10 Essentials for Your Next Trip to the Beach

A beach chair makes spending hours at the beach much more comfortable. From reading to relaxing, upgrade to a beach chair that will keep you cooler and elevated and away from the hot sand and prevent sand from getting everywhere. Shop for one with shoulder straps that can be carried like a backpack which keeps your hands free for holding other gear.

Staying hydrated under the sun is vital, and a cooler filled with refreshing beverages is a must-have. Pack a portable cooler with plenty of ice, water bottles, and your favorite thirst-quenching drinks. For heavy loads, save your back and use a wheeled cooler which will be easier to transport.

While soaking up the sun is enjoyable, having some shade to retreat to is essential. Pack a sturdy beach umbrella to create your own shady oasis. This will protect you from the scorching sun and provide a cool spot to relax. Look for an umbrella with a tilt feature which will allow you to adjust the shade without having to move, and make sure you’ve got a good anchor to prevent your umbrella from flying away on a windy day.

For full-day shade, a beach tent is great for keeping the entire family covered. Your little ones can nap, and you can rest without having to move every few hours to adjust the shade. Beach tents are easy to pack and setup but are tougher to use with beach chairs. Just add some towels and blankets instead and relax.

A beach towel is not just for drying off, it also serves as your personal oasis on the hot sand. Invest in large, absorbent towels that can accommodate your lounging needs. Look for vibrant colors and patterns to add a touch of personality to your beach setup. Turkish towels are lighter and easier to transport but on a hot day they may not provide enough of a barrier against the hot sand like a plush towel.

Upgrade your beach enjoyment by using a beach mat or blanket. They’re heavier and less susceptible to flipping in the wind. They also provide a great barrier against hot or wet sand and some are even sturdy enough to offer support on bumpy sand.

Choosing the right beachwear is essential for a comfortable and fashionable experience. Follow in the footsteps of lifeguards and use a wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap to shield your face and neck from the sun without it blowing away. If wide-brimmed hats aren’t your thing, use a baseball hat to protect your face.

From beach volleyball to Frisbee, beach games add an extra element of excitement to your trip. Pack a beach ball, a flying disc, or any other games you enjoy playing in the sand. Not only will it keep you entertained, but it's also a great way to bond with friends and family while basking in the sun.

If you don’t have a helping hand, hauling all your beach gear can be exhausting. Use a wagon cart with oversized wheels to transport your gear across the parking lot and the beach without losing a thing.

One of the most crucial items to pack for your beach trip is sunscreen. Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is a top priority. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (sun protection factor). Apply it generously before heading out to the beach and reapply every two hours for optimal protection. If you’re swimming or snorkeling in a tropical area, use reef safe sunscreen. Remember, sunburns can ruin your vacation, so lather up and stay sun-safe!