What To Pack for Spring Break

Whether you’re headed to a college spring break party or are simply looking to escape the winter weather and transition into a sun-basking spring, we’ve put together a spring break checklist that covers all the necessities. 

Girls dancing in swim by the ocean

Spring Break Essentials

These spring break must-haves are based off of week-long trips, so if your vacation is shorter or longer, adjust accordingly. We’ll focus on versatile pieces that can be worn whatever the itinerary calls for.

Vacation Swimwear 

Seashell terry one piece swimsuitTie dye triangle bikini topMint green once piece swimsuit

If you plan on being by the pool or at the beach every day of your trip, we recommend packing three swimsuits. Choose from any of the styles below based on your personal preference. 

  • Bikinis - Arguably the most essential spring break clothes to pack, two-piece bikinis are easy to pack and come in a variety of styles. Try halter tops and side-tie bottoms for a classic look, strapless bandeaus and cheeky bottoms for ultimate tanning, or one-shoulder tops and high-leg bottoms for a modern twist.
  • One-pieces - One-piece swimsuits are becoming increasingly popular because of comfort and coverage, but they don’t just come in basic tank-styles anymore. Look for monokinis with side cut-outs, low backs and waist details that elevate the suit. A bonus to one-pieces is that they can be paired with shorts or a skirt for a complete outfit outside the water. 

Don’t forget to rinse your bathing suits in cold water and air-dry them in the shade to keep them fresh for multiple wears.

Versatile Cover Ups 

Seashell terry clothingMint crochet cover up

Beach dresses are easy to throw over your suit when walking around and running pitstop errands on your way outside. We recommend packing four cover ups for your trip.

  • Woven dresses -  Crocheted dresses and tunics leave room for breathability while offering a sexy, textured vibe that’s fit for vacation.
  • Oversized button-ups - Linen shirts serve an effortless look that can be worn open or buttoned up depending on the plan. If the weather isn’t as warm as you’d hoped for, pair this look with wide-leg linen pants.
  • Wrap skirts - Pair a wrap skirt with a tank-style bikini top or one-piece swimsuit and you have another look that transitions well into post-pool or beach activities.

Spring Break Clothing (Casual)

Seashell maxi dressSeashell lounge set

  • Workout sets - Matching gym tops and biker short sets are as comfortable as they are stylish. Use them as basics that can be styled with loose tops, chunky sunglasses and your favorite trainers. 
  • Versatile tops - Think crop tops, tanks and tube tops. Spring break is also a good opportunity to try backless tops, bustiers, neons and metallics that you otherwise might not get to rock. 
  • Graphic tees - Your favorite oversized graphic tee can be worn as a beach cover up, pajama shirt or conversation starter that highlights your individual interests. 
  • Shorts - Jean shorts are a popular choice that can be paired with any top, while drawstring and elastic waist shorts are a more elevated look.
  • Pajamas - Don’t forget packable sleepwear – slip dresses or tanks and shorts made from breathable cotton, silk or anything lightweight. 

Spring Break Clothes (Party)

Blue tennis minis skirtBlack lace mini dress

  • Mini dresses - Spring break is all about showing off that tan you’ve worked for! Bring your staple LBD (little black dress) along with colorful abstract prints and shades that show off your sun kissed skin. Bodycons show off your shape while structured dresses bring an edgy twist
  • Mini skirts - If you’re worried about packing space, mini skirts are a great option that have you covered for going out and can also be styled down for daytime wear. Choose knee-high boots or stilettos for nights out, or pair with a crop top and slides for heading to the store.

Spring Break Shoes

  • Slides or flip flops - For traveling by car, casual dining, walking around town or getting you from your hotel room to the pool.
  • Sneakers - Another staple while traveling or exploring.
  • Flat sandals - More elevated than slides but less dressy than heels. Try tie-up sandals, x sandals or x sandals with different looks. 
  • Heeled sandals - Think pool parties, brunches and going out. 
  • Stiletto heels - If clubbing or upscale lounges are in your itinerary, grab your go-to heels.
  • Nylon shoe bags with zippers - Total game-changers that keep any possible dirt from your shoes away from your cute outfits.

Spring Break Accessories

Getting ready for spring breakSpring break accessories

  • Hats - A wide-brimmed sun hat for needed shade and a baseball cap for going around town. Visors are a practical option for dipping into the pool while keeping your hair dry.
  • Statement sunglasses - Retro rectangular, wire gold frames, oversized aviators with colored lenses. You might want a “throw-away” pair that can be worn in the water.
  • Belt bag or fanny pack - Keep your valuable items where you can see them on town excursions.
  • Shoulder bags - One neutral bag for everyday use and one fun colored or shaped back that creates a statement. Shoulder bags keep your hands free for holding drinks and dancing.
  • Jewelry - Aside from your normal daily essentials, experiment with statement earrings, body and waist chains, and seashell anklets add to the tropical vibe.
  • Jewelry holder - We all know the pain of tangled jewelry while traveling. Find a practical travel jewelry case that has pouches or clasps to keep your pieces ready to wear.

The following items speak for themselves, but we’ll list them so you don’t forget them.

Spring Break Toiletries Packlist 

  • Toiletry bag
  • Portable mirror 
  • Waterproof makeup
  • Makeup remover wipes 
  • Hair brush or comb
  • No-crease hair clips
  • Large hair clip
  • Scrunchies and hair ties
  • Hairspray
  • Travel bottles
  • Facewash
  • Hydrating lotion
  • Moisturizer
  • Body shimmer 
  • Deodorant 
  • Travel razor 
  • Refillable perfume bottles 
  • Toothbrush 
  • Toothpaste 
  • Floss picks
  • Stain-removing pen

Electronics

  • Phone charger
  • Portable charging bank
  • Headphones or earphones 
  • Hair tools (curler or straightener)
  • Portable clothing steamer
  • Mini fan

Beach Packing Essentials

  • Packable beach tote
  • Sunscreen
  • SPF face powder (can be applied over makeup)
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Cooler bag

Spring Break Party Essentials 

  • Hydration packs
  • Headache relief 
  • Sleep supplements
  • Motion sickness patches 

Hopefully you’re feeling prepared for every occasion of your upcoming trip. Once you’ve pieced together your outfits and packed the essentials, you’ll be ready to enjoy great weather and make memories for spring breaks to come!

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