It’s summer time which means it’s time to share my must-have beach bag essentials!
I’ve always, always loved visiting the beach, whether it be for a day, a weekend, or a week! A trip to the beach is all about fun and relaxation. There are a few essentials I always keep in my beach bag to make sure that the fun and relaxation is maximized!
Being comfortable at the beach is a non-negotiable. I don’t like to get too hot, hungry, thirsty, or sandy (so low maintenance, I know). Luckily we live in a time where we’re blessed with the ability to be prepared while at the beach. I’m sharing some of my favorites that I always have with me for a beach (or pool) day!
Our beach bag usually stays packed and ready to grab at a moment’s notice during spring and summer. I love being able to grab the beach bag without having to double check if it has what we need for the trip.
Okay jumping in:
1. Sunscreen.
We all know this, but sunscreen is so important. I’ve gotten a lot better at consistently wearing it, even if I’m not going to the beach. It took some work, because I really don’t like the feeling of sunscreen on my face or hands. I also really like to get a natural tan. It’s taken a few years, but I’ve found a few lotions that I love and that I barely feel on my skin.
Below are what I use currently on my face and body – don’t worry, you’ll still get a little glow, even with SPF 50:
- For face – Naked Sundays SPF 50 Gel Serum
- For lips – Naked Sundays SPF 50 Lip Oil
- For body – Banana Boat Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 with Vitamins C +B3
Make sure to change your lotion every year if you don’t use it up – it expires!
2. A good paperback.
A “good” paperback doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a “good” paperback for the beach. I don’t know about you but I really need a book that is super juicy and takes minimal brain power at the beach. I’m talking a Freida McFadden or Colleen Hoover novel. This is not the time for me to break out the classic literature. I basically want something that has captured my attention but is easy to read. A few recommendations:
- The Inmate, by Freida McFadden
- The Blue Bistro, by Elin Hilderbrand
- Beach Town, by Mary Kay Andrews
- The Last Thing He Told Me, by Laura Dave
And follow me on Goodreads to keep up with my reading! I don’t really write lengthy reviews, but my star ratings are always honest!!
3. A water-proof phone lanyard.
I did not know I needed this lanyard until my mom got it for me a few years ago. I highly recommend this. Even if you don’t bring it in water, the pouch does a great job of protecting your phone from the sand, and the sunscreen on your hands. You can still text and take photos right through the plastic!
I couldn’t find the exact case I have, but I found this one which looks super similar to the one I own.
4. UV Blocking Sunglasses.
Sunglasses are super important to protect your eyes and will also make for a more relaxing day in the sun (who wants to squint all day?). You also don’t need to spend a lot of money to get a pair that’s UV blocking. I actually prefer a less expensive pair of sunglasses for the beach – I keep a permanent pair of cheaper sunglasses in my beach bag that are designated to stay there. This way I never forget them.
I love these retro lightweight ones from Amazon. They’re durable and UV blocking – perfect for the beach bag!
5. At least 2 towels.
Pro tip – pack a towel to lay on and a towel for your head to rest on. Or a towel to use to dry off after swimming.
My favorite beach towel is my blue and white checkered blanket. It is super cute and big enough for 2 or 3 people to fit comfortably. It comes with a super cute carrying strap as well!
6. A water bottle.
Or specifically, a water bottle that will keep your water cold and won’t spill. I love my Stanley but it just doesn’t keep the water from spilling if I throw it into my beach bag. I like to use a water bottle that stays sealed shut but also keeps my water nice and cold. I’ve been using my hydro flask for the beach. S’well water bottles are also great!
7. A speaker.
We love bringing our mini JBL speaker to the beach. It’s great at keeping the music within a reasonable radius so not to disturb everyone around us. And it’s lasted for years of beach trips.
…
These are the essentials that I pretty much always have in my beach bag. Having a small list of beach bag essentials saves me from having to work too hard when packing or unpacking for the beach. This little list makes for a simple, but comfortable beach trip.
Thanks for reading and enjoy the beach <3
