For a beach holiday, pack two swim pieces you can rotate, one pair of soft shorts for the walk to and from the sand, and two or three quick-drying underwear pairs for the evenings. That is enough for a week, because everything dries overnight and nothing needs a full wash on the trip.
Start with the swim layer
Swimwear is the one category you should not skimp on. A damp swimsuit takes hours to dry in a humid room, so bring at least two and alternate them. Our guide to men's swim briefs covers fit in more detail, and beach versus pool styles helps you decide what suits your plans.
- One brief or bikini cut for sunbathing and short swims.
- One square-leg or trunk cut for longer days, ball games and anywhere you want more coverage.
- A quick-dry fabric in both, so the second pair is ready by morning.
Choose a cut for each kind of day
Different beach days call for different shapes. This quick comparison keeps the decision simple.
| Style | Best for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Swim briefs | Sunbathing, pool lounging, warm water | Minimal coverage, the most even tan |
| Square-leg swim trunks | Active days, snorkelling, beach volleyball | Close fit, stays put in waves |
| Swim shorts | Beach bars, walks, relaxed afternoons | Dry a little slower than briefs |
Pack real shorts for the walk to the beach
Walking through a hotel lobby or a seaside town in only swimwear is rarely the plan. One pair of shorts covers it. Cotton running shorts with zip pockets are handy because your key and card stay secure while you move between the hotel, the beach and a cafe. Lightweight loungewear shorts are the alternative if you prefer something airy for hot afternoons and sleeping.
What underwear to bring for evenings
After a day in the sun you want something breathable, not heavy. Pack pairs that are light, wick moisture and can be rinsed in the sink if needed.
- Two or three pairs of mesh or modal styles for dinners and travel days.
- One darker pair for the journey home or an evening out.
- One spare pair in your day bag in case plans change.
Our travel packing guide has a longer checklist if your trip includes more than the beach.
Fabrics that work best by the water
Fabric matters more than style when salt, sun and sand are involved. Look for blends of polyamide or polyester with spandex: they stretch in every direction, feel light and shed water quickly. The square-leg trunks above use 82% polyamide and 18% spandex, and the print shorts use 90% polyester and 10% spandex, so both move with you and dry fast.
For the hours away from the water, breathable fabrics such as mesh and modal are the comfortable choice. They let air move and do not feel heavy in warm weather, which is why they sit at the bottom of the bag for evenings rather than the sand.
Fit checks before you leave home
Try everything on before you travel. A drawstring waistband is only useful if it sits where you want it, and a zip pocket is only useful if it does not bounce when you walk.
- Waistband: snug enough to stay put in waves, with no digging at the hip.
- Leg opening: comfortable when you sit, kneel or lie on a towel.
- Pouch: enough room for comfort without sagging when wet.
- Colour: darker shades hide sand and sun cream marks between rinses.
Small extras that make the trip easier
A thin mesh bag keeps damp swimwear away from your dry clothes. A pack of travel-size laundry soap lets you rinse a pair of underwear in the evening. A light dry bag protects your phone and keys on the sand. None of these take up space, and they stop a good holiday turning into a damp suitcase.
A simple packing list for seven days
- 2 swim pieces, one brief and one square-leg or trunk style
- 1 pair of shorts for walking around
- 1 pair of loungewear shorts for the room
- 3 pairs of breathable underwear
- 1 small mesh or zip bag for damp items
Rinse swimwear in fresh water after each swim and let it dry in the shade, not in direct sun. The steps in our guide on how to wash men's underwear work well for travel too.
Frequently asked questions
How many swim pieces should I bring?
Two is the sweet spot for a week. You wear one while the other dries, and it gives you a second style for variety.
Can I wear swimwear instead of underwear under shorts?
Yes for a short walk, but a dry pair of underwear is more comfortable for a full evening. Wet fabric stays damp under clothes.
How do I dry swimwear quickly in a hotel room?
Rinse it, press it in a towel, then hang it near an open window or a fan. Quick-dry fabric is usually ready within a few hours.
Should I size up for beach holidays?
Choose your normal size and check the size chart on the product page. Swimwear should fit securely without digging in.
Ready to pack?
Browse the full men's swimwear collection and our shorts to build your holiday set. Every order ships in discreet packaging.
