The Ultimate Beach Trip Packing List for Europe
Later in this post I share a few affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you click on them and make a purchase, at no cost to you. I really appreciate your support!
EUROPE’S BEACHES ARE EVER SO SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT THAN THE ONES IN THE UNITED STATES.
Their sand is rugged and natural, their shores often dotted with coves and inlets only reachable by boat.
They are often separated into beach clubs (lido, or stabilimento, in Italian,) with lounge chairs and umbrellas for daily rental, or free public beaches (spiagge libere) where you can just lay your towel directly on the sand.
And the water!
The Mediterranean is so salty that when you emerge from its waters, there is this pleasant tingling all over your skin as though you’ve just experienced a fantastic spa treatment.
But I digress.
WHO DOESN’T LOVE A BEACH TRIP?
If you’re lucky enough to be spending a few days at the beach during your next trip to Europe, then you’re probably wondering:
What should I pack for a European Beach trip?
Below is a beach trip packing list built from my many visits to beaches in France, Italy, and Greece.
The Ultimate Beach Trip Packing List for Europe
Bikinis and Beachwear
Swimsuits
Cover-up or sarong
Sundresses
Lightweight shorts or linen pants
Crop or tank tops
Light sweater or shawl for cooler evenings
Undergarments
YOU SHOULD FEEL CONFIDENT WEARING WHATEVER BATHING SUIT STYLE FITS YOUR FANCY ON THE BEACHES OF EUROPE.
Just like in the US, bikinis are a classic choice, but so are one pieces and cut-out styles.
If you forget to pack a swimsuit and need to buy one in Europe, here are the brands I would suggest:
Eres, a French swimwear brand revered for its luxurious fabrics and sophisticated cuts.
Marysia, one of my favorite Charleston-launched (now Manhattan-based) fashion brands, their suits are made of premium Italian fabrics
Vilebrequin, a swimwear brand founded in St. Tropez in the sixties known for its colorful patterns and handmade craftsmanship
Kampos, a sustainable swimwear brand from Italy making stylish suits for men, women, and children
In Greece, I couldn’t help but buy the colorful beach cover-ups that are so popular there, but I also like to just tie a Turkish towel around my waist as a sarong.
I USUALLY PACK ONE OR TWO SUNDRESSES THAT CAN TRANSITION FROM THE BEACH TO DINNER AFTERWARDS.
If you’re spending multiple days at the beach and want more variety with your wardrobe, then pack shorts or linen pants along with tank tops, crop tops, or linen button-downs.
If you want to quickly change out of wet bikini bottoms as soon as you leave the beach, don’t forget to pack underwear in your beach bag.
(Psst! Read my list of the top beach destinations in Europe here. 🏖️)
Beach Footwear
Espadrilles
Beach sandals
Flip flops
Since beaches in Europe can have pebble-like or volcanic rock sand, a cheap pair of flat soled sandals may not be the best option.
Instead, opt for something a little more substantial, like Birkenstocks EVA beach sandals or Spanish-made espadrille flats by Viscata.
For Europe’s beaches, skip the flip flops and invest in a sturdy pair of espadrilles.
Espadrilles are a perfect footwear option, really — they’re much more at home in Europe, and great at protecting your feet from sweltering sand.
THERE ARE SO MANY GREAT FASHION VERSIONS, TOO.
Of course the Chanel espadrilles are a classic, and Aquazzura’s espadrilles are so, so comfortable.
(Flip flops are a good option if you're at a hotel pool, but they tend to kick up sand on the beach, so I prefer the EVAs.)
Beach Accessories
Beach tote
Towel or Turkish towel
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Headphones or earbuds
Book or Kindle
Thermal phone case
Small change purse or wallet for cash
Reusable water bottle
Portable handheld fan
Waterproof or thermal phone pouch
A spacious beach tote is a must, but don’t stress out too much about the style.
If you’re picking up a beach tote on your travels, French filet bags are a classic choice (I have this version from Longchamp) and the Loewe Basket Bag is a modern icon.
I ALWAYS PACK MY OWN TOWEL IN EUROPE AS MOST BEACH CLUBS USUALLY DON’T OFFER THEM.
(Italian beach clubs sometimes offer towels, while Greek beach bars are less likely to; it really comes down to the location and the specific clubs.)
If you prefer that classic beach towel feel, then this lightweight option by Dock & Bay will pack easy.
If you’re open to different materials, I’d suggest a Turkish towel — made of lightweight fabric, Turkish towels are super easy to pack and dry quickly.
Beach totes need to be large enough to carry essentials, like a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a book.
Plus, Turkish towels look really chic wrapped around your waist as a sarong.
This version from Sand Cloud is luxe and versatile, while this one offers a lot more color options.
SUNGLASSES ARE, OF COURSE, A MUST-HAVE ON A BEACH NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE.
Because I have such fair skin, I usually try to pack a sun hat anytime I go to the beach, too.
If it’s going to be especially hot, or if you’ve had a problem with your smartphone overheating in the past, then I suggest bringing a thermal phone case for protection.
(If you’ve never had your smartphone overheat before, it usually means it’ll be out of commission for at least an hour.)
