THE 6 VACATION ESSENTIALS YOU NEED FROM ETSY PRONTO

I won’t lie, I am kinda hoping summer is going to last forever at the moment. The good thing is, when it does finally end it’s never too hard to jump on a plane & find someone else’s summer. Either way, it’s essential to get that vacay suitcase sorted. And if, like me, you’re feeling everything out there is a bit same same, then there’s always Etsy. From unique finds, to vintage gets or handmade pieces, Etsy is always my go-to for something a little different.

Also, before we begin, I’d like you to double-check that you’ve already booked your hotel accommodation. The reason for this is if you are visiting a new place, you’d not immediately jump over to the beach; instead, you’d need to rest for a while before exploring the place. Additionally, as a suggestion, when looking for hotels, look for those in the heart of all the tourist attractions. For example, if you are planning a great ocean road stay in Australia, you may want to look for a location that is central to all tourist attractions, whereas this does not apply to all of my native friends who live in the same city. In addition to advance hotel bookings, it may be necessary for you to prepare an itinerary that lists hotels, activities, and popular restaurants. In case you decide to conduct specific adventure activities, you should schedule your booking in advance. For whale-watching in Hawaii, for example, you might have to book your date in advance with companies like Kai Kanani Sailing.

Phew! Anyway, here I’ve got my hands on six essentials you can’t go without on your next summer holiday…

1. A Straw Beach Bag

A vacation must (obviously!). Where else will you hide your book, sunglasses, towel, sunscreen, water, phone & ice-cream money stash. I am a huge fan of the straw bag (no surprise here if you follow my instagram stories!) & have already built up quite the collection this summer. There are endless options on Etsy, from big to small, structured to boxy, with so many cute designs on offer. The ring detail on this one got me here – it’s adorable, AND the tassel detail matches my sandals perfectly! I’m a sucker for matching pieces so naturally it was a no-brainer. Beach bag sorted!

2. A Linen Beach Towel

I’ve never been a huge fan of bulky beach towels, so when I saw this linen variety, I had to have it! It’s easy to carry & stores simply in my beach bag. I adore the look & feel of linen, it’s also natural, non-allergenic, breathable and so soft. The beauty of this towel is it can even double up as a throw or cover-up! Plus, who doesn’t love everything linen right now?

3. A Kimono Cover-Up

Speaking of cover-ups, I’m all about kimonos right now. They’re easy, comfortable, and look great topped over bathers (even better when it matches them perfectly!). Plus I hate tight clothing at the beach, who wants to be wrestling a bodycon dress in the sand? As a big advocate of transitional items on vacay, a kimono absolutely ticks that box. Why not go for one that has a touch of added texture such as fringing or tassels? It just adds that little sometime extra don’t you think?

4. A Pair of Pom-Pom Sandals

I live in sandals while on a trip (duh!) but since I started wearing the pom-pom variety I haven’t been able to keep up with the compliments being thrown my way! People just love pom-poms! I think they have this innate way of making anyone smile & the colours are too fun. They’re playful and can spruce up even the most basic vacay outfit.

5. An Oversized Straw Hat

A straw hat (or three!) is always first in my bag when I pack for a summer holiday. It helps to tame my crazy salty hair as well as provides much-needed coverage from the sun. There are so many options when it comes to beach hats – boaters, floppy, wide-brimmed, or even my latest fave, a straw visor. Straw visor hats are the latest trend in the fashion industry and look pretty with swimwear, perhaps a must-have for people who love beaches. These hats could be extra useful if you are planning to Visit Amanyara Turks and Caicos Islands or other exotic destinations this vacation. Hats and sunscreen can be two must-have essentials that you should probably consider before visiting a beach. After all, we may have worked really hard to achieve healthy skin!

6. A Pair of Vintage Sunglasses

Rightio, who doesn’t love to rock a pair of vintage sunnies? Again the options on Etsy are positively endless. How fun are these blush pink ones? I’m also the kind of girl who always ends up wearing hers in the water so it’s great to have some inexpensive options on offer.

Not only do I love finding unique, one-off designs on Etsy but it’s great feeling to know you’re supporting local small business and authentic designers. I love sourcing designs that aren’t mass produced, there is something so comforting and loveable about a handmade or sourced piece. Agreed?

Ok, so now that you’re packing is sorted it’s time to source some sunshine. Personally I am off to the infamous Bondi Beach in Sydney tomorrow (cannot wait!). Where is your next summer holiday to?