, regular band-aids, waterproof post-op bandages, small scissors, duct tape– which works for boards as well as skin in a pinch).

Neosporin/betadine/some other antiseptic and antibacterial. Alcohol and hydrogen peroxide for cleaning out bad cuts and ears. Some people swear by paw paw cream for reef cuts and sunburn. Also don’t forget the Tweezers for pulling bits of foreign organisms (reef, sea urchin spines) out of your body!

I always bring some sort of tiger balm, salonpas, or Doterra Deep Blue cream to massage into sore muscles. It makes me smell like a 90-year old Asian grandma but feels SO GOOD on my tired, overworked shoulders and lats.

Toiletries. Sunblock & Zinc

I always use reef-friendly tinted 30 SPF all over + Surf Yogis zinc on top of it for my face, and make-up removal wipes to take off all the sunblock and zinc and avoid breakouts.

I usually just bring shampoo and conditioner, figuring shampoo is basically soap. I make sure that all products are reef-friendly (paraben, oxybenzone, and octinoxate free). And (of course) I bring a deodorant. PLEASE! For all our sakes!

I also bring good, cold-pressed organic virgin coconut oil as my all-around moisturizer, plus it’s super-functional: its antibacterial qualities help with minor cuts, it soothes sunburn, you can put it in your bulletproof coffee, it helps to save your sun and saltwater-fried hair, and it can be a good massage oil in a pinch.

Bug spray/wipes – again, people who traveled to tropical destinations know..

Last but definitely not least

Passport – or you’re not going anywhere! Make sure you have fulfilled any visa requirements/paperwork you need in advance. Electronic copies of your travel itinerary and passport that are accessible offline on your phone.

TRAVEL INSURANCE! Make sure that you have all the details of your health insurance and travel insurance policies with you – a friend/trip organizer should also have a copy of all the above documentation.

And… you are set! Have a wonderful trip, hopefully, confident you have all of the things and only the things you need!

Our tip - Explore South America on a surf trip

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Surf Trip Packing List

Your next surf holiday is just around the corner, and you need to get packing. Don’t worry, we’ll help you get ready! We’ve summarised everything you need to think about and pack for your surf trip in a practical, easy-to-read surf holiday packing list:

1. Surfboard including leash (although you can also rent the complete set-up at many spots).

2. Surfboard sock or board bag.

3. Surf poncho or dryrobe.

4. Suitable surf wax for the water temperature of the destination.

5. Surf bikini or board shorts and a rashguard in summer or a thick wetsuit, thickness depending on water temperature, including a cap and gloves.

6. Surf boots for surf spots with a sharp rocky or reef sea bottom.

7. Sun protection for surfing – extra high, waterproof and environmentally friendly.

8. Surf first aid kit – waterproof plasters, ointment and disinfectant.

9. Key lock – keep your car keys safe while you’re in the water.

10. A clothesline – you can set it up and take it down again at every spot, and it’s super handy for drying your wetsuit, bikini or poncho.

11. A surf guide with tips on all the spots in the region you are visiting.

12. Download a surf forecast app to keep an eye on the conditions: waves, wind and swell.

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Travel packing checklist for a surftrip to Morocco

Traveling to a new place is always exciting, but it can also be a bit daunting. There are so many things to remember to pack, and if you're going to be doing activities like surfing, you need to be extra prepared. To help you out, we've put together a packing checklist for a surftrip to Morocco. From sunscreen and swimwear to boardshorts and rashguards, we've got you covered. So check out our list and start packing for your next adventure!

What to Pack for a Surftrip to Morocco

• A wetsuit or rash guard to protect against the sun and elements
• Plenty of sunscreen
• A surfboard and leash, (but you can also rent it at the surfspot)
• A reliable Surf forecast app like Magicseaweed
• Your passport and travel insurance
• Cash in small denominations for day-to-day expenses
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Lightweight clothing that covers your skin
• A hat or scarf to protect your head and face from the sun
• A camera to capture all the good waves and views!

12. A sense of adventure!

The Essentials

-Wetsuit -Sunscreen -Hat -Sunglasses -Beach towel -Flip flops or sandals -Snacks and drinks -First aid kit including any prescription medications -Camera!

The Nice-to-Haves

There are a few items that, while not strictly necessary, can greatly improve your surf trip to Morocco. Firstly, packing a small first-aid kit with items like bandages and antiseptic cream is always a good idea. Secondly, bringing along some form of entertainment for those long days spent waiting for the perfect wave can be invaluable. A book, some music, or even a portable game console can help make the time fly by. Finally, remember to pack your sunscreen! The sun in Morocco can be incredibly harsh, and you'll want to avoid getting burnt at all costs.

What to Leave at Home

When packing for a surftrip to Morocco, there are a few items that you can leave at home. These include: - Heavy winter clothes: Morocco is a warm country, so you won't need any heavy jackets or sweaters. - Beach gear: Unless you're planning on hitting the beach right after your surf session, you can leave your beach towels and umbrellas at home. - bulky cameras and equipment: A small point-and-shoot camera will suffice for this trip. Leave your DSLR at home. - Travel insurance: We highly recommend getting travel insurance for your trip to Morocco. This will protect you in case of any emergencies that may occur while you're on your trip.

- Visa requirements: citizens of the United States and most European countries do not need a visa to enter Morocco. However, it's always best to check with your country's consulate or embassy before you travel.

- Tipping: Tipping is not required in Morocco, but it is appreciated. If you receive good service, feel free to leave a small tip.

Packing Tips

-Start by making a packing list of everything you will need for your trip. This will help ensure that you don't forget anything important. -Pack light! You'll be carrying your belongings with you on the plane and during transfers, so it's important to not overpack. -If possible, pack items that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a sarong can be used as a beach cover-up, scarf, or blanket. -Be sure to pack any essential medications or toiletries. It can be difficult to find these items in Morocco. -Pack comfortable clothing and shoes that you can easily walk in. You'll likely be doing a lot of walking on your trip. -Finally, don't forget to pack your swimsuit! Morocco has some beautiful beaches that are perfect for surfing.

If you're planning a surftrip to Morocco, congratulations - you're in for an amazing adventure! To help make sure your trip goes off without a hitch, we've put together this packing checklist of everything you'll need to take with you. From sunscreen and insect repellent to boardshorts and rashguards, we've got you covered. So pack your bags and get ready for some epic waves!

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20 February 2024

Is surfing in Morocco safe?

With its beautiful beaches and waves, Morocco has become a popular destination for surfers in recent years. However, there are some safety concerns that come with surfing in Morocco. In this blog post, we will explore some of the risks of surfing in Morocco and what you can do to stay safe while enjoying the waves.

Is Morocco good for surfing?

For anyone who loves the outdoors and enjoys spending time in the water, surfing is a great activity to try. And while there are many great surfing destinations around the world, one of the best is Morocco.

Best season to surf in Morocco

Morocco is a land of contrasts. In the north, you have the cold waters of the Atlantic and in the south, the warm waters of the Mediterranean. This variety means that there are waves to be found all year round, making it a great destination for surfers of all levels.

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Travel Packing List for Surfers. What not to forget?

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The Perfect Surf Camp Packing List

Updated: Jun 16, 2020

Everything you need (and don't need) for your Surf Cascais Holiday

How many times have you over packed for a trip? Let’s face it, we've all been there. For a lot of people, a week at our surf villa can be a little different than a normal holiday; most people don’t know what to expect. Our primary advice is this: Less is more. Keep it simple. Keep the essentials and travel light. This can be tricky though, right? So, just in case, we put together an essential packing list with things that might slip your mind due to your sheer excitement of visiting Surf Cascais ;)

Sunscreen & After Sun: This is especially important during the summer months, but it is also useful to have on hand throughout the whole year; sunscreen is essential! If possible, try to find a mineral sunscreen that’s waterproof and well suited to your skin.

A Reusable Water Bottle: Despite what many people tend to believe, the tap water in Portugal is safe to drink. By bringing a reusable water bottle you will save yourself some money, and also save the ocean from unnecessary plastic waste.

In the unfortunate case that you do happen to forget your sunscreen or water bottle, we have both available to buy at our villa store.

Simple First Aid: Hopefully, all things will go well and you won’t get sick during your stay. However, it’s always a good idea to bring some simple medication. Your kit should contain some bandaids, disinfectant, painkillers and any natural medication that you may have to take on a regular base. Be sure to bring a cream for sore or stiff muscles, as this is the most common pain after surf lessons.

We provide all first aid essentials at the villa, except for pain killer medication. It’s also important to remember to bring your health insurance card just incase.

Ear Plugs: If you are a light sleeper, a pair of ear plugs can be useful to ensure a restful nights sleep.

A Good Book: Perfect for relaxing by the pool while you rest your muscles after a good surf lesson.

Despite the summer heat it can sometimes get a little chilly or windy at night, so bring a sweatshirt .

