Sun on your skin, sand under your feet and the sound of the sea in your ears - for many people, a beach holiday is the best way to travel. Whether you're relaxing on the Mediterranean, swimming on a tropical island or spending a long weekend on the North Sea, the right preparation will determine how carefree you can enjoy your time away.

This packing list for your beach holiday will help you to pack exactly what you really need - tailored to your destination, your activities and the duration of your holiday. From suitable clothing and technical aids to beach essentials, you'll find everything you need in your luggage here.

Not only will you travel more relaxed, but you'll also enjoy your time by the sea with just the right mix of comfort, protection and lightness.

The right luggage for your beach holiday

Before heading to the beach, the question arises: What is the best way to travel? Choosing the right luggage depends not only on the length of your trip, but also on how you're travelling - whether by plane, car or train - and how much you want to do while you're there.

A suitcase with structure: A robust suitcase is the best choice for most beach holidays. It offers enough space for clothes, shoes and larger beach items such as towels or sun protection. Make sure it has sturdy wheels, a well thought-out interior layout and durable material - this will keep your luggage well organised on the return flight.

A rucksack or beach bag for travelling: An additional leisure backpacks or large beach bag is recommended for day trips or going to the beach. Models that are lightweight, spacious and water-repellent are ideal. This means you always have snacks, sun cream, a book and other small items to hand - without any mess.

Your hand luggage should contain all the things you need immediately:

• Passport or identity card
• Flight or train tickets
• Health insurance card, vaccination or verification documents
• Credit card & some cash in the local currency
• Smartphone, headphones, power bank
• Personal medication
• A set of fresh clothes for the first evening
• Swimsuit if you want to go into the water as soon as you arrive

Tip: Are you travelling by plane? Then take a look at our hand luggage guide to find out what you can - and can't - take on board.

Clothing & shoes for sun, sand and sea

A beach holiday is the perfect opportunity to leave everyday life behind - so you can also take a relaxed approach to fashion. Instead of filling your suitcase with "just in case" outfits, it's worth making a well-thought-out selection of garments that can be combined in a variety of ways and take up as little space as possible.

For a day at the beach or pool:

In hot temperatures and strong sunlight, one thing counts above all: lightness. Look for breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen that keep you cool and dry quickly.

• T-shirts, tank tops, light blouses or shirts
• Shorts, skirts or beach dresses
• Swimwear: Bikini, swimming costume, swimming trunks (at least two sets)
• UV clothing for longer stays in the sun
• Sun hat, cap or scarf as head protection
• Sunglasses with UV filter

For the evening or cooler hours:

Even in warm regions, it can get windy or a little chilly in the evening. A few well-chosen pieces make you flexible - whether for a visit to a restaurant or a walk along the promenade.

• Summer dress or trousers with a shirt
• Light cardigan or thin jumper for cooler nights
• Chic outfit for restaurant visits or events

Shoes - functional and comfortable at the same time:

You don't need too much choice - but the right pair at the right time is what counts.

• Flip-flops or flip-flops for the beach
• Sandals or espadrilles for strolling around town or restaurants
• Comfortable trainers for excursions or longer walks

Tip: If you are travelling with hand luggage or generally want to save space, opt for colours that can be easily combined - and for clothing that is crease-resistant and dries quickly.

Toiletries & first-aid kit

Even on the beach, you want to feel fresh, protected and comfortable in your skin. With a well-stocked toiletry bag and a small first-aid kit, you are prepared for all eventualities - from sunburn and mosquito bites to minor everyday injuries.

Care products in travel size:

Make sure you only take what you really need with you - preferably in compact formats or refillable travel containers. This will save you space and avoid unnecessary clutter.

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss
• Shower gel, shampoo, conditioner
• Deodorant, razor, nail care
• Sun cream & after-sun
• Insect repellent (especially in tropical regions)
• Menstrual products
• Contact lenses & accessories (replacement glasses if necessary)
• Wet wipes & tissues

Compact first-aid kit:

You don't need a complete first-aid kit - but a basic kit that will help you quickly with typical minor problems.

• Personal medication (also in your hand luggage)
• Painkillers, remedies for gastrointestinal complaints, electrolytes
• Wound ointment & disinfectant spray
• Plasters & blister plasters
• Remedy for mosquito bites or sunburn
• Clinical thermometer & tweezers

Tip: A hanging toiletry bag with different compartments, such as the one from the travelite Skaii series, keeps everything organised - especially in small bathrooms or when camping.

Technology & accessories for the beach

Even if a beach holiday promises relaxation above all else - a little technology and accessories can make your stay much more comfortable. Whether you want to record your trip, entertain yourself in between or simply stay organised: With the right equipment, you'll be well prepared.

