The flights are booked, the automated out-of-office message is on, and my mental state is already lounging by the shore. I’m heading somewhere sun-soaked and blissfully breezy. Think salty air and bright skies, and yes, I will be wearing linen unironically. 

Tropical travel is a balancing act: you want to be protected, hydrated, glowing, and maybe even a little glam without packing your entire bathroom shelf. So here’s what’s coming with me—from beach essentials to beauty faves I swear by, and why each one deserves a spot in your suitcase too.

READ: Affordable suncare essentials to protect your complexion this summer

1. A picnic blanket

Because sometimes, a regular beach towel just doesn’t cut it when you want to feel that main character energy. This one’s made of recycled wool, is compact enough to carry, and makes every beach or grassy spot feel like a scene from a romantic picnic montage. 

2. A net bag

Handmade and upcycled from scrap textiles, this bag is not only sustainable, it’s got a major charm,too. But here’s what makes it extra special: Every purchase of this bag provides three meals to children or elderly folks in Project Pearls communities in Tondo, Bulacan, and Cavite. So yes, it carries your beach essentials and good karma. Now that’s what I call traveling with purpose.

3. A hat

This hat gives me low-key Euro summer energy without the Euro price tag. It’s cute, breathable, and packs flat in my bag without losing its shape. The adjustable drawstring keeps it snug even when the wind is doing the most, and the crochet texture adds just the right amount of charm to every sundress and swimsuit situation.

4. A lightweight scarf

She’s a sarong, she’s a head wrap, she’s a beach blanket, she’s a nap-on-the-plane cover. I once used mine as an emergency top. Iconic behavior. 

Martina Lebron scarves each feel like a love letter to heritage and modernity. Made from 100 percent silk with hand-rolled hemming, it’s luxurious without being precious. Whether tied around your neck, tossed over your shoulders, or worn as a beach top in a pinch, this scarf proves that versatility and storytelling can go hand-in-hand.

5. A portable fan

This fan is small but mighty. It’s saved me from overheating in line for ice cream and while pretending to be okay during a no-shade island hike. A real MVP.

6. Body balm

This body balm is your shortcut to that sun-drenched, just-left-the-beach glow without the sand stuck to your legs.

Made with skin-loving ingredients like olive squalane, jojoba seed oil, and macadamia ternifolia seed oil, it gives your skin a boost of moisture and softness after a long day in the sun. There’s also vitamin E for a bit of antioxidant care and hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate to keep things feeling fresh and hydrated.

7. Sunscreen

I cannot stress sunscreen enough. And this one? A forever favorite packing essential. The spray format makes reapplication a breeze; just spritz and you’re good to go. No rubbing, no sticky hands, no excuses.

And the best part? You can wear it over makeup without ruining your look. Whether I’m mid-beach or running to a lunch spot under the sun, this is the SPF that fits seamlessly into the day mess-free and fuss-free.

8. Hair mask

Between the salty sea, UV rays, and chlorinated hotel pools, tropical vacations can be seriously rough on your hair. That’s why I always pack a leave-in mask.

It’s not just a surface-level fix; this formula works on a molecular level to help repair damaged hair from the inside out. I use it post-shower—no rinse needed—and it brings my sun-dried strands back to life. Soft, strong, and smooth like I didn’t just spend the day pretending my beach hair was intentional.

9. After sun gel

After a full day under the sun, your skin needs more than just a rinse. It needs something calming, hydrating, and lightweight.

Formulated with aloe vera leaf juice and a blend of plant extracts, it helps calm sun-exposed skin while replenishing moisture. The gel texture cools without feeling heavy or sticky, making it a great choice for both face and body. It’s an easy way to refresh your skin before winding down after a day of sun and sea.