Swimwear. Pretty obvious, but you would be surprised by how easily it can be to forget. A pair of flip flops or sandals can also come in handy.

Rain is not very common during the summer months, but during Spring or Autumn, a raincoat is very useful.

Poncho or Beach Towel for chilling or changing at the beach. We also rent and sell beach towels at our villa.

Our villa is located on the edge of the Sintra national park and is surrounded by lot of tracks and trails to explore. Therefore a pair of comfortable walking/running shoes are a must.

Again, remember to protect yourself from the sun and bring a hat and sunglasses .

Comfortable yoga clothing if you are taking some yoga lessons during your stay.

Finally here are some things that you can leave at home:

Bed Linen or a sleeping bag : All of our beds are fully prepared for you when you arrive so there is no need to bring sheets or blankets.

Bath Towels : All of the beds in our villa come with a bath towel for the duration of your stay.

Wetsuits and surfboards : Of course, you can always feel free to bring your own equipment and wetsuit. However, we provide all of the necessary equipment for your surf lessons.

Your Camera : Again, less is more. Our team photographer will be on duty throughout the week to capture your favourite memories. Phone’s also do a great job nowadays.

With the exception of all of that, the one last thing you need is a positive attitude. Leave any bad vibes, fears or worries at home and get ready to make some amazing new friends and have an epic adventure.

If you’re interested in booking a surf villa pack , you can see all of the important information on our website. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to get a taste of the action for yourself.

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The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .

Clothes to Pack

• Dress Shirts
• Casual Shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Laundry Kit
• Leisure Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Dress Shoes
• Collapsible Tote

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

• Dental Floss
• Conditioner
• Styling Tools
• Facial Cleanser
• Face Lotion
• Moisturizer
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Solution
• Shaving Supplies
• Makeup Remover
• Menstrual Products
• Birth Control/Medication
• Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• First-Aid Ointment
• Insect Repellent
• Pain Relievers

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

• Laptop/Tablet
• Film/Memory Card
• List of Medications
• Banking Contacts/Information
• Electronic Chargers
• Emergency Contacts
• Copy of Passport
• Plug Adapter

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

• Books or E-Books
• Travel Blanket
• Travel Pillow
• Disinfecting Wipes
• Change of Clothes
• Empty Water Bottle
• In-Flight Medications
• Passport/Visa/ID
• Credit/ATM cards
• Insurance Cards
• Maps/Directions

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .

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Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .

10 Secrets I Learned Working in a Hotel

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Vacation packing lists: essentials you can't forget.

These vacation packing lists can help you prepare for any type of trip.

Vacation Packing List

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Getting ready for a vacation is a fun yet at times daunting task. But with some preparation and a comprehensive checklist, the packing process for any adventure can be easy. To make it smoother, our editors compiled these vacation packing lists, using insights from their own experiences and advice from travel experts.

Vacation packing lists:

Beach packing list, cruise packing list, international trip packing list, road trip packing list, weekend getaway packing list.

Time by the water and sand calls for cool and comfortable attire that dries fast and works for the types of activities you're planning to do. When planning your beach packing list , check with your accommodations to see what they will have available to use during your stay.

Start with a beach bag that perhaps can double as a personal item bag. Beach days call for sun protection, so you'll want plenty of sunscreen – and depending on where you're going, reef-safe sunscreen may be required, so do your research before you pack. Beach towels or blankets , chairs , umbrellas or beach tents , toys , and games are all items that you might be able to use during your visit, but may not need to pack in your suitcase.

Clothing and shoes:

• Beach cover-ups
• Dinner attire such as linen shirts, skirts or pants
• Water shoes
• Undergarments

Toiletries:

• Conditioner
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hairbrush or comb
• Razor and shaving cream
• Lip balm with SPF
• Medications
• Cotton swabs
• First-aid kit
• Aloe vera or after-sun lotion

Beach gear:

• Beach wagon
• Beach towels
• Towel clips
• Umbrella or beach tent
• Reusable water bottle
• Prescription eyeglasses or contacts
• Beach games
• Portable speaker
• Reading material

When creating your cruise packing list , keep in mind that you'll have limited space in your cabin, so it's essential to plan a wardrobe that is concise and multipurpose. Consult your itinerary to see what specific items you may need for any theme nights or dress codes for dining reservations. Select a personal item bag that you'll carry on the cruise with you, equipped with essentials like your passport, money, medications, a change of clothing and anything you may need while you're awaiting your bags.

For daytime attire, consider the climate, as well as excursions and activities so you know what items you'll need. Check out our guide on what to wear on a cruise for more inspiration.

• Mix-and-match clothing
• Formal attire
• Themed party attire
• Travel wrap
• Packable jacket
• Packable hats
• Underwear and necessary undergarments
• Comfortable walking shoes
• 2-3 pairs of pants
• 2-3 pairs of shorts
• 5-7 tops or shirts of different styles
• Swim cover-up
• Sea-Bands and/or Dramamine for nausea
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• After-sun lotion
• Face cleanser
• Hand sanitizer
• Toilet spray like Poo-Pourri

Cruise gear:

• Credit cards and local currency
• Carry-on bag
• Packing cubes
• International travel adapter or converter
• Magnetic hooks
• Garment bag and wrinkle release spray
• Beach bag or backpack
• Over-the-door organizer
• Digital luggage scale
• Collapsible luggage
• Luggage tracker
• A good book or e-reader

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Traveling abroad is exciting, but it can also bring long travel days with more walking than you may anticipate. Having a broken-in pair of comfortable walking shoes is key, and you may want to consider a pair of compression socks to keep you comfortable on the long flight.

A carry-on suitcase that can accommodate everything you need will be helpful when you're trying to navigate through airports and train stations – and it'll make it easier to get to your room if there's not an elevator. You may also want to consider a foldable tote for daytime trips and shopping, which you can also use for any souvenirs you want to bring home.

• Walking shoes
• Rain jacket
• Sweater or cardigan for layering
• 2-3 pairs of pants with pockets
• 2-3 pairs of shorts (depending on climate)
• 3-6 shirts or tops
• An evening/dinner outfit (such as a dress or skirt and top for women, and pants and a button-down shirt for men)
• Facial cleanser and moisturizer
• First-aid kit with bandages

Travel gear:

• Passport wallet
• Travel documents
• Travel adapter or converter
• Neck pillow

Hitting the open road is a fun adventure, though it requires some preparation. Since you're driving, you'll have extra room for bags and gear, but you'll also want to pack road trip essentials . Climate will play a big role in the types of clothes you'll want to pack, so look at the forecasts for weather on your entire route. In addition to temps, you'll be sitting in the car for long periods of time, so your travel outfits should be comfortable and easy to wear (for those quick bathroom breaks at a wayside rest).

• 2-3 pairs of pants or shorts (depending on climate)
• Light jacket or sweater
• Comfortable shoes
• 4-6 pairs of socks
• Specific clothing for plans along the way, like hiking boots for hikes

Road trip gear:

• Car emergency kit
• Solar rechargeable power source for phones
• Neck pillow(s)
• Book or tablet
• Packable tote

Preparing for a quick weekend getaway might seem like it'll be easy, but since you'll only be gone a few days, you might find it difficult to decide what to pack. Finding a functional weekender bag can help you make the packing process easy. Choose a pair of shoes to travel and a second pair to change into for the evening or specific activities. When planning your outfits, create a mix-and-match capsule wardrobe so you're not overpacking for a quick getaway.

• 2-3 shirts or tops
• 2 pairs of pants or shorts
• Dress or dress pants and dress shirt for evening
• Light jacket or cardigan
• Versatile shoes that can be dressed up or down
• Toiletry bag
• Weekender bag or carry-on suitcase
• Travel journal
• Packable tote for shopping
• Refillable water bottle

Vacation essentials:

• Purse or tote
• Book or e-reader

Frequently Asked Questions

If you're traveling for a week or longer, you may want to bring a large suitcase that can be checked in at the airport, or perhaps a complete luggage set . For a shorter trip, a carry-on and personal item (such as a backpack or small weekender bag) should be sufficient.

For cold weather vacations, consider stuffing all of your outdoor gear into a rolling duffel bag . If you'll be attending dinners or formal celebrations, you might want to use a garment bag to prevent wrinkled clothing.

Check carry-on size requirements for your specific airline to ensure your luggage will fit in the overhead bin. Cruise lines also have weight and quantity restrictions for luggage, so consult your cruise line's website for additional details.

Rolling method Ideal for saving space and helping prevent clothes from wrinkling, this method involves rolling each piece of clothing. You begin this process by laying each item at flat as possible, and then roll the piece of clothing into a log shape. Repeat the process for each item and place them into your suitcase.

