When it comes to packing for summer, I always thought I was a packing pro! It usually seemed so easy. Off the top of my head, I could say ensure you have a swimsuit, sunglasses, and a cute sandal.
But every time I go on a summer trip, I end up thinking, “Why didn’t I pack that?” or worse, spending a small fortune at the most overpriced gift shop buying things I didn’t even know I needed.
So in the spirit of saving, you from my mistakes and making your summer vacay extra smooth, here’s a list of summer vacation essentials you never knew you needed, but trust me, you totally do.
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Summer vacation essentials 2025
I know many are all about fall. But trust me, I am still in summer mood. I just returned from an epic summer vacation visiting 3 countries and guys my heart is full.
Let’s talk about my summer vacation essentials that made it all worth it for me.
Portable Handheld Fan with a Spray Mist
You haven’t experienced true summer bliss until you’ve misted your face while vacationing in 35°C heat. I picked one up on a whim last year before a trip to Tanzania, and now I refuse to travel without it. It’s like having your own personal air-conditioner that fits in your beach bag. Bonus points if it comes with a rechargeable battery. Thank me later.
Microfiber Towel
I used to travel with one of those chunky cotton towels that weighed like 3kg when wet, and trust me, it was always a big mistake. Then I discovered the magic of microfiber towels. They’re lightweight, dry in minutes, and somehow still manage to be soft enough for a quick beach nap. Plus, they fold down tiny, which means more room in your bag for the other essentials.
Waterproof Phone Pouch That Lets You Text Through It
One time I almost dropped my phone in a lagoon trying to take a Boomerang. Thanks to waterproof pouches now, no panic again. These waterproof pouches are not just for kayaking and snorkeling. I use mine at the poolside, beachside, even when I’m caught in a random tropical downpour. You can still scroll TikTok through it, and some are even clear enough for selfies.
Foldable Beach Mat With Built-In Pillow
Let me paint a picture for you. Once, I was at the beach, trying to prop my head up with a rolled-up towel that kept flopping over. Then someone walks by with a mat that has a built-in inflatable pillow and I’ve never felt envy like that before. I bought mine immediately, and now I’m that person everyone stares at in admiration. Total game-changer.
Solid Toiletries
You haven’t known true heartbreak until your shampoo leaks everywhere and your sunscreen explodes onto your white linen shirt. Now, I’ve made the switch to solid shampoo, conditioner bars, and even solid SPF. With these, I experience no mess and no liquid limits. And they last way longer than you’d expect. I now travel like a minimalist queen but still smell like a tropical goddess.
After-Sun Gel With Aloe And Hyaluronic Acid
Listen, we all intend to reapply sunscreen every two hours, but sometimes cocktails happen. And when they do, you’ll be grateful for an after-sun gel that goes beyond basic aloe. I once got the worst sunburn on my chest looking like a lobster had punched me. A friend introduced me to this gel that combines aloe with hyaluronic acid. It gave me instant relief, and my skin didn’t peel. If I could marry a skincare product, this might be it.
Yes style some of the best sun screen on the market perfect for all skin types and my favorite is Jumiso. love it down. Click here to shop it and get extra 5% off.
Mini First Aid Kit
I didn’t think I needed one until I did. A friend of mine scraped her ankle on coral while in Zanzibar. She initially felt it was nothing serious but it stung like crazy and she had no first aid kit with her.
Since then, I’ve learned to carry a mini first-aid kit with blister plasters, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, and even a safety pin or two. It weighs basically nothing and has saved me so many times.
Lightweight Sarong
I once underestimated the power of a good sarong. But after using mine as a towel, beach cover-up, scarf, head wrap, makeshift picnic mat, and once even as a carry-on blanket on a freezing flight, I became a believer. Get one in a bold print and it doubles as a style statement too. It’s giving versatility and main character energy.
Mini-Sized Refillable Perfume Atomizer
You know that sad moment when you realize your full-size perfume bottle is too big for carry-on? Devastating. That is, until I found these mini perfume atomizers you can refill in seconds. I now carry my signature scent with me everywhere, perfect for post-beach touch-ups or when you’re heading straight from a boat ride to sunset dinner.
Insulated Water Bottle
Staying hydrated in the sun is a must, but I refuse to carry a bottle that turns my bag into a swamp. I got this insulated bottle last year, and it keeps my water icy cold all day and never leaks or sweats. It’s the unsung hero of summer travel. I even fill it with infused water (mint + lemon is elite) and feel like I’ve got my life together.
Tiny Portable Speaker
I used to think portable speakers were unnecessary until I ended up at the world’s quietest beach picnic. Like, vibes were great, the sunset was setting, but it needed music. Now I carry this tiny speaker that’s somehow loud enough to get people dancing but small enough to fit in my fanny pack. It is perfect for hotel pre-games, beach hangouts, or impromptu dance battles in your Airbnb kitchen.
Cooling Eye Patches
Summer is fun, but it’s also sun, sweat, and the occasional 2AM cocktails-and-dancing situation that comes with the under-eye puff. I started packing a few cooling gel eye patches, and now I pop them on while sipping iced coffee and pretending I’m in a spa.
Which of this summer vacation essentials are your favorite? What makes your travel packing list? Let me know in the comments below. Au revoir.
