Beach holidays need less packing than you might think, but a few items make a big difference, especially on islands with limited shops.
Clothing
- Swimwear (two sets so one can dry).
- Light, breathable clothes in cotton or linen.
- A cover-up or sarong for walking to and from the beach.
- One modest outfit for temples or villages; many beach destinations, such as Phuket and Bali, have temples with dress codes.
- A light jacket for air-conditioned interiors and boat rides.
- Flip-flops and water shoes for rocky beaches and coral.
Sun protection
- High-SPF sunscreen, ideally reef-safe.
- Sunglasses and a hat.
- After-sun lotion or aloe gel.
- Lip balm with SPF.
For the water
- A dry bag for phones and documents on boat trips.
- A waterproof phone pouch.
- Your own snorkel mask if you are particular about fit; most resorts and tours provide equipment.
- Anti-fog solution for masks.
Health
- Motion-sickness tablets for boat transfers, such as to Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) or the Maldives.
- Insect repellent.
- Basic first aid, including plasters for coral cuts and antiseptic.
- Rehydration salts.
Documents and money
- Cash for islands where ATMs are scarce.
- Printed ferry or seaplane bookings.
- Travel insurance details. If you plan to dive, check it is covered.
Electronics
- Power bank and charging cables.
- A universal adapter for international trips.
- A waterproof action camera if you like underwater photos.
Leave behind
Expensive jewellery, too many shoes and heavy books. Many resorts in the Maldives have libraries and board games.
See Beach holidays and Island holidays for itineraries.
When to go
When to go
When to go
When to go