| Sensible packing can save you a lot of headache | | | | - bathing suits, and |
| and money. So that you come on your vacation | | | | - sun-dresses with low-heeled sandals for dressy |
| to the beach prepared, here is a short check list | | | | eveningsare all you will need. Even upscale |
| of packing tips our visiting friends and family have | | | | restaurants near the beach are casual dress. |
| appreciated. These Top 10 Beach Vacation | | | | For more specific tips for traveling to Akumal in |
| packing tips are great for any tropical destination. | | | | the Mayan Riviera, see the "Top 20 Packing Tips |
| 1. The number one packing tip for the tropics is | | | | for the Riviera Maya" in Akumal Mexico. |
| for protecting your skin. | | | | 5. Include a sweater or light jacket for cool |
| - Waterproof SPF 30 sunscreen, | | | | evenings only if you are visiting during the winter |
| - sunglasses and | | | | months. |
| - a hat. | | | | 6. Leave your jeans at home. They are bulky to |
| The sun is intense and you don't want to ruin | | | | pack and too hot to be worn in the tropics. |
| your vacation by getting a sunburn. | | | | 7. Instead of jeans, bring linen or khaki pants |
| 2. In case some of the beaches are rocky, invest | | | | instead. |
| in a pair of water socks. These rubber soled nylon | | | | 8. Bring a beach tote or back pack to carry |
| shoes will protect your feet from sharp rocks and | | | | - bottled water, |
| spiny sea urchin while in the ocean. | | | | - a towel, |
| 3. Comfortable walking shoes, preferably good | | | | - a camera or |
| sandals with rubber soles. We wear our Tevas | | | | - other items you will need on a tour or while on |
| everyday for all kinds of activities. Tevas can also | | | | the beach. |
| double as water shoes because the salt water will | | | | Use your beach bag to double as your carry-on. |
| not ruin them. The climate is too hot for tennis | | | | 9. Snorkel gear can be rented for a small fee and |
| shoes and they are cumbersome when walking | | | | some accommodations provide it for free. It's not |
| on the beach. | | | | worth the extra effort to bring it. |
| 4. Keep your clothing light-weight, casual and | | | | 10. Do bring an underwater camera, a disposable |
| versatile. | | | | one will be fine. The water is crystal clear with |
| - Shorts, | | | | high visibility and you will want pictures of the |
| - cotton t-shirts, | | | | beautiful reef. |