• Smartphone, charger & power bank
• E-reader or book
• Camera or GoPro for souvenir photos
• Bluetooth box for music on the beach (only if allowed)
• Waterproof mobile phone case
• Small cooler bag or thermos flask
• Plastic bags or dry bags for wet clothes or rubbish

Tip: You don't just use many of these items on the beach, but also on excursions or in your accommodation. So look for quality, light weight and multifunctionality - this will keep your luggage handy without you missing anything.

For a day at the beach: Must-haves by the sea

A successful day at the beach depends on good preparation - not too much, but don't forget anything important either. Whether you're lying in the sun for hours, going for a swim or just relaxing: With these items in your beach bag, you'll be equipped for all situations.

• Beach towel or picnic blanket
• Light snacks & drinks
• Sun cream to reapply
• Sunglasses, hat, scarf
• Book or puzzle book
• Headphones or music box
• Rubbish bag (for a clean beach)
• Beach shell or small parasol if necessary

Family holiday at the beach: packing list for children

A beach holiday with children is a real highlight - but also a logistical challenge. The younger the children, the more extensive the packing list. Smart preparation will ensure that everyone stays relaxed - by the water, while playing or on the way to the nearest ice cream parlour.

This should definitely be in the children's suitcase:

• Several sets of comfortable clothes
• Swimsuit + UV-protective clothing
• Children's sun cream + sun hat
• Swimming aids or water wings
• Beach toys (bucket, shovel, ball etc.)
• Snacks, drinking bottle, bib
• Wet wipes, nappies, changing mat
• Small children's rucksack for toys
• First-aid kit with antipyretic, child-friendly nasal spray, plasters

Tip: A favourite cuddly toy or book helps with naps in the shade - or with the evening sleep routine.

Tips depending on destination and climate

Not every beach holiday is the same - the climate, infrastructure and luggage requirements vary depending on the region. While you should be prepared for the heat and sun in the Mediterranean, humidity and mosquito protection play a greater role in tropical regions. Use the following tips to adapt your packing list to your destination.

Beach holiday in Europe (e.g. Spain, Italy, Greece):

• Mosquito spray for balmy summer nights
• Light jacket or scarf for windy evenings
• Travel adapter (depending on accommodation)
• Sufficient sun cream (often more expensive on site)
• Sturdy shoes for cultural excursions or city tours

Combination of city & beach (e.g. Lisbon, Barcelona):

• Daypack with theft protection, e.g. the travelite Workfloow backpack
• Lightweight outfit for sightseeing
• Comfortable shoes for cobblestones
• Beach outfit ready to hand in the daypack

Tropical & long-distance travel (e.g. Thailand, Caribbean, Zanzibar):

• Vaccination certificates & health documents
• Mosquito net (depending on accommodation)
• Waterproof sun cream with high SPF
• Malaria protection (depending on the region)
• Thin, long-sleeved clothing against insects

Tip: For long-distance journeys or destinations with a changeable climate - such as South East Asia or the Canary Islands - we recommend a particularly robust suitcase such as the travelite Air Base Trolley. It offers you plenty of storage space, but remains light and flexible.

Conclusion: Relaxed packing, relaxed travelling

A well-prepared beach holiday doesn't just start with the first sunbath, but also with the packing. If you know what you really need, you can save space in your suitcase, avoid unnecessary baggage and enjoy your holiday right from the start.

Whether you are travelling alone, as a couple or with the whole family: with a structured packing list, you are equipped for all beach adventures. The right clothes, suitable sun protection, practical equipment and a few personal items are often enough to make you feel completely at ease - regardless of whether you're collecting shells on the North Sea or relaxing under palm trees.

So: go through your packing list, pack carefully - and then it's time to put on your sun hat, flip-flops and head off to the sea.

FAQ: The most frequently asked questions about your beach holiday packing list

What should you definitely not forget for a beach holiday?

In addition to swimwear and sun cream, a sun hat, sunglasses with UV protection, a light beach towel and plenty of fluids are essential.

What clothing is best for a beach holiday?

Airy, breathable clothing made of cotton or linen is ideal. This includes T-shirts, shorts, beach dresses and light evening wear. UV-protective clothing is recommended for strong sun.

How many swimming trunks or bikinis should I pack?

Two to three sets are a good idea so that you always have a dry set after swimming or washing - especially if you are travelling for longer periods or with children.

Do you need a first-aid kit on a beach holiday?

Yes, a small first-aid kit is useful - e.g. with painkillers, ointment for wounds, plasters, remedies for gastrointestinal complaints and sunburn. When travelling with children, also pack child-friendly medication.

How can I organise my luggage to save space?

Roll your clothes instead of folding them, use packing cubes or vacuum bags and limit yourself to combinable basics. A checklist will help you avoid unnecessary items.