Spring break is finally upon us, and no one is happier than I am right now. Who else felt like these past couple of weeks have been a marathon sprint? I think that we all need this much-deserved break. It could not have come at a better time!
While I am excited for break, I’m not pleased at the prospect of heading up to northern Minnesota to spend a week in more frigid temperatures than we are experiencing now. What gives with this weather anyways? If you’re one of the lucky ducks who is headed somewhere warm for a bit of rest and relaxation, don’t forget to pack these spring break essentials in your suitcase before you go!
1. $44 – dorothyperkins.co 2. $56 – topshop.com 3. $25 – dorothyperkins.co 4. $38 – roxy.com 5. $64 – topshop.com 6. $56 – topshop.com 7. $7.99 – target.com 8. $32 – sephora.com 9. $125 – gant.com 10. $25 – tillys.com 11. $40 – jackwills.com 12. $7.39 – thehut.com 13. $63 – amrag.com 14. $32 – piperlime.gap.com 15. $110 – oakley.com 16. $24 – swell.com 17. $8 – beauty.com
A swimsuit (or three)…
Assuming you are going somewhere warm where you can also swim, don’t forget to pack a few cute swimsuits with you. I always like to bring multiple suits on trips where I know I’ll be swimming every day, as nothing is worse than pulling on a swimsuit that’s still wet from the day before. Bring a few different styles for the different activities you could be doing. #10 is great for lounging while #3 would be better for active things like surfing or waterparks. And of course, you can never go wrong with a cute one-piece like #1.
A variety of cover-ups
Bring along clothes that you can easily throw over your swimsuit. Shorts (#2) and a tank (#9) are perfect when you want to leave the beach to grab a bite to eat or head back to your hotel. Going straight from the beach to the club? A romper (#6) or a maxi dress (#5) are easy options that are also a bit dressier.
A beach bag
Make sure to bring a cute beach bag with you to hold all your essentials and protect them from the sand. They’re easy to roll up and throw in your suitcase, or you can even use yours as a carry-on! I like the cheeky text on #13. Want more options? Try a cute straw bag or a printed mini backpack!
A floppy hat
I have a giant floppy hat that I always wear to the beach. It makes me feel classy while shielding my skin and eyes from the sun. Pick a sturdy yet flexible option that won’t get crushed in your suitcase.
Sunglasses
One of my favorite trends for this summer is polarized sunglasses. I love the fact that no one can see your eyes – they’re the epitome of effortless cool. My dream pair is this pair of Oakley Frogskins (#15), but there are many cheaper options out there. With a little searching, you can find the perfect pair for your price point.
Sandals
Bring along a few simple pairs of sandals that are easy to slip on, go with everything in your suitcase, and easily transition from the beach to a nightclub. I love the woven detailing on #16 and the fact that they’ll go with everything since they’re black.
BONUS: Beauty Essentials!
Before you leave campus, don’t forget to bring a few beauty essentials with you. The most important of these is sunscreen. Everyone wants to come back from spring break with a tan, but don’t let your quest for color ruin your skin and put you in danger of developing skin cancer. Try a lightweight, high-spectrum sunscreen like #7. This is the exact sunscreen I wear all summer and I love it. It doesn’t leave you greasy and doesn’t make you break out.
To get a tan without lying in the sun all day, pack a self-tanner (#8). I love this self-tanner and use it all the time year round for a sun kissed look. It’s easy to apply but remember to wear gloves or use a mitt to rub it in to avoid orange palms!
Two more essentials are a tinted SPF lipbalm (#12) and a bright nail polish color (#17). Other than that, try not to wear too much makeup – your pores will get clogged and you’ll look overdone. Instead, rock the natural look on the beach!
I hope this list proves useful as you’re packing for your warm weather adventures. Anything you think I forgot? Leave a comment with your spring break packing essentials!
Have a fun and safe spring break, and stay fashionable, St. Olaf!