For most people, the beach is the first image that comes to mind when you think of a vacation. The warm sun, the crashing waves, and a cold drink is in your hand. But, what if instead of renting a room in an expensive hotel you elect to grab your tent instead? This would allow you to be surrounded by millions of stars over the ocean and quite possibly have the entire beach to yourself! All this is possible with the Ultimate Beach Camping List.
How is Beach Camping Different?
Although Beach Camping is similar to traditional camping you may be surprised at some of the differences that need to be taken into consideration. I have highlighted a few key areas that require special attention before heading out.
High Tides
If you plan on camping directly on the beach be sure to check the tidal charts to know when high and low tides will be throughout your stay. Even if an area does not appear to be regularly underwater, high tides can happen suddenly and strand campers or even wash away tents! Try to arrive at your camping site at high tide or look for accumulated debris from the ocean that marks the high tide line. Remember, if in doubt, pick a site further inland!
Weather
The weather at the beach can turn quickly and with little natural shelter available it pays to plan ahead. Summer weather comes with an increased risk of dehydration, sunburn, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke so shelter is a necessity. At night the temperature can quickly plummet and you are suddenly fighting off the chill that accompanies the moist sea air.
Campfires
Some beaches do not allow you to have a fire (no impact) or require you to build your fire pit below the high tide line. Others will not allow you to gather driftwood so you may be required to bring your own wood. It’s your responsibility to know the rules before you set up camp so double check before heading out!
Wind
The wind on the beach can be a fickle beast, especially with very few, if any, trees to help block it. When searching for the perfect place for your tent, try finding a location where the wind is non-existent. If this is not possible choose a location where it is hitting the back of your tent. This may even require positioning your tent further back from your ideal location, but trust me it will pay dividends in your comfort!
Water
Ensure that you locate a water source before picking a camping site! Be mindful that you may have to purify the water before drinking. Hydration is crucial when camping on the beach! Surrounded by the salty air, wind, and sun; you must do it early and often! If you are camping in a campground, do not solely rely on the water sources available, always bring along an extra gallon or two just in case!
The Essential Beach Camping List
If dreams of falling asleep to the sounds of waves under a blanket of stars are already tempting you, it’s important to plan ahead. The sheer amount of gear you need to pack is enough to make anyone think twice about such an adventure. To make it simple I have included the most important items you must bring in my Essential Beach Camping List:
- Tent – A tent will provide protection from the weather, the sun, the sand, and the bugs.
- Sand Stakes – These stakes help anchor your tent firmly in the loose sand.
- Air mattress/ sleeping pad – Either of these options provides a needed layer of insulation between yourself and the sand and provides extra comfort.
- Sleeping bag – A lightweight sleeping bag will make sure you stay warm and sleep comfortably.
- Lanterns/headlamps – If a tent peg comes loose or you need to pee in the middle of the night, a light source is always handy.
- Cooking stove/grill – Make sure you bring a stove that has a windshield and will not clog easily with all the sand. Just be sure to check the local restrictions on whether your grill is allowed to have an open flame.
- Camping cookware – Plates, cooking tools, a sturdy pot, and utensils are a must. Avoid paper plates and plastic utensils as it creates a heap of avoidable garbage.
- Cooler – A cooler is essential to keep food and beverages cold. This is certainly one of those items where price does make a difference.
- Waterproof bags – Keep sensitive items such as your phone, camera, wallet, and car keys away from any sand or moisture.
- Trash bags – Respect nature. If you pack it in, you pack it out; NO EXCEPTIONS.
- Reusable water bottles – This item cuts down on garbage and will be the key to keeping you hydrated on your adventure.
- Quick-drying towels – Microfiber towels are lightweight, take up less room when packed, and are dry in next to no time.
- Hat/ sunglasses – A few extra protective layers can be the difference between enjoying the trip and returning like a lobster. Put on a hat and/or sunglasses and protect yourself from the UV rays.
- Baby wipes – These are useful for everything from wiping off excess sand to simply refreshing certain areas. The only constant and predictable outcome of beach camping is lots of sand.
- First aid kit – This is a necessity on any camping trip just in case something happens.
- Toilet paper – Never assume there will be enough toilet paper in a porta-potty or bathroom facility. Extra rolls weigh next to nothing and take up little space, just make sure you pack them out!
- Camping toilet – This one depends if you are camping in an established campground or dispersed campsite. The lack of microbes in the sand at the beach makes human waste disposal a very, very slow process. Instead, opt for a toilet tent and help preserve the beach for years to come.
- Water (or Filtration System) – Before heading out, check if there is potable water available at your campsite (you may just need a filtration system). If the source is unreliable, bring extra water!
- Sunscreen with high SPF – This one should be a no-brainer. Apply, reapply and reapply again; all day every day. Even if the sky is overcast and you are enjoying a “cooler” day, you can still get sunburnt.
- Rain Jacket – The weather at the beach can drop quickly at night so stay prepared with a rain jacket. This will help stop the wind and keep you prepared in case a random afternoon shower comes your way.
Optional Beach Camping List
There are always a few “luxury” items that can set your experience apart. If you have a bit more space in your pack or car, these items in my optional beach camping list would take your camping trip to the next level.
