Summer is here, and it’s time to get ready for beach trips! Whether you’re planning a day by the ocean or a quick getaway to the local lake, packing the right items in your beach bag can make all the difference. You want to stay comfortable, stylish, and, most importantly, protected from the sun. Here’s a guide to the must-have items for your beach bag this summer that will help you enjoy the sun, sand, and waves while staying prepared.
1. Sunscreen: The Most Important Item
The most important thing you can pack is sunscreen. The sun’s rays can damage your skin, leading to sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Sunscreen helps protect your skin from these harmful effects. According to Leandra Medine, a trend analyst from The Cut, “Don’t forget a good quality sunscreen. It’s the most important item in your beach bag to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.” Experts recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks about 97% of UVB rays.
When choosing a sunscreen, make sure it’s broad-spectrum, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Also, pick one that’s water-resistant so you can swim or sweat without losing protection. Sunscreen is not a one-time application—reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or towel drying.
2. Sunglasses: Protect Your Eyes in Style
A great pair of sunglasses is more than just a fashion statement; they’re essential for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays. According to fashion icon Tommy Hilfiger, “A great pair of sunglasses is essential for any beach outing. They not only protect your eyes from the sun but also add a touch of style to your beach look” (Vogue).
Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Polarized lenses can also reduce glare, making them perfect for long days at the beach. Not only do they help keep your eyes safe, but they also reduce the risk of wrinkles caused by squinting in the sun. A pair of stylish and protective sunglasses will elevate your beach look and keep your eyes healthy.
3. A Stylish Beach Hat: Shade and Fashion
A chic beach hat does more than protect your face from the sun; it also adds a fashionable flair to your beach attire. Rachel Zoe, a fashion designer and stylist, recommends wearing “a chic, oversized beach hat,” as it provides shade and elevates your beach ensemble effortlessly (Harper’s Bazaar).
Hats with wide brims are perfect because they shield your face, neck, and even shoulders from direct sunlight. They also keep you cool while lounging in the sand. Whether you choose a straw hat, a floppy brim, or a more structured design, it’s a must-have accessory for the beach this summer.
4. A Quick-Dry Towel: More Than Just for Drying Off
Don’t forget to bring a lightweight, quick-dry towel. A good beach towel can be used for much more than drying off after a swim. Stacey Caldwell, a fashion consultant, suggests that “a lightweight, quick-dry towel is indispensable. It’s practical and can double as a sarong or a cover-up” (Elle).
Quick-dry towels take up less space in your bag and are much lighter than traditional towels. They dry faster, which means you won’t be carrying around a damp, heavy towel after your swim. Many of these towels are made from materials like microfiber, which are both absorbent and soft to the touch. Plus, they can double as a blanket for lounging in the sand or even as a makeshift cover-up.
5. Reusable Water Bottle: Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential when spending long hours in the sun. A reusable water bottle is an eco-friendly way to make sure you always have cold water on hand. Aim to drink at least eight ounces of water every hour you’re in the sun to avoid dehydration.
If you want to keep your water extra cold, consider an insulated bottle. These can keep your drinks cold for hours, even in the hot sun. According to a Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management study, eco-friendly accessories like reusable water bottles are becoming increasingly popular among beachgoers, with a shift toward sustainability.
6. A Beach Bag That Holds It All
The right beach bag should be big enough to hold all your essentials but not too bulky to carry. Look for bags made of materials like mesh or canvas that are easy to clean and allow sand to shake out easily. Bags with multiple compartments are great for organizing your sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, and towels without digging around for what you need.
As noted in the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) Annual Report, beachgoers are leaning towards bags that offer versatility. Convertible beach bags that double as blankets or have removable compartments are trending this summer.
7. Snacks: Fuel for Fun
Bringing snacks to the beach is a must, especially if you’re planning on spending several hours under the sun. Pack healthy snacks like fruit, nuts, or granola bars that are easy to eat and won’t spoil quickly in the heat. A small insulated cooler can help keep perishable snacks fresh and your drinks cold.
8. Lip Balm with SPF: Protect Your Pout
Your lips are just as vulnerable to the sun’s rays as the rest of your skin. A lip balm with SPF will keep your lips hydrated and protected from sunburn. Look for lip balms with SPF 15 or higher to ensure full protection. Reapply frequently, especially after eating, drinking, or swimming.
9. Wet Wipes: Quick Clean-Up
Sand can get everywhere at the beach, and wet wipes are perfect for a quick clean-up. Whether you need to wipe your hands before eating or clean off sand from your feet before getting back into the car, having a pack of wet wipes in your bag can be a lifesaver.
10. Entertainment: A Book or Music
For those moments when you just want to relax and enjoy the sound of the waves, having a good book or some music is essential. Whether it’s your favorite summer read or a playlist of beach tunes, packing a little entertainment is a great way to unwind at the beach.
If you’re someone like me who enjoys reading, bring a waterproof case for your tablet or e-reader. One summer, I brought my e-reader without protection, and let’s just say it didn’t survive the sand! Now I always pack a case, which has saved my books and electronics from more beach mishaps.
11. Waterproof Phone Case: Protect Your Tech
Speaking of electronics, a waterproof phone case is a great investment. It allows you to use your phone while keeping it safe from water and sand. Most waterproof cases also offer full touchscreen functionality, so you can snap photos or check messages without taking your phone out.
12. Versatile Clothing
Versatile clothing can play a crucial role in perfecting your beach day. With their flexibility, comfort, and style, they can easily help you transition from shore to sand activities. According to fashion expert and stylist, Jane Roberts from *The Style Journal*, “The key to a successful beach outfit is choosing pieces that can effortlessly move from sunbathing to beach volleyball, ensuring you look and feel great all day long.”
A study published in the Journal of Textile Science & Engineering highlights that fabrics like quick-dry polyester and spandex blends not only provide comfort but also enhance performance during physical activities. This means you can enjoy your beach day without having to constantly change outfits, thereby maximizing your fun and minimizing hassle.
It will prepare you for any part of your beach day—sunbathing, walking, or beachside activities. Consider pieces that are convertible and can be worn in multiple ways.
Mixing and matching swimwear is a fun and creative way to style different beach outfits. By investing in swimwear with various patterns, prints, and colors, you can easily create multiple fashionable looks. For example, pairing a bold printed bottom with a solid-colored top allows you to express your style in fresh, unique ways. Thankfully, finding trendy and affordable pieces online has never been easier. You can explore collections like the mix-and-match swimwear collection at Bealls Florida to build your perfect summer wardrobe.
Moreover, versatile clothing simplifies packing and minimizes the need for excessive outfit changes.
Conclusion: Ready for the Beach
Packing the perfect beach bag is all about balancing comfort, protection, and fun. With these must-have items, you’ll be prepared for a perfect day in the sun. From sunscreen and sunglasses to your favorite snacks and beach reads, having these essentials on hand will ensure you’re ready for whatever the day brings.
Remember to prioritize sun protection by packing sunscreen, a beach hat, and sunglasses. Staying hydrated with a reusable water bottle and keeping things light with a quick-dry towel will make your beach day more enjoyable. And don’t forget those little extras like lip balm with SPF, wet wipes, and entertainment to complete your perfect beach bag this summer.
