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Headed to the beach soon? Don’t let packing overwhelm you. These are the must have beach day essentials you’ll be glad you brought along on the trip.
Growing up in the Lowcountry, I have had many beach days. I even worked at a local beach park in high school, so I know what you need to make the most of your day at the beach!
To keep things simple, here are my top seven things to bring with you on your trip to the beach, with a few recommendations in each category. Some of these may seem obvious, but it’s important to research and not just buy any chair or cooler if you want an effortless beach day.
I don’t have young children, so this list doesn’t include all the items you may need with little ones at the beach, but I will include some kid friendly options!
Wondering what to wear on your travel days? Whether the beach is just a short road trip away or you’re gearing up for a plane ride, these travel day outfit ideas are some of the best.
Other than a bathing suit and personal items, these are my favorite beach essentials for the perfect beach getaway.
Functional Beach Bags
Looking for the best beach bags for your next beach vacation? Here you go!
The great thing about the first bag is that it functions as both a cooler and a tote; you’d never know it from the looks.
It’s the perfect size for a few canned drinks, snacks, and other belongings without hauling a tote bag AND a cooler down to the beach.
The ever popular beach and pool bag is the BOGG bag. It’s easy to carry and clean! Don’t forget to use a divider to keep it organized! The XL bag is great if you have kids.
A few things to keep in your beach bag include a pair of sunglasses (that you don’t mind getting sandy or even misplacing), a cover-up, a water bottle, & a waterproof pouch for your phone/wallet.
Throw this cute waterproof pouch in any beach bag – includes a small zipper pouch, towel stakes, scrunchies, and a drink holder.
Quality Sunscreen
The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral sunscreen is my favorite everyday face sunscreen that doesn’t break me out. You can also use it on your body in places you know you are prone to burn.
By the way, if you’ll be traveling via car to the beach, you’ll want to organize your vehicle before you head out on your family beach trip! Essentials like trunk organizers and car trash cans will make your road trip more comfortable and seamless.
If you’re like me, you may prefer a sunscreen spray over lotion for your body. This one is from the same brand I use for my face!
Bringing kids to the beach? You need this roll on applicator to make applying sunscreen easy.
Protective and Stylish Hat
A good hat is more than just a cute accessory! It can help protect you from the sun. Take it up a level and secure your hat to any bag with this magnetic hat clip.
You can spend anywhere from $10-100 on a sun hat. Your choice depends on how long you’ll be at the beach and how frequently you visit. If sun protection is your goal, the Solbari option is great.
Beach Chairs
Beach chairs are a given, but with the wide variety of options, it can get pretty overwhelming.
I love that this first one comes with an adjustable pillow, a zippered bag, backpack carrying straps, and cup holders.
If you haven’t heard of the brand Business & Pleasure, it’s taken over! I have heard great things about this brand. Don’t forget to look for it at HomeGoods if you frequent that store. I have seen it in person quite a bit lately.
Want some shade but don’t want to lug an umbrella down to the beach? These Shibumi shades went viral for a reason!
Quick Drying and Luxury Towels
My favorite bath towels from Weezie also come in a large beach towel! They are so soft and would be a comfortable option if you rent chairs and want to cover them up with something.
A simple striped pattern will never go out of style, and this one is a more budget friendly alternative to the Weezie beach towels.
The Dock and Bay option is quick drying, sand free, compact, and lightweight.
Cooler for Snacks & Drinks
No beach day is complete without snacks and drinks. Especially if you have kids, you know how important it is to have snacks. Granola bars, cold drinks, and goldfish are a must.
If you want a more traditional cooler bag option, this hard sided cooler can hold 14 cans. The straw insulated beach bag I mentioned above is a more stylish option.
No one enjoys lugging a cooler down to the beach. This backpack is waterproof, leakproof, and insulated! Don’t forget to make a snacklebox with your favorite treats to keep in the cooler.
Games and Entertainment
Aside from your boogie boards, shovels, bocce balls, and other family vacation favorites, these are other fun beach accessories that are easy to throw in your bag.
A good book from your reading list, waterproof playing cards, and a portable speaker will make it an enjoyable trip to almost any beach destination.
Finally, if your beach day essentials are piling up beyond what you can carry, you may consider purchasing one of these collapsible wagons. It’s a great option for lugging multiple chairs or coolers.
Other Beach Gear Essentials To Consider:
- Water Shoes
- Beach Umbrella
- Insulated Water Bottle
- Beach Cover-Up
- Bug Spray
- Mini First Aid Kit
- Waterproof Phone Case
- Rash Guards
Conclusion
Whether it’s spring break, a family beach vacation, or a day trip visit to the coast, these beach day essentials will help you enjoy the good time with ease.
Don’t forget to grab your chair, towels, protective sunscreen or hat, and a cooler for a successful beach trip. It’s always a good idea to bring these essential items.
