Heading to Europe for a beach holiday? Whether you’re off to the Greek Islands, Spain’s Costa Brava, or the Amalfi Coast in Italy, packing for a European beach day is a little different to your average Aussie trip to the surf.
You’re balancing sun, style, comfort, and practicality – especially if you plan to jump from sunbed to seaside lunch spot without heading home in between.
Here’s your ultimate guide on what to wear and bring for a beach day in Europe – with tips from someone who’s done it all (and learned what not to pack the hard way).
Beach Style in Europe: Effortless but Elevated
Europeans tend to approach beachwear with a certain flair. Even when they’re lounging, they look put-together. You won’t see many oversized surf tees or sports towels here – think linen shirts, chic bikinis, and matching accessories.
But that doesn’t mean you have to pack your entire wardrobe. With a few versatile pieces and smart essentials, you can nail the look and feel prepared for whatever the day brings.
What to Wear
1. A Good Quality Swimsuit (or Two)
Choose swimwear that’s flattering, comfortable, and suited for long hours of wear. You might be swimming, sunbathing, grabbing lunch, or walking along a cobblestone promenade.
For Europe, think:
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Simple, elegant cuts
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Neutral or earthy tones
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Matching sets or one-pieces
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Bonus: reversible options to pack light
Avoid anything that shifts or becomes see-through when wet. And bring two if you’re travelling – no one wants to put on a damp swimsuit two days in a row.
2. A Lightweight Cover-Up
This is your throw-on piece when you need to pop into a café, wander through town, or grab a gelato.
Options that work well:
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Linen or cotton shirts
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Sarongs or wraps (your travel towel can double as one)
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Kaftans or lightweight dresses
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Jumpsuits with a relaxed fit
Stick to breathable, natural fabrics – you’ll thank yourself when the sun hits full force.
3. Comfortable Sandals or Slides
Europe = walking. Even beach towns can involve a lot of cobblestones, stairs, and uphill strolls.
Choose sandals that:
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Are easy to slip on/off
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Can handle a bit of sand and water
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Support your feet for walking
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Look good with your outfit
No need for heels – even in the trendiest beach bars, flats are totally acceptable (and often preferred).
4. A Hat You’ll Actually Wear
Wide-brimmed sun hats look gorgeous in photos but are a pain to pack. Go for something crushable and wearable – a bucket hat, foldable wide-brim style, or even a classic cap.
And don’t forget your sunnies – ideally polarised to cut glare off the water.
5. Optional Extras
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Lightweight earrings or simple jewellery (nothing too fancy)
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A breezy scarf for sun protection or layering
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Oversized sunglasses for instant Euro glam
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A reusable tote bag or market bag
What to Pack in Your Beach Bag
Let’s talk about what goes in your beach bag. Whether you’re heading out for a few hours or a full day, these items will keep you feeling comfy, chic, and prepared.
1. A Sand Free Beach Towel
Trust us – you do not want to bring a bulky, sandy towel back to your hotel room or Airbnb.
A sand free beach towel is:
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Lightweight
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Fast-drying
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Folds into your bag easily
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Doesn’t collect sand
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Doubles as a wrap or travel pillow
Nomadique’s microfibre towel fabric is soft, absorbent, and perfect for Mediterranean coastlines. It also comes with a zip pocket to hide your room key, phone, or a few euros.
→ Explore our bestselling travel towels
2. Sunscreen (Always)
Even on cloudy days, UV rays are strong in Europe. Bring a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ or 50+, and reapply every two hours.
Other sun essentials:
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Lip balm with SPF
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Sunglasses
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A small refillable face mist
If you’re flying carry-on only, make sure it’s all under 100ml.
3. A Quick-Dry Travel Towel (Optional but Handy)
If you're hopping between beaches, staying in hostels, or planning waterfall swims and spontaneous boat trips, a second travel towel is a great idea.
Keep it rolled up in your day bag – it won’t take much space, and it’s super useful for changing, drying off, or laying out at rocky beaches.
4. Water Bottle
Stay hydrated – especially if you’re in places like Spain, Croatia, or the Greek Islands in peak summer.
Bring a lightweight, reusable water bottle. Some spots have refill stations. Others don’t. Better to be prepared.
5. Snacks
Most European beaches have cafés or bars nearby, but it’s still smart to bring a few small snacks, especially if you’re venturing to quieter areas or doing a day trip.
Think:
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Fruit (grapes, apple slices)
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Crackers or trail mix
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Croissants (very on theme)
6. A Good Book or Kindle
Beach days = reading days.
Load your Kindle before you leave home or bring one paperback. It’ll save you from having to hunt down an English bookstore on day 3.
7. Hair Essentials
Your hair will get salty, frizzy, or flat (possibly all three). Pack:
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A clip or scrunchie
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Wide-tooth comb
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Leave-in conditioner or oil (travel size)
If you’re heading out post-beach, a quick slicked-back bun can work wonders.
8. Dry Clothes or Wrap Dress
Some beaches are close to restaurants or sunset bars – if you're planning to go straight from towel to table, bring a fresh change.
Options:
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Simple shift dress
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Flowy skirt and tank
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Oversized shirt dress
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Jumpsuit
Throw it on, freshen up with a wipe and lip balm, and you’re set.
Extra Tips for Beach Days in Europe
Pack Light, But Smart
Most people overpack. You’ll probably wear the same few pieces over and over. Prioritise things that mix and match easily.
Check the Beach Type
Some beaches are sandy. Others are pebbly or rocky. A sand free beach towel will work for all types – but you might want water shoes for rocky ones.
Respect Local Vibes
Topless sunbathing is common in many parts of Europe. So is going barefoot. But always be mindful of signage, beach etiquette, and how the locals behave.
Carry Some Cash
Some smaller beach clubs or cafés still operate on a cash-only basis. Keep a little change on hand – especially in Greece or Italy.
Your European Beach Day = Sorted
Packing for a beach day in Europe doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few versatile pieces, the right travel towel, and a solid plan for sun and sand, you can feel prepared, stylish, and totally relaxed.
Just remember:
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Choose light layers and natural fabrics
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Bring a sand free beach towel to avoid dragging half the coastline home
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Stay hydrated, sun-safe, and snack-ready
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Don’t forget your swimmers, sunnies, and sense of adventure
→ Ready to pack light and travel smarter? Shop our full collection of European summer-ready towels
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