Terri Ramsey Beavers When the sun is out, what better way to enjoy it than with a day trip to the beach?
Making the most of your time there means bringing some things to take on a trip to the beach.
You can only carry so much with you, so what are the essential items you should make sure you have?
Here are twelve things to take to the beach
1. Good Sunscreen
One of the most important things that you should take to the beach with you is a high factor sunscreen.
While you may well be looking to get a full all-over tan, you need to take precautions to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Some people will be at greater risk of skin cancer than others, but regardless of whether you’re a lower risk or not, you need to use sunscreen.
Start with the highest factor available. You should aim for a factor 30 or 50 all over your body. Don’t forget to cover areas such as your hairline and scalp.
Remember to keep applying your sunscreen as directed. If you plan on going into the sea, you’ll either need to use waterproof sunscreen or reapply as soon as you get out of the water.
2. A Towel
When you head to the beach, your towel will serve a dual purpose. Firstly, you can use it to lie on, either on the sand itself or on a deck chair or sun lounger. Secondly, if you’re planning on taking a dip in the sea, then you’ll need it to dry yourself off.
3. Plenty of Water
Being outside in the heat can dehydrate you. It is important that you drink plenty of water while you’re at the beach.
Of course, water will go warm quite quickly when you’re exposed to high temperatures. To make sure your water stays as cold as possible, freeze a couple of bottles the night before. Alternatively, you could bring a cooler full of ice to store your cold water in.
4. An Umbrella
While you may want to bask in the sun and enjoy getting an all-over tan, but too much exposure to the sun can be a bad thing. A bit of shade will help you from getting burnt or developing sunstroke.
Bring a beach umbrella with you and make sure that you use it to protect yourself from the blazing hot sun.
5. Good Sunglasses
This might sound obvious, but you’ll need to take a pair of sunglasses with you to the beach. Often, the glare from the sun can really hurt your eyes. Make sure that you get a pair of polarized sunglasses that provide the best UV protection.
Even with your sunglasses on, you should avoid looking into the sun as it can do damage to your eyes.
6. Snacks
When you’re on the beach, you’ll want something to pass the time with while you relax, so take plenty of snacks with you.
Think about bringing snacks that will not only travel well, but that will also withstand the heat of the beach. Chips and dips, carrot sticks, and fruit are all great options.
7. A Good Book
Why not while away your time on the beach by reading a good book? If you can’t decide what book you want to read, but don’t want to bring several, then why not bring a Kindle with a selection of books on there. Reading is one of the best ways to relax when you’re at the beach.
8. A Wet Bag
If you plan on taking a dip in the sea, you might be worried about your valuables being left on the shoreline. Things like your phone and car keys would be very tempting for any opportunistic thief on the beach.
Instead of leaving these items with your chair and towel, bring them with you into the sea. That way, you can make sure that they’re safe.
Use a waterproof bag that you can wear close to your body while you swim or paddle.
9. A Beach Chair
If you’re heading to a beach that doesn’t already have deck chairs or sun loungers for hire, then you might want to bring your own.
Find a beach chair that is both comfortable and lightweight. That way, you’ll be able to carry it from the car to the beach easily.
10. A Hat
To make sure that the sun is kept out of your eyes and off your head, you should invest in a good beach hat with a wide brim.
Make sure that the hat is lightweight and made of breathable material. You should also ensure the hat fits well. Beaches can be prone to gusts of wind, and the last you’ll want to do is to have to chase your hat around.
11. Your Bathing Suit
Whether you’re just at the beach to sunbathe or you’re planning on taking a swim in the sea, you’ll need to bring swimwear. You’ll no doubt want to make sure you look great when you’re on the back so find the best swimwear that suits you.
When you need to cover up, you can use a beach kaftan dress over your swimwear.
12. A Change of Clothes
When you leave the beach, you’ll not want to feel like you’re covered in sand, sea, and sunscreen. Bring a change of clothes with you. Changing your clothes will allow you to feel fresh for the journey home.
What Are Your Must-Have Things to Take to the Beach?
We all have our favorite things to take to the beach. What are yours? Would you take a Bluetooth speaker and play some music, or a pair of binoculars to watch the passing ships?
Whatever you take to the beach, make sure you’re equipped with the essentials to protect you from the sun and heat.
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