12 Spring Break Essentials for Travelers

From the latest sun protection to stylish hybrid sneakers, make sure these 12 items are in your spring break suitcase.

So you've got the latest trendy bathing suits (obvious spring break essentials) picked out for your relaxing beach time. But don't forget a bathing suit bag and travel beach bag for all your necessities.
This [bathing suit bag](https://www.patternla.com/collections/cosmetic-bags/products/copy-of-beauty-secrets-scene-pouch?variant=20024273221) by Pattern LA can double as a clutch or an inner pouch for a tote. This [lightweight travel beach bag](https://www.patternla.com/collections/tote-bags/products/copy-of-live-love-beach-reusable-folding-eco-bag?variant=20023951685) is packable and stays clean, plus it fits everything you'll need for a day at the beach.

Don't underestimate the power of the sun, especially if you've been hibernating somewhere colder: Your skin is more susceptible to sunburn and damaging sun exposure if you've been mostly indoors for the long winter months.
To protect both your scalp and face, make sure you're wearing a hat during the time of day with greatest UV exposure--usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This one from [Wallaroo](https://wallaroohats.com/products/victoria-fedora) blocks 97.5 percent of the sun's harmful rays and is super packable.
**Related:**[8 (More) Pinterest Packing Hacks Using Household Items](https://www.smartertravel.com/2018/02/16/pinterest-packing-hacks-using-household-items/)

For hair and skin protection from the sun, make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen, after sun, and a UV filter for your hair. [Sun Bum's](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=as_li_ss_tl?imprToken=BAysNlhGI-sEsmK0RYM0Yw&slotNum=0&url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=sunbum&linkCode=ll2&tag=stm07a5-20&linkId=576893f5c58d8f5f1fc8761ef5d8b07f) line of products are my go-to for spring break essentials, especially the [3-in-1 beach formula](https://www.amazon.com/Sun-Bum-Beach-Formula-Leave/dp/B00TUJW9L0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?imprToken=BAysNlhGI-sEsmK0RYM0Yw&slotNum=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1488218274&sr=8-5&keywords=sun+bum&linkCode=ll1&tag=stm07a5-20&linkId=d3ed2df4a1021c0c413a16d4843d3e21), [after lotion](https://www.amazon.com/Sun-Bum-Cool-Down-Lotion/dp/B004YAUZKM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?imprToken=BAysNlhGI-sEsmK0RYM0Yw&slotNum=2&ie=UTF8&qid=1488218274&sr=8-6&keywords=sun+bum&linkCode=ll1&tag=stm07a5-20&linkId=dc0ddc4c0ab6671679a15153aade7123), and [spray sunscreen](https://www.amazon.com/Sun-Bum-Continuous-SPF-50/dp/B004XGLDTY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?imprToken=BAysNlhGI-sEsmK0RYM0Yw&slotNum=3&ie=UTF8&qid=1488218274&sr=8-2&keywords=sun+bum&linkCode=ll1&tag=stm07a5-20&linkId=f8a5433ec5da7240ac4e4a6eed20279e). You can find them at most drugstores and boutiques, as well as on [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=as_li_ss_tl?imprToken=BAysNlhGI-sEsmK0RYM0Yw&slotNum=4&url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=sunbum&linkCode=ll2&tag=stm07a5-20&linkId=6b3b8764bf4e338c3bd751076c8eeb4e).

No spring break suitcase is complete without a pair of sunnies. Depending on your activity level and destination, you can go with either practical or trendy. This [stylish pair](https://raen.com/shop/women/potrero-retro-round-sunglasses/) from RAEN is perfect for beach lounging, or go with this [polarized style](https://raen.com/shop/unisex/arlo-square-sunglasses/) for extra UV and glare protection.
**Related:**[10 Best Inflatable Travel Pillows](https://www.smartertravel.com/2018/02/05/best-inflatable-travel-pillow/)

Chances are you'll be doing some drinking and sunbathing on your vacation. If you're wondering what to pack during spring break as a remedy, pack rehydration supplements like electrolyte [drops](https://www.amazon.com/Hi-Lyte-Electrolyte-Concentrate-Rehydration-Magnesium/dp/B01MXDAHIB/ref=as_li_ss_tl?imprToken=BAysNlhGI-sEsmK0RYM0Yw&slotNum=5&ie=UTF8&qid=1488218782&sr=8-3&keywords=rehydration+drops&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=stm07a5-20&linkId=758e2133ee14916fc5f994088ac03b74) or [tablets](https://www.amazon.com/New-Nuun-Active-Hydrating-Electrolyte/dp/B019GU4ILQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?imprToken=BAysNlhGI-sEsmK0RYM0Yw&slotNum=6&ie=UTF8&qid=1488218697&sr=8-4&keywords=rehydration+tablets&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=stm07a5-20&linkId=f6a804501c3621740784aee9d81213ab). These help replenish electrolytes and rehydrate your body after a night of drinking or a day in the sun.

