Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!

Tropical Getaway Essentials: Everything You Need for an Island Escape

Purple Star emoji 15 items
As someone who loves island hopping and sunny escapes, I've spent years figuring out what actually makes or breaks a beach trip. Here is my ultimate list of tested, high-quality essentials—from sun protection to evening island wear—to make sure you’r...
Sections
4
 
 
 
 

Sun & Skin Protection

Keeping your skin healthy and glowing is step number one when dealing with intense tropical heat and humidity.
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
Completely weightless, zero white cast, and acts as a fantastic primer under light makeup!
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 Clear
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and doesn't leave you feeling sticky in high humidity.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk SPF 60
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
Super soothing after a long day under the sun—keep it in your hotel mini-fridge for extra cooling relief!
Sun Bum Cool Down Aloe Vera After Sun Gel - 8 oz
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
Sunburned lips are the worst; keep this in your beach bag at all times.
3x Blistex Ultra Rich Hydration Dual Layer Lip Balm SPF ...

Beach & Swimwear Essentials

Versatile, stylish items designed to transition seamlessly from taking a dip in the ocean to lounging at a seaside café.
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
Ultra-stretchy and flattering on every body type; doubles as a chic bodysuit paired with linen pants!
Hunza G Swimsuit
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
The ultimate lightweight cover-up—breezy, effortless, and keeps the sun off your shoulders.
Linen-Blend Loose Button-Down Shirt
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
Compact, sand-free, and dries in minutes so your bag never gets damp or smelly.
Swimming, Beach Towel Quick-Dry, Absorbent L 145 x 85 cm
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
Perfectly holds all your gear while shaking out excess sand easily before heading back to your room.
Straw Bag for Women Woven Crochet Tote

Tropical Footwear & Accessories

Practical accessories that elevate your resort style while keeping you comfortable on hot sand and cobblestone streets.
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
The indisputable classic for beach days—durable, waterproof, and super easy to clean.
Havaianas Slim Flip Flops
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
Lightweight, water-friendly, and secure enough for island hikes or slippery boat transfers.
Women's Hurricane Drift Water Sandal
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
Protects your eyes from intense water glare while adding an instant touch of glam to any beach look.
Oversized Sunglasses
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
Packs easily without losing its shape and offers total facial shade during peak sun hours.
Straw Bucket Hats

Tech & Travel Gadgets

Essential gear to keep your belongings dry and your devices powered during full days of island adventure.
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
Saves the day when you're taking photos all afternoon and away from an outlet.
Anker 10000mAh Power Bank, USB-C Charger
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
A must-have for snorkeling, kayaking, or taking underwater photos without risking water damage.
Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch ...
 
The Essential List by Jan Samantha profile picture
Keeps your camera, clothes, and wallet 100% safe during boat tours and sudden tropical rain showers.
Heavy Duty Roll Top Dry Sack Ocean pack