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A Minimalists Guide to Packing Light

Posted on July 07 2022

Those of us who live for a beach vacay have been keeping an eye on the current travel situations and although we all know how hectic airports can be, in these times it feels as if that’s been amplified to epic proportions! Stressful stories of long lines to check baggage and even more horrendous tales of luggage being lost somewhere along the way. We’re big fans of packing light and bringing only carry-on luggage if we can help it so we’ve made a handy dandy list of the things we always take on a beach vacation that can fit into one (yes one!) carry-on bag.

The Perfect One Piece Swimsuit

 A beach vacay is the perfect opportunity to spend the week living in your swimsuit. If you’re a one piece fan, consider one that can double as a bodysuit and you can pair it with a skirt or flowy pants for cocktails or shopping.  If you're having trouble choosing the perfect one for you, check out our blog post on choosing the perfect one piece swimsuit here.

      

A Black Bikini

 I’ve said it a million times before and I'm sure I'll say it until the end of my days:
“Everyone should own at least one black bikini!”
It’s as much a wardrobe staple as the ‘little black dress’ in my humble opinion. Also, a good pair of black bikini bottoms can be mixed and matched with tops of any colour on days when you don’t feel like being so matchy-matchy.  You can shop our entire collection of black swim here!

      

Reversible/Convertible Swim Pieces

Reversible and convertible bikinis and one pieces are fab if you aren’t a fan of wearing the same swimsuit twice. We’re big fans of the Colombian brand Maaji as most of their pieces are reversible (2 suits in 1!) and some can be worn back to front and front to back (4 suits in1!)

       

Cover Ups & Resort Wear

Beach cover ups that can double as streetwear are a great space saver! Look for cover ups that aren't too sheer and can be worn as dresses or beach shirts that can be tied or tucked into shorts for all purpose wear.  We also love wearing beach skirts with a one piece swimsuit: instant streetwear!

        

Packable Hats

Hats are a necessity to protect your face from the harsh rays of the sun but packing them can be a nuisance. Having to lay your pristine new hat flat against the bottom of your case and stuff the brim with various pieces of clothing and praying that it doesn’t get all crushed and bent out of shape before you even get the chance to wear it is no fun at all. The solution: crushable hats! We love these ones from Seafolly, L*Space, and Vitamin A. You can roll them, smoosh them, toss them in your case and re-shape them when you unpack. Easy peasy!

      

Sandals

No other shoe packs as well as flip flops! Their flatness makes them a breeze for throwing in your carry-on. Whether you like a thong-style sandal or a slide or one of each, pack at least one in a neutral hue that can be matched with most or all of your beach ensembles. We love these from Malvados for their style, comfort, and versatility.

     

Sunscreen & Skin Care

Sunscreen and toiletries packed in under 100ml containers are plane friendly!
We have a serious obsession with Salt & Stone’s sunscreens (they’re reef safe!), deodorants (all natural formulations!), and skincare products! Our picks below are all under 100ml so you can chuck ‘em in your clear travel bag and breeze through security in a snap!

    

An Extra Bag

A bag that can fold up into itself and be tucked in the side pocket of your case is so so useful! It can double as a beach bag or an extra shopping bag.