13 Must-Have Beach Bag Essentials You Can’t Miss for Your Perfect Beach Day
Heading to the beach and looking for some beach bag essentials? I’ve got you covered!
Whether you’re a solo female traveler or a mom planning a beach day with your kids, the last thing you want is to arrive and realize you’ve left behind sunscreen or your kid’s life jacket.
That’s where I come in. I’ve put together the ultimate beach day packing list to make sure you have everything you need for your next beach vacation.
From practical items like sunscreen and water bottles to beauty must-haves and beach essentials for the family, I’ve thought of everything so you don’t have to.
So grab your favorite beach tote and let’s dive into 13 things to bring to the beach that will guarantee your day by the ocean is nothing short of perfect.
Let’s make this summer your best one yet!
What To Pack For A Day At The Beach
P.S. Remember to save this day at the beach packing list on Pinterest or your phone. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
13 Beach Bag Essentials for Everyone
From sunglasses to snacks, this beach bag essentials list ensures you are fully prepared to enjoy a beach day every day, no matter where you’re headed or who you’re with.
I’ll also share my family beach bag essentials and beach beauty must-haves in the sections below!
1. Beach Bag
The first item you´ll want to pack for a beach day is a reliable beach bag. If you’re traveling Thailand and need to save space, a lightweight tote bag works great too.
If possible, I recommend choosing a sturdy, durable bag that can handle sand, sunscreen spills, and wet swimsuits without any issues. It’s even better if it has multiple pockets to keep everything organized and easy to find.
No matter the style, make sure it’s big enough to fit all the beach bag essentials on this beach day packing list.
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2. Beach Towel
I used to bring a regular-sized towel to the beach, but it was always too small and took forever to dry between swims. I absolutely hated it.
Before my first long trip, I treated myself to a large, quick-drying towel, and it was a game-changer!
It dried quickly, was big enough to wrap around my body or spread out on the beach, and barely took up any room in my beach bag.
For a family beach day, I recommend using towels with different colors or playful designs for each child. It makes it so much easier to keep track of everyone’s towel.
Pro Tip: Beach towel clips are great for keeping your towels in place, especially on windy days.
3. Sunglasses and Sunhat
Sunglasses and a sunhat are also great things to bring on the beach. They protect your eyes and face from the sun’s harsh rays and can really elevate your beach outfit.
Plus, there’s nothing worse than dealing with a sunburned scalp!
You can use your sunglasses and sunhat to discreetly check out that handsome neighbor without him noticing!
4. Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is essential for any beach day, especially in hot tropical countries like Singapore. That’s why a reusable water bottle is always one of my top beach bag essentials.
I recommend an insulated water bottle to keep your drinks icy cold for hours. This not only saves you money on overpriced beach drinks but also reduces plastic waste.
Bonus Tips: Consider color-coding your bottles to keep track of whose is whose or investing in cup holders to keep your drink sand-free and easily accessible all day.
5. Beach Snacks
To keep hunger at bay while soaking up the sun, make sure to add some delicious beach snacks to your beach day packing list.
Some of my favorite beach snacks include watermelon slices, blueberries, grapes, sandwiches, and pasta salads.
Try to avoid anything perishable that might spoil in the heat—no one wants to deal with a melted chocolate bar at the beach!
And don’t forget to bring a garbage bag for any wrappers or leftovers!
6. Books or Journal
Personally, I love getting lost in a good book or magazine at the beach. Time just seems to fly by when I’m caught up in an interesting story.
If you enjoy journaling, that’s a great option too.
Just don’t forget to reapply sunscreen if, like me, you tend to lose track of time!
If you want to pack light, an e-book is a great thing to bring on the beach. It gives you access to thousands of books without taking up much space in your beach bag.
7. Electronic Gadgets
If reading isn’t your thing, or even if it is, some electronics can help you pass the time at the beach.
Here are a few essentials to add to your beach day packing list:
- Headphones: Great for listening to music or podcasts while soaking up the sun.
- GoPro: Perfect for capturing those underwater adventures or beach volleyball games.
- Portable charger: Ensures your devices stay powered up all day.
- Portable Bluetooth speaker: Set the mood with your favorite tunes.
Just keep the volume reasonable—no one wants to listen to your playlist when they’re trying to relax!
