Tomorrow we’re going to be taking a long-awaited beach trip. Ever since our minimoon to Koh Samui last year in July, we have been to several beaches and islands such as Koh Samed, Hua Hin and Pattaya but we’ve been yearning for some greater adventures and relaxation time.

After months of seeing some stunning pictures on instagram of Koh Nang Yuan, I decided it’s a must visit and in 1 or 2 days we had booked our flight and hotel in Koh Tao. 

Anyways, so in anticipation of the trip, we’ve been thinking about what we should take with us. We want to pack light but at the same time, we need to make sure we have everything necessary for our adventures. We also like to look good when we travel and if you do too, you soon realize it can be tricky. 

So here’s my ‘packing for the beach’ list and if you’re a girl, check out the Women’s Edition of this post.

Clothes

Before I used to carry 2 to 3 shirts for everyday of the week, which meant there was of a combination of at least 15 pairs of t-shirts, shirts and tanks. I’d carry way too much of useless items. I’d even throw in a pair of jeans if I was going to go to  a nice bar or club.

However, this time, I’m going to carry half of the stuff – 4 or 5 pairs of tops, 2 shorts and no jeans. Packing light is going to be essential because it’s not as easy as getting on a plane, into a taxi and to the hotel. We’re going by plane to Surat Thani, then a bus to the pier where a ferry will take us to the island where we’ll have to take taxi or van. Last thing I need is to be lugging a heavy bag around with me.

So I’m packing:

  • 2 V-neck t-shirts
  • 2 tank tops for the beach and gym
  • 1 shirt for a romantic dinner and night out
  • 2 Pair of shorts for swimming and leisure time
  • Instead of jeans, track pants or temple pants for the gym
  • 4 boxer shorts
  • Flipflops (although I’m not a big fan of shoes that don’t cover my feet but at the beach it’s fine)
  • Slip-on, lace-less shoes that aren’t slippery (for climbing and hiking)

Tip for self and others: hand wash clothes to re-wear them for another day. Most hotels and resorts have laundry but they can be quite expensive.

Accessories & Health Carebeach accessories

  • Toothbrush & toothpaste (duh!)
  • Antiperspirant deodorant and cologne – gotta smell good at all times
  • UV protection sunscreen for face and body
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Ocean Pack bag for keeping all our stuff dry – these are great. I got mine last year in Koh Samui. You can find them in different sizes at beach shops at bargain prices

 

 

Since I also love checking out (and using) the gyms at every hotel or resort I go to, I also always have to carry my No Pain No Gain protein shaker and tumbler that I got from Nutrition Depot. It’s lightweight and fits right in my bag. 

 

 

GadgetsElectronics for the beach

This has become more important than having the clothes for me, especially for the beach or adventure trips. To capture the best moments, I have to take:

  • Sony Alpha 5000 mirror-less camera
  • Tripod for camera
  • GoPro with stick for snorkeling and water activities
  • Macbook to load up the pictures and videos as we go and to write notes from the trip
  • Wallet Ninja because it is just so darn handy and lightweight, you have to!

 

So there it is, my list of things to carry this trip. What about you – what’s your packing style?