Planning a beach vacation to Ocean City, Maryland? Whether you're heading to the iconic boardwalk, relaxing on miles of pristine sandy beaches, or exploring the charming nearby town of Berlin, packing the right essentials can make or break your trip.
As your friendly neighborhood boutique just minutes from Ocean City in downtown Berlin, we've helped thousands of beachgoers prepare for their perfect coastal getaway. We know exactly what you need to pack—and what you can skip and pick up locally instead!
In this comprehensive packing guide, we'll cover everything from beach day must-haves to bohemian outfit inspiration, plus insider tips on what to bring and what to buy when you arrive. Let's get you vacation-ready!
Beach Day Essentials: What You Absolutely Need
Sun Protection (Non-Negotiable!)
Sunscreen Maryland's summer sun is no joke! Pack:
-
Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher
-
Water-resistant formula for swimming
-
Face-specific sunscreen (less likely to cause breakouts)
-
Lip balm with SPF
Pro tip: Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before heading to the beach, and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming.
Sun-Protective Accessories
-
Wide-brimmed hat (straw hats are both functional and beach-chic!)
-
Oversized sunglasses with UV protection
-
Lightweight beach cover-up or kimono
-
Rash guard or swim shirt for extended water time
Beach Bag Must-Haves
The Perfect Beach Bag You need a bag that's:
-
Large enough for all your essentials
-
Made from water-resistant or easy-to-clean material
-
Has secure closures (sand and wind are sneaky!)
-
Comfortable to carry
What to Pack Inside:
-
Beach towel (large, quick-drying microfiber towels are ideal)
-
Water bottle (staying hydrated is crucial!)
-
Snacks (beach days make you hungry)
-
Waterproof phone case or pouch
-
Small first-aid kit with bandages and aloe vera
-
Ziplock bags (for wet swimsuits, phones, or sandy treasures)
-
Book or e-reader for relaxing
-
Portable phone charger
Footwear for Every Occasion
Flip-Flops or Sandals Essential for beach days. Choose:
Water Shoes If you're planning to explore rocky areas or go kayaking, pack water shoes with good grip.
Casual Walking Shoes For exploring downtown Berlin, boardwalk strolls, or evening dinners, bring comfortable sneakers or casual sandals.
Swimwear Strategy: How Many Suits to Bring
The Two-Suit Minimum
At minimum, pack two swimsuits. Here's why:
Suit #1: Your Go-To Your favorite, most comfortable suit for everyday beach lounging and swimming.
Suit #2: The Backup A second suit means you always have a dry option. Nothing's worse than putting on a damp, sandy suit the next morning!
Consider Your Activities
If you're planning multiple beach days: Bring 3-4 suits so you can rotate and let each one dry completely.
If you're doing water sports: Pack a sporty, secure suit that won't shift during activities like paddleboarding or jet skiing.
If you're hitting beach bars or pools: Consider a stylish suit that transitions well from water to socializing.
Mix and Match Bikini Strategy
Pack bikini tops and bottoms that mix and match! This gives you multiple "outfits" without overpacking:
-
2-3 bikini tops in complementary colors
-
2-3 bikini bottoms in neutral or coordinating shades
-
Instant variety with minimal luggage space
Bohemian Beach Fashion: Outfit Ideas
Now for the fun part—what to wear when you're not in your swimsuit! Ocean City has a relaxed, beachy vibe perfect for bohemian style.
Daytime Beach-to-Boardwalk Looks
The Breezy Maxi Dress A bohemian maxi dress is the ultimate beach vacation essential:
-
Throw it over your swimsuit for instant coverage
-
Comfortable for walking the boardwalk
-
Effortlessly stylish for casual dining
-
Takes up minimal luggage space
Pack 2-3 maxi dresses in different styles:
-
Floral print for classic boho vibes
-
Solid color for versatility
-
Tie-dye or ombre for beachy fun
Flowy Shorts and Crop Tops Perfect for active days exploring:
-
High-waisted shorts pair well with crop tops or bralettes
-
Linen or cotton fabrics keep you cool
-
Easy to dress up with accessories
The Perfect Cover-Up Essential for beach-to-lunch transitions:
Evening Outfit Ideas
Sunset Dinner on the Boardwalk
-
Flowy midi skirt + fitted tank top
-
Wide-leg linen pants + crop top
-
Casual sundress with wedge sandals
-
Romper with statement jewelry
Downtown Berlin Exploration Berlin's Main Street has charming shops, restaurants, and galleries:
Casual Beach Bonfire
Accessorizing Your Beach Wardrobe
Jewelry That Travels Well
-
Layered necklaces (bohemian staple!)
