7 Must-haves for your Vacation in Sarasota/Bradenton

Here in Florida, Life is a beach. If you are visiting Florida, you will most likely be exploring a beach while here. It is time to relax and blow off some steam. That is what we are undoubtedly known for!

People travel from all over to visit our beaches in Sarasota and Bradenton.

There are many items you can and should bring on vacation with you. This is not one of those checklists. This is a short, but useful, list of items to consider bringing with you on your next vacation. There are even some Amazon links for you to get a better idea of which products.

Our List of Extra Must-Haves for a Florida Vacation

     1. An additional bag.

Another bag allows for you to bring back anything you may purchase while here. Which you will likely do, if you think you can resist the shops then you can skip this section. An additional tote bag, folded in your suitcase. A small backpack to handle as a day bag.

Or our personal favorite a waterproof bag that looks like a tote. If you are traveling by plane, it may be challenging to bring a cooler. You also do not want to buy a cooler just to have to discard it or ship it home. This bag can be used when going to the beach for drinks and lunch or for bringing home as a personal item/carry-on (with souvenirs, of course). This brand additionally has tons of designs, from duffel bags, backpacks, totes, beach sacks, and much more.

Sarasota’s City ordinance banned plastic straws, only paper straws please!

     2. Reusable water bottle.

A reusable water bottle is good for the environment and keeps your drinks colder for longer. You can carry it on the plane with you or anywhere you may go here. You will notice many restaurants near the beach will provide paper straws. We are conscientious of our natural wildlife. We can also suggest some reusable straws. They gently fold and are easily portable. Stay hydrated and pollute less.

     3. Phone/Camera.

We are confident you will bring your cellphone. If you have a camera, we suggest bringing it too. Take pictures of your journey here in Florida. These represent memories, and they should be remembered! We can recommend these waterproof bags for your phone, and other items (cards, I.D., etc.) They sit around your neck and can provide a secondary level of protection when doing water activities.

One of many brands of completely waterproof portable speakers.

     4. Portable Speaker.

There are plenty of waterproof portable speakers out there. They can be beneficial on the beach, boat, or at the pool. They allow you to enjoy music without the worry of ruining a device.

     5. Bug Repellent.

As wonderful as Florida may be, take it from the locals, the bugs are not fun. There are plenty of bugs that bite. Mosquitos being the worst of them. Ensure you maintain some protection against them with either a spray, balm, or something like these wrist bands.

Sunset may be beautiful, but the sun can be harmful during the day!

     6. Sunscreen.

The sun can be tons of fun, but it can also be downright vicious. The UV index in Florida can be exceptionally high. Always make sure to wear sunscreen, even if it just a low SPF. If you feel obligated to help protect our ocean wildlife, make sure to get reef-friendly sunscreen. It is less harmful to the environment. Here is a travel-sized set, that is reef-friendly, and comes with an adorable bag.

     7. Beach Towels.

Most vacation rentals will include a limited supply of beach towels. Or you can rent them from the beaches. However, we recommend this microfiber beach towel. It folds town to quite small without requiring much room in any bag. Plus, it is oversized when unfolded. Along with being quick drying so no wet messes in the car.

Beach days should be fun and relaxing. You should not have to stress packing.

Florida can be a fantastic place to explore. Do not get too caught up in the details. Have fun, soak up the sun and enjoy all the time you can here. There are plenty of checklists on the Internet if you need help packing. This list is to provide what we believe to be helpful extras.

Only you know what you absolutely require daily, therefore always bring those things. These are our Amazon suggestions, however, there are numerous brands and products out there. We suggest these items, but you can use whichever products you prefer.

Disclosure: We are not affiliated with the brands in the links. The opinion is unbiased in our suggestions to these products. We do not receive any compensation. It is up to you to decide if you choose to purchase these products.