The beach is one of the most beautiful places on earth and an ideal spot for fun in the sun. Before you hit up your favorite shoreline destination, it's important to ensure you have all of your beach essentials so you can relax and enjoy yourself without worrying about forgetting anything! In this blog post, we'll cover beach essentials- from sunscreen to sandals - plus some creative extras - so that you'll be prepared to take full advantage of all that the beach has to offer upon your next beach destination. Check out the ultimate beach packing list here:
Swimwear
When it comes to hitting the beach, there are certain beach essentials that every beachgoer needs to bring, and swimwear is at the top of the list. But not all swimwear is created equal. To make the most out of your beach day, it's important to have the right swimsuit that looks great and provides comfort and support.
Underwire Bikinis
Underwire bikinis are perfect for those who want to flaunt their curves and need maximum support. The underwire helps keep breasts in place and prevents them from sagging. Underwire bikini tops are also great for larger busts requiring more support. They come in various styles, from halter to bandeau, with various levels of coverage.
Tankini
Tankinis are a great alternative to a traditional bikini. They have the ease of a two-piece but provide more coverage for those who don't want to show too much skin. They're also perfect for those who want to hide their midsection area. Tankinis come in different styles and patterns, so you'll surely find one that suits your taste.
Bralette
Bralette swimwear has become increasingly popular due to its comfort and style. It's perfect for those who want to show off their femininity while still maintaining modesty. They provide a sleek silhouette and can be worn with a sarong or shorts for a more casual look.
Cover-Ups
Cover-ups are essential for any beach day. They protect you from the sun and offer a stylish way to cover up when you're not in the water. Swimsuit cover ups come in a variety of styles.
Having the right type of swimwear is crucial for a day at the beach. Whether you're looking for maximum support or want to cover up, there's a style for everyone.
Mid-coverage
Mid-coverage swimwear is an excellent choice for those who want more coverage than a bikini but less than a traditional one-piece. These swimsuits provide more modesty but still show off your figure. They're perfect for those who want to enjoy water activities without worrying about their suit shifting or moving out of place.
Full Coverage
Full-coverage swimwear is perfect for those who want to cover most of their body while still being able to swim and enjoy the water. These swimsuits come in a variety of styles and patterns, making them both functional and fashionable.
One Piece
One-piece swimsuits have been a classic swimwear staple for decades. They provide excellent body coverage and come in many styles and colors. They're great for all body types and can be accessorized with cover-ups and sarongs for a more stylish look. You can buy swimwear online and create a trendy look.
Beach Towels
No beach trip is complete without a good towel. A beach towel is one of the top beach essentials that will help you dry off after a swim in the ocean and provide a comfortable surface to lay on. However, not all towels are created equal. There are certain features to look for when selecting the perfect towel for a day at the beach.
Firstly, size matters. Opt for a large towel to comfortably lay on without any part of your body hanging off. The standard size of a beach towel is around 30 inches by 60 inches, but larger options are available.
Next, consider the material. Cotton towels are the most common but can take a long time to dry and may collect sand. Microfiber towels are becoming increasingly popular for beach trips due to their quick-drying abilities and sand-shedding properties. They also tend to be more lightweight and compact, making them easier to pack.
Lastly, don't be afraid to choose a towel with some personality. There are countless designs and patterns, including trendy tie-dye and bold stripes. And if you want eco-friendly options, there are towels made from sustainable materials, like bamboo or recycled plastic bottles.
Beach Blanket or Mat
While towels are necessary for the beach, they may not be enough to provide the ideal comfort level for some beachgoers. This is where a beach mat or blanket comes in handy. These items provide a larger surface area to lay on and can elevate the overall beach experience.
Beach mats are typically made of PVC or water-resistant material and are easy to clean. They also have a non-slip surface, perfect for preventing sand from getting stuck to the bottom. Some mats have built-in pillows for extra support and comfort.
Beach blankets are a good alternative to mats, as they can be larger and more versatile. They can be used as a ground cover, a picnic blanket, or even as a way to shade yourself from the sun. Opt for a durable material, lightweight and easy to pack, like nylon or polyester.
Specialty beach blankets are also designed specifically for certain activities, such as yoga or reading. These blankets often have additional features, such as built-in pockets or straps for easy carrying.
