Alright ladies, spring break is only a week away. Your upcoming vacation should be stress-free and provide a refuge from schoolwork. If you’re going somewhere tropical, this vacation guide will take the guesswork away from packing and prepare you for a perfect paradise getaway.

1. Sunglasses

There is no need to splurge on an expensive pair of sunglasses for your trip–between sand, ocean water and sunscreen, the the risk is too high. Purchasing a cute, inexpensive pair is your best bet.

2. Sun hat

Besides being the perfect fashion accessory, hats serve as effective facial protection from the sun. They’re also super easy to throw on if you’re having a bad hair day. Whether you choose a floppy sun hat or a baseball cap, having a hat is an essential for any beach vacation.

3. Basic Sundress

Not only is a loose, thin sundress comfortable and cute, but it also takes up minimal space in your suitcase. Combine with a pair of sandals and a quick braid, and you’ll have the perfect spring break outfit for day or night.

4. Rubber flip flops

Although these need no explanation, your vacation can be ruined if this staple is left at home. The best pairs to invest in are inexpensive and virtually indestructible. After the wear and tear of a week on the beach, flip flops made of plastic material are easy to wash (or easy to replace).

5. Cute Beach Bag

Every girl needs a bag to take to the beach or pool, but not one that will be big and heavy. Unless you and your friends are all sharing one giant beach bag, you should only pack the day’s essentials. Fill your beach bag with sunscreen, chapstick, dry shampoo, a hairbrush and a snack.

6. Beach cover-up

Having a grab-and-go piece to throw over a bathing suit will make your day at the beach much easier, as you’ll only have one piece of clothing to worry about. Your cover-up should be loose-fitting in case your swimsuit is still wet when you put it on. Rompers are a good choice because while they’re casual enough for a day in the sun, you can also   dress them up for a post-beach dinner.

7. Sweatshirt

Even in the warmest climates, it can get cold at night–especially on the beach. Packing a lightweight sweatshirt is the perfect problem solver. This navy and white striped sweatshirt is a staple piece that pairs nicely with denim cutoffs or a pair of white jeans.

8. Sunscreen

Not tanning lotion, but sunscreen. I know the last thing that you want to do is come home from vacation white as a ghost, but nothing is worse than a beaming red sunburn. If you insist on achieving the perfect glow, you should switch off between sunscreen and tanning lotion. I recommend applying sunscreen every two to three hours for maximum coverage. Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration is my go-to sunscreen because it is light, non-greasy and moisturizes my skin.