Planning a vacation to Hilton Head Island is exciting—sun, sand, and quality family time are all on the horizon. But if you’re also planning to take your senior portraits while you’re here, there are a few extra essentials your high school senior should add to their suitcase.
Whether you’re coming for spring break, a summer getaway, or a senior trip, this Hilton Head packing list will make sure your teen is prepared for fun, relaxation, and a memorable photo session on the island.
Everyday Vacation Essentials for Teens
Let’s start with the basics. Here’s what every high schooler should pack for a week on Hilton Head:
- Swimsuits (at least 2)
- Cover-ups or beach wraps
- Flip flops or slides
- Sneakers (for biking or exploring)
- Casual outfits for shopping, dinners, and sightseeing
- Dressy outfit for nicer restaurants
- Lightweight sweatshirt or jacket (evenings can get breezy)
- Hat + sunglasses (sun protection is key!)
- Sunscreen and aloe (Hilton Head sun is no joke)
- Water bottle (hydration = energy)
- Backpack or tote bag for beach or shopping days
- AirPods + charger for downtime
- Portable phone charger (perfect for beach days or exploring the island)
What to Pack for Your Senior Portrait Session
If you’re booking a senior photo session on Hilton Head, your packing list needs to include outfits and items specifically for portraits. You’ll want a mix of styles to show off your senior’s personality and take full advantage of the island’s scenery.
Here’s what to bring:
- 2–3 outfits: think casual, dressy, and something uniquely “them”
- Undergarments that work with each outfit (neutral colors are safest!)
- Shoes that match each look (plus flip-flops to walk to beach spots)
- Accessories: earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, etc.
- Hair products + tools (humidity = frizz, so be prepared)
- Makeup bag + touch-up items (blotting sheets, powder, lip gloss)
- Confidence + smiles!
Pro Tip: Bring a garment bag to keep outfits clean and wrinkle-free if you’re going straight from your rental to the shoot.
Where to Shop if You Forget Something
Forgot something? No worries! Hilton Head Island has plenty of local spots to grab what you need.
- Shelter Cove Towne Centre – For boutiques, sandals, or last-minute outfit changes
- Coligny Plaza – Great for beachy accessories, hats, or souvenirs
- Island Girl, Quiet Storm, Palmettoes – Teen-friendly fashion spots
- Publix & CVS – For travel toiletries, sunscreen, and emergency fixes
- Ulta Beauty (Bluffton) – Just off-island for makeup, lashes, or hair care
Keep it Light, Keep it Fun
The goal? To pack smart and stress-free so you can enjoy your Hilton Head senior experience. Whether you’re lounging by the ocean, biking along shaded trails, or striking a pose for your senior photos at sunset, this packing list will keep your trip fun, fashionable, and full of memories.
And don’t forget—senior portraits taken during vacation are a unique way to stand out from your classmates. Hilton Head gives you a beautiful, relaxed backdrop for portraits that feel fun and different from what everyone else back home is doing.
Want to schedule a Hilton Head senior session during your vacation? I am still booking sessions for Summer 2025, but dates are filling up! Contact me today to avoid missing out!
