Pack Smart for the Coast
Coastal holidays have their own particular packing logic. The environment is demanding — salt water destroys electronics, sand gets into everything, and the weather can shift from scorching to squally in an hour. At the same time, the whole point is to travel lightly and feel free. Here's a tried-and-tested list to get the balance right.
Sun & Skin Protection
- High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30 minimum): Reapply every two hours, more frequently if swimming. Choose a reef-safe formula to protect marine ecosystems.
- After-sun lotion or aloe vera gel: Even careful sun protection sometimes fails. Aloe vera is your best friend.
- UV-protective sunglasses: Not just a fashion item — UV damage to eyes is cumulative and serious.
- Wide-brimmed hat: Essential for midday sun, especially on open water where there's no shade.
- UV-protective rashguard or rash vest: Particularly useful if you plan to snorkel, surf, or spend long hours in and out of the water.
Clothing: The Coastal Formula
The key principle is quick-dry everything. Salt water ruins cotton and linen dries slowly. Build your wardrobe around:
- 2–3 quick-dry swimsuits or board shorts (so you always have a dry one)
- Lightweight linen or moisture-wicking shirts for evenings
- One warm mid-layer — evenings on the water get cold faster than you expect
- A packable waterproof jacket — wind and spray are constants on coastal trips
- Comfortable sandals with grip (Tevas, Chacos, or similar) and one pair of closed shoes for rocky terrain
Water & Beach Essentials
- Reusable water bottle: Sea air and sun dehydrate you quickly. Aim for at least 2 litres capacity.
- Dry bag: Protects your phone, wallet, and documents on boats, kayaks, or caught in unexpected waves.
- Snorkel set: A basic mask, snorkel, and fins dramatically increases the fun of any coastal stop. Compact sets fold into a bag easily.
- Microfibre towel: Dries in minutes, weighs almost nothing, and doesn't hold sand the way cotton towels do.
- Waterproof phone pouch: For photos in and around water without risking your device.
- Beach mat or lightweight blanket: A sand-resistant beach mat is worth every penny if you plan to spend serious time on the beach.
Health & Safety
- Basic first aid kit including blister plasters (coastal walks destroy feet)
- Sea sickness tablets if you're prone to motion sickness on boats
- Insect repellent — mangrove areas, estuaries, and calm bays at dusk can have significant mosquito activity
- Hydration tablets or electrolyte sachets for hot days and active water sports
What to Leave Behind
| Leave Behind | Reason | Better Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton beach towels | Heavy, slow to dry, hold sand | Microfibre towel |
| Fragile jewellery | Lost in sand/water constantly | Simple, minimal pieces |
| Non-waterproof bag | One rogue wave ruins everything | Dry bag or waterproof backpack |
| Excess shoes | Coastal trips need two pairs max | Versatile sandals + one closed shoe |
| Heavy books | Sand and sea water damage them | E-reader with waterproof case |
The Golden Rule
When in doubt, leave it out. Coastal trips reward those who travel light. The less you carry, the further you can explore — and the more room you have to bring back something genuinely worth keeping.
Pack your bag the night before. Then unpack roughly a third of it. You'll thank yourself on day one.