8. First Aid Kit
When it comes to beach essentials for family, safety should always come first! Accidents can happen, so I always recommend keeping a basic first aid kit on hand
In my kit, I make sure to include essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any medications needed for emergencies.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning a boat trip, don’t forget to pack medication for motion sickness, even if it usually doesn’t affect you. I learned this the hard way when traveling around Sri Lanka.
9. Everyday Essentials
When deciding what to pack for a beach day, there are just a few must-haves. Besides a towel, sunscreen, and a swimsuit, here are some things you need for the beach:
- Wallet: Don’t forget your ID, credit cards, and any necessary beach passes.
- Keys: Make sure you have your keys so you can easily get back into your home or car after your beach day.
- Cash: Bring some cash for snacks, parking, tips, or any unexpected expenses.
- Phone: Keep your phone handy to stay connected with friends and family and to capture those Instagram-worthy beach moments.
10. Snorkel Gear
Swim masks and fins are always great things to bring on the beach, especially if you want to explore the marine life below the surface or just want to get some exercise!
Honestly, snorkeling is one of the only sports I really enjoy, and it always makes my beach trips so much more exciting and memorable!
It’s also one of the main reasons I love visiting Sri Lanka—the snorkeling there is absolutely incredible!
11. Waterproof Phone Pouch
If you’re going on a solo trip or just want to take some underwater photos, I highly recommend getting a waterproof phone pouch. For even more space, you can also get a full waterproof bag.
You can keep your phone, keys, and wallet dry and safe while you’re swimming or snorkeling. I found mine incredibly useful during my Phi Phi Island Tour!
Just a tip: Always double-check that they are in good working order before adding them to your beach packing list!
12. Flip Flops
When thinking about what to pack for a beach day, leave the bulky shoes at home and go for lightweight flip-flops. They’re easy to slip on and off when you want to dip your toes in the water.
Trust me, when the sand is burning hot, you’ll be glad you don’t have to lace up sneakers just to grab a snack from the beachside cafe.
If your beach destination has lots of rocks or shells, you might want to bring water shoes for extra grip and protection both in and out of the water.
13. Swimsuit And Swimwear
Finally, let’s talk about one of the most important things you need for the beach—your swimsuit and swimwear! Choose something that makes you feel confident and comfortable, whether it’s a classic one-piece, a bikini, or a rash guard.
Ladies, be mindful of your destination’s dress code, especially if you’re traveling internationally.
And don’t forget to bring a cover-up! It’s great for giving your skin a break from the sun and is usually required at most restaurants and beach bars.
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5 Beach Bag Beauty Essentials
You know those people who look effortlessly gorgeous after a swim in the ocean? Yeah, that’s never been me. I always end up with tangled hair and red skin.
But over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks to help me look and feel my best at the beach.
Let me share some of my favorite beach bag beauty essentials to ensure your beach day is perfect.
1. Sunscreen (Face, Body and Lips)
Even though I’m from sunny Spain, I’ve had my fair share of sunburns, often turning lobster-red after just a little bit of sun.
I used to stress about not getting that perfect tan, but I’ve realized protecting my skin is far more important.
It took me some time, but I eventually got into the habit of using sunscreen every day. Now, whenever I’m heading out for a beach vacation, sunscreen is always at the top of my packing list.
Pro Tip: Remember to reapply your sunscreen every couple of hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
2. Aloe Vera Gel
Another must-have in my beach day essentials is aloe vera gel. It’s my go-to remedy for sunburn—cooling, hydrating, and incredibly soothing.
No matter how careful I am with applying sunscreen, I always seem to get a bit of sunburn. That’s where aloe vera gel comes to the rescue, soothing and calming my overheated skin.
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3. Waterproof Mascara
When it comes to beach days, I like to keep my makeup routine pretty minimal. Maybe a bit of concealer to tackle any blemishes, and if I’m feeling fancy, a swipe of lip gloss or waterproof mascara.
Speaking of mascara, I’m not usually one for many beauty treatments, but in the past couple of years, I’ve started treating myself to a lash lift just before summer kicks in.
It’s definitely become one of my summer essentials!
4. Hair Accessories
So, here’s a random fact about me: I absolutely can’t stand the feeling of wet hair clinging to my skin.
