A linen shirt beats any beach cover-up.

Yes. A lightweight linen button-down is the only cover-up you need.

It dries fast, breathes in heat, and looks like you actually tried — unlike a sarong that takes five minutes to tie and comes undone in the wind. Throw it over a swimsuit and you’re ready for lunch. Button it up and it passes as a shirt for a walk into town.

Most other options (kaftans, mesh cover-ups, sheer tunics) are either too flimsy or too fussy. A linen shirt does everything without looking like beachwear. Get one in white, beige, or a faded pastel. It’ll be the most used piece in your bag.

Your vacation photos will thank you.