We are LESS THAN THREE WEEKS AWAY from leaving on our first ever all inclusive beach vacation as a family. If it seems like I’m yelling, it’s because I totally am. Being that close to take-off also means it’s time for me to get my ass in gear and start figuring out what the hell beach vacation packing entails.
Road trip to Florida, where I have a washer and dryer in our room? Piece of cake. Planning for a week of straight up heat, water, and sand with no laundry to do. Well, that makes me both excited, and terrified. I’m going to go grab myself a margarita to get into the spirit, then we’ll deep dive into the beach vacation packing essentials, and some of my fun splurges! (psst, here’s the recipe for my go-to frozen strawberry margarita)
But First, Some Fun Stuff
I mean, I know, we need to remember to pack our underwear, and a mini pharmacy so that we don’t pay eight times the price when we need a tampon or some antacids. But…. isn’t an all-inclusive beach vacation all about spoiling ourselves! In that spirit, here are few little things I’ve picked up for myself to feel like a rock star while we’re away.
Beach Vacation Packing
Splurge #1: Bathing Suit
First up, was a new bathing suit. I saw this baby, and there was absolutely nothing I could do to stop myself from buying it. I’m pretty sure I phrased it to Bo as “But, it was TEAL, and crazy sexy, and SOOOO not the Mom style I would usually buy”. Plus, it looks freaking killer on me right now (thank you kettlebell and zumba classes of late!). I’ve also got to shout-out end of season clearance sales. It was marked down to $20 from $128!!! September is totally the time to do your bathing suit shopping!
What I’m saying, is TREAT YOURSELF! Don’t be self-conscious, don’t be worried about other people looking at you, or you not looking as thin, tanned, or toned as them. You know what changed my outlook? I joined a facebook group for the resort and looked at the pictures everyone was posting. I never noticed one roll or muffin top, one bikini too small, or one clump of cellulite. The first thing I always saw was how happy and confident the people were who were just wearing, and doing, whatever they wanted on vacation. So yeah, that’ll be me, at 37, in this killer bathing suit made for a 21 year old. Deal with it.
Beach Vacation Packing
Splurge #2: New Sunglasses
After deciding that a rock star bathing suit was a necessity, I figured it deserved some new accessories (can you feel Bo’s eyes rolling into the back of his head at this point?). I’m not one for a lot of jewellery, but sunglasses are another story.
I’ve got two pairs that I wear currently. A classic pair of Ray-Ban Aviators, because didn’t we all buy a pair of those about 15 years ago. Hallelujah, they didn’t go out of style, because I LOVE AVIATORS. I’ve also got pair of oversized burgundy plastic framed Burberry ones I got as a free second pair when I got my eye glasses a couple years ago. I seriously love how things just kinda work out for me.
But, as great as they are, burgundy frames just don’t scream white sand and turquoise water to me. And while I love those aviators, that new bathing suit of mine deserved something a little more…? Well, a little more this:
These oversized Dior Split beauties will be in my hands some time next week thanks to Smart Buy Glasses, and I can not WAIT to put them on. Like, I seriously can not wait. I think I may just stand by the door in my beach hat the day they’re delivered.
New sunglasses do not have to be expensive; but something fun, flashy, and a little bit outside of your normal style can sure boost up your spirit (and confidence, at least for me!).
Beach Vacation Packing
Splurge #3: A New Bag
This is the last little thing I’m picking up for myself before we go: a fun little duffle bag I can bring along with us. I know people will say to pack a beach bag, but that’s a one-use item and I try to stay away from those. Because we haven’t been a plane traveling family before, it means we’re lacking in beach vacation packing luggage.
I figured it was time to get myself a cute little weekender style duffle bag. I can use it as my carry-on bag for the plan rides, because I am bringing A LOT of stuff on that plane, lol. Then, when we’re there, it’s big enough to keep our hats, sunscreen, books, sunglasses, and the kids beach toys in. I’m getting a softer one, probably canvas, so it’s also nice and flexible. I want to be able to shove it out of my way, preferably under my beach lounge, lol!
Beach Vacation Packing Checklists
Alright, those are my top three fun things to pick up for yourself before heading on an all inclusive beach vacation. Holy, has the definition of fun every changed as I aged. Any way, now it’s time to get down to the nitty gritty of packing for everyone. At least I have to pack for everyone in our house. If you have somehow convinced everyone you live with to pack for themselves?!?! Teach me your ways. Please.
I’ve got one printable for the adults, and another one for the kids. Please, don’t forget any medications that you may have, that are specific to you. If I had listed all of ours, I would have needed a third sheet. 37 going on 82 around here.
Oh, and if there’s something I’ve forgotten to add? TELL ME! In fact, let me know your favourite things to bring on vacation in the comments. I love hearing everyone’s tips and tricks!
Let me know below!