- Sun Canopy/ umbrella – Instead of being trapped in your tent hiding from the sun, why not bring a sun canopy. Just be sure that your canopy is tall enough to stand up in and you have a shady spot to hide away if needed.
- Camping Chairs – Add comfort and relaxation to your setup with some collapsible camp chairs. There are even some available that are rockers!
- Foldable Table – Instead of cooking dinner in the sand, a foldable table is the best way to go. It provides an elevated surface to cut, cook and play games on!
- Solar-powered battery pack – If you are going to be caping for a few days why limit yourself to only one charge on your favorite devices. Use the power of the sun to ensure all your electronics keep their full charge.
- Sand-free beach blanket – Anyone who has been to the beach before knows how sand can get everywhere. There are sand-free and waterproof beach blankets available that cut the hassle out of lounging on the beach.
- Dustpan and brush – Sand will always eventually make its way into your tent. If you pack a dustpan and brush you can quickly sweep it up without trying to flip your tent sideways.
- Waterproof sandals – Save your shoes from inevitably getting wet. Instead, bring a pair of waterproof sandals for showering or getting closer to the ocean.
- Solar shower – At the end of the day washing away the accumulated sand and salt is more than enough reason to consider bringing a solar shower.
- Portable speakers – Music almost always makes every situation better! When using a portable speaker, just be sure to be considerate of other campers.
- Earplugs – During the night the dull roar of the ocean waves can seem to increase in volume. If you are a light sleeper I suggest bringing a pair of earplugs.
- Beach wagon or cart – Depending on how far you are parked from your campsite, or how far the campsite is from the ocean, a beach wagon will help lug all your gear.
- Hammock – If your intended campsite has any trees nearby, there is nothing better than swinging in a hammock and listening to the waves.
Beach Camping Hacks
Bringing along all of the items from my ultimate beach camping list doesn’t guarantee you a perfect experience. There are a few tips, tricks, and hacks that go into making your beach camping trip one to remember!
Keep Everything Dry
Just because the beach may seem dry and warm during the daytime doesn’t mean that is all it has to offer. When the sun begins to set, the moisture from the ocean begins to settle on every surface. Ensure that all your clothing and non-water-friendly belongings are packed away every evening in water-resistant bags! It is also a good idea to put your rain fly on your tent in case of any unexpected passing storms or dew.
Avoid Sand in Your Tent
Camping on the beach is a recipe for getting sand everywhere. With a few simple tricks, you can make sure the sand stays outside where it belongs. Pack an oversized tarp with you to use as an entryway for your tent. This will prevent excess sand from coming in. You can also put a bucket of water on the entryway to clean off your feet before entering your tent. This will give you double the insurance to keep your tent as sand-free as possible!
Keep Your Food Cold
To extend the life of the contents in your cooler, use dry ice. Be sure to wrap it in a towel and cover it with regular ice or frozen water bottles. This will help ensure your cold things stay cold and get the most out of your cooler. Just be sure to let everyone know what and where it is to avoid any costly accidents.
Keep Track of the Tides
As one of the most crucial elements of beach camping, it is extremely important to keep track of the tides. There are a few very simple and useful tools that are available online or can be downloaded onto your phone. Two of my favorite Apps for this purpose are My Tide Times and Tides Near Me. Either option is a powerful tool that can help plan your beach camping trip with certainty and avoid any headaches.
Plan Ahead
Several beach camping search engines are also available. Check out thedyrt.com and hipcamp.com to search for available campsites within your desired area. Both offer pictures and reviews of campsites and can even lead you to less populated options! In my experience when exploring new beach camping locations talking to locals and/or checking with tourism offices can come in handy.
These are only a few of my most useful camping hacks. For details on more tips and tricks I suggest checking out this video!
Fun Things to do while Beach Camping
For some of us, we need nothing more than a comfy beach chair and a good book to read to enjoy the beach. But whether you are exploring beach camping as a family or a quick solo getaway there are plenty of things to keep even the most restless camper entertained.
If you plan on bringing along the kiddos you won’t have to travel far from the tent. Luckily sand is not in short supply. Creating sand castles, playing in the sand, or collecting seashells are all good options that can entertain for hours. Just remember that anything you find on the beach must remain on the beach (even your favorite holiday shell). It is important to embrace the Leave No Trace principles and let the next person enjoy exactly the same beach you enjoyed!
Oftentimes there are hiking trails hidden along the beach. Check with local park rangers for any recommendations and/or information on unique local fauna and flora. If you are camping in a state or national park, ranger-led activities are available that are fun and educational.
When in doubt, beach activities can be as easy as breaking out the water toys. Boogie boards, kayaks, surfboards, and snorkel gear are awesome options depending on the weather and waves. Otherwise, all the free sand is perfect for activities such as frisbee, football, or beach balls.
Conclusion
As with all great adventures, beach camping comes down to planning ahead. Be sure to pack the items on my Ultimate Beach Camping List and you are well on your way to a successful adventure. Just always remember to pick your campsite carefully and pay attention to mother nature. Otherwise, enjoy the sun, the surf, and all the memories!