-
Stacked bracelets and bangles
-
Statement earrings
-
Anklets for extra beach vibes
Pro tip: Stick to costume jewelry for the beach—you don't want to risk losing precious pieces in the ocean!
Bags for Every Occasion
-
Crossbody bag for hands-free boardwalk exploring
-
Clutch or small purse for evening dinners
-
Straw tote for shopping downtown Berlin
Hair Accessories
-
Headbands to keep hair off your face
-
Scrunchies (they're back and perfect for beach hair!)
-
Hair clips for effortless updos
What NOT to Pack (Buy It in Berlin Instead!)
Here's where we let you in on a local secret: you don't need to pack everything! Save luggage space and support local businesses by shopping when you arrive.
Located just 10 minutes from Ocean City on Main Street in downtown Berlin, Beach Gypsy is your one-stop shop for anything you forgot—or anything you suddenly need!
What We Have That You Might "Forget" to Pack:
Bohemian Clothing
-
Maxi dresses and sundresses
-
Flowy cover-ups and kimonos
-
Shorts, skirts, and tops
-
Comfortable rompers and jumpsuits
Beach Accessories
-
Straw hats and beach bags
-
Sunglasses
-
Jewelry (earrings, necklaces, bracelets, anklets)
-
Sarongs and scarves
Unique Finds You Won't Have at Home
Bonus: Tanning Services and Relaxing Red Light Therapy Arrive pale and leave glowing! Get a spray tan or use our UV tanning beds before hitting the beach. Nothing boosts vacation confidence like a gorgeous tan! Or if glowing a tan isn't your vibe-try our Red Light Therapy Bed-the perfectly relaxing and great for you moment to get away from it all!
Why Shop Local in Berlin
Avoid Overpriced Tourist Traps Ocean City boardwalk shops charge premium prices. Berlin offers better quality at better prices.
Unique, Artisan Products You won't find mass-produced tourist junk at Beach Gypsy—we curate unique, bohemian pieces and support local artisans.
Experience Downtown Berlin Berlin was named "America's Coolest Small Town" by Budget Travel among many other notable recognitions! Take a break from the beach crowds and explore our charming, walkable downtown.
More Luggage Space Why pack items you're not sure you'll need? Shop when you arrive and only buy what you actually want.
Toiletries and Personal Care
What to Pack
Skincare Essentials
-
Facial cleanser
-
Moisturizer (the sun and salt water are drying!)
-
After-sun lotion or aloe vera gel (Beach Gypsy carries many great for you skin care items!)
-
Exfoliating scrub (for post-beach skin refresh)
Hair Care
Body Care
-
Body wash
-
Deodorant
-
Razor and shaving cream
-
Nail clippers and file
Beach Hair and Skin Tips
Protect Your Hair Salt water and sun can damage hair:
-
Apply leave-in conditioner before swimming
-
Rinse hair with fresh water after the beach
-
Wear a hat when possible
-
Use a deep conditioning treatment mid-vacation
Skin Care Routine
-
Shower off salt, sand and chlorine daily
-
Moisturize morning and night
-
Use after-sun products on sun-exposed areas
-
Exfoliate gently 2-3 times during your trip
Tech and Entertainment
What to Bring
Phone and Accessories
Camera If you're serious about vacation photos, bring a real camera. Ocean City sunsets are Instagram-worthy!
E-Reader or Books Beach reading is a vacation essential. Download books before you arrive (WiFi can be spotty on the beach).
Bluetooth Speaker For beach day soundtrack vibes (but be considerate of others nearby!).
What to Leave at Home
Laptops and Work Devices You're on vacation! Disconnect and enjoy.
Expensive Jewelry Leave valuable pieces at home. The beach is not the place for heirlooms.
Too Many Gadgets Keep it simple. You don't need every electronic device you own.
Kids and Family Packing Tips
Beach Toys and Activities
Essential Beach Toys:
Pro tip: Buy cheap beach toys at local stores and leave them behind for other children to enjoy when you go home—no need to pack sandy toys in your luggage!
Kid-Specific Items
-
Extra sunscreen (kids need frequent reapplication)
-
Swim diapers if needed
-
Rash guards for sun protection
-
Snacks and drinks (beach days make kids hungry!)
