10 Must-Have Style Essentials for Every Beach Vacation

By Richelle Szypulski
November 07, 2016
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Our warm-weather packing philosophy is simple: build a foundation of classic neutrals that are multipurpose. Starting with your carry-on personal item, use a simple tote that could serve as your beach bag. A casual button-down can also be your a cover-up. And a soft sarong might moonlight as a scarf for chilly nights on the boardwalk.

Once you’ve got the basics down, that’s when to toss in a few accent pieces like a tasseled statement earring or a fun, block-heel slide. This way, you’re covered to sunbathe, sail, or snorkel in style whether you’re headed to the beaches of Bali or Cali.

As for these essentials and statement standouts, you can find a lot of them at Spring, a retail app that features products from more than 1250 brands and offers free US shipping and free returns on everything. Our editors have used the app to curate a collection that will make packing for your next beach vacation a breeze.

You’ll find our go-to’s below, and you can check out the full collection here.
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A Chic Straw Hat

Credit: Courtesy of Joie

Sun protection gets a dose of casual sophistication with Joie’s ribbon-trimmed raffia boater hat. With its wide brim, a forward tip is all you’ll need for a little privacy or—even more luxurious—an afternoon nap.

To buy: $38; shopspring.com

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A Smart Carry-On

Credit: Courtesy of Away

Away’s The Carry-On is designed to be both resilient—it’s guaranteed for life!—and sleek. Inside, there are two compartments: one for clothes, and one for shoes, toiletries, and other accessories. It also comes equipped with a built-in battery that can charge any USB device.

To buy: $225; shopspring.com

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Classic Espadrilles

Credit: Courtesy of Soludos

These leather Soludos espadrilles are make for simple slip-ons when you’re heading down to the pool or out for the evening. The upper has cotton lining for comfort and the woven platform adds just the right amount of lift.

To buy: $99; shopspring.com

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An Easy Skirt

Credit: Courtesy of Altazurra

This linen wrap-front skirt was practically made to be worn seaside. It pairs delicate stitching details with the signature Altuzarra slit, and a side-tie lets you decide how much leg you’d like to bring to the luau.

To buy: $1595; shopspring.com

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A Travel Wallet

Credit: Courtesy of Smythson

Staying organized will always be in style, so it’s no surprise that we’re big fans of Smythson’s luxe leather Panama wallet. It comes with a removable passport cover, has tons of compartments for travel documents, and zips all the way around to keep everything inside safe and sound.

To buy: $416.50; shopspring.com

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A Versatile Backpack

Credit: Courtesy of ONA

When you’re traveling with tech, it’s smart to invest in a bag that will protect it. This Ona backpack is handcrafted with water-resistant waxed canvas. While it’s intended to carry a camera body and lenses—with specific pockets for a 13-inch laptop, smartphone, lens cap, batteries, and memory cards—the foam dividers in the main compartment can be removed to store whatever you need.

To buy: $369; shopspring.com

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A Double-Duty Swimsuit

Credit: Courtesy of Flagpole Swim

When packing light, a swimsuit that can stand up to the surf or stand in as a bodysuit with high-waisted bottoms is a must. This Flagpole Swim one-piece’s color blocking and coverage give it a 10 in both categories.

To buy: $405; shopspring.com

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A Lightweight Shirt

Credit: Courtesy of Everlane

A simple button-down can easily top off a swimsuit or be tucked in for dinner, and in warm weather, you’ll want a fabric that breathes, like this crisp cotton poplin shirt. And Everlane—a brand known for high-quality product at inexpensive price points—has designed the perfect one.

To buy: $55; shopspring.com

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Timeless Trunks

Credit: Courtesy of Solid & Striped

The perfect mid-length swim short, this Solid + Striped pair has a slim fit and clean tailoring that still allow for comfort, making them an ideal choice when swimming, poolside lounging, or a few rounds on the tennis court.

To buy: $112; shopspring.com

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Wear Everywhere Sandals

Credit: Courtesy of Birkenstock

Birkenstocks are the iconic casual sandal, for both men and women, and they’ve recently seen a revival on the feet of the fashion set. With a super soft footbed, adjustable double buckle, and slip-on style, they’re both comfortable and supportive. What more can you ask for from a vacation shoe?

To buy: $135; shopspring.com

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