What to Pack for Hatteras Island: A Complete Vacation & Grocery Guide
Planning for a week on Hatteras Island? Packing for a beach vacation can seem pretty simple- swimsuits, sunscreen and flip-flops, right? But there are some things you won't want to forget- things that you wouldn't necessarily think about for a typical beach trip.
The great thing is that you don't have to pack everything you could possibly need such as food, toiletries and paper products. Hatteras Island has grocery stores, markets and shops close to your vacation rental, where you can pick up many of the essentials once you arrive.
We've put together this guide to help you generate a list of what to pack, what you can buy on Hatteras Island, and a few things to know before you go. And don't forget to download our packing checklist at the end!
What to Pack for Your Hatteras Island Vacation
Clothing
For a summer vacation, you'll want plenty of comfortable, lightweight clothing, swimsuits, cover-ups and sandals. But even during the warmer months it is a good idea to bring a lightweight sweatshirt or jacket. Hatteras can be breezy, and evenings near the water can feel cool with those island breezes.
If you're visiting in spring or fall- bring layers. A light rain jacket, long pants and comfortable walking shoes will come in handy, especially if you plan to explore the island. Winter on Hatteras Island is beautiful, but you'll want warmer clothing, layers and a good jacket and warm shoes. Those coastal winds can be chilly, especially in winter!
And of course, don't forget something nice and comfortable for those dinners out on the town and evenings spent relaxing on the deck with friends and family.
Beach and Pool Essentials
Your beach bag should include the basics:
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Sunglasses
- Hats
- Swimsuits & coverups
- Water shoes
- Reusable water bottles
- Beach towels
- Waterproof phone pouch
- At Hatteras Island Vacation Rentals we partner with Ocean Atlantic Rentals where you can find beach gear for rent. Be sure to check out our discount code on their website before placing your order!
Other Essentials to Pack
There are a few things that are easy to forget when you're packing for a vacation:
- Bug spray (can easily be purchased on the island as well)
- Phone chargers, tablet chargers, laptop chargers, headphones/earbuds
- Camera
- Children's "must have" items (special toys, blankets & snacks)
- Medications
- Traveling with your four-legged friend? Don't forget their food, dishes, leash and any medications they may need.
- Toiletries (can easily be purchased on the island as well)
Kitchen & Food
One of the best things about staying in a Hatteras Island Vacation Rental is having a well-stocked kitchen where you can prepare meals, appetizers and fresh local seafood. The homes also feature a grill for those nights when you want burgers and hotdogs.
You may want to bring along a few of your favorite snacks, coffee, or tea, specialty foods, and anything your family needs for specific dietary needs. Otherwise, there's no need to fill your vehicle with a week's worth of groceries. You can shop for most of your groceries after you arrive.
Kitchen at Seas the Breeze II
What Does Your Vacation Rental Already Have?
Before you start packing, check your rental's listing to see what is provided in the home.
Vacation homes can vary, but many include things like cookware, dishes, utensils, coffee makers, grills and other kitchen essentials. Some also provide games or other entertainment activities, like theater rooms, pool tables and putting greens.
At Hatteras Island Vacation Rentals, you can check amenities by visiting the amenity page for the property you rented. Here is a link to each of our five homes: Sounds Sea'rious Seas the Breeze I Seas the Breeze II Looney Dunes and Lady of Dare
Other items that you will receive in a welcome package from hospitality upon arrival are:
- 2 rolls of toilet paper
- 1 roll of paper towels
- 1 trash can liner
- 1 sponge
- 1 spice jar
- 1 dishwasher packet
- roll of toilet paper for each bathroom
Grocery Stores and Markets on Hatteras Island & Online Ordering
Forgot something? Don't worry! Hatteras Island has several stores where you can stock up on groceries and vacation essentials. Depending on where you're staying, you'll find grocery stores and markets in towns including Avon, Waves, and Hatteras Village.
Waves Market & Deli- 26006 NC Hwy 12, Waves
- 252-987-2352
- Small market rather than a full-size supermarket
- Great for essentials, snacks, drinks, ice, grab-and-go foods and deli items
Dollar General- 26038 NC Hwy 12, Waves
- 252-987-4470
- Convenient option for basic groceries, snacks, drinks, toiletries, paper products, cleaning supplies
- One-stop shop for basics
Food Lion- 41934 NC Hwy 12, Avon
- 252-995-4488
- Full supermarket, great for stocking up for your entire vacation
- Offers online ordering and delivery in Avon, both through Food Lion's own service and through Instacart. Instacart shows same-day delivery in Avon, sometimes quickly as one hour
OBXorganiX LLC- 40530 NC Hwy 12, Avon
- 252-986-5300
- Option for guests looking for organic, natural or specialty foods rather than a conventional grocery store
Avon BP/ Askins Creek Store- 42676 NC Hwy 12, Avon
- 252-995-6283
- Another "forgot something" stop in Avon
- A general store rather than a supermarket, but you can pick up drinks, snacks, small essentials and clothing
Your Hatteras Island Vacation Packing Checklist
Ready to start packing? We've created a simple printable Hatteras Island Vacation Packing Checklist to help you get organized when you start planning and packing.
Use it to check off everything you need to bring from home, then make a second list of your groceries and essentials to pick up once you arrive.
Whether you're looking for a spacious sound front home or an oceanfront getaway, Hatteras Island Vacation Rentals has homes designed to make your Outer Banks vacation comfortable, relaxing and memorable.