-
First-aid supplies including children's pain reliever
-
Favorite comfort items for bedtime
Weather-Specific Packing
Summer (June-August)
Typical Weather: Hot and humid (80-90°F), occasional afternoon thunderstorms
Pack:
Shoulder Season (May, September, early October)
Typical Weather: Warm days (70-80°F), cooler evenings
Pack:
-
Light sweater or cardigan for evenings
-
Long pants or jeans for cooler nights
-
Closed-toe shoes for comfortable walking
What to Check Before You Go
-
Weather forecast: Check the 10-day forecast before packing
-
Beach conditions: Look up water temperature and surf conditions
-
Local events: Ocean City & nearby towns host festivals and events—pack accordingly!
Packing Organization Tips
Use Packing Cubes
Organize your suitcase with packing cubes:
Roll, Don't Fold
Rolling clothes saves space and prevents wrinkles—perfect for flowy bohemian dresses!
Pack a Separate Beach Bag
Keep your beach essentials in a separate bag that's ready to grab and go each morning.
Leave Room for Souvenirs
Don't pack your suitcase to maximum capacity! Leave space for treasures you'll find in Berlin and Ocean City.
Your Complete Ocean City Packing Checklist
Swimwear & Beach
Sun Protection
(Beach Gypsy carries all of these if you forget any!)
Clothing
Footwear
Accessories
Toiletries
-
Shampoo and conditioner
-
Body wash and face cleanser
-
Moisturizer
-
Deodorant
-
Toothbrush and toothpaste
-
Hair styling products
-
Makeup and remover
-
Razor and shaving cream
-
Feminine hygiene products
-
Medications and first-aid supplies
Tech & Entertainment
-
Phone and charger
-
Portable battery pack
-
Waterproof phone case
-
Camera (optional)
-
E-reader or books
-
Headphones
Important Documents
-
ID or driver's license
-
Credit cards and cash
-
Hotel confirmation
-
Travel insurance info
-
Emergency contact list
Insider Tips for Your Ocean City Vacation
Best Times to Visit the Beach
-
Early morning (7-10 AM): Quietest time, perfect for peaceful beach walks
-
Late afternoon (4-7 PM): Crowds thin out, beautiful light for photos, stunning sunsets
Must-Do Activities
-
Walk or bike the Ocean City Boardwalk (bring comfortable shoes!)
-
Visit Assateague Island to see wild ponies
-
Explore downtown Berlin's shops and restaurants
-
Try local seafood (blue crabs are a Maryland specialty!)
-
Catch a sunset from a boat or a bayside restaurant
Where to Eat
Ocean City:
-
Boardwalk classics: Thrasher's Fries, Dolle's Candyland, Fisher's Popcorn
-
Fresh seafood at local restaurants
Berlin:
Don't Miss Downtown Berlin
Seriously—make time to visit Berlin! It's just 10 minutes from Ocean City and offers:
-
Unique boutique shopping (hello, Beach Gypsy!)
-
Less crowded, more relaxed atmosphere
-
Beautiful historic architecture
-
Local artisan shops
-
Great restaurants without boardwalk prices
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I pack for a week-long Ocean City vacation? Aim for 7-10 outfits that mix and match, 2-4 swimsuits, and one outfit per evening activity. Remember, you can repeat outfits—you're on vacation!
What's the dress code in Ocean City? Very casual! Beachwear during the day, casual sundresses or shorts for evening. Only upscale restaurants require anything dressier.
Can I do laundry during my trip? Many vacation rentals have washers and dryers. Hotels often offer laundry services. This means you can pack lighter!
What if I forget something important? Don't stress! Ocean City and Berlin have plenty of shops. Visit Beach Gypsy in downtown Berlin for bohemian clothing, accessories, skincare needs and beach essentials.
Is it worth visiting Berlin, MD during my Ocean City trip? Absolutely! Berlin offers a completely different vibe—charming, walkable, less touristy, with unique shops, museums and restaurants. It's only 10 minutes away and makes a perfect afternoon excursion.
Conclusion
Packing for your Ocean City beach vacation doesn't have to be stressful! With this comprehensive guide, you'll have everything you need for sun-soaked beach days, boardwalk adventures, and exploring charming downtown Berlin.
Remember: when in doubt, pack less and plan to shop locally. Beach Gypsy in Berlin, Maryland is here for all your bohemian fashion needs, beach accessories, and last-minute essentials. Plus, you can get a gorgeous spray tan or build a base tan in our UV beds before hitting the beach!
Ready to complete your beach vacation wardrobe? Visit Beach Gypsy at our Main Street location in downtown Berlin. We're open and ready to help you look and feel amazing for your Ocean City getaway!
Browse our collection of flowy maxi dresses, beach cover-ups, artisan jewelry, straw hats, and everything else you need for the perfect boho beach look. And don't forget to book your spray tan for that sun-kissed glow from day one!
See you soon, beach goddess! 🌊✨
