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What to Pack for the Perfect Week at the Beach In One Carry-On

Summer is finally here and it’s time to hit the beach! If you’re like me – you get really excited and want to pack everything – because it’s just so darn cute, right? But by the end of your vacation, you realize: not only did you not wear half of the clothes you brought, but you also whacked your back out from lugging all those suitcases. Don’t worry, I got you! After many years of traveling, I finally got it down to a science: How to pack for the perfect week at the beach in one carry-on.

Essentials

The Carry-On

South Beach luggage: This carry on is not only adorable and beachy, but also lightweight. It may look small, but looks can be deceiving – trust me, you can fit everything in here!

SPF

Always pack full spectrum protection from the sun and keep it with you at all times. Pro tip: Slather on the sunscreen when you get on the plane. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people disembark and half of their face is red from sunburn. And always choose a foundation with SPF, or use a tinted moisturizer with SPF.

Hat

This wide brim hat will keep you shaded from the sun. The bigger the hat, the better the afternoon, right? To prevent your hat from getting crushed in your luggage, try stuffing socks and intimates in the crown to hold shape.

Sunglasses

I adore these retro glam sunglasses – and worn with the wide brim panama hat, trust me – everyone is going to think you’re someone. For a chic, sporty look, try these aviators.

What to Wear

Bathing Suit

Bring two – the don’t take up much space in your luggage and you can switch  up your look and be comfortable. Always pack large zip lock bags. They are great for wet bathing suits or dirty laundry.

Shoes

Flip Flops for the beach or pool. Use the shower caps they give out in hotel rooms as shoes bags, so your dirty shoes don’t touch your clothes. Also try the comfy Sandals to walk around town or a wedge for going out at night. Depending on your level of comfort, wear the wedges on the flight to save room in your suitcase.

Clothes

Use the TravelSmith packing cubes and roll your clothes. You will shocked at how much more you can fit in your suitcase! This caftan/cover up is perfect for the beach or the bar.

*What You Don’t Need to Pack: If you are staying at a hotel or an AirBnb, there will be towels and amenities like shampoo and soap available – so don’t pack them! Even if they aren’t available, you can go to a local drugstore and buy them at your destination, along with a case of water to stay hydrated on the beach. Pro tip: always buy your own case of water or bring a refillable water bottle – I’ve seen hotels markup a $1 bottle to $7.50! The nerve!

What beach destination would you love to visit and why?