ON THE OTHER HAND, IF YOU’RE KEEN ON USING YOUR PHONE TO TAKE PHOTOS NEAR THE OCEAN, A WATERPROOF CASE IS A GOOD IDEA TO TAKE ALONG.
Sun Protection Products
SPF sunscreen
SPF lip balm
Hydrating facial mist
Hair UV protection
Sunscreen is maybe the most important beauty product to pack for the beach?
AS A PALE PERSON, I AM VERY PRO-SUNSCREEN AND WON’T EVEN STEP ONTO A BEACH WITHOUT IT!
I love La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios sunscreen range for its strong UV protection and comfortable-on-your-skin formulas.
As a pale beach-goer, I need strong SPF to avoid burning on beach days.
I’m not a suntan lotion girlie (too pale!), but it's not uncommon to see women on European beaches slathering on sun enhancing lotions and oils.
If these products are part of your tanning regimen, you’ll fit right in. 😄
IN THAT SAME VEIN, A MOISTURIZING LIP BALM WITH SPF WILL PREVENT CHAPPED LIPS AND SUN DAMAGE.
I also like to pack a hydrating face mist to refresh and soothe my skin whenever I need a little cool-down.
Be sure to protect your hair from UV damage, too, especially if you’re on a #longhairjourney like myself.
I love Oribe’s Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil to protect my strands from heat and UV damage.
After-Sun Care
After-sun lotion
Comb or detangling brush
Face & body moisturizer
Beach wave spray
Clarifying shampoo & conditioner
Travel-size deodorant
Perfume roller or mini spray
Wet wipes or refreshing towelettes
I ALWAYS PACK AN AFTER-SUN MOISTURIZER WHEN I’M HEADING TO THE BEACH.
Even if I apply sunscreen like a champ and leave the beach without a sunburn, my skin is crying out for some moisture after hours in the sun.
I love the cooling feel of the Sun Bum Cool Down Aloe Vera Lotion — bonus points if you pop it in the hotel minibar for thirty minutes before applying. 🥶
After the beach, we usually head straight to dinner, so a quick spray of Oribe Après Beach Wave and Shine brings my waves back to life after swimming in the ocean.
LATER, I’LL USE A CLARIFYING SHAMPOO TO MAKE SURE MY SCALP IS FREE OF SAND AND SWEAT.
I think it’s also a good idea to pack a travel-sized deodorant or even a perfume roller for a quick freshen up after the beach, too.
And running a make-up wipe over your face to remove bits of sand is a must!
European Beach Etiquette
Europe’s beaches are often rocky, like this one in Capri, Italy.
Private beach clubs are popular, too, like this on in Cefalú, Italy.
Don’t assume all beaches are public
Many European beaches, especially in Italy, France, and parts of Spain and Greece, have privately managed beach sections called lidos, bagni, or plages privées.
These areas offer lounge chairs, umbrellas, changing rooms, restrooms and showers, but you’ll need to pay a daily fee to use them.
Respect nudist zones and take part if you’re comfortable
Topless sunbathing is common in France, Spain, and parts of Italy and Greece.
Never photograph or stare at other beachgoers!
European beaches have a relaxed vibe
Don’t ruin it with loud music or rowdy behavior.
Bring cash for beach clubs or lidos
Many beach clubs don’t accept cards, so be sure to have cash for renting loungers or umbrellas.
You’ll also want cash on hand to buy drinks or snacks.
International Travel Essentials
Phone battery backup powerbank
EU converter plugs
eSIM
Passport
Camera, charger, and memory card
Medications
ON TOP OF THE NECESSARY BEACH GEAR, THERE ARE ALSO THE ESSENTIAL ITEMS REQUIRED FOR TRAVELING INTERNATIONALLY.
Things like passports, plug converters, and eSIMs will need to be added to your packing list if you’re heading to a European beach like the Amalfi Coast.
Luckily, I have an entire explainer post about these items that MUST be packed for any trip to Europe, which you can read here.
And finally, one item you should arrange before your departure is travel insurance.
SAFETYWING IS A POPULAR CHOICE FOR TRAVEL INSURANCE, AND EVEN HAS AN ADVENTURE SPORTS ADD-ON IF YOU PLAN TO DIVE, SNORKEL, OR SURF.
Conclusion
Do you have to pack a lot to enjoy your European beach trip?
ABSOLUTELY NOT!
Sundresses pack easily in hand luggage, and Turkish towels take up less suitcase space than traditional options.
Most of these sun protection and after-sun care products come in travel sizes that you can stock up on before your trip.
And if you forget something, local pharmacies stock similar products in a pinch.
THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IS TO ENJOY YOURSELF, THE SUN, AND THE FREEDOM OF SUNBATHING IN A CULTURE THAT THINKS YOUR BODY LOOKS GREAT — JUST THE WAY IT IS. 😉
Safe travels, and have an unforgettable time at the beach!
Until next time,
Angela 🏄
PLANNING A VACATION?
When you book through my links, you help support the site — at no extra cost to you.
Thanks for being a part of the Notes From Here journey! ❤️
💃 Book Tours and Experiences with Viator
🛎️ Find Hotels with Booking.com
🚗 Find a Rental Car with Discover Cars
🛡️ Get Travel Insurance with SafetyWing
🚄 Book a Train or Bus with Omio