A back-up phone charger can come in handy on any vacation, but long beach days and endless Instagrams make the simple accessory one of the top spring break travel essentials. Stay powered-up with the [myCharge RazorPlus](https://mycharge.com/collections/razor-series-1/products/razorplus), which holds two full charges so you'll never be without your phone--or camera.

Protect your smartphone at the beach or by the pool with a [waterproof bag](https://www.amazon.com/Universal-Waterproof-JOTO-CellPhone-Motorola/dp/B00LBK7OSY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?imprToken=BAysNlhGI-sEsmK0RYM0Yw&slotNum=7&ie=UTF8&qid=1488219432&sr=8-1&keywords=underwater+iphone+case&linkCode=ll1&tag=stm07a5-20&linkId=2b48e288d6a9133a4826742b87f3e491), or invest in a [waterproof hardcase](https://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-Skyocean-Underwater-waterproof-accessories/dp/B017K9GJDA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?imprToken=BAysNlhGI-sEsmK0RYM0Yw&slotNum=8&ie=UTF8&qid=1488219432&sr=8-2&keywords=underwater+iphone+case&linkCode=ll1&tag=stm07a5-20&linkId=c3581e2637189b8a9791269ab0c632cf) for some cool underwater shots.

Space is limited when it comes to packing all of your spring break essentials, so consider using packing cubes, like this six-piece [Travel Laundry Bags](https://jane.com/deal/308434/travel-laundry-bags-6-piece-set) set, or a [PACK Gear Travel Organizer](https://www.thegrommet.com/pack-gear-travel-organizer?siteID=TnL5HPStwNw-ebIX2Qs5soMLW2B9FqLY1A&ranMID=38396&ranEAID=TnL5HPStwNw&ranSiteID=TnL5HPStwNw-ebIX2Qs5soMLW2B9FqLY1A): a compact and collapsible packing system. Both are great options for over-packers (or shoppers!).
**Related:**[The 23 Best Travel Accessories for Type-A Personalities](https://www.smartertravel.com/2018/02/23/best-travel-accessories-to-stay-organized/)

Whether you're planning on taking excursions or simply spending your days in a cabana, comfortable and versatile travel shoes are a must for spring break. Here are some of my favorite shoe options if you're wondering what to wear.
The new [Zilker sneaker](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/thezilker/the-zilker-breathable-and-sweat-wicking-every-day?ref=cel8f9) from SUAVS can be worn with almost anything and are super comfortable, not to mention washable. [Rockport](http://www.rockport.com/rockport/womens-new-arrivals?AID=12898516&source=affiliate_Skimlinks&utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=CJ&utm_campaign=Skimlinks_7733685) also has some stylish and comfortable options, like the [Raelyn Knit Tie Sneaker](http://www.rockport.com/outlet/raelyn-knit-tie-sneaker/raelynknittie.html?dwvar_raelynknittie_color=raelynknittie_pink&utm_campaign=Skimlinks_7733685&utm_medium=CJ&dwvar_raelynknittie_shoeSize=10&source=affiliate_Skimlinks&AID=12898516&utm_source=affiliate) and the [Total Motion Adelyn Ghillie](http://www.rockport.com/outlet/total-motion-adelyn-ghillie/adelynghillie.html?utm_campaign=Skimlinks_7733685&utm_medium=CJ&dwvar_adelynghillie_color=adelynghillie_vkhakinubuck&source=affiliate_Skimlinks&dwvar_adelynghillie_width=M&AID=12898516&utm_source=affiliate)\--perfect for a night on the town.

If you're headed to a popular and crowded spring break destination, it's important to be aware of [pickpockets](https://www.smartertravel.com/2016/05/31/pickpockets/) and [RFID scammers](https://www.smartertravel.com/2016/08/11/rfid-chip-credit-cards/). To avoid these scams, travel with a RFID-blocking [passport cover](https://www.rogue-industries.com/products/rogue-travel-organizer) or [wallet](https://www.rogue-industries.com/products/cambridge-clutch-with-slim-card-case), or use a minimalist front-pocket wallet, like [these ones](https://www.rogue-industries.com/collections/front-pocket-wallets/Men's) from [Rogue Industries](https://www.rogue-industries.com/).
It's also wise to use a safe for your other spring break travel essentials (like phone, wallet, and sunglasses) while you're at the beach. There are a variety of portable safes out there, but [this one](https://www.amazon.com/SAFEGO-Portable-Indoor-Outdoor-Combination/dp/B017RQUIC4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?imprToken=BAysNlhGI-sEsmK0RYM0Yw&slotNum=9&ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=stm07a5-20&linkId=a40c926bdbf4f96ed83c7afdfcdab2ef) from [SAFEGO](https://www.smartertravel.com/2012/06/14/vacation-from-fees-new-website-promises-just-that/) boasts enough space for its reasonable price and weight.

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