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What should I pack for a week in the sun?

Holiday checklist items that you should always include:
  • Shorts.
  • Sun hat.
  • Sun dress.
  • Flip flops.
  • Beach towels.
  • Beach bag.
  • Sun cream.
  • Swimming costumes.




For a week-long sun-soaked getaway in 2026, the key is high-quality protection and breathable fabrics. Pack at least two UV-rated swimsuits so one can dry while you wear the other. Lightweight linen or cotton "cover-ups" are essential for transitioning from beach to bistro. Do not forget a wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes and face from intense glare. For skincare, bring a high-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen (to protect marine ecosystems) and a soothing aloe-based after-sun gel. Footwear should include comfortable waterproof sandals for the sand and one pair of stylish walking shoes for evening strolls. A compact, sand-resistant microfiber towel and a waterproof phone pouch are "pro-tips" that make beach logistics much easier. Finally, pack a lightweight "evening layer" like a silk scarf or thin cardigan, as coastal breezes can turn chilly once the sun sets, ensuring you remain comfortable throughout the entire trip.

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Do the clothing countdown: If you need a mantra to help streamline your wardrobe, use the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rule for a weeklong trip: Limit yourself to no more than five sets of socks and underwear, four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes and one hat.

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“As a general rule of thumb, if I'm going away for a seven-night beach holiday, I'd pack two to three pieces of swimwear (so that they have time to dry in between), a pair of shorts and a couple of skirts, four tops that match all my shorts and skirts, and a dress in case I go somewhere special,” Mak told AFAR in 2017.

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What not to pack: 10 items you really shouldn't take on holiday
  • Toiletries.
  • Holiday reading.
  • Clothes (you bought at the last minute)
  • Salad cream.
  • Hair straighteners.
  • Valuables.
  • Towels.
  • Guidebooks.


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If you have unlimited suitcase space and don't want to do any laundry, a two-week trip means packing 14/2 = 7 bras and at least 14 pairs of underwear. That consumes a lot of valuable suitcase space! To reduce the number of pieces that need to be packed, simply commit to doing laundry on the road.

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Here are six easy tips for packing a week's worth of clothes in your carry-on.
  1. Go someplace warm. If you're planning a vacation, choose your weather wisely. ...
  2. Wear your layers. ...
  3. Roll your clothes in your carry-on. ...
  4. Use your shoes wisely. ...
  5. Embrace minimalism. ...
  6. Do laundry.


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Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.

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Holiday checklist items that you should always include:
  • Shorts.
  • Sun hat.
  • Sun dress.
  • Flip flops.
  • Beach towels.
  • Beach bag.
  • Sun cream.
  • Swimming costumes.


MORE DETAILS

However, breaking into a sweat isn't the only thing that should prompt you to change bras. While regular bra-changing isn't a science, dermatologist Alok Vij recommends switching bras every 2 to 3 “wears,” with a “wear” being when the old bra begins to: Relax its shape.

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Avoid packing for situations that are unlikely to happen. For example, you don't need to pack rain gear if you're visiting somewhere dry, or a winter coat if you're going to the tropics — you won't end up using them. The same thing goes for anything you might do. If you aren't a hiker, don't bring hiking boots.

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12 Tips to Get Beach Body Ready
  1. Eat protein with every meal. ...
  2. Stop snacking. ...
  3. Cut out cocktails, wine and beer. ...
  4. Eat foods that fight cellulite. ...
  5. Follow a low-bloat diet. ...
  6. Sleep 7-9 hours every night. ...
  7. Don't neglect upper back training. ...
  8. Train for better posture.


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