My Favorite Books To Take On Vacation
Because rest, growth, and a little suspense belong in your beach bag too.
There’s something about a good book that just makes vacation better. Whether I’m sitting at the shoreline with my toes in the sand or stretched out under a big umbrella with the sound of waves nearby, having a book in my hand brings a kind of rest I can’t explain.
And while the beach is my favorite place to slow down, these book picks can travel with you wherever you go—mountains, cabin, road trip, or just a quiet weekend at home.
Here’s what’s always in my vacation reading stack:
1. A Good Suspense Novel
Vacation is the perfect time to get lost in a story. I love a book that keeps me guessing—a page-turner I don’t want to put down. There’s something so satisfying about sitting by the water, flipping pages while the kids build sandcastles, and whispering, “just one more chapter.”
2. My Bible
Even on vacation, especially on vacation, I want to stay grounded. Taking my Bible with me reminds me to keep my heart anchored in what matters. Whether it’s a quick Psalm before breakfast or a quiet moment in the afternoon, the Word brings peace wherever I go.
3. A Daily Devotional
Devotionals are my go-to for bite-sized truth. I love reading something short and reflective in the morning while the world is still quiet. It centers me before the day begins—whether we’re heading to the beach or lounging in bed a little longer.
4. A Book That Teaches Me Something New
I always pack at least one book that challenges me or helps me grow—maybe about parenting, spiritual formation, creativity, or even homemaking. I’ve found that rest opens the door to fresh perspective, and vacation is the perfect time to reflect and refocus.
5. An Audible Book
Let’s be honest—sometimes there’s no quiet space for reading. That’s where audiobooks come in. I’ll pop in my headphones during a flight, a walk down the beach, or while folding laundry before we go. It’s one of my favorite ways to squeeze in another story or learning moment.
Wherever your travels take you—whether you’re oceanside or curled up in your own living room—make space for good words. Let them restore you, inspire you, and help you see something new.
And remember:
“Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.”
— Proverbs 1:5 (ESV)
Learning doesn’t pause just because we’re resting. In fact, rest is often where the most meaningful growth happens. So bring the books. Pack the headphones. Soak in the words. And let God speak to your heart—one page at a time.
With sand on my toes and a book in my hand,
Aimee
