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What to pack for the beach

With summer just around the corner, I know that many people are making plans to hang out on the beach during their free time, myself included. So I decided to share my summer vacation beach essentials for a perfect day out to the beach.

There are many things to consider when you want to spend time on the beach. But, one thing that stands out is packing a beach bag with the right essentials. 

The amount of fun you would have on a beach depends on if you have the right essentials with you. Wondering what essentials should be in your beach bag? Let’s talk about them below: 

Summer vacation beach essentials

Summer vacation beach essential 2024

Below are my must have beach essentials. My beach bag typically has these things to make my out to the beach fun. And also these things are a must have whether you’re going to the beach as a couple, family or alone.

Sunscreen

Being on the beach means you’ll be exposed to the sun.And if your skin starts reacting to the harsh weather condition, you’ll become very uncomfortable and may want to even leave the beach. This will cut short the fun you planned while planning to spend time at the beach. 

So, when packing a beach bag, remember that protection from the sun’s harmful UV is important. Therefore, go for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and remember to reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.

Beach Towel 

I know you may be rolling your eyes, wondering who goes to the beach without a beach towel. It would interest you to know that there are many people who think it isn’t so important to carry a beach towel when going to the beach. For others, they may forget to add it to their beach bag. 

It is important to add a beach towel to your beach bag as you can use it for drying off after a swim and to claim your spot on the sand. Microfiber towels are great as they are lightweight and quick dry.

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Water Bottle

It would be almost impossible to see me on the beach with a water bottle. I’ve always told my friends that anyone who goes to the beach without a water bottle is embarking on a suicide mission. 

Due to the weather condition, staying hydrated is important. So, add a reusable water bottle to your beach bag while packing. You should also consider going for a vacuum-insulated one to keep your water cold throughout the day.  

Sunglasses

Again, is there anyone who goes to the beach without sunglasses? I mean, wearing sunglasses on the beach adds to your fashion optics. But asides from that, you also need to protect your eyes from UV rays while on the beach. 

Your sunglasses should be one of the first things that goes into your beach bag. It is best to go for the ones that offer 100% UV protection. 

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Flip Flops

These are the best footwear you can use when you’re on the beach. Honestly, the sand on the beach can get surprisingly hot, and I wouldn’t recommend anyone using their bare feet to walk around. 

So, it comes in handy to have a pair of flip flops as they are comfortable and will protect your feet. 

Swimwear

A comfortable swimsuit is essential for a day at the beach. Being on the beach in swimwear gives you a certain sense of confidence and makes you feel good about yourself.  If you need other options of what to wear to the beach except bikinis, click here.

While packing your beach bag, you should consider adding an extra swimwear. This way, you are ensuring that you’ll always be dry and comfortable.

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Beach Hat 

I’ve always been a fan of beach hats, and I think all women should own one! A wide-brimmed hat can provide extra protection against the sun, keeping your face and neck shaded.

I love fedora straw hats for the beach. It gives cow girl and chic look. You can style it up with your casual summer outfits. This will protect you from the sum while feeling stylish.

Beach Chair

The thing about going to the beach is that you cannot always depend on the chairs they have. It is either the chairs are insufficient and other people have occupied them, or the chairs are uncomfortable. 

If possible, you should pack a lightweight foldable beach chair for added comfort. This can make lounging by the sea much more comfortable than sitting directly on the sand.

Beach Umbrella

If you want extra protection from the sun, you can also consider adding a beach umbrella to your beach bag. It gives you extended shade and is useful during peak sun hours. 

Snacks

What’s hanging out on the beach without snacks? I’m sure you all will agree with me that depending on snacks sold on the beach isn’t always ideal. Most times, the prices are hiked, and you may not even like what is solid. 

So, pack some light snacks like fruits, nuts, and sandwiches when going to the beach. The snacks you pack shouldn’t be the ones that would melt or spoil in the heat. 

Cooler

The same ideology that applies to packing snacks when going to the beach also applies to carrying some drinks along. However, where would you keep your drinks if you do not have a cooler? 

Having a small cooler can keep your drinks and snacks cool and fresh throughout the day. Trust me, getting a cooler that you can always carry to the beach is a worthy investment. 

Lip Balm with SPF

The same way you would protect your eyes and body from the sun while on the beach is the same way you should protect your lips. While on the beach, protect your lips from getting chapped and burnt with a lip balm that contains SPF. 

Waterproof Phone Case 

Being on the beach means that your phone is susceptible to water spill and other mishaps. So, it comes in handy to take along a waterproof phone case when going to the beach. It keeps your phone safe from water and sand. It also allows you to take pictures underwater if you desire.

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Portable Speaker

You can ginger yourself into the right mood on the beach when you have a portable speaker. I would recommend that you choose a waterproof portable speaker.  

A waterproof portable speaker can enhance your beach day with your favorite tunes and create a perfect atmosphere.

Reading Material

When going to the beach, you should pack a book to have a relaxed time reading by the sea. Sometimes, you just want to enjoy the atmosphere and have some peace and quiet. Having a book by your side would make this possible.

I’ll be on the lookout for some of your book recommendations so I can add them to my beach bag the next time I’ll be going to the beach. 

Summer vacation beach essentials for a fun day out at the beach