So, you’re heading to Hilton Head Island for a beach vacation? Excellent choice.

Before you start daydreaming about building sandcastles or floating in the waves, let’s talk about what to pack. Why? Because nothing ruins a perfect beach vacation like realizing you forgot the sunscreen (among other essentials).

Stick around and find out what your beach bag should have before you go to the seaside in Hilton Head.

Sunscreen: Your Skin’s Best Friend

Let’s start with the obvious. The South Carolina sun is gorgeous, but it doesn’t play around. A solid sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is a must. And no, the bottle you found in the back of your closet from three summers ago won’t cut it.

Lather up, reapply often, and don’t forget those sneaky spots — ears, feet, and the tops of your shoulders.

Your future self will thank you.

The Right Beachwear

Packing for the beach might seem simple, but there’s a fine line between “prepared” and “dragging half your closet onto the sand.”

When choosing beachwear, don’t forget swimsuits. Of course, also bring a comfy cover-up, flip-flops that won’t betray you with every step, and a wide-brimmed hat for extra sun protection.

Towels and Chairs

The beach is all about relaxation, but it’s hard to enjoy the view when you’re shaking sand out of places it doesn’t belong. This is why you’ll also need a good beach towel.

And if you plan on spending the day soaking up the sun, a lightweight beach chair will save you from the endless battle of trying to sit comfortably in shifting sand.

Snacks and Drinks

If you think you can spend a full beach day without snacks, you’re either a superhero or you’ve never been to the beach before. Pack plenty of easy, sand-proof options — fruit, crackers, and anything that won’t melt into an unrecognizable mess.

And don’t forget water — lots of it. After all, the sun and ocean breeze are sneaky when it comes to dehydration, and nothing ruins a beach day like feeling woozy before lunch.

Beach Toys and Games

Whether you’re traveling with kids or are just a kid at heart, a little entertainment goes a long way.

For the little ones, pack buckets and shovels for sandcastle engineering, a frisbee for some beachside action, or a football or volleyball for the classic Top Gun beachside homage.

If you’re feeling competitive, a paddle ball set might just settle some family bragging rights.

The “Just in Case” Bag

You might not think you need an extra bag of supplies, but experience says otherwise.

Right off the bat, you’ll need baby powder, extra ziplock bags for wet swimsuits, and some aloe vera for those moments when you swore you applied enough sunscreen but clearly did not.

Also, bring a plastic bag for trash. After all, Hilton Head’s beaches are beautiful, so it’s best to keep them that way.

All Set?

Packing for the beach is all about finding that balance between being prepared and not hauling an entire suitcase through the dunes. A little planning goes a long way, and once you’re set up on the sand with a cold drink in hand, you’ll be glad you came prepared.

Hilton Head is waiting. If you need a spot that’s close to it all, book your next beach vacation at one of Beachside Hilton Head’s charming vacation rentals!