To avoid this, I always make sure to pack hair ties, hair clips, or even headbands whenever I’m heading to a beach destination, like Thailand or Sri Lanka
So, if you don´t want to get your hair wet or just dread the idea of having wet hair in your face and on your neck, make sure to include your favorite hair accessories on your beach day checklist!
5. Hairbrush and Detangler
Let me tell you, there’s nothing more frustrating than dealing with tangled, salty, windblown hair after a day at the ocean. Believe me, I’ve been there!
That’s why I always pack a compact hairbrush and sometimes even a hair detangler for my beach trips. Personally, I swear by the Tangle Teezer Brush.
Thanks to these beach bag essentials, I can finally emerge from the water looking like a real human, with hair that’s knot-free and ready to take on the day.
Extra Beach Bay Beauty Essentials
Finally, let’s talk about a few more fantastic things to bring to the beach:
- Travel-Size Deodorant: Staying fresh and confident under the sun is a must.
- Facial Spray: Great for when your face feels extra dry from the salt water
- Facial Cleansing Wipes: These are perfect for removing sweat, sand, and sunscreen residue after a fun day in the sun.
- Anti-Chafing Balm: If you plan on doing a lot of walking, this will help prevent any uncomfortable chafing.
- Leave-In Conditioner: If you’re going to swim, this helps ensure your hair doesn’t dry out.
- Eye Drops and Spare Contacts: Essential if your eyes get dry or you lose a contact in the water.
- Toothbrush, Floss Picks, Gum or Mints: Keep your mouth feeling fresh after snacks and meals.
- Bug Spray: Handy if bugs are a common issue at your favorite beach.
These extra beach bag beauty essentials will help you stay comfortable, fresh, and looking your best while enjoying your beach day.
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14 Beach Bag Essentials For Families
Beach days are all about fun in the sun with the family! So, apart from things like towels, swimsuits, and a water bottle, here are some beach essentials for families.
Baby Beach Essentials
- Pop-up Tent: I suggest bringing one of these for shade and shelter, especially for the littlest members of the family. Look for one with UV protection and easy setup.
- Kiddie Pool: This is a lifesaver for keeping your baby cool and entertained while at the beach.
- Sippy Cup: Keep your kids hydrated under the sun with their favorite sippy cup.
- Baby Sunscreen: Protect their delicate skin with a gentle baby sunscreen made for sensitive skin.
- Extra Towels and Change of Clothes: Accidents happen, so it’s good to be prepared with spare towels and outfits.
- Life Jacket or Float Rings: Make sure your child can safely enjoy the water with a reliable life jacket or float rings. Remember, adult supervision is always necessary.
Toddler Beach Essentials
- Beach Toys: Keep your toddlers entertained for hours with sandcastle molds, shovels, and buckets.
- Beach Games: Pack a variety of games like frisbees and beach volleyball to keep the whole family active and engaged.
- Baby Powder: This is a game-changer for getting sand off skin and toys – much better than regular wipes!
- Swim Diapers: Reusable swim diapers are a beach bag essential for toddlers who aren’t yet potty trained.
- Reusable Wet Bag (or Ziplock Bags): Perfect for storing wet swimsuits, sandy items, seashells, or even as a garbage bag.
- Rash Guards and Bucket Hats: Protect your kids from the sun’s rays with rash guards and bucket hats.
- Floaties: Keep your child safe in the water, especially if they’re still learning to swim.
- Beach Stroller or Wagon: This makes transporting kids, toys, and gear a breeze without breaking a sweat.
And hey, remember, you don’t have to bring everything listed here to have an awesome beach day with your family. These are just some beach essentials for families to consider!
5 Extra Things To Bring On The Beach
Finally, when you’re planning what to pack for a day at the beach, here are a few extra items that might not fit in your beach bag but can definitely level up your beach day experience!
1. Beach Chair
While I usually manage with just my beach towel, I really enjoy those reclining chairs that keep me off the sand.
But if you prefer to pack light, consider adding a reclining beach mat to your beach dayessentials. It might not be a full chair, but it’ll give you just the right support to enjoy your book while soaking up the sun.
If you want to take it up a notch, bring a small, foldable table. It’s perfect for enjoying snacks, drinks, and maybe even a game of cards with friends or family.
2. Beach Umbrella
I don’t always consider a beach umbrella one of my beach day essentials because I love soaking up the sun. However, there have been times when I’ve wished for some shade after a few hours.