Packing cubes If you like to save space and keep your items organized while traveling, packing cubes are the perfect multitasker. Purchase a mix of packing cubes in various sizes or colors (or both) and decide if you want to arrange clothes by type or by outfit. Pack the cubes accordingly, and if you really want to save space, consider compression packing cubes .

Bundling method This way works well for those who like to pack outfits together. You'll put together an outfit, starting with the smallest items first (like socks and underwear), then wrapping the shirt/top around it. Next, wrap the pants, skirt or dress to create a folded bundle that you will then pack. You'll then repeat the process for each outfit. When you're on vacation, you can select the outfit you want to wear and have all of the items in one place.

Wrapping method This works best if you have clothes of mixed lengths and widths. You begin by placing the longest or widest clothes at the bottom of your suitcase, layer clothes in order of largest to smallest. Once all clothing is in, take the ends of the largest layers and wrap inward to encase the clothes within your suitcase.

When packing for a week, consider the climate, activities and styles of clothing you'll need. As easy as it is to overpack, it's also easy to leave a key item at home that may have you frustrated or unable to do something you really wanted to do.

Clothing for a seven-day trip:

• 3-5 outfits
• 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
• 1 pair of versatile shoes to wear at dressier meals or locations
• Activity-specific shoes for hiking, biking, working out or doing water activities
• Cardigan or layer piece for temperature variances
• 7-10 pairs of underwear
• Required undergarments like a strapless bra or nylons
• 5-7 pairs of socks
• Rain jacket or warm coat (depending on climate)
• Personal item bag that can double as an in-destination tote
• Passport (if leaving the country)
• Wallet with driver's license or identification
• Credit cards

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves the entire packing process. From finding the right suitcase to curating the ideal wardrobe and accessories for every trip, Hood has been perfecting her vacation packing list for years. Her must-pack items include a TUMI handbag , a Lug cosmetic case and a CALPAK packable tote . She used her personal experience along with her retail merchandising background and research skills to create this list.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• What to Pack in a Carry-on
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List

We've found the best swimsuits, gear, and sandals to bring for fun in the sun.

• Packing Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

If you ask me to describe my perfect day, it would involve laying lizard-like in the sun with ocean waves lapping in the background and maybe a cold drink or a dog-eared novel in hand. I love spending time at the beach and often plan my travels around the best coastlines. I tend to veer into over-packing territory when traveling and rarely get away with a minimalist-friendly carry-on — but packing for a beach vacation tends to be a lot easier than, say, a jam-packed itinerary in South America or Asia.

Beach vacations are usually about slowing down and relaxing. You’ll probably find yourself at a resort with more than enough amenities to cover anything you left at home — but if you are planning on visiting public beaches and schlepping with your own gear, you’re guaranteed a great day in the sun as long as you have the basics.

The following items will ensure your beach vacation goes off without a hitch. Keep in mind that many of these items have been tested and approved by the Travel + Leisur e team and are the same things we bring on our own trips to the seaside. Here is the ultimate beach vacation packing list, as approved by a fellow beach bum.

Packing Checklist for a Beach Vacation

• Best One-piece Swimsuit: Andie Swim The Amalfi One Piece
• Best Bikini: Zaful Women's Triangle Bikini
• Best Swim Trunks: Lululemon Pool Short 5" Lined
• Best Swimsuit Cover-up: Tommy Bahama Harbour Eyelet Coverup Shirt Dress
• Best Sundress: Misfay Women's Summer Spaghetti Strap Dress with Pockets
• Best Quick Dry Shorts for Men: Wrangler Authentics Men's Performance Comfort Flex Cargo Short
• Best UPF T-shirt for Men: Bassdash Men’s UPF 50+ Sun Protection Fishing Shirt
• Best Rashguard: Baleaf Sun Protection Shirt
• Best Flip Flops for Women: Clarks Womens Breeze Sea
• Best Flip Flops for Men: OluKai Ohana Men's Beach Sandals
• Best Water Shoes for Women: Dlgjpa Women's Lightweight Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes
• Best Water Shoes for Men: Chaco Men's Zcloud Sandal

Accessories

• Best Sunglasses for Women: Indy Nolita Sunglasses
• Best Sunglasses for Men: Knockaround Premiums Sport Polarized Running Sunglasses
• Best Tote Bag: Longchamp Le Pliage Mesh Bag
• Best Sun Hat: Zooron Bucket Hat UPF 50+
• Best Sunscreen: Thrive Natural Care Body Mineral Sunscreen
• Best Reusable Water Bottle: Takeya Actives 32 oz Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
• Best Drink Maker: Ninja Blast Portable Blender
• Best Beach Umbrella: Sport-Brella Versa-Brella SPF 50+ Adjustable Umbrella
• Best Towel: Glamburg Peshtemal Turkish Beach Towel
• Best Bug Spray: Off! FamilyCare Insect & Mosquito Repellent Spritz
• Best Portable Speaker: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3
• Best Beach Chair: Rio Beach Classic 5-Position Lay-Flat Folding Beach Chair
• Best Beach Game: Chronicle Books Pendleton Backgammon
• Best Foldable Cooler Bag: Creative Green Life Jumbo Insulated Cooler Bag

You might not think all that much about clothing when planning a beach vacation, as you’ll likely spend most of your time in swimwear; but having a few essentials that allow you to transition from the beach to the bar or restaurant will save you a lot of hassle. We’ve also included some garments that provide sun protection and are well-worth adding to your packing list just in case you find yourself without a source of shade.

Best One-piece Swimsuit

Andie the amalfi.

The Amalfi One Piece by Andie Swim is one of the best one-piece swimsuits we’ve tested . It offers built-in coverage and has adjustable straps that stay put even when doing vigorous swimming or water sports. We also really like that this one-piece fully air dries in under an hour, which means you won’t be stuck wearing a wet bathing suit or having to deal with packing a damp suit into your beach bag at the end of the day. It’s worth noting that the high-quality fabric didn’t stretch out or shrink even after multiple washes, and the cut and fit makes it comfortable enough to lounge in for long periods of time.

Travel + Leisure / Frances Crouter

Best Bikini

Zaful women's triangle bikini.

If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for an excuse to head to the beach for a quick dip in the sea. Having a bikini tucked into your tote bag or purse means you’re always ready for that occasion. The Zaful Women's Triangle Bikini is our top pick for the best bikini to bring to the beach. We love that the side and back ties are adjustable (see: forgiving) and that the padding in the bra can be removed as needed. We also really like that this bikini comes in a myriad of colors and patterns to best suit your taste.

Best Swim Trunks

Lululemon pool short.

You might not think your swim trunks matter all the much — but once you’ve hit the beach with these Lululemon Pool Shorts, you’ll realize just how mistaken you were. We love these high-end swim trunks due to the fact that they’re sporty and stretchy, but also comfortable enough to lounge in all day. The shorts allow freedom of movement while also being quick-drying, so you don’t have to worry about sitting in wet trunks all day or having to rush to change into dry clothes.

Travel + Leisure / Ryan Savini

Best Swimsuit Cover-up

Tommy bahama harbour eyelet cover-up shirt dress.

Looking for a swimsuit cover-up that’ll work at the beach, the resort, and dinner at the beachside restaurant? The Tommy Bahama Harbour Eyelet Coverup Shirt Dress is our top pick; it’s crafted from 100 percent lightweight cotton and is unlined and slightly sheer, so it won’t weigh you down while sitting under the sun. We really like that it’s built similarly to a bathrobe — you can wear it open as a duster or tie the tassels for a wrap dress-style silhouette. The eyelet detailing also adds a touch of elegance that’ll allow you to wear this into the resort or into town as needed.

Best Sundress

Misfay women’s summer spaghetti strap dress.

The best sundress for the beach should be lightweight and airy — and who doesn’t love a dress with pockets? This dress by Misfay has a stretchy and flowing fabric, and it’s not heavy or hot. The skater-style cut is universally flattering and forgiving, while the v-style neckline works just as well with a bikini top as it does with a bra. It’s also worth repeating that this dress has pockets, which are the perfect size for storing a small wallet, lip balm, or perhaps some cool shells or sea glass that you find throughout the day.

Best Quick-dry Shorts for Men

Wrangler authentics men's performance comfort flex cargo short.

Whether you’re planning to dip into the ocean or you just want to post up on the sand and enjoy the sun, having a good pair of quick-dry shorts is a must-pack when planning a beach day. The Wrangler Authentics Men's Performance Comfort Flex Cargo Short are crafted with a moisture-wicking and quick-drying material that’ll ensure you don’t have to worry about accumulating sweat or having damp shorts throughout the day. They’re also quite smart-looking and can easily be worn from the beach to the restaurant or bar.

Best UPF T-shirt for Men

Bassdash men’s upf 50+ sun protection fishing shirt.

