It’s a beautiful sunny day outside and it’s time to hit the beach! But what should you take with you? You might already know the essentials: sunscreen and a beach towel. But if you really want to enjoy your time in the sun and be prepared, there is a list of other things to pack.
Before Going to the Beach
As always, you will need your swimsuit, cover-up and flip-flops. You also might need a change of clothes if you will be going somewhere after the beach, and a plastic bag for a wet swimsuit or towels.
Apply sunscreen before going to the beach and take it with you to re-apply after swimming. It’s easiest to apply when you have privacy, and without being covered in sand in the process.
What to Bring
First, you will need a beach bag to carry your things to the beach.
Next, you will need a towel to sit on or dry off with. I like to take at least two towels, one to lay on and one to dry off with. This way, you always have a clean towel to lay on, or an extra towel to dry off with.
Another useful item to take with you is a beach roll or beach mat. A beach roll provides extra padding between you and the sand and makes laying on more comfortable. Also, bring a beach chair if you want to be more comfortable sitting up on the beach. If sitting in the shade is more your thing, bring a beach umbrella to get out of the sun’s rays.
Now that you have your things to make your spot in the sand, you will need to bring sunscreen, sunglasses or a hat, and lip balm. I prefer lip balm with sunscreen in it.
Don’t forget to keep yourself hydrated and bring snacks or a lunch in a cooler if you will be staying longer.
Other essentials that you might want to consider taking with you are your cell phone, ID, and some money for buying things from concessions.
Now, other than relaxing on the beach, you might want to bring some things with you to keep you busy while you’re there. Books and magazines are popular, as are games such as frisbee and volleyball. I always like to make sure I have my iPod and headphones for listening to music.
Plan a Day or Stay Prepared
Keep an eye on the weather forecast when you’re thinking of going to the beach. This helps you choose the best weather and day that fits your schedule, and helps you avoid rainy days.
I like to keep my beach bag packed so I always know where my beach things are and I’m ready to go for a spur-of-the-moment day at the beach.
Before Going Home
It’s always a good idea to dry off and brush off the sand before going home. You might want to use an extra towel to sit on while in the car if your swimsuit is wet.
Below is a numbered list of things to take to the beach. You may take away or add other things as you wish.
- swimsuit
- cover-up
- flip-flops
- change of clothes
- plastic bag
- beach bag
- towels
- beach roll or beach mat
- beach chair
- beach umbrella
- sunscreen
- lip balm
- hat
- sunglasses
- beverages
- snacks or lunch
- cell phone
- money
- ID
- iPod
- books, magazines or games
Two Savvy Cents 