Choose the right size, material, and design for your preferences and needs, and you'll be on your way to a comfortable and enjoyable day at the beach.
Beach Vacation Bag
A wise man once said, "A beach bag is a suitcase for an unlimited summer beach vacation." And he couldn't have been more right! A beach bag should be essential to your beach trip packing list. From sunscreen to towels, sunglasses to snacks, a beach bag serves as a lifeline for all your beach essentials.
When it comes to selecting the perfect beach bag, size does matter. A bag too big will be cumbersome to carry around, while a small one won't be able to fit all the necessities. The ideal size for a beach bag is a medium one that can easily fit all your beach gear and still be easy to carry. Also, look for a durable, water-resistant bag with compartments to keep things organized.
Apart from the size and material, the style of the beach bag also plays a crucial role. A stylish and trendy beach bag will add oomph to your beach look and give you the confidence to flaunt your style. Opt for bright colors, playful prints, and fun designs that make your beach look pop.
In conclusion, a beach bag is a functional item and a fashion statement. So, invest in a good one that suits your style and caters to your needs, and never hit the sand without it.
Footwear
Choosing the perfect pair of footwear for the beach can be a daunting task, but it's one among many beach necessities. With the hot sand, salty water, and rocky terrain, one needs footwear that is comfortable and functional yet fashionable.
The first thing to keep in mind while selecting beach footwear is comfort. Opt for shoes that provide support and cushioning and are breathable. Flip-flops, slip-on sandals, and water shoes are ideal for the beach as they are easy to put on and take off, provide good traction, and can be rinsed off easily.
Apart from comfort, select footwear that complements your beach outfit. Go for bright colors, beachy prints, and designs that match the vibe of the beach. For a more sophisticated look, opt for strappy sandals or espadrilles.
Finally, keep in mind that the type of beach you are visiting also plays a role in the selection of footwear. If you are heading to a rocky beach, choose water shoes or shoes with a sturdy sole to protect your feet. If the beach has hot sand, wear shoes covering the entire foot to prevent burns.
The right pair of footwear can make or break your beach experience. So, choose wisely, and don't hit the sand without the perfect pair of beach shoes.
Sunscreen/SPF Lip Balm
One of the most essential items that should be in your beach bag is a good quality sunscreen with a high SPF rating. Sunscreen helps protect the skin from the harmful UV rays that come from the sun. While the sun provides us with Vitamin D benefits, over-exposure can lead to sunburn.
When choosing a sunscreen, look for one with broad-spectrum protection to protect from UVA and UVB rays. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) ratings indicate how much protection from UVB rays a sunscreen provides. Higher SPF ratings mean more protection from UVB rays. However, it is important to note that no sunscreen can provide 100% protection. Reapplication of sunscreen every few hours is also necessary, especially after sweating or swimming.
In addition to sunscreen, it is important to not forget about your lips. Lips can burn easily and become dehydrated from sun exposure. Invest in a lip balm containing SPF to give your lips the protection they need.
Beach Tent or Shade
While the sun can be good for us in moderation, it is also important to find shade when spending an extended time outside. This is where a beach tent or shade comes in handy.
Beach tents or shades are easy to set up and provide a comfortable and shady spot for you and your loved ones to relax in. They come in different shapes and sizes, so choosing one that suits your specific needs is important.
Not only do beach tents and shades protect from the sun, but they can also provide protection from wind or rain. They also create a private space to change, nap, or breastfeed if needed.
When choosing a beach tent or shade, look for one that is lightweight and easy to carry. Setting up and taking down should also be easy, saving you time and energy. Lastly, choose one that provides enough space for your family beach vacation.
Beach Hat and Sunglasses
When it comes to enjoying a day at the beach, two items that should always be at the top of your packing list are a beach hat and sunglasses. Not only do they add a stylish touch to your beach outfit, but they also offer valuable protection from the sun.
A beach hat with a wide brim looks chic and provides coverage for your face, neck, and shoulders from the sun's harmful rays. Look for a hat with UV protection and made from breathable materials to keep you cool. Similarly, sunglasses with UV protection shield your eyes and protect the delicate skin around them from wrinkles and sun damage.
Apart from functional benefits, beach hats and sunglasses enhance your beach experience. They allow you to people-watch without being noticed and are perfect for those who prefer minimal makeup. Additionally, a beach hat can double up as a beach bag, while sunglasses can add a pop of color to your outfit.