Sitting in the heat can feel so rejuvenating, especially after a particularly long and cold winter. However, not all of us have the same tolerance for the sun. If you want to take extra steps to protect yourself from the sun’s rays, consider the Bassdash Men’s UPF 50+ Sun Protection Fishing Shirt. The stylish tee looks like any other basic t-shirt, but it’s made with a UPF 50+ material that’ll ensure your skin is properly protected. We also really like that this shirt is available in a whole spectrum of cool colorways, from periwinkle blue to peach.

Best Rashguard

Baleaf sun protection shirt.

The Baleaf Sun Protection Shirt is our favorite rashguard option for men and women . Not only does it offer great sun protection and a great fit without being too tight or thick, but it’s also very quick drying. Hang this rashguard over your beach umbrella or over the back of your lounge chair and it’ll be dry before you pack up to go. This option is also moisture-wicking when you’re wearing it, so even if you wear it while snorkeling or swimming, it won’t leave you sopping wet as some rashguards do.

You’ll need a minimum of two pairs of shoes for a beach vacation — something to wear on the sand and into the water and something to wear everywhere else. We’ve recommended our favorite comfortable and quick-drying flip-flops, as well as a couple of pairs of water shoes that you’ll be grateful you packed when wading through rocky coastlines or participating in water sports.

Best Flip-flops for Women

Clarks breeze sea flip flop.

Flip-flops are a beach vacation essential — but the average flip-flop doesn’t exactly do any favors for your feet. The Clarks Womens Breeze Sea Flip-flop is an exception. This foot-friendly flip-flop features a high density foam cushion that helps support your feet with every step, and the lightweight midsole also works to provide supreme shock absorption. The outsole is also designed to provide traction, so you won’t have to worry about slipping and sliding while walking down the boardwalk or on wet surfaces.

Travel + Leisure / Bridget Annear

Travel + Lesisure / Bridget Annear

Best Flip-flops for Men

Olukai ohana men's beach sandals.

The same goes for the OluKai Ohana Men's Beach Sandals. These high-end flip flops offer enhanced grip to ensure optimal comfort while walking on slippery surfaces, as well as a molded footbed and ultra-soft straps that ensure you won’t have to deal with blisters or sore heels at the end of the day. These lightweight flip-flops are also water-resistant and quick-drying, which is a great bonus if you’re going to be wearing them by the water’s edge. We also happen to think they’re pretty sophisticated looking for sandals, and can easily be worn into a resort restaurant or bar.

Travel + Leisure / Jamie Hergenrader

Best Water Shoes for Women

Dlgjpa women’s quick-drying water shoes.

You might feel like you can skip adding water shoes to your beach vacation packing list, but we urge you to reconsider. A good pair of water shoes, like the Dlgjpa Women's Lightweight Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes, will allow you to walk on rocky shores or wade through seaweed-heavy waters without fearing what you might be stepping on. These are going to be especially helpful if you’re, say, visiting a tiny public beaches in Europe that might not be as sandy and plush as the oceanfront resorts in the Caribbean.

Travel + Leisure / Monica Aguinaga

Best Water Shoes for Men

Chaco men's zcloud sandal.

Think of the Chaco Men's Zcloud Sandal as a water shoe for guys who don’t like water shoes. This strap-on sandal is much more lightweight and quick-drying than a typical water shoe while still providing the same traction and protection. We really like that this option has adjustable straps to fit your feet and a cloud cushion midsole for optimal comfort even with long-term wear. The rubber sandals are available in a handful of cool colorways that range from classic black to fun neon hues.

Certain accessories will make your beach day more comfortable: that includes decent sun protection, inexpensive but high-quality sunglasses, and something to carry all your essentials, like a practical beach tote. The following accessories will keep you comfortable, and dare we say stylish, while lounging in the sun.

Best Sunglasses for Women

Indy nolita polarized sunglasses.

This pair of sunglasses from Brooklyn-based eyewear brand Indy is our top pick for the best polarized sunglasses to wear to the beach. The cat-eye silhouette never goes out of style, but the shape looks particularly sleek when paired with a swimsuit and a cold drink in hand. It’s also worth noting that the acetate frames are flexible but sturdy, so you don’t have to baby them. They also boast polarization and 100 percent UV protection, and the slightly dense material sits properly on the bridge of the nose. You won’t have to worry about them sliding down throughout the day.

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Vadillo

Best Sunglasses for Men

Knockaround premiums sport polarized running sunglasses.

You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg on a good pair of sunglasses — and honestly, if you’re planning a beach vacation, sometimes it’s better to go for a budget-friendly pair that can be easily replaced if anything happens. The Knockaround Premiums Sport Polarized Running Sunglasses look and feel much more expensive than they are thanks to the sturdy body and polarized lenses. We like that these have color-tinted lenses for additional flair. They’re also relatively lightweight and very comfortable on the bridge of the nose, even if you’re on the sweaty side.

Best Tote Bag

Longchamp le pliage filet l mesh bag.

The Longchamp Le Pliage Mesh Bag is our secret weapon when traveling — especially on beach vacations. The French market bag is chic-looking and can easily be worn to dinner in the Caribbean or while cafe hopping in the South of France. The mesh style also makes for a great beach companion; the netting means you won’t find yourself dumping buckets of sand out of your bag once you’re back in your hotel. It’s also worth noting that this bag folds into about the side of a wallet or iPhone and can easily be tucked into a carry-on bag without taking up any space.

Best Sun Hat

Zooron bucket hat upf 50+.

Even if you love laying in the sun, having something to shade your eyes and face will be appreciated when you’re reading or taking a midday nap. The Zooron Bucket Hat is something we never go to the beach without. It’s unisex and has a UPF 50+ material to keep your head and face protected from the sun. It also comes in a wide variety of colorways and patterns to choose from. We really like that this hat has a drawstring that’ll help ensure it stays put when you’re on a boat or participating in water sports. Oh, and it’s not just foldable; it’s crushable , so you don’t have to invest in a hat box to ensure it stays well-packed.

Having the right gear can make or break a day at the beach. You’ll want to ensure you have a reef-safe sunscreen on hand (don’t try to buy one at the resort — it’ll be pricey). We also suggest bringing along a portable water bottle to stay hydrated, as well as something to protect yourself from the sun like a portable parasol. It’s also never a bad idea to bring along something to keep you entertained, like a beach game or a Bluetooth speaker.

Best Sunscreen

Thrive natural care body mineral sunscreen.

This might be the most important beach essential to pack. A good sunscreen is imperative for a good time on the beach, and the Thrive Natural Care Body Mineral Sunscreen is our top pick . This reef-friendly sunscreen is crafted with 23.5 percent zinc oxide, which makes it a safer alternative both for your skin and the environment. Unlike other mineral sunscreens, this one absorbs similar to a moisturizing lotion and doesn’t leave a sticky or grainy residue. Keep in mind that the high-performance formula is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which makes it a great option if you plan on spending extended time in the open water.

Travel + Leisure / Jess Hoffert

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Takeya actives insulated stainless steel water bottle 24 oz..

We tested the Takeya Actives Water Bottle and found that it outperformed every other bottle when it came to keeping cold drinks cold — and that is a major bonus when it comes to staying hydrated at the beach. Fill this 24-ounce bottle with ice cubes, top it up with water, and you’ll have ice-cold water for the entirety of your beach day. It’s also worth noting that the lid doesn’t leak — even when we shook the bottle — and the chug spout makes it easy to sip while lounging.

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Drink Maker

Ninja blast portable blender.

Blame it on the late Jimmy Buffett if you wish, but there’s just something about laying on the beach with a cold margarita that is unbeatable. If you’re partial to a cold cocktail on the beach, consider investing in the Ninja Blast Portable Blender. This personal blender allows you to add all your ingredients into the blender cup at home and then blend it up whenever you get where you’re going. Cheers!

Best Beach Umbrella

Sport-brella versa-brella spf 50+ adjustable umbrella.

Heading to a public beach? You’ll want to bring your own beach umbrella. The Sport-Brella Versa-Brella SPF 50+ Adjustable Umbrella is ultra-portable, which makes it a great option for those who like to pack light when heading to the beach. It’s designed to clip directly onto a beach lounger and features a 360-degree swivel to ensure you’ll have ample sun protection throughout the day. It’s worth noting that this umbrella folds into a small carrying case which makes it easy to bring on international trips as well. Most public beaches in Europe charge for umbrella use — having your own makes your beach day cheaper, or in some cases, free.

Travel + Leisure / Kimberly Souza

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Glamburg Peshtemal Turkish Beach Towel

Turkish towels are the secret to those Pinterest-worthy perfectly-posed photos of books and fruit laid out on the beach — but they’re also a very practical beach towel. The Glamburg Peshtemal Turkish Beach Towel is fast-drying and lightweight. You can easily use it for drying off and laying out before rolling it back up nice and dry and popping it into your tote bag. This one comes in a wide variety of colorways to suit your style and is made from 75 percent Turkish cotton.

