You’re planning a trip to the Outer Banks and want to know how to best pack for it.
You’re not alone. Thousands of people visit the Outer Banks each year, and most have one thing in common: they overpack. Guess what, we don’t blame them. The beaches are beautiful, the weather is warm, and there are many places to explore along the coast—you may want to take it all in at once.
That’s where we come in—we’ll tell you the eight best ways to pack for your next Outer Bank trip so you don’t end up lugging around extra stuff that will just weigh you down or waste space in your car. So book your Outer Banks multi-bedroom rental online and read this guide to pack like a pro!
Table of Contents
Don’t Overpack Your Beach Bag
You’re going to the beach, so you obviously need a beach bag. But resist the urge to pack everything but the kitchen sink—you’ll just end up lugging around extra stuff you don’t need. Stick to the basics: sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, and a towel. And if you’re planning on spending time in the water, pack a pair of goggles or some other type of eye protection.
Pack Lightweight Clothes
The Outer Banks can be hot, so you’ll want to pack light, airy clothing that won’t weigh you down. But that doesn’t mean you should skimp on packing essentials like pants and long-sleeved shirts—you’ll need them for evening activities or if the weather takes a turn.
Invest in Good Sunscreen
You’ll spend a lot of time outdoors, so you must invest in a good sunscreen. Look for one that has an SPF of at least 30 and is water-resistant. And don’t forget to apply it liberally—most people don’t use enough sunscreen, which decreases its effectiveness.
Bring Along Some Insect Repellent
The bugs can be bad in the Outer Banks, so it’s a good idea to pack insect repellent. But make sure you choose one that won’t irritate your skin—look for repellents that contain natural ingredients like citronella or lemongrass oil.
Pack a First-Aid Kit
You never know when you might need a band-aid or some antiseptic cream, so it’s always a good idea to pack a small first-aid kit. You can find pre-made kits at most drugstores, or you can put one together yourself with basic items like gauze, Band-Aids, and over-the-counter medication.
Bring Along Some Cash
There are plenty of ATMs in the Outer Banks, but they can be hard to find—and you don’t want to be stuck searching for one when you’re out and about. So it’s always a good idea to bring along some cash, just in case.
Don’t Forget the Camera
The Outer Banks is home to some of the country’s most beautiful scenery, so you’ll want to take plenty of photos. But resist the urge to pack your bulky DSLR—your phone’s camera will do just fine. And if you’re planning on taking any video, make sure to bring along an extra power bank or two—you don’t want your camera dying in the middle of a shoot.
Check the Weather Before You Pack
The weather can be unpredictable in the Outer Banks, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before you start packing. That way, you can pack appropriately for the conditions and be prepared for anything.
Final Word
Packing for a trip to the Outer Banks doesn’t have to be difficult—just follow our tips, and you’ll be all set. And if you’re still unsure what to pack, remember this: less is always more. You can always buy things you need once you’re there, but you can’t pack less once you’ve already left home. So err on the side of caution, and you’ll surely have a great time.