You’re laying in bed, binge-watching Friends for the millionth time, when you suddenly notice your “Girl Gang” group chat is blowing up your phone.
“Grab your stuff ladies! We have spring break plans,” types one of your friends.
After you feel the excitement wash over you, a thought hits: “What in the world am I gonna pack?!”
Scrambling to pack a bag last-minute really can kill your pre-trip vibe. But don’t stress out too much. When it comes to prepping for unexpected trips, pack lightly with small, multi-use items. That way, you won’t need to lug around a heavy load or worry about your bag fitting into a car trunk or overhead bin.
Whether you’re planning a day trip in the sun or a week in South Florida, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to discover 11 must-have, easy-to-pack items for your beachy break trip.
Sunscreen
Yes, what the experts say is true. Sunscreen is uber important when it comes to maintaining the health of your skin and preventing premature aging. Many doctors encourage a daily layer of SPF, so it goes without saying that a day on the beach is a no-go unless you have plenty of sunscreen on hand. One of our personal favorites is COOLA’s Mineral Body Sunscreen Lotion. It’s fragrance-free, super hydrating and safe for sensitive skin types.
Moisturizer
Laying out in the sun, splashing around in chlorinated pools and not keeping hydrated can leave your skin feeling dry and dull. To maintain your natural spring break glow, be sure to apply a moisturizer in the morning and at night. Just choose a formula that works well with your skin type. For instance, if you have a more oily complexion, opt for an oil-free lotion. If your skin is more prone to dryness, choose a heavier cream. No matter which kind you choose, commit to consistent application. Hydrated skin looks great and bounces back better from sunburns.
No-Makeup Makeup
Though we recommend that you pack lightly for your spring break, there is no need to sacrifice your glossy lips and groomed brows for extra bag space. All you need to nail the perfect off-duty look is a few key products. A clear brow gel, highlighting powder, lip gloss, tinted moisturizer and mascara can work wonders. Aside from the fact that natural beauty is stunning, real talk, you probably won’t be able to maintain a full beat when you’re sweating all day long. So, leave your loose powder and lip liner at home. You’ll thank us later!
Mix-and-Matchable Swimwear
A bathing suit is probably the first thing you’ll think to toss into your bag, so it’s easy forget to plan out ways to style your swimwear. Keeping in mind that you may wind up wearing a bathing suit for around 50% of your trip, you’ll want to be sure you feel fierce in it. To double up on looks without halving your bag space, choose two bathing suits that work well together. That way, you can mix and match the tops and bottoms to create four distinct outfits. If you are interested in comfy, cute swimwear styles, check out Aerie’s collection. Complete your bikinis with a pair of denim shorts and your favorite sunnies, and you’ll be good to go!
Maxi Dress
Flowy maxi dresses are ideal for vacations because they’re lightweight, easy to pack and can be dressed up or down. You can throw a maxi dress over your bikini and head to brunch, or you can pair it with wedges and a slick ponytail for a luxe dinner. Either way, this wardrobe staple is equal parts glamour and comfort. If you are a fan of effortless glam, check out Faviana style 9431. Best of all, a wardrobe staple like this is a go-to even after your vacation. You can pair it with gladiator sandals and loose waves and head to a music festival, or you can wear it to a special occasion like a summer wedding!
Spring Break Sunnies
Sunglasses are definitely a must-have. They protect your eyes from the sun’s harsh rays, hold back your hair like a headband, and block out the haters. Just like a trusty handbag, a stylish pair of sunnies are just as fashionable as they are functional. If you’re in the market for trendy sunglasses that won’t break the bank, shop V BY VYE’s Classic Collection.
Water Bottle
Hydration is key to solving all your problems. Well, maybe not all of your problems, but chugging enough H20 will have your skin glowing, your metabolism revving, your body moving well, your brain thinking clearly, and so much more. As mentioned previously, sunny beach days are dehydrating, and the best way to combat dehydration is to drink water! Though you can find water anywhere, a reusable water bottle is much more sturdy and environmentally friendly. And remember, sustainability is chic. So toss your favorite water bottle into your bag before heading out the door!
Hair Mask
Hair care, just like skincare, becomes all the more important when you spend the day catching rays. Salty water and chlorine are brutal on your hair, so it is important to show your locks plenty of love after a beach day. After you wash your hair, apply a generous amount of your favorite hair mask and wait 20-30 minutes. Then, rinse it out before leaving it to air dry. Looking for a new conditioning product? Try out Redken’s All Soft Deep Conditioning Mega Mask to restore your hair’s natural bounce and sheen.
Waterproof Phone Case
Have you ever had a mini heart attack after your phone falls into the shower or a puddle? We’ve all been there. If you are going to be poolside this spring break, spare yourself the stress by purchasing a waterproof phone case. Aside from the drop protection, you’ll also be better able to capture some incredible pics for the ‘gram! If you are particularly serious about safeguarding your phone, consider investing in a LifeProof case.
Wireless Speaker
A spring break trip would not be complete without a legendary playlist, but you don’t want to be that group on the beach crowded around a tiny cell phone speaker. Instead, pack a portable bluetooth speaker. That way, you can show the whole beach what real music taste sounds like. Or at least you can show your friends what songs you’ve been obsessed with lately.
Sarong
Keeping with the packing strategy of less-is-more, a sarong is a wonderful two-in-one item to utilize on your getaway. A sarong is a large swath of fabric that originated in the Malay Archipelago. They are usually colorful or beautifully patterned, and they can be wrapped and tied around the body in many different ways. Best of all, the wrap can also function as a beach blanket. Lay it down in the sand, set up your speaker, and voilà, a picnic-perfect set up.
Do you have any more items to add to our list? Comment them down below, or share them with us by tagging us on Instagram @Faviana or on Twitter @FavianaNY. Also, follow us on Snapchat @Faviana_NY and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up to date with our latest vlogs.
Stay safe this spring break!
With love,
Erica
Written by Erica Fouts