Best Bug Spray

Off family care insect & mosquito repellent spritz.

Bug spray is usually a drag to apply (and sometimes it doesn’t even work) but that’s not the case with the Off! Family Care Insect & Mosquito Repellent Spritz. During the testing process , we found this spray to be extremely effective. Thanks to the spritz nozzle, it goes on more like a light face mist than a heavy bug spray. It also has a very light and non-offensive scent which doesn’t feel sticky at all. It’s the perfect size to tote around in your beach bag, and the gentle formula is safe for kids, too.

Best Portable Speaker

Ultimate ears wonderboom 3 portable wireless bluetooth speaker.

What’s a trip to the beach without some great beach tunes? The waterproof and floatable Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 speaker takes care of all your audio needs and offers surprisingly strong and clear sound despite the compact size. During the testing process , we found this portable speaker extremely user-friendly and easy to set up. It's easy to charge as well. The Wonderboom 3 doesn’t include a carrying case, but it was by far the most durable Bluetooth speaker that we tested and will easily hold up, even if it’s thrown in your tote or gets a little sandy. We also love that that this speaker comes in bright and fun colorways like hot pink and lime green.

Best Beach Chair

Rio beach classic 5-position lay-flat folding beach chair.

Laying out on a towel is great, but having a beach chair in tow is going to be a lot more comfortable. The Rio Beach Classic 5-Position Lay-flat Folding Beach Chair is our favorite option because, although it’s comfortable and sturdy, it folds down into the smallest little size, making it hassle-free to take to and from the beach. As the name suggests, it also has five different positions which is awesome if you plan to snack, read, and even nap while laying out on the sand.

Best Beach Game

Chronicle books pendleton backgammon.

We’ve packed things like Uno and Cards Against Humanity in our beach bag before — but in case you haven’t noticed, the beach can be pretty darn windy. Instead, you’ll want to opt for a heavier beach game like backgammon. The Chronicle Books Pendleton Backgammon is beautiful and a fun way to pass the time, but it’s not going to get taken in the wind like a card game would. We also love that this set rolls up when it’s not in use, which makes it ultra-portable and easy to tuck into your tote bag.

Best Foldable Cooler Bag

Creative green life jumbo insulated cooler bag with hd thermal foam insulation.

Planning on bringing snacks and drinks to the beach? You’ll probably want to invest in a foldable cooler bag like this one from Creative Green Life. The extra-large size bag can fit a lot (we’re talking an entire pizza box or over a dozen drinks with ice.) It keeps drinks cold for eight or more hours, and hot food piping hot for just as long. We also really like that this bag folds down when it’s empty, so you can easily store it in your beach bag or carry-on when you’re not using it.

That depends on how frequently you’ll be going to the beach or hanging out by the pool, and whether or not you’ll have laundry services on your trip. You should be good with anywhere from three to five swimsuits for a weeklong holiday. You’ll basically want to bring the same amount as you would underwear — at least one pair per day.

Schlepping beach gear is the worst part of going to the beach — and you can really only carry so much. If you’re traveling locally, you can consider bringing a beach wagon with you to pull your stuff along behind you. Otherwise, you’ll want to invest in gear that packs down small so you can carefully stuff everything into one big tote.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure writers are shopping, fashion, and product experts who use personal experience and customer recommendations to choose the best items for shoppers. For this article, Kaitlyn McInnis , a travel writer and former lifestyle editor, tapped into her experience as a professional beach bum (yep, her job is just beach) and laid out the items she finds are the most essential for a perfect beach vacation.

Related Articles

Don't leave for the beach without these essentials

From coolers to face mists, we've got you covered with the perfect packing list for your next beach trip.

If you’re heading to the beach this summer, you’ll need to pack some beach essentials that will keep everyone organized, hydrated, and happy. While every family has different needs, the best beach vacation essentials are durable, functional, and easy to carry down to the sand. While you think you may have everything you need for a beach day, our beach essentials checklist will ensure you pack the right things for your next trip to the shore.  

Beach essentials to add to your checklist

Our checklist is broken down into categories like essentials for swimming in the ocean and beach essentials for fun. This will help you decide if you have everything that you need for a beach day, no matter what you plan to do once you’re in the sand.  

Essentials for lounging on the beach

Original bogg bag.

Buy it now at Bogg

While lounging on the beach, keeping all your belongings in a central area is a good idea. The Original Bogg Bag is a great option to keep your beach essentials contained. The washable, tip-proof bag can carry up to 40 pounds. Additionally, there are Bogg Bag accessories that you can purchase to make a beach day even easier, including a beverage holder and clear bag inserts that can keep your phone, cards, or ID all in one safe spot.

(These are the best beach bags for summer)

Home Queen Beach Cup Holder

Buy it now on Amazon

No one wants to get their cup, sunglasses, or phone dirty at the beach. That’s where the Home Queen Beach Cup Holder comes in handy. The plastic holder has a spike on the bottom to get it wedged into the sand and keep your beach essentials up off the ground. The round section can hold refillable cups or cans, while the rectangular back section of the holder is a great spot to put a phone or pair of sunglasses.  

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen

Sunscreen is one of the top beach bag essentials for everyone heading to the beach. The Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen is ideal since it’s weightless, scentless, and oil-free, so it never feels greasy on your skin. The broad spectrum formula is water and sweat-resistant for up to 40 minutes.  

( 7 of the best reef-safe sunscreens )

CUPSHE Women’s Swimwear Cover-Up

Swimsuit cover-ups are beach day essentials for many women. This option from CUPSHE is a trendy crochet option that can be worn from the parking lot to the beach, and even to a beachside restaurant after packing up the car for the day. We also love this as a little more coverage under an umbrella if the breeze is chilly in the evening.

Eddie Bauer Backpack Chair  

Buy it now at Eddie Bauer

Every beach essential list needs a good lounge chair, and we love this backpack chair from Eddie Bauer. The beach chair can fold flat and be carried like a backpack, making it easy to carry this down to your ideal spot on the beach. Additionally, the chair has a six-can cooler below the seat, which can be loaded once you’re at the beach so cold drinks are always close by. The chair has five different position adjustments so you can sit up, lay back, or something in between.  

( The best camping chairs for comfort and ease of use )

Essentials for swimming in the ocean

Baleaf men's sun protection shirts.

Protecting your skin while swimming in the ocean is a necessity. Besides sunscreen, try wearing a long-sleeved sun protection shirt or rash guard. This particular option is made with fabric that’s UPF 50+ to protect from the sun’s rays. It’s also quick-drying and slightly loose-fitting for an overall comfortable feel.  

Waterproof Phone Pouch

Buy it now at Case Mate

Whether you’re wading or swimming in the ocean, you’re going to want to take some pictures at the water’s edge. Keep your phone protected with this waterproof phone pouch. The beach day essential is compatible with most smartphones and is waterproof up to one meter deep. The pouch design makes it easy to access any side buttons, and the clear window that shows your phone screen is sensitive to touch, so you can snap photos or answer calls quickly.

Fujifilm Quicksnap 800 Waterproof 35mm Disposable Camera

If you’re taking kids to the beach, give each of them a waterproof disposable camera. The camera has a rubber wrist strap and large buttons, which make it easy to operate underwater. After the photos develop, you can see the trip through their eyes, including what they may have seen under the water.

Sun Bum Original SPF 45 Sunscreen Face Mist

Something that should always be on your beach essential list is Sun Bum Original SPF 45 Sunscreen Face Mist. This is the ideal sunscreen for swimmers because you never have to worry about getting sand or sea salt in your eyes like you would applying traditional sunscreen. The bottle has a small pump that sprays the SPF 45 sunscreen on your face. You should reapply this sunscreen regularly if you’re swimming for a long time.  

Straw Hat for Men & Women

No beach essential list is complete without a good wide-brimmed hat. We love this one from Hemlock Hat Co. since it’s got UPF 50+, comes in multiple prints and styles, and the straw weave is lightweight. The hat is great to wear into the ocean because its drawstring neck strap can be tightened to ensure it doesn’t fall off and drift away.

Beach essentials for comfort

Corkcicle eola bucket cooler bag.

Buy it now at Corkcicle

Coolers come in all shapes and sizes, but if you’re looking for a cooler that’s easy to carry for a beach afternoon, the Corkcicle Eola Bucket Cooler Bag is ideal. The backpack-style cooler is made with vegan leather or neoprene, depending on what color you pick. The cooler can carry up to 12 cans or eight cans plus two bottles of wine. No matter what you bring, be sure to also pack some water to stay cool and hydrated.

Sport-Brella Premiere XL

The Sport-Brella Premier XL is great for shade and comfort at the beach. The nine-foot canopy means multiple people can sit in the shade without being on top of each other. The umbrella also has two side panels that can be secured into the sand for additional sun protection. And don’t worry if you think the umbrella will be too hot, because it has a zippered window that can be opened for airflow.  