Water Bottles
Going to the beach means hours under the sun, and with that comes the need to stay hydrated. Bringing a reusable water bottle to the beach helps you stay refreshed and also reduces plastic waste. With a variety of options, you can choose a bottle that matches your lifestyle, from insulated bottles that keep water cold for hours to collapsible bottles that are easy to pack.
Besides reducing plastic waste, carrying a water bottle has other benefits. It can help you save money by avoiding expensive beachside drinks and limiting your exposure to the chemicals that might be found in plastic bottles.
Water bottles also allow you to be environmentally conscious while enjoying the beach. You can refill your bottle at some beach hydration stations, ensuring you always have clean and fresh water. Bring a bottle with a sturdy cap that won't spill in the sand and is easy to clean once you are back home.
Bug Spray
A summer day spent on the beach should be a peaceful and relaxing experience. However, nasty mosquitoes and other biting insects can quickly turn it into a nightmare. Mosquito bites are not just irritating and itchy, but they can also spread diseases like Zika, dengue, and West Nile virus. Therefore, bringing good-quality bug spray when hitting the sand is crucial.
When choosing a bug spray, it is essential to read the label carefully and choose one that contains at least 20% DEET, picaridin, or other effective insect repellents. DEET is a synthetic chemical widely used as a bug repellent for decades. It is highly effective and can provide up to 8 hours of protection from mosquitoes and ticks. However, DEET can be toxic if ingested or applied in high concentrations, so following the manufacturer's instructions is essential.
Picaridin is a newer alternative to DEET that provides excellent protection with less odor and skin irritation. It is safe for children and pregnant women and does not damage plastics or synthetic fabrics like DEET. Other natural alternatives to traditional bug sprays include citronella, eucalyptus, and peppermint oil.
In addition to applying bug spray, avoiding peak mosquito hours (early morning and dusk) is recommended and eliminating standing water around your area. Remember, preventing mosquito bites is the best way to avoid mosquito-borne diseases.
Folding Beach Chair
A comfortable and portable beach chair is essential for a day at the shore. A good beach chair should provide sturdy support, be lightweight, and easy to carry.
A folding chair is one of the most popular options for a beach. Folding chairs are convenient and easy to pack, making them a great choice for beachgoers who want to save on space and weight. These chairs come in various sizes, styles, and materials, from lightweight aluminum to heavy-duty steel frames.
When shopping for a folding beach chair, consider the weight capacity, shape, and size. Some chairs come with built-in cup holders, pockets, and backpack-style straps for easy carrying. Others feature adjustable reclining positions, footrests, and sun canopies for added comfort and protection.
Choosing a chair with a sturdy and stable frame that won't sink in the sand is also important. Generally, wider legs and larger footprints are better for soft sand terrain.
Games and Sand Toys
No beach day is complete without some fun and games. When you are soaked in the sun, with the sand between your toes and the waves crashing at your feet, a little bit of playful competition can elevate your mood and make for some unforgettable memories.
Sand toys are a must-have when you are heading to the beach, especially when you have kids in tow. Buckets, shovels, and sandcastle molds are an excellent way to keep them engaged and happy while allowing them to express their creativity. But sand toys are not just for kids. You can get innovative with your sandcastle-building skills and even create stunning Instagram-worthy sculptures.
Beach games, on the other hand, are perfect for a group of friends or family. From playing beach volleyball to frisbee or even cornhole, there is no shortage of games that you can play. Additionally, you can also play the classic game of beach cricket.
When packing for your beach day, include all the essentials for fun in the sand. Whether you build sandcastles with your kids or indulge in some friendly competition with your friends, beach games and sand toys are essential to add excitement to your seaside getaway.
Conclusion
To sum it all up, if you're planning a day on the beach, make sure to pack these essentials. Don't forget to bring sun protection, such as sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. Having a beach chair to relax without sitting directly on the sand can also be helpful. And when packing for a beach day, always include plenty of food and drinks to keep your energy up. Most importantly, don't forget your swimsuit! It may seem like a given, but you don't want to find yourself at the beach ready for a dip– without your swimsuit! All of these items play an important role in making your beach experience fun and relaxing. Remember these essential items next time you prepare for a memorable trip down the shore!