Beach Bag 101: Packing the Perfect Vacation
Okay, Spring Breakers, the countdown is on! It’s only a short matter of time before you head to the beach for a relaxing (or maybe a little wild) vacation. While you’re agonizing over a perfect wardrobe for the week, don’t forget about your beach-going necessities. While spring break is typically a time to put away the books and let loose, let’s examine the science behind beach bag essentials. Get ready to take notes!
Here’s what you’ll need for a perfect vacation in the sun, surf, and sand. Welcome to Beach Bag 101.
Featured handbag: Madison Chevron Tote
Sunglasses: No need to harp on the importance of protecting your eyes from the sun (but seriously, it’s dangerous), because you’ll also need a pair of these babies for style and comfort. Be careful when handling your shades, as suntan lotions and abrasive sand can do some damage to your lenses. Be sure to wipe your hands before touching them and store them in a protective case if you happen to take them off (only to say hi to that cute lifeguard, of course). Our favorite look-for-less sunnies of late are, of course, from out sister store at Sunglass Warehouse. Check ‘em out!
Sunscreen: Getting a deep golden glow may be your number one priority, but slathering on the sunscreen needs to come first! Tip: The cheapest sunscreen option isn’t always the best. Be sure to choose something that protects against both UVA and UVB rays with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Also, be sure to put your sunscreen on 30 minutes before going into the sun and reapply as needed, especially after going into the water. Shiseido provides a great sun care line with varying protection factors.
Entertainment: While some of us are perfectly content to look at the ocean or listen to the sound of the waves with our eyes closed, others just need something to do. Take this opportunity to listen to music on your phone or grab a good ol’ paperback book or magazine. Make a vacay playlist to act as the soundtrack for your trip, or take the time to read a bestseller that you just haven’t had time to catch up with. The choice is yours — it’s your vacation after all!
Water: Staying hydrated when spending time in the sun is essential. You may be tempted to reach for a sugary soda or sports drink, but these drinks can have a diuretic effect, which removes water from your body, therefore making it easier for you to become dehydrated. So stick with the H2O and drink up! Not a fan of plain water? Add lemon slices or frozen berries to make water taste more exciting!
Chapstick: Don’t forget to protect your lips! Like the rest of your skin, they can burn and even blister. (How’s that for a ruined spring break?) Choose something with an SPF of at least 15 and reapply as needed. Look for a product that is water resistant, or go with something tinted to give your glowing skin a pop of healthy color. Fresh Sugar Lip Treatments are a fave because they come in tinted colors and have plenty of SPF!
Beach towel: Whether you plan to go in the water or not, you’re going to need a large towel. To avoid sticky, sandy skin while sunbathing, bring an old sheet and lay it down before you put your towel down. Another great tip? Choose an ultra bright color or bold print for your beach towel so you can easily find it after getting in the water or going on a long walk. That way, you can keep an eye on your things more easily!
What are your beach bag must-haves? Share them with us on Facebook or Twitter!
Featured: Target towel, iPod mini, Sugar Rosé Tinted Lip Treatment Sunscreen, Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Cream, and Camelbak water bottle
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