Master Lock Portable Small Lock Box

Sometimes, comfort at the beach means peace of mind. As part of your beach day essentials, bring this portable lock box with you for your valuables, like your phone, wallet, and car keys. The lock box uses a four-digit combination of your choosing, and you can secure the box to a chair, umbrella, or cooler with the cable included.  

Extra Large Beach Blanket

There’s nothing like lounging on a big beach blanket and taking a nap in the warm sun. This massive option is 9x10 feet, so there’s room for the entire family. The blanket comes with stakes so you can tie it down on windy beach days. It’s also waterproof, so it’s easy to clean up and pack up when it’s time to head home.  

Sand Cloud Turkish Beach Towel

If you’re taking a solo beach trip and don’t need an extra large blanket, the Sand Cloud Turkish Beach Towel needs a spot in your beach bag. Because the towel is sand-resistant, all you have to do is shake it out before leaving the beach and you won’t be tracking sand everywhere you go. Additionally, the towel is fast-drying so it never feels heavy in your bag even if you lie on it after hopping into the ocean.  

Beach essentials for fun

Igloo 70 qt premium trailmate wheeled cooler.

For some, the fun of the beach is having a picnic and enjoying time with family. For those who have large groups going with them to the beach, necessities should include this Igloo cooler, which can hold up to 112 cans. The 70-quart cooler has oversized wheels and a telescopic handle, making it easier to get to your perfect beach spot. The cooler weighs about 35 pounds without anything in it, so be sure to have a buddy to help you bring it down to the beach once it’s full of food and drinks.  

Pop-Up Beach Tent

If you’re traveling to the beach with little kids who love making sand castles, consider getting them their own pop-up beach tent with open sides so you can still see them at all times. This tent comes with a beach blanket, a carrying bag, a shovel, and a shade canopy. The tent can handle wind up to 20 miles per hour, so it’s unlikely to blow over. Even better is that the tent can be taken down in just a few minutes, making packing up from the beach even easier.

Having a game to play at the beach helps pass the time, and it’s just plain old fun. One game that keeps adults and kids entertained is Spikeball. The game can be carried to the beach in the included drawstring bag. The set comes with three balls, the game roundnet, and a rule book. The game is easy to set up, so you never have to worry about wasting time to get everything ready to play with.

( Going on a road trip? These games will help you pass the time )

2022 Vibe Speaker Tumbler

No beach vacation essentials list is complete without a reusable cup, but what makes this one stand out is the integrated Bluetooth speaker on the bottom. Fill the cup with your drink of choice, twist off the speaker, and place it nearby to hear your favorite tunes at the beach. The speaker has eight hours of playback time on one charge, so you can listen to music all day without fearing the dreaded drained battery just a few hours into your beach session.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite  

There’s nothing like sitting down to a good book while listening to the waves. You can do just that on the beach with the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite. The e-reader has a 6.8-inch display and an adjustable warm light so you can read without a glare. This Kindle also has up to 10 weeks of battery life, so if you remember to charge it before your vacation, you should be able to read for your entire trip without recharging.  

Frequently asked questions

What are some beach essentials for men.

Men will want to bring items like a rash guard, sunscreen, a chair backpack, and a Bluetooth speaker to the beach. These items will ensure that a beach day is both fun and safe.  

What are some beach essentials for women?

Beach essentials for women include a swimsuit coverup, an e-reader, a cooler, and sunscreen. Additionally, women will want to be sure to bring a beach blanket and a   pop-up tent for extra comfort.  

What to pack in a beach bag?

Your beach bag should be easy to carry and have enough room for essentials like sunscreen, a reusable cup, a waterproof phone pouch, and a cup holder. Consider packing a few snacks and drinks in your beach bag if you don’t plan on bringing a cooler with you to the beach.  

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The Ultimate Bike Trip Packing List

This is everything you’ll need on the road for a long-distance cycling trip.

Whether venturing abroad or trying a new route at home, traveling on two wheels is a fun way to explore at your own pace.

A thorough packing list will ensure you're prepared for a multi-day bike trip. You’ll need to consider the local climate, duration of the trip, and potential bike contingencies to be ready for on your adventure. At the same time, you should travel light and narrow your list to just the essential apparel, gear, and accessories so you’re not pulling unnecessary weight.

Read on for more on what to pack for your next bike trip.

Packing Checklist

Apparel and shoes.

• Best Cycling Shorts for Men: Giordana Men’s FR-C Pro Cycling Shorts
• Best Cycling Shorts for Women: Pearl iZUMI Women’s Expedition Shorts
• Best Riding Jersey: Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-shirt LS

Best Gloves: Giro La DND Mountain Cycling Gloves

• Best Socks: Giro Seasonal Merino Wool Socks

Best Cycling Shoes: Fi'zi:k Vento Infinito Carbon 2 Cycling Shoe

Best jacket: rapha trail lightweight jacket, essential gear, best helmet: bontrager velocis mips road bike helmet, best pedals: shimano eh500 spd dual sided bike pedal, best bike mirror: cateye bm-45 bar end mirror, best hydration: evoc hip pack pro 3l.

• Best Pannier Bag: Ortlieb Back-roller Classic Panniers
• Best Men’s-specific Bike Seat: Ergon SMC Core Bike Saddle
• Best Women’s-specific Bike Seat: Selle Italia Women’s Diva Gel Superflow MTB Road Bike Saddle
• Best Multitool: Crankbrothers M19 Multi-tool

Best Pump: Lezyne Micro Floor Drive Hand Pump

Best phone mount: peak design universal bar mount, best tent: mountain hardwear nimbus ul 2 tent.

• Best Sleeping Bag: Rab Mythic Ultra 360 Down Sleeping Bag
• Best Cooking System: Jetboil Stash Stove

Accessories

Best sunglasses: julbo fury sunglasses.

• Best Sunscreen: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
• Best First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kit Ultralight/Watertight First Aid Kit
• Best Portable Charger: ChargeCard Ultra-thin Credit Card-sized Portable Charger & Battery Bank

When and where you’ll be cycling are key factors that should guide your packing list for a bike trip . “There isn’t much difference between a short trip and a long trip,” says adventure YouTuber Ryan Van Duzer. “The weather is what makes the difference on what clothing to pack, whether it be base layers for warmth or waterproof protection,” adds Van Duzer.

Besides the riding conditions, it’s also important to consider comfort, performance, and durability in your cycling apparel. “Look for clothing and apparel with merino wool to prevent odor, especially on longer trips and if you’ll be repeating outfits,” advises Van Duzer. Other items, like padded bike shorts and cycling shoes, should balance lasting comfort with performance to enhance your pedaling power, efficiency, and stamina. Choosing high-quality, durable apparel will help ensure you get plenty of miles out of your purchases.

Best Men’s Cycling Shorts: Giordana Men's FR-C Pro Cycling Shorts

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Backcountry.com

If you’re planning on longer rides and multiple days in the saddle, padded bike shorts are essential to stay comfortable. The Giordana FR-C Pros excel when it comes to comfort and performance. The shorts’ Cirro OmniForm chamois is designed with multiple layers that form to the shape of the rider while providing ventilation and relief channels in sensitive areas. The chamois also incorporates aloe vera into the fabric to soothe skin and prevent odor. While the FR-C Pro’s tight fit takes some getting used to, the elastic leg bands and waist panel manage to achieve security without being overly compressive. After regularly wearing these for months, we love that the high-quality, anti-abrasion fabric offers soft supportive compression that make you want to ride all day.

Price at time of publish: $190

Best Women’s Cycling Shorts: Pearl iZUMi Women’s Expedition Shorts

Buy at Rei.com

Buy at Pearlizumi.com

The Pearl iZUMI women’s expedition shorts impressed us for their high-quality construction and long-lasting comfort. The brand’s Elite Transfer fabric provides a flexible, yet supportive fit and wicks away moisture. We love the padding’s barely-there feeling and ability to stay in place during long rides. The wide waistband design prevents chafing and an overly restrictive fit so you can mix up riding positions and pedal comfortably for hours. Pearl iZUMI incorporated three pockets in the expedition shorts — two cargo pockets and a center-back pocket — allowing easier access to snacks or an extra layer. With a competitive retail price, these shorts are a great value, too. For an even more aerodynamic fit, consider the bibbed version of these shorts .

Price at time of publish: $70

Best Riding Jersey: Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-shirt

The Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-shirt is designed with cyclists in mind. Made with an 87 percent merino wool and 13 percent nylon blend, the shirt is breathable and odor-resistant. “I like wearing natural fibers like merino wools — they don’t stink compared to polyester materials,” notes Van Duzer, who has ridden across the continental United States and other countries around the world. The Apex Merino Tech shirt features a relaxed fit and lengthier back in both the men’s and women’s versions for optimal coverage, especially when hunched forward in an aggressive riding position. It also boasts UPF 40 sun protection and a reflective label to enhance visibility on the road.

