You’ve got your beach trip booked and itinerary planned. Now it’s time to start packing and let the excitement for your getaway begin! If you’re heading to Alabama’s 32 miles of sugar-white sand beaches, we’ve got everything you need to bring for a vacation in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Make sure to add these items to your checklist while packing.

• Sunscreen
• Beach towels
• Hats
• After sun lotion
• Cooler
• Beach umbrella or tent
  • *All tents, canopies, and EZ-Ups must be placed behind the white Leave Only Footprints flags when set up on Gulf Shores and Orange Beach public beaches. Umbrellas are permitted anywhere along the shore.
• Beach chairs
• Beach toys
• Swimsuits
• Sandals or water shoes
• Coverups
• Sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle
• Beach bag (Check out our 8 Things to Pack in Your Beach Bag)
• Umbrella

There's no need to worry if you forget any of these items. You’ll find beach essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and towels at most stores. Several local companies rent chairs, umbrellas, and beach toys. Many will even set up and take down the equipment for you, so all you have to do is enjoy a day by the water.

Once you arrive, sign up to receive daily beach conditions and warning flag status by texting ALBEACHES to 888777. After you leave, text STOP to opt out of the texts. 

Be sure to visit our Welcome Centers, call, text or chat with us to answer your questions, learn more about the area, local weather, and discover tips and tricks for a perfect beach vacation. We are here to help!