Travel Smart: Packing only the must-haves for the beach

 
A lot of people take packing for the beach either too seriously or not seriously enough. I say packing for the beach is a skill, especially for a backpacker. You can't bring too many things because you don't want your back to hurt from carrying your whole closet and essentials.

But you also want to make sure you have enough clothes to choose from just in case your mood changes all of a sudden.

What to bring:

A backpack. It may sound kikay, but if you're backpacking and it's something you do often, backpack in style.

You're more comfortable and confident! I use a violet North Face medium duffel. I call it Grimace.

Use packing cubes. Living out of your backpack can get stressful.

It's best to be organized and just keep on pulling out your packing cubes from your backpack rather than having to go through the bottom of your pack just to get a sarong while on the go.

What to pack to the beach:

Denim shorts
Boardshorts/sleeping shorts
Sleeping shirt
Sandos
Dresses
Underwear
Bikinis
Sarong
Lagu beach blanket

Toiletries (mini for travel)
Dry Lite towel
Dry Bag
Sunscreen
Water bottle
Goggles
Sunglasses
Powerbank
GoPro


Now that may seems a lot, but it's all about proper packing and limiting the amounts of items you bring. You don't have to bring 10 pairs of panties because really, you can do laundry while backpacking.

What I tend to overpack are my bikinis. Every single trip. I don't mind carrying them around.

What NOT to pack/bring:

Too many toiletries
Rolling bag (unless it can be converted to a backpack)
If you could do without your laptop, that would be great.
Speakers
Party-level make-up
Expensive jewelry
Jeans

Tips:

1. If you're going to different islands in the Philippines, always make sure you have coins reserved for terminal fees at the ports.

2. Think twice if you really need a porter to help you carry your bags. If you're on a budget, you might just lose your precious coins to porters demanding for tip. But some people are just genuinely nice who would like to help you with our things.

3. If you're beachin' in Europe, make sure you bring your own beach mat or reserve €2 for a sun bed.

4. Always have your water bottle with you. You'll never know when you'll need it. You can keep any kind of drink in it. IfyouknowwhatImean.

5. It's awesome to be beachin' with your music, but take note that you might be bothering other people who want peace and quiet during their vacation.

6. Don't expect anything. You'll have more fun that way. Let the magic of the beach and islands wow you!

7. Eat good and eat well but do not go overboard. You don't want to get sick while traveling. It's also the best time to try the raw produce in the islands like the fruits!

8. Do not lose your sunglasses. You can use your sunglasses even at night when you don't want to be bothered while snoozing.

9. Sunscreen is important, but it's also unsafe for sea creatures. Make sure you apply sunscreen ahead of time or if you're set on being one with ocean world, skip the sunscreen until after you're done in the water.

10. If you're snorkeling, do not step on the corals. Remember that the ocean is not our natural habitat. These sea creatures are far more sensitive than land animals including us.

11. Be friendly to the locals. They can let you in their beautiful world and you'll have the best experiences with them. Learn their dialect and you'll be friends forever!

12. Always try something new! — BM, GMA News

Cara Lim, 24, describes herself as a "traveler, bikini connoisseur, mermaid by fairytale occupation, chef by legit occupation."

Product images from (top to bottom): TheNorthFace.com, Ebags.com, Lagu.com.au, SeatoSummit.com.au, Amazon.com and RayBan.com