5 Beach Staples to Stay in Your Bag All Summer

A beach trip is all fun and games until it comes down to actually packing the fun and games. We all know the basics: sunglasses, towels, sunscreen, and, of course, a huge waterbottle—but it can always be better. That’s why we’ve got you covered with five beach essentials you’ll wish you read about sooner!

Reef Safe Sunscreen

Our coral reefs are more than just homes to over 25% of the world’s fish; they’re also the producer of half of the world’s oxygen. Next time you go shopping for sunscreen, pick up a bottle that specifically says it’s reef safe. If you’re unsure, a good rule of thumb is slather don’t spray! (And remember those easily forgettable places like ears, hands, and feet.)

High Protein Snacks

Even more than just helping to build muscles, having high-protein snacks ensures that you stay fuller for longer. That’s why we love easy, mess free munchies like nut mixes, sunflower seeds, and even roasted edamame. Pro-tip: buy in bulk and minimize waste by using reusable silicone storage bags (added bonus: somewhere to store all the shells you collect!).

Mesh Bags

Sand is basically the glitter of the beach: you go one time three weeks ago and you’re still finding it everywhere. Use mesh bags like reusable shoppers with a large weave to minimize the amount of sand that sticks around and help ensure an easy cleanup at the end of the day!

A Good Book

The average adult spends about five hours a day on their phone, so take a break from the screen this summer and opt for a fun book from the library instead. Unsure what to pick up? We’re enjoying fun, easy reads like Taylor Jenkins Reid’s The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo and Emily Henry’s Funny Story. 

First Aid Supplies

If there’s one thing that can solve any child’s injury, it’s a Band-Aid. Throw a couple of waterproof bandages, Neosporin, and (of course) some aloe lotion in your bag to cure any ailment that can come your way at the beach, from stepping on broken shells to those bad sunburns. 

Whether you’re a sun bather, wave surfer, or beach comber, these five essentials have you covered. So pack that bag, apply (and reapply) that sunscreen, and relax: you’re prepared for anything the ocean will throw at you. Just keep an eye on those snacks… seagulls don’t care how prepared you are.