There is no better time than now to go to an island and get away from the fierce cold in winter. If you have planned to spend anytime longer than two weeks on an island, and if you have been exercising at least for the past three months, which means that working out has become your habit very likely, you will want to include your workout gear in your suitcase when packing. In this article we are going to list some must-have minimalist fitness items for your beach vacation if you want to stay in shape this whole time.
1. Workout Clothes
Workout clothes are not just simple pieces of clothes. Good workout clothes, e.g. sports bras, tanks and leggings, should be moisture wicking, fast dry, and anti-chafing. Professional workout clothes even have the ability to help you perform better during workout. A fan of cardio? Taking a pair of leggings that has a drop-in pocket would be a good idea.
2. Exercise Bands
Exercise bands are the best replacement for weights while traveling. Either fabric bands or rubber bands, they are light and can be folded and packed in small space. Different resistance levels allow you to train with muscle groups and strength.
3. Running Shoes
If you are into cardio, running shoes should definitely be taken into account. Especially when you are on a beach vacation. How wonderful it is to jog along the beach while enjoy the breeze and sound from the ocean.
4. Foldable Yoga Mat
If you are a yogi, a foldable yoga mat is a must-have for you. This type of yoga mat can be folded into a 14-inch MacBook and packed into your suitcase easily. The fact that it is a hot yoga mat means that you can practice yoga even on the beach, where you can relax yourself heart and soul. Yoga is not your thing? It works as an exercise mat too!
5. Massage Ball / Foam Roller
Even if there is a massage place nearby, it is still a good idea to pack a massage ball or foam roller with you. After all, not everyone enjoys being touched or has the luxury to pay for someone to do the massage every day. Plus, both of the items allow you to control where, how long and how intense you want to massage your own body. Just remember not to over -spend time on every spot – 20 to 30 seconds would be good enough.
6. Fitness Apps
There are more and more useful and fun fitness apps available on the market. With these apps, you can try various kinds of training without the help of a physical fitness trainer. Whether your goal is to tone your body, burn fat, or build muscles, just download one or two apps, pick a few courses that are suitable for you and stick to them.
These should be enough for your vacation if want to be full on minimalist, or if you are on a budget, traveling on a low-cost flight with no checked-in bags, aka. like us. Although if you want to enjoy more of the fun that being active offers, and if you are on an island, below items should definitely be considered.
7. Long Sleeve Swimsuit
Long sleeve swimsuit, or rash guard, or long sleeve one piece, is a good item to have if you want to enjoy the water without causing sun burnt. Being exposed under the sun in the water has a higher chance of getting sun burnt, and long sleeves physically protect your shoulders and arms from it. One-piece design also sets your mind at rest of losing your bikini in the water, which is not rare.
8. Minimalist Water Shoes
If you have been to the beach before, you definitely have the experience of being scratched, or at least concerned about being scratched by the unknown object on the ground, especially when you are in the water. A good way to avoid this is to bring a pair of water shoes. The minimalist water shoes have simple yet multi-functional designs that protect against sharp objects and provide excellent grip against slippery surfaces. Now with these water shoes you can enjoy the water as much as you want!
9. Goggles
Last but not least, how can you forget a pair of goggles if you decide to go into the water? They will well protect your eyes from the salty water and allow you to enjoy the beautiful under water life!
I am already getting so excited by just telling about what to bring for your beach vacation. Now it is time to pack your stuff. Hope this list of items is useful for you and don’t forget to let us know if we are missing something by leaving your comments below!