Beach Essentials

Now that we’re coming into the last couple of weekends of the Summer, and we’re all trying to get the most out of those last warm, sunny days I thought it would be useful to finish up our Summer Essentials series (camping essentials, carry-on essentials) with a roundup of all those things you might need for a day at the beach. Obviously, everybody likes to tackle the beach in a different way – some enjoy 8-hour chill sessions, others spend as much time in the water as possible, some like to go for water-side strolls – but there are some pretty basic essentials that I think everybody should keep close at hand. Here are my picks.

1. Bag – You need something that’s going to fit in all the stuff you want to take along with you, but obviously something that looks good too. This one does just about everything you need it to.

2. Blanket – The perfect place to park yourself for the day, and this one rolls up to make it super easy to carry and keep in your car for any appropriate occasion.

3. Sun Protection – This is super important when you’re spending lots of time in the sun and water. As well as the suncream, it’s important to also keep a cover up, like this kimono close at hand, along with a wide hat and sunglasses, just to make sure that you’re fully protected against the rays.

4. Parasol – A great way to get a break from the sun in the middle of the day, as well as providing a little shelter in case you’ve chosen a breezy day (no-one likes sand in their sandwiches). Just make this parasol it’s securely pushed into the ground, you don’t want it taking off unexpectedly.

5. Cooler bag & water – A great way to keep snacks and drinks cool is to bring a cool bag with you, so you don’t have to worry about everything going warm in the sun. Also, stock up on large bottles of water to keep yourself hydrated in the heat.

6. Games – Everyone loves a bit of relaxation on the beach, but who doesn’t enjoy some games thrown in too?! We loved playing with stuff like this frisbee and sticky catch pads set when we were kids, and I would definitely be up for a game or two by the sea!

7. Books – When you do fancy a bit of a chill out, what better way to relax than with an enthralling read. These three titles, We Were Liars, The Girl With All the Gifts and We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves, are all highly recommended, and have all gone to the top of my ‘must-read’ list, so I better get started.