Essential Packing List for a Charleston Bachelorette Party: 17 Must-Have Items

Charleston, Miami, Nashville… some cities are just popular locations for a bachelorette party. I spotted no fewer than 10 in Charleston, South Carolina last weekend when I was part of one myself, the very first at airport arrivals. “That’s the tip of the iceberg,” my Lyft driver said — and he wasn’t joking. Throughout my three-day weekend, I saw bride after bride dressed in white leading their squads past palms and pastel homes.

Bachelorette Party Destination: Charleston

And it’s no wonder: The Holy City offers a near-perfect itinerary for a girls’ trip, including days filled with rooftop bar-restaurants like those at The Dewberry’s Citrus Club and The Watch, catamaran adventures out on Folly Beach, excellent seafood at places like The Darling Oyster Bar, boutiques and abundant nightlife all within easy walking distance of each other — not to mention a great selection of Airbnb houses available for long weekends. The list goes on.

Essential Packing List for Charleston

So if you’re headed on a group trip to the Southern city (or even solo), you’re in luck: I know just what to bring to look the part and feel your best. From my trusty, celeb-loved white sneakers to a very important liquid IV rehydration mix, these are the 17 items I’m so glad I packed for a bachelorette party in Charleston. Stock up before your trip — this town dresses to impress.

Veja Sneakers

Yes, you absolutely need to pack comfy walking shoes for Charleston. These white sneakers are a traveler’s best friend. I love this style so much I’ve owned two pairs over the years (If they’re good enough for Kate Middleton, they’re good enough for me!) and they took me all over the city with ease. They were supportive and comfy after nearly four hours of sightseeing — to the Charleston City Market, to the Pineapple Fountain, to Rainbow Row and beyond — they’re practical yet stylish in a way your average running shoes just can’t achieve.

To buy: zappos.com, $185

Ruffle Sleeve Midi Dress

A colorful midi dress is a must for dinners out in Charleston, with a little feminine ruffle detail that’s so popular across the South. “And it has pockets!” I told every girl who would listen. I found this lightweight, summery style from Abercrombie to be super flattering with its waist-defining, A-line cut and leg slit. It fit perfectly when we went out for dinner at The Darling Oyster Bar.

To buy: abercrombie.com, $83 (originally $110)

Supergoop! Sunscreen

On the first day of the trip, I went to the Citrus Club rooftop at The Dewberry for views over the sun-dappled church steeples, a spritz in hand as I lounged carefree in the sun — and ended up with sunburn. Luckily, one of the other girls saved the rest of the weekend for me with this SPF 40+ sunscreen. This sunscreen feels so light you barely notice it’s there, with more than 10,000 five-star ratings at Amazon. The 1.7-ounce size will definitely be making its way into my carry-on for future adventures.

To buy: amazon.com, $38

Lululemon Belt Bag

This editor-loved bag truly came in handy on my trip during our group exercise day. We took a bonding “Diva Dance” class, and I was so glad I had this bag to carry my essentials on the way over. I love that it has adjustable straps that can fit securely over my shoulder or around my waist like a fanny pack. It’s perfect for hikes, day trips, and grocery runs back home.

To buy: lululemon.com, $38

Liquid IV Hydration Packets

Bless the bride for gifting her squad these powder packs, which you simply add to water for an electrolyte boost. They came in handy after a long night out and sunny days by the pool. You don’t need to be drinking to feel their restorative effects. One after a swim was just what I needed to bounce back.

To buy: amazon.com, $24 for 16 count

Oversized Chambray Button-Up

A chambray button-up shirt is one of the most versatile pieces in my travel wardrobe. It can be dressed up or down with ease, making it a true closet MVP: I wear it open over a black dress to make it casual or buttoned up as a top. It also serves as my coverup at the pool or comfy travel attire at the airport.

To buy: amazon.com, $37 (originally $48)

Little Black Dress

There is literally no occasion I can imagine a little black dress not being appropriate. It’s perfect for sightseeing during the day paired with white sneakers and a jean jacket, then dressed up with jewelry and comfy platform sandals for bar hopping at night.

To buy: amazon.com, $34

Ray-Ban Sunglasses

No doubt you’ve seen these heart-shaped sunglasses, but I prefer the classic Ray-Ban Clubmaster. This style provides the UV protection I needed in a sunny town like Charleston.

To buy: amazon.com, $163

Clare V. T-shirt

You can never go wrong with a T-shirt for lounging around. This one from designer Clare V. is super soft and high-quality — a perfect pairing with a flowy skirt and sneakers.

To buy: clarev.com, $99

Two-Piece Linen Set

This two-piece set looks put-together without much effort. Plus, it’s versatile enough to mix and match with other items in your suitcase, making it a fantastic space saver. This one from Trendy Queen is perfect for warm trip activities.

To buy: amazon.com, $35

Day-to-Night Jumpsuit

I often joke that my entire wardrobe is turning into jumpsuits because they’re so versatile. This one is casual enough for a day out yet transitions effortlessly to a night at a cocktail bar, making it a great option for Charleston.

To buy: madewell.com, $97 with code FULLBLOOM (originally $138)

Away Bigger Carry-On

This carry-on suitcase is the reason I haven’t checked a bag in four years. It fits everything I needed for the weekend (about 6 outfits, plus extras!) and rolls smoothly over Charleston’s bumpy streets.

To buy: awaytravel.com, $295

Summersalt Swimsuit

My golden rule for packing is never to go on a trip without a swimsuit. This has been my go-to style for varying occasions, fitting perfectly for bachelorette parties that often have color themes.

To buy: summersalt.com, $95

Small Coach Crossbody Black Purse

A sleek crossbody is incredibly useful for any destination. This one from Coach stays securely on your front and is compact enough to carry during nights out while fitting all essentials like your phone, keys, and wallet.

To buy: amazon.com, $156

Comfy Ankle-Strap Platform Sandals

Boasting 2,900 five-star ratings at Amazon, these sandals are popular for good reason. They look dressy enough to wear out and are cushiony and supportive for walking.

To buy: amazon.com, $26 (originally $41)

Brita Water Bottle

The airport, across the city, by my nightstand at the Airbnb, to the pool — I use this water bottle for every trip. Staying hydrated is essential on a bachelorette party. Trust me, you need this one!

To buy: amazon.com, $20 (originally $23)

Anti-Aging 24k Gold Under-Eye Masks

Our “Revival Kit” included these gold under-eye masks that decrease puffy under-eyes using anti-aging collagen. If you’re looking for a way to win over the house, they make a nice gift for the other girls, too.

To buy: amazon.com, $10 for 25 pairs

Final Thoughts on Bachelorette Trip Essentials

Charleston offers an incredible atmosphere for bachelorette parties with its vibrant nightlife and relaxed daytime activities. Packing the right items can enhance your experience and ensure you are prepared for anything the trip may throw your way.