Price at time of publish: $71

Related: The 13 Best Bike Shorts for Women of 2023

The Giro LA DND Mountain Cycling Gloves offer tactile handling and durable protection for the hands. While they’re popular with mountain bikers, these rugged gloves are well-suited for road cycling too, not to mention boasting the benefit of avoiding knuckle tan lines. The DND gloves use a three-panel construction and an AX Suede palm that enhances the grip and prevents bunching. They’re made with breathable, four-way stretch fabric and reinforced fingertips that are touchscreen compatible. To lessen the impact of vibrations and bumps, the gloves include thin gel padding.

Price at time of publish: $22

Best Socks: Giro Seasonal Merino Wool Sock

Buy at Giro.com

The Giro Seasonal Merino Wool Sock achieves an ideal balance between comfort and durability. Made with 70 percent merino wool, the socks are breathable, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant. The heel and toes are reinforced with nylon to extend the life of the socks. The Giro socks feature six-inch cuffs, shielding the lower legs from sun and anything the road throws at you. They’re available in four sizes (S-XL) and come in a variety of colors and patterns. Note that this is a mid-weight sock, which may be a bit excessive for road cycling in hotter climates.

Price at time of publish: $12

Buy at Mikesbikes.com

The Fi’zi:k Vento Infinito Carbon 2 Cycling Shoes deliver top-notch road cycling performance. The Infinito shoe is incredibly stiff and places the cleat towards the center of the foot, providing efficient power transfer to the pedals. Despite their stiffness, the shoe avoids pressure points and hotspots by creating a snug wraparound fit for comfort and support. This fit comes courtesy of the BOA Li2 closure system, which consists of two dials that carry out two-way adjustments to the finest degree. While you’re pedaling away, the shoe’s Microtex upper facilitates airflow to regulate moisture and temperature. Though the Infinito fetches a premium price, it delivers exceptional performance and durable, lightweight construction that’s a worthwhile investment for avid road cyclists.

Price at time of publish: $370

Related: The Best Electric Bikes for Every Type of Rider

Buy at Rapha.cc

The Rapha Lightweight Trail Jacket was made for cycling. The fit delivers freedom of movement and the entire jacket can be stuffed into the chest pocket and strapped to the bike frame for convenient transport. The ripstop nylon fabric construction is lightweight, breathable, and windproof. Cyclists can easily adjust the drawstring hood, which nearly fits over a helmet , while riding. Meanwhile, elastic cuffs provide a no-fuss method for keeping sleeves in place. The Trail Jacket is available in both men’s and women’s versions and in six different sizes.

Price at time of publish: $90

Whether you’ll be hauling your own gear on a bikepacking trip or cycling on a multi-day tour , there are some essential items you’ll need to stay safe, comfortable, and prepared for the unexpected on the road. Besides upgrading your bike pedals and seat, you’ll want to think about integrating storage and safety features on your ride, too. It’s also important to be prepared for flat tires and roadside fixes.

Buy at Trekbikesflorida.com

The Bontrager Velocis MIPS Road Bike Helmet is designed to help cyclists reach top speeds while staying cool. The polycarbonate helmet opted for fewer, but larger vents (10 total) to balance ventilation and aerodynamics. The vents and internal channels keep air flowing through the helmet, while the pads wick away moisture for long-lasting comfort. The Velocis MIPS helmet comes in three sizes (small, medium, and large), and the BOA closure system makes it easy to adjust and dial in the right fit with a single hand. The helmet features a multi-directional impact protection system (MIPS) developed by doctors and scientists to reduce rotational motion to the head and brain during impact.

Price at time of publish: $225

Whether you choose to ride in cycling cleats or other active footwear, the Shimano EH500 PSD bike pedals have you covered. One side of the hybrid pedal is compatible with SPD clips, while the other is equipped with eight traction pins for reliable grip, rain or shine. SPD, which stands for Shimano Pedaling Dynamics, is the brand’s clipless pedal that delivers a secure foot-to-pedal connection and easy multi-release system. While some pedals only release by kicking your heel out horizontally, the EH500 SPD pedal will unclip if you move your heel in multiple directions — a safety perk for newer cyclists .

If you’re on a multi-day cycling tour, having the option to swap out your cycling shoes for regular footwear is incredibly convenient when taking shorter sightseeing rides or running errands. And then when it’s time to complete another leg of your journey, you can switch back to riding clipped-in.

Price at time of publish: $85

Buy at Target.com

The CatEye BM-45 Bar End Mirror is small but effective at keeping an eye on traffic behind you to stay vigilant on the road. It’s made from aluminum and glass, adding durability and providing a virtually distortion-free view, respectively. The BM-45 mirror’s compact design means it hardly protrudes from the handlebars and won’t compromise a bike’s sleek aesthetics. Weighing just over an ounce, this ultralight mirror won’t slow you down.

Price at time of publish: $18

Related: The Best Sport Sunglasses to Take You to the Top of Your Game

Buy at Competitivecyclist.com

The Evoc Hip Pack Pro 3L is adeptly designed for keeping cyclists hydrated, fitting comfortably around the waists. The hip pack features two water bottle holders and space for a 1.5-liter hydration bladder, giving riders multiple choices for their hydration method. It’s secured via two broad elastic straps that attach via velcro and a quick-release buckle. The Airo Flex material used in the straps plus the wide design prevents chafing and tightness on the hips and stomach. Riders can tighten or loosen the straps with a single pull — allowing easy adjustments to prepare for inclines and descents.  Ventilated padding along the back helps maintain airflow and comfort during longer rides. Aside from the water storage, the pack is equipped with a zippered hip pocket and an organizer pocket for tools, but the capacity is limited.

Price at time of publish: $100

Best Pannier Bag: Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic Pannier

The Ortlieb Back-roller Classic Panniers are well-suited for weekend trips and cross-country rides alike. The panniers offer 40 liters of storage space and are compatible with rack diameters of 8, 10, 12, or 16 millimeters. Between the waterproof polyester exterior and the roll-top closure system, your belongings and gear will stay protected from the elements. Where the back-roller panniers truly excel is their mounting hardware — Ortlieb’s QL2.1 system. Securing the panniers to your bike is as straightforward as grabbing the handles to open the lower latches and fastening the adjustable hooks to the rack, then letting go of the handle to lock it in place. To remove, simply lift the pannier by the handle, and the latches will automatically release.

Price at time of publish: $200

Related: The 12 Best Bike Lights of 2023

Best Men’s-specific Bike Seat: Ergon Men's SMC Core Bike Saddle

The Ergon SMC Core Saddle features a multi-layered system of padding to deliver an ideal balance of cushion, support, and responsiveness. The saddle uses Ergon’s Core 3D and TwinShell technology to form a multi-layered design, which encompasses a BASF Infinergy elastomer foam layer sandwiched between two nylon composite shells. This allows the SMC Core to move side to side to support pelvic movement while pedaling, reducing back strain and pressure on the sit bones. We were impressed by the seat’s stability on tough terrain and tactical trails. It’s also equipped with a pressure relief channel, which expands as it moves toward the back of the seat, helping to prevent numbness in sensitive areas on longer rides.

Price at time of publish: $150

Best Women’s-specific Bike Seat: Selle Italia Women's Diva Gel Superflow MTB Road Bike Saddle

The Selle Italia Diva Gel Superflow Saddle delivers lasting support and pressure relief in a race-ready design. The seat top is fitted with a lightweight gel layer that cushions the sit bones and dampens vibrations and bumps. Meanwhile, the nylon base of the seat provides a firm base for pedaling power and stability. The Superflow Saddle also features a substantial anatomical cutout in the center of the saddle to direct weight to the sit bones and alleviate pressure in sensitive soft tissue areas. The cutout, combined with the titanium rails and nylon base, keeps the weight to just around .6 pounds (depending on size).

Price at time of publish: $83

Related: The 10 Most Comfortable Bike Seats of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Multitool: Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool

The Crankbrothers M19 Multi-tool has been on the market for over a decade and remains popular with cyclists for its functionality and ergonomic, durable design. As its name suggests, it contains 19 different tools, including a mix of hex keys, screwdrivers, spoke wrenches, and a chain tool. It’s equipped with side grips to maintain a firm hold while tackling roadside fixes. It comes with a sleek aluminum carry case that keeps it from snagging on other items but adds a bit of weight that some may deem unnecessary.

