Packing for a beach holiday is actually easy. You need few clothes, but a few things you rarely use at home. Even so, many people find themselves without a sun hat or a charging cable on the first day. With a list nothing gets forgotten. And your suitcase stays lighter than you think.
The packing list to tick off
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In your beach bag
For a day by the sea you need little: a towel or beach towel, sun cream, a bottle of water, a book and some cash for drinks or sun loungers. A waterproof phone pouch protects against sand and splashes. A bag for wet swimwear keeps everything else dry.
Valuables are better left in the hotel safe. Only take what you really need to the beach.
What you can leave at home
| Better not | Why |
|---|---|
| Hairdryer | Almost every hotel has one |
| Bath towels | Most hotels provide beach towels |
| Lots of shoes | Two or three pairs are enough |
| Heavy books | An e-reader saves weight |
| Clothes for every kind of weather | In the Mediterranean summer you rarely need rainwear |
Before you travel, ask the hotel whether it has beach towels, a hairdryer and an iron. That often saves a lot of space in your suitcase.
Packing properly
Put heavy things such as shoes and your wash bag at the bottom, close to the wheels. That way the suitcase does not tip over. Roll your clothes, as this saves space and gives fewer creases. Put liquids such as sun cream and shower gel in a freezer bag, in case a bottle leaks in the hold.
Your hand luggage should hold everything you need on the first day or that must not get lost: medicines, ID, chargers and a swimsuit or swimming trunks. If your suitcase arrives late, you can still head straight to the beach.
For families with children
With children a bit more comes together: armbands or a swimming vest, a sun hat with neck protection, a UV shirt and sand toys. You can buy many of these at your destination, though. Pack a favourite toy or cuddly toy in the little ones’ hand luggage. It helps them fall asleep in a strange place.
Just before you leave
Weigh your suitcase before you set off, as excess baggage at the desk is expensive. Leave some room for souvenirs. And take a photo of your passport and insurance card, which helps if something gets lost.
flug-123.de editorial team, updated 10 November 2026. We review our guides regularly. Rules can change. If in doubt, the details in your booking apply.
