Beach days are relatively simple to plan, but there are things many people forget to bring. Sunscreen and towels are easy to remember, but there are other items which are often forgotten.
These are the items people most typically forget to bring, whenever they’re packing for a beach day.
Sun Protection Beyond Just Sunscreen
You need to use a reed-safe sunscreen whenever you’re going to be swimming in the ocean, to protect coral and marine life, whilst you shield your skin.
Wear a wide-brimmed sun hat and some polarized sunglasses to protect your face and eyes. Polarized lenses cut glare, and will help you see better on bright water, reducing potential eye strain.
Bring a UPF rash guard, or a lightweight sun shirt for longer periods in the water, or on the sand. These garments block UV rays, and dry fast, so they keep you protected without having to apply sunscreen as often.
Never forget your lips, when it comes to sun protection. Pack a SPF lip balm, as lips burn easily and need regular application, especially after you eat or swim.
Carry a beach umbrella or pop-up shade to give you a break from direct sun. The shade lowers the UV exposure for your whole body, and prevents overheating.
Comfort Upgrades For A Longer Beach Day
Make sure you pack a soft, large beach blanket so you can fully stretch out and relax, without the sand sticking to your skin. Also pack a low-profile beach chair, to give you somewhere comfortable to sit, if you don’t want to sit on the sand.
Beach tents give you shade for naps, and shelter from the wind. If you bring a soft cooler or beach cooler with you, it’ll keep your drinks and snacks cold all day.
If you’re looking to go into the ocean, water shoes can keep your feet protected, especially in rockier spots. Also pack some dry clothes, so you can get changed if your clothes are wet, without feeling uncomfortable all day.
Beach Safety Items You Might Overlook
Bring a small first-aid kit, incase you have any cuts, blisters and minor scrapes. Inside the kit, make sure you have adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes and pain relievers.
You could bring a small flashlight or a headlamp, to help in low-light, or if you need to signal boats or a lifeguard.
If you like snorkeling or diving, bring an underwater camera with a wrist strap. It’ll let you spot document hazards like sharp coral or jellyfish. Plus, the strap keeps the camera from getting lost when underwater.
Items For Keeping Sand Under Control
A dry bag or waterproof bag will keep your towels, clothes and electronic sand-free. Pack a waterproof pouch or a waterproof phone case, for the small items you need on the sand.
Pack a microfiber beach towels and a regular beach towel. The microfiber towel shakes free easily and dries fast, and a thicker beach towel works well for sitting.
Carry some wet wipes and a small brush to remove grit from your feet and from the chairs. Baby powder also works well on the skin – you just sprinkle it on your sandy feet, and it helps the sand to fall off.
Use zipper bags or a resealable pouches for snacks and sunscreen, as they’ll stop sand from getting into the containers and make clean-up faster.