When it comes to planning a beach vacation, it always helps to have a packing list at hand! There are so many important items that you’re likely to forget, so that’s why we’ve created the ultimate Hilton Head Island packing list. Grab your favorite beach bag and check these items off your list. And, before you hit the road, remember to bring along a copy of our free Hilton Head Island Vacation Guide! Our guide has helped so many people plan the perfect beach vacation. Get your copy for recommendations on the best places to watch the sunset, festivals and events, restaurants, and more.
What You Need on Your Hilton Head Island Packing List
Sun Protection
Hilton Head Island is a place where you and your family can make lifelong memories. Don’t let sunburn spoil those moments! If you want to make the most of your vacation, then sun protection is a must. Put these items at the top of your list:
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Sunscreen.
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Lip balm with SPF protection.
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Beach umbrella. Umbrellas provide some much-needed relief on hot, sunny afternoons! Rather than going through the hassle of packing one, we recommend ordering your beach gear in advance through LowSea Bike, Beach, & Baby Rental and having your items delivered (and picked up) directly from your beach house.
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Aloe for if someone does get a sunburn.
Clothing & Accessories
Depending on the weather, you may want to pack a few extra layers of clothing. However, Hilton Head Island beach days typically call for the following clothing items and accessories:
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Your swimsuit.
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Cheap sunglasses, ideally a pair that you wouldn’t mind losing to the ocean!
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A bathing suit cover-up. These come in handy when you need to use the public restroom.
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A sun hat for an extra layer of SPF protection.
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Sturdy sandals. The beach is the last place you want your shoes to fall apart, especially when the sand is hot!
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Long-sleeve, breathable shirts. These will add an extra layer of sun protection after a few hours at the beach or on the water.
Family-Friendly Entertainment
There’s so much to do on Hilton Head Island’s beautiful beaches and sparkling waters! You can enjoy water activities, like fishing and paddleboarding, or simply relax with the sounds of crashing waves and the feeling of sand beneath your toes. Here are a few of our favorite things to pack for a leisurely, sun-soaked day.
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A portable Bluetooth speaker or radio.
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Beach toys for the kids, like frisbees, shovels, and buckets. You can even pack light and rent these items through a local beach rental company!
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A good book or e-reader. Bring the kids a book, too!
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Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and word searches.
Important Items You Don't Want to Forget
There are a few items that many people forget, and they are often the most important things! As a reminder, remember to bring the following.
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Phone chargers.
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Cash.
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Toiletries.
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Reusable water bottles.
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A laundry bag to keep your vacation rental tidy and prevent dirty clothes from piling up.
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Snacks.
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Pajamas.
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A memory card so that you can take as many pictures as possible!
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Stain remover pens for the clothes you love.
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Your pet’s bag (Food, food and water bowls, grooming supplies, etc.)
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Any medication/prescriptions.
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First aid kit.
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Don't forget that important arrival packet we mail you! It has your passes to get into the area you're staying in, as well as your code or keys to get into your property. You don't want to have to make an extra trip to the office after 12 hours in the car, you want to get to your house or villa and hop right into the pool because by then, you're on vacation mode!
Seasonal Suggestions
Winter, spring, summer, and fall. Each season ushers in its own unique set of activities, adventures, and more. Depending on the season, you may want to pack a few extra things to make sure that you’re prepared for the weather! You never know. You might need a sweater, umbrella, or sneakers. Read on for some helpful tips and suggestions.
In the Spring and Summer
Summertime on Hilton Head Island is a dream come true, unless you forget to pack the essentials! You’ll need more than just sunscreen and sandals. Additionally, if you stay with Beach Properties, you’ll have access to our Island Discount Card! This will help you save money on everything from bike rentals and boat tours to dining and shopping.
Here are a few more summer essentials to include when you’re packing:
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Tennis shoes.
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Water shoes.
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Beach blankets and towels.
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Beach chairs (don’t forget that you can rent these if you prefer packing light).
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Goggles and snorkeling gear.
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Boogie boards, surfboards, and watersports gear.
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Beach totes and coolers.
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A beach cart to make life easier.
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Water floats.
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A rain jacket (you never know).
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Insect repellent.
We even put together this handy, printable summer packing list so that you can check off everything you need for the ultimate summer beach vacation!
In the Off-Season
Maybe you and your sweetheart are planning a snowbird getaway to the island to escape the snow up North. Perhaps you just want to enjoy the quiet shoulder season perks. Regardless, visiting Hilton Head in the off-season, September through April, is quite different from the peak summer season. While it doesn’t often get below freezing, the weather can still be a little chilly. You might need to consider packing a few different things that you otherwise wouldn’t think to bring!
Here are a few more off-season essentials to include when you’re packing:
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Comfortable jeans or pants.
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Sweaters and jackets (think layers)
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Cold weather accessories (beanies, gloves, and scarves).
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Clothing for a night out, fancy dinner, or music festival.
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Comfortable sneakers or boots for outdoor activities.
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Your favorite blankets for the beach house.
End Your Beach Day with Beach Properties of Hilton Head
The No. 1 item to check off your Hilton Head Island packing list? The key to your family’s very own beach home! Whether you are searching for a
