Not all swim trunks deserve a spot in the carry-on. We went through our full men's swimwear catalog looking for the pieces backed by real functional details — quick-dry fabric, secure pockets, and construction that holds up to a week of beach days — rather than just a good print. Here are five that earned it.
1. Compression Liner Quick Dry Swim Trunks with Zipper Pockets
The built-in compression liner replaces the old fishnet mesh with a smooth, chafe-free stretch lining, and two zippered side pockets plus a liner pocket keep cards and keys secure in and out of the water — a real advantage on a beach day when there's nowhere else to stash valuables. The 90% polyester/10% spandex blend dries fast, so you're never stuck packing a damp suit.
Shop the Compression Liner Quick Dry Swim Trunks — $42
2. Comfortable Swim Trunks with Phone Pocket
Built from a quick-dry polyester blend with side pockets sized for a phone and keys, this pair is designed to move with you from the water to a beachside walk without a change of clothes. The relaxed fit and adjustable drawstring waistband work across swimming, surfing, or a quick pool workout — genuinely versatile enough to be the only trunks in the bag.
Shop the Comfortable Swim Trunks with Phone Pocket — $31
3. VacationGrabs Men's Swimwear — Beachwear for Vacations
Quick-drying, lightweight fabric keeps this pair packable without adding bulk, and the elastic waistband with adjustable drawstring delivers a custom fit across body types — useful when you're packing for more than one wearer or just want a reliable fit without trying it on first. Built for a full day in the sun, from pool laps to beach volleyball.
Shop the VacationGrabs Men's Swimwear — $45
4. Solid Lined Beach Swim Shorts
An inner mesh liner and soft polyester construction make this a genuine grab-and-go pair, and the multiple pockets keep essentials close without needing a separate beach bag. The 5.5-inch inseam is a classic, comfortable length that works from the waves to a casual dinner afterward.
Shop the Solid Lined Beach Swim Shorts — $44
5. California Swim Shorts
Explicitly built to be lightweight and travel-friendly, these shorts use a soft 100% polyester shell with an inner mesh liner for all-day comfort, plus multiple pockets for essentials. The relaxed, mid-thigh fit and secure elastic waistband make it an easy, no-fuss pack for the beach, boardwalk, or pool.
Shop the California Swim Shorts — $44
What Makes Swim Trunks Travel-Worthy
The details that separate a true packing-list essential from just another pair of trunks: quick-dry fabric that won't leave a damp suit rolled up in your bag, secure pockets for valuables during a beach day, and a fit that works across swimming, lounging, and everything in between. Every pair on this list delivers at least two of those three.
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