Most beach trips need far less than we pack. After a few years of sending parcels to people the week before they fly, this is the list we give when asked.
The nine things
Two swimsuits, so one is always dry. One sarong. One linen shirt that works over a swimsuit and at dinner. One pair of shorts or trunks. One dress or a linen set. A hat that rolls. Slides you can rinse. A woven bag that doubles as your beach bag.
If you would not wear it twice on the trip, it stays at home.
How to pack it
Roll the linen rather than folding it; creases fall out in humid air anyway. Put the hat in last, crown down, and fill the crown with your swimsuits.
What to leave
A second pair of sandals, a beach towel (the sarong does it) and anything that needs ironing.