How To Pack for a Relaxing Beach Vacation

If you're feeling a little stressed out and run down, there's nothing like a few days on the coast to clear your head, loosen up your body, and put you in a more calm state of mind.  It doesn't really matter what beach you visit, or the time of year... the sound of ocean waves splashing on the shore is always tranquilizing... the smell of salt water is always invigorating... the feel of a cool breeze on your skin is always refreshing!

In order to have the best beach get away ever, prepare ahead of time by packing everything you'll need in your suitcase and doing a few simple things that will make you feel like a beach babe before you even sink one toe into the sand!

Begin by taking a long, hot shower or bath and using a body scrub head to toe.  If you don't have any body scrub at the moment, just lather up a bath brush or a wash cloth and rub it all over.  Finish with body lotion so your skin feels soft and smooth.  You're going to be wearing a bikini.  If that seems scary, it's probably because you live in a colder climate where nobody runs around in their bathing suit. People who live at the beach don't wear a lot of clothes.  They're used to seeing people in swim suits, so they certainly won't mind if you wear yours!  Don't be shy or embarrassed.

If you want to have a beach wave, you can buy special products for that, but if you don't have time to go out and get something, just use mousse.  Wash and condition your hair.  Towel dry, and apply a serum or leave in conditioner.  Take a large pouf of mousse, massage it into your hair, and scrunch it up with your fingers.  Use your blow dryer to get your hair about half way dry.  Let it air dry the rest of the way, periodically scrunching it all over hour head as it dries.  The result should be sort of wind blown and messy looking.  You're not going for perfection.  You want a natural, free spirited look.

Now you're ready to throw the essentials into your bag and rush out the door!

Take lots of beaded jewelry and rings.
Bring a sunscreen as well as a self tanner.  Use the self tanner under your SPF.  Wash your hands!
Pack a beach bag and a beach towel, flip flops and a small clutch
You'll need several bikinis, to mix and match
Take a scrunchie or a clip for your hair
Don't forget your sunglasses, and a hat if you want one
Take a cover up and a sweatshirt
Some shorts or jeans or leggings, depending on the weather
A denim or tiered skirt is fun to wear at the beach
Tank tops or T-shirts or maybe a peasant blouse
Bring some magazines or something to read
A sun dress or maxi dress
Undies and P.J.s
A sweater, warm coat, scarf and gloves during cooler months
Bring an umbrella if rain is predicted
You may want extra sandals, or some old tennis shoes or boots
In your  cosmetic bag, you'll need:
Bronzer, mascara, lip balm and gloss (foundation is optional), cleanser, moisturizer and body lotion
Bring a wide tooth comb or a brush and a little dry shampoo
Don't forget a plastic bag to put your wet bikini in when you come home

You are going to have an incredible time at the beach!  Have fun!