8 Mistakes To Avoid On Your Next OBX Beach Vacation

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Unarguably, there are a few things in life as heavenly as a beach vacation. What could be better than basking in the sun, sipping refreshing cocktails, and listening to the relaxing sound of crashing waves? However, certain oversights can put a damper on your sunny getaway.

 

In this post, we’re sharing common mistakes to avoid on your upcoming beach vacation. Let’s dive in.

 

Visiting During Peak Season

Are you planning to travel during peak season? While peak season promises the best weather, it also comes with overcrowded beaches and expensive fares. If you are looking for a relaxing vacation on a budget, we suggest scheduling your vacation during the off-season. However, avoid planning your break around the hurricane season.

 

Overpacking

When you overpack, you may have to pay for excess baggage. Moreover, it can be pretty inconvenient to carry too much luggage. For a stress-free travel experience, it’s better to pack light.

 

You can do this by preplanning your outfits and packing travel-size toiletries. Don’t bring anything that you can easily purchase at your destination.

 

Booking Small Hotel Rooms

Even though you are on vacation with your family or friends, everyone needs their space. And that won’t be possible in tiny hotel rooms. Fortunately, there are better options available.

 

Many beach towns offer rental homes with plenty of space, private pools, oceanview, functional kitchens, and other amenities. If you are looking for spacious accommodations, vacation rentals are the way to go.

 

Not Exploring

While it’s okay to spend time unwinding on the beach, there is so much more to explore! There’s no question that OBX has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. But the barrier islands have several other experiences to offer.

 

You should visit the Bodie Island Lighthouse and Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head, NC, take a wild horses tour in Corolla, and learn about aeronautical history at Wright Brothers National Memorial.

 

Skipping Sunscreen

Unless you want to spend your vacation with painful sunburns, don’t skip sunscreen! Purchase a broad spectrum and waterproof sun protection since you’ll be going in the ocean and pool. It’s also important to reapply your sunscreen every two to three hours.

 

Moreover, we urge you to avoid using chemical sunscreen, which is harmful to aquatic life. Look for reef-safe sunscreen.

 

Not Trying Local Cuisine

Your vacation is incomplete without trying the local cuisine, especially in a place like Outer Banks. We recommend Shrimp and Grits prepared with wild-caught shrimp, pimento cheese, fried soft-shell crabs, and barbeque.

 

That being said, dining out every night can get expensive. If you are on a tight budget, we suggest purchasing groceries and preparing a few meals in your vacation rental to save more money.

 

Paying Full Price

Whether you are shopping for souvenirs or booking a rental property, you should know that everything is negotiable. You should insist on a discount wherever you go. Try to get free upgrades, especially if you are a newlywed couple. It doesn’t hurt to ask. The worst they can say is no.

 

Splurging on Tacky Souvenirs

You probably want to bring something back from your vacation for your friends and family. That being said, avoid splurging on tacky souvenirs that serve no purpose. Instead, look for locally-produced items that your loved ones will appreciate. If you are visiting OBX, you can get kites from Kitty Hawk, OBX gear, scotch bonnet fudge, handmade jewelry and more.

 

The Bottom Line

With a little bit of planning, you can make the most of your beach vacation. Hopefully, the above-mentioned tips will help you enjoy a memorable break with your loved ones!