Price at time of publish: $31

Buy at Moosejaw.com

The compact Lezyne Micro Floor Drive Hand Pump helps save on space and weight without sacrificing performance. It’s rated for high pressure tire inflation, with 160 PSI maximum pressure. “Most mini pumps are undersized, whereas this has the functionality of a normal pump in a smaller package,” notes Van Duzer. The Lezyne pump is made with replaceable parts that are designed to last, including a stainless steel foot peg and CNC-machined aluminum barrel, piston, base, and T-handle. While the portable pump can be easily tucked in a pannier, riders also have the option of securing it to their bike with the included Composite Matrix frame mount. The Lezyne pump comes in two versions: one with a built-in pressure gauge and one without that cuts down the overall cost and weight.

Price at time of publish: $55

Related: The 11 Best Bikes for Every Type of Rider in 2023

The Peak Design Universal Bar Mount can accommodate a variety of mounting setups, including bikes, e-bikes, and scooters. It’s attached via a grippy silicone band to any handlebar between .75 to 2.2 inches. The Bar Mount uses a magnetic SlimLink attachment to secure the phone in place and a push-button release to remove it. This setup allows riders to grab and put their phone back without taking their eyes off the road ahead, plus the flexibility to have their phone in portrait or landscape alignment.

Price at time of publish: $50

The Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent boasts an incredibly lightweight design that lends itself to bikepacking trips. It weighs just over 2 pounds when packed in its stuff sack, or you can divide the tent components and weight between two riders if bikepacking as a duo. The tent floor and sides are made from ripstop nylon for durability, while the mesh canopy enhances ventilation and cuts down on unnecessary weight. Mountain Hardwear did without dyeing the rain fly, helping save water and chemicals to reduce the overall environmental impact of the Nimbus UL 2. Campers can stake out the rain fly to create a 7.7-square-foot vestibule for safely storing cycling gear and provisions.

Price at time of publish: $420

Best Sleeping Bag: Rab 20F Mythic Ultra 360 Down Sleeping Bag

When packing for a bikepacking trip, weight is a leading factor in selecting gear. Weighing less than 1.5 pounds, the Rab Mythic Ultra 360 Down Sleeping Bag is a featherweight design that doesn’t skimp on performance and durability. The mummy-shape sleeping bag is insulated with a 900+ down fill to keep campers comfortable at below-freezing temperatures, and it's treated with a water-repellent coating to shed moisture. During our testing, it was cozy even during a cold, windy night with wind gusts up to 50 miles per hour. The Mythic Ultra 360’s 7D ripstop nylon construction is equipped with Thermo Ionic Lining Technology (TILT) that efficiently traps body heat to reduce the total down used, thus saving weight and packing volume.

Price at time of publish: $720

Related: The 12 Best Sleeping Bags of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Cooking System: Jetboil Stash Ultralight Camping and Backpacking Stove

This is a lightweight, all-in-one cooking system that stows easily in a pannier or handlebar bag. The Jetboil Stash Stove is the brand’s most lightweight and compact, weighing just over 7 ounces. All of the cooking systems components — isobutane fuel canister, titanium regulator, fuel-can stabilizer, and lighter — pack inside the .8-liter FluxRing cook pot. Meanwhile, the rubber-coated handle folds over the lid for packability and locks in place while cooking. With an average boil time of 2 minutes, 30 seconds, the Stash Stove makes morning coffee and meals a breeze. The wide-mouth cook pot design also makes it easy to eat from, meaning you can skip plates and bowls for less weight or other on-the-road essentials. The one downside is that it doesn’t have a push-button ignition, so you’ll need to pack matches or a lighter.

Price at time of publish: $111

Even the most minimalist packers will make room for accessories on their bike trip. Items like sunscreen and a first aid kit are essential for a smooth cycling adventure . Other accessories, like chargers and sunglasses, will come in handy for phone battery backup and keeping your focus on the road ahead.

The Julbo Fury Sunglasses are designed with a wide cylindrical lens that protects the eyes from sunlight as well as bugs and debris on the road. The lightweight, cycling-specific glasses are made with shatterproof polycarbonate lenses and a robust, yet flexible frame. They nearly cover your entire field of vision and stay securely in place while cycling at high speeds. Though the Fury sunglasses maintain a snug fit, they are equipped with shock-absorbing inserts at the temples and bridge of the nose for enduring comfort. Cyclists will appreciate that the vented structure allows plenty of airflow to prevent the lenses from fogging up. The Fury sunglasses are available with two different lenses. The Spectron 3CF lens is best suited for riding in bright light, while the Reactive photochromic lens adjusts based on the light conditions.

Price at time of publish: $140

Best Sunscreen: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick

Buy at Walmart.com

The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen delivers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Its main ingredients — zinc oxide and titanium Dioxide — shield skin from 97 percent of the sun’s rays without using any chemicals that can harm the environment. Blue Lizard’s formula also contains skin-nourishing ingredients, including aloe vera, shea butter, sunflower-seed oil, and vitamin E. The fragrance-free mineral sunscreen is water resistant for 80 minutes, and the stick design makes it easy to quickly reapply on pit stops or even without dismounting the bike.

Price at time of publish: $10

Related: The 9 Best Bike Phone Mounts of 2023

Best First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7

The Adventure Medical Kit Ultralight/Watertight First Aid Kit packs a wide assortment of bandages, medications, and supplies to treat the more common issues cyclists experience on long-distance rides. It has Moleskin and topical adhesive for treating and preventing blisters as well as wraps and tape for support or immobilization. There’s also a modest supply of over-the-counter medication to treat inflammation, pain, and insect bites, though we wish it also included medication for gastrointestinal problems. The first aid kit exterior is made with durable ripstop silnylon, while the interior features two watertight pouches to keep items clean and dry. Weighing just 8 ounces, this first aid kit will have minimal impact on your packed bike weight.

Price at time of publish: $32

Best Portable Charger: ChargeCard Ultra-Thin Credit Card Sized Portable Charger & Battery Bank

Buy at Theaquavault.com

Whether to navigate, record your ride, or dispatch a motivational playlist, our phones are essential travel companions. The ChargeCard ensures you have an emergency boost of power for your phone if the battery gets precariously low. The stainless steel battery resembles a sleek credit card and weighs just over 2 ounces. It’s compatible with Micro USB, Lighting, and USB Type-c connectors. It also features LED indicator lights to let you know how much charge is left. Although it saves precious space, its charging capacity is limited compared to other portable chargers.

Price at time of publish: $60

What to Know Before You Pack for a Bike Trip

Take only the essentials.

Packing light while bringing everything you need takes planning and practice. “I only pack two [cycling] shirts and one pair of bike shorts,” says Van Duzer. Since they’re made with quick-drying materials, washing shirts and bike shorts in your shower or bathroom sink is a quick and easy way to get back-to-back wears out of the same outfit, he adds. By keeping your cycling apparel to a minimum, you’ll ensure you have plenty of room for essential gear, accessories, and clothing and footwear for when you’re not riding on two wheels.

Choosing to borrow or rent items upon arrival can help cut down on your packing list. Van Duzer brings all his own gear (including his bike) and clothing, only buying food once he arrives at his next cycling destination. “Most airlines will take your bike as checked luggage and won’t charge extra as long as it fits their parameters,” says Van Duzer.

Prepare for all weather

Even in the most temperate environments, there’re bound to be variations in temperature and precipitation, especially if you're heading out first thing to ride into the afternoon. Unless traveling in the warmest climates, packing a jacket to protect against rain and wind is recommended. Choosing waterproof gear and storage is another good idea for covering your bases if the weather takes a turn for the worst.

Choose versatility

Prioritizing versatility in your cycling gear, apparel, and accessories can prepare you for a variety of conditions and help keep your packing list on the lighter side. Selecting lightweight, packable layers that can be easily taken on and off and worn in variable temperatures is key, as they’ll be practical for multiple seasons and different cycling destinations. It may take some time to mix and match to find what combinations work best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I take my bike with me on a trip or rent?

If traveling by car, transporting your own two wheels on a bike rack is an easy solution. If you’re riding for several days or more, the cost of flying with your bike may be cheaper than renting — not to mention the benefits of being certain that you’ll have a bike that fits and handles well.

Where do I keep all of my things on a bike trip?

Bikes have versatile storage options, including rear and front racks, baskets, and bags that attach to the frame, handlebars, or installed racks.

Can I use my bike trip equipment on rides at home?

Yes — using your bike trip equipment and gear at home can help prepare you for your trip as well as enhance your day-to-day cycling experience.

What materials should I look for when preparing for a bike trip?

For apparel, look for natural fibers like merino wool for optimal breathability and odor resistance. For bike gear, look for durable and waterproof materials like ripstop nylon.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Kevin Brouillard is a contributing writer at T+L, specializing in outdoor gear and apparel. His work has been published in TripSavvy, Jetsetter, and Oyster, and he served in the Peace Corps in Cambodia for two years. He used his experience with outdoor adventure and cycling, as well as thorough research and tips from long-distance cycling veteran Ryan Van Duzer in compiling this list of what to pack for a bike trip. 

Related: The Ultimate Backpacking Packing List

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