Every year around my birthday I bitch and moan about it. The weather is cold, no one wants to have a good time thanks to #DryJanuary and so on. For my 30th birthday, I went to Thailand and it was the absolute best. I loved being away and somewhere warm. And it’s a way to commemorate a new year. Ever since then, I’ve been wanting to get away on my birthday.
For my 31st birthday I attempted a game night. Almost everyone said no thanks to a glass of wine when they walked in the door. As well as a pass on the pizza I ordered because they were doing Whole 30. No more birthdays at home in the cold, that’s for sure.
So from here on out, I think it’s beach getaways for my birthday. Or at least a trip SOMEWHERE to get away. This post was originally written when I was heading to the Bahamas for yet another warm weather birthday which was exactly what I needed in the dead of winter. I shared everything that I packed for that trip. And years later, this is still an accurate representation of what I’d pack for any beach getaway.
Photo by Hannah Lozano
What To Pack For An Island Vacation
My Bahamas Packing List
This is what to pack for an island vacation from heading to the pool, to dinners and lunches. Whether you’re visiting the Bahamas, or Mexico, or somewhere in Thailand to soak in the warm weather, here’s your ultimate what to pack for an island vacation packing list.
Dresses
I’m all about easy dresses when I’m on a warm-weather getaway. They’re easy to go from day to night in. Plus, spring and summer dresses are just way more fun in my opinion so it’s a nice excuse to pull them out or shop for something new.
Denim Shorts & Non Denim Shorts
I can’t go on any warm weather vacation without denim shorts. Pair with a simple cotton tank and sandals. Or add an oversized linen shirt to head to the pool. And lastly, they pair perfectly with nicer tops and a heel for dinner. Never without a good pair of denim shorts.
I also love a non-denim option like linen shorts or something fun and printed for a dinner. Especially a comfortable pull on short is perfect for an island vacation.
Swimsuits & Coverups
I’m a two-piece bikini kinda gal. But I almost always throw in my black one piece swimsuit for emergencies. They double as a great bodysuit. And if you’re doing any physical activity in the water, these really are best to have in your suitcase as an option.
And don’t forget a great coverup. I usually just bring an oversized linen shirt and call it a day. But there are great cover-ups that can also be great for an outfit for lunch.
Vacation Tops
I am all about a fun vacation top. Since I’m a shorts fan, I like a good vacation top that goes with them. Something fun and colorful, printed and maybe floral with texture and ruffles. A top that shows off your freshly tanned skin too. It’s really the best. Farm Rio always has something great that fits that getaway and restorwear vibe! I also always pack several simple cotton tanks and tees for easy layers.
Shoes, Bags & Accessories
And last but not least, the shoes, the bags and all the accessories. I usually always bring a comfy flat sandal and my go-to espadrilles. I may add in another sandal that’s a bit nicer that’s flat to go from day or night in.
For a bag, I love a big straw bag that can double as a beach bag. Plus, a small crossbody or clutch for dinners. Otherwise, I keep my bags to a minimum for an island vacation.
Don’t forget the sunglasses! I always pack at least two pairs. Can’t be too safe!
And don’t you dare forget the SPF! I love this spf powder to make it really easy to reapply while out and about especially on your scalp where your part is.
Where are you heading for spring break or a warm weather getaway to relax and recharge? I’m eager to be on a beach or by a pool just basking in the sun.


