Just like any jet setter, I love a good getaway moment. I’m always ready for a road trip, especially when it ends at the beach. Florida during the winter has my whole heart. Think Miami, Palm Beach, Naples… truly unmatched. And of course, I’ll never say no to an island escape either.
When it comes to resort trips, I’m very intentional about what I pack. I love bringing toiletries and beach essentials that can multitask and be shared with Hancy Hubby, and I approach outfits the same way. I try to mix and match pieces to create new looks without overpacking, which is something I'm excited to say that I've been getting better at. The goal is finding items that can have multi-use.
Here are my go-to resort essentials, and the items I bring without hesitation every single time:
1. Sunscreen (the real MVP)
Knowing I’ll be spending most of my days outdoors, sunscreen is completely non-negotiable for me. It’s not just something I apply once in the morning and forget about, but reapplying throughout the day is key, especially after swimming or long sun exposure. My sensitive skin does best with Sun Bum, and I love that it’s easy to use, gentle, and doesn’t leave me feeling greasy or irritated. Protecting my skin always comes first, even on vacation.
2. Aloe Vera
Even with the best sunscreen habits, it’s hard to avoid a little extra pink after long days in the sun. After beach and pool time, I make aloe vera part of my evening routine and continue applying it right up until bedtime. It helps calm my skin, keeps everything hydrated, and prevents peeling, which is especially important when I’m spending multiple days in a row outside. I like to think of it as my skin’s overnight recovery moment.
3. Sunglasses or Sunhat
I love a staying in the shade moment, especially lounging under an open cabana, staring out at the ocean, listening to resort music and ambient sounds (absolute perfection), and of course with a plate of fresh fruit nearby. But when I’m not in the shade, sunglasses or a sunhat are essential. They offer extra protection for my eyes and face while also pulling together any beach or poolside look effortlessly.
4. A beach bag for essentials.
I try to keep things light and easy when I’m hanging by the beach or pool, but a good beach bag is still a must. I love one that’s roomy enough for my essentials, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, chapstick (if you know you know), and beach towel, while still being cute and functional. Bonus points for not looking or feeling bulky, and of course protect everything from the beach sand and ocean spray.
5. Super cute flip flops.
I’m a big shoe girl, so even on vacation, I have high standards for my shoes (pun intended). Whether I’m walking to the pool, grabbing lunch, or heading back to my room after the beach, I love flip flops or slides that are full of color but still offer good support. I My favorites are the jelly slides from Tory Burch and the spa like Elle flip flops from Oka-B. I have my Elle's for almost 10 years and still my ultimate go to. They comfortable enough to wear all day without sacrificing style.
6. A lightweight cover-up or wrap.
This is one of my favorite multitasking pieces to pack. A great cover-up can take you from poolside lounging to a casual lunch without needing a full outfit change. I also love using it in the evenings as an outfit when there’s a light breeze.
7. A hydrating face mist.
Between the sun, saltwater, chlorine, and warm weather, my skin needs extra hydration throughout the day. A face mist is perfect for quick refreshes and helps keep my skin feeling calm and balanced. It’s also such a nice little pick me up during the afternoon, and becomes also a part of my evening skincare routine.
8. One versatile outfit that does it all.
I always pack at least one outfit that can transition throughout the day with minimal effort. Something that works for breakfast, lounging, and a casual dinner with just a shoe or accessory change. Having a few versatile pieces like this makes packing feel intentional and helps me avoid bringing things I end up not wearing.
At the end of the day, resort packing for me is all about ease, intention, and enjoying the moment. The fewer decisions I have to make once I arrive, the more I can slow down, soak up the sunshine, and fully enjoy that vacation state of mind 🌊✨.