If you need more coverage, think about getting a beach tent. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s easy to set up and lightweight to carry.
3. Beach Blanket
When it comes to beach essentials for families, a quality beach blanket is a game-changer. It offers a perfect spot for everyone to sit together or enjoy a picnic at the beach.
I recommend choosing one that’s waterproof, sand-proof and machine-washable. Trust me, you’ll be thankful when you’re not shaking off sand for days!
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4. Insulated Cooler
An insulated cooler is a must for keeping your beach snacks and drinks cool and refreshing all day long. It can also save you money by avoiding overpriced beach snacks.
I recommend choosing a cooler that’s big enough for all the things you need for the beach, yet lightweight and easy to transport – ideally with a beach wagon.
And don’t forget plenty of ice packs to keep everything icy cold, especially on scorching hot days!
5. Dog Beach Essentials
If you’re taking your dog to the beach, don’t forget their essentials too! Bring a collapsible water bowl and plenty of fresh water to keep your pup hydrated in the sun.
A leash and poop bags are also key for keeping your dog safe and respecting beach rules. And, of course, don’t forget their favorite toys for some fun in the sand!
Did you know that in some countries, dogs need to be leashed at all times? Check out this and other weird laws in Singapore.
10 Beach Day Tips Everyone Should Know
Now that you’ve got your beach bag essentials covered, let’s dive into some beach hacks to make your day even better:
- Bring a sarong that can double as a towel, picnic blanket, and even a cute beach outfit!
- Freeze your water bottles the night before for ice-cold hydration that lasts all day.
- Swap out a traditional beach blanket for a fitted sheet to keep sand from invading your space.
- Keep your valuables safe by tucking them into a clean diaper or snack bag.
- Combat stubborn sand on your skin with baby powder before heading home.
- Freeze aloe vera gel in ice cube trays for instant sunburn relief.
- Use a mesh laundry bag to store sandy toys and shake off excess sand before leaving the beach.
- Pack a lightweight, portable fan to create your own breeze on hot days.
- Use a ziplock bag to protect your phone from sand and water while still being able to use it.
- Bring a small trash bag to keep your beach area clean and tidy.
These beach day tips will ensure your summer vacation is fun, comfortable, and hassle-free!
Final Thoughts: My Beach Bag Essentials
With these beach essentials and hacks in tow, you’re all set to make the most of your beach day every day, whether you’re heading out solo or having fun in the sun with loved ones.
Now it’s your turn! What are your must-have items for a day at the beach? Share your beach bag essentials in the comments below!
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Very comprehensive list. A first aid kit- you never know when you will need it!
It is that time of year where we Canadians start thinking about the beach. I always like to have a full beach bag in the car so we can stop when we see a good beach. Although the beach snacks and water are last minute packs. Perfect tip to freeze water bottles. Good reminder about bug spray since there are often lots of bugs in the nearby grass and tree areas.
A first-aid kit is a great idea. Plus, I’m a clumsy kind of girl, so I guess it could come in handy. Thanks for sharing your essentials!
Thanks for sharing your experience. This is just a fine list. First aid kit is something that I would never think of and can be very helpful especially when you bring a bunch of kids to the beach.
Interesting beach essentials. The water proof pouch is a must when you want to capture some nice pictures. I own one and never go to beach or pool without it.
Plastic pouch for my phone is a great idea! We are sadly entering winter this end… but a great list to keep for summer! Can hardly wait. 🙂
Thanksss! In Spain, it´s may and already 35°C …. so honestly winter doesn´t seem to baddd!
Love this! It’s important to clean up after ourselves and leave zero plastic behind! Love this blog thank you for sharing!
Thank you!! I am really tired of all the plasic bottles and bags people left behind… I always try to pick up some but they seem to be everywhere!
Tell me how I constantly forget at least one or two of the things on this list when going to the beach!!! LOL One thing I’ve been bringing lately is scalp sunscreen. I always end up with a burnt scalp without it!
Yesss!! Trust me, I am just like youuu! I hate hate trying to brush my hair with a burnt scalp and all the disgusting skin pieces that fall off… That´s exaclty why I have this hugeee beach bag esssentials list!!
Great article, you thought of everything! I especially love the addition of the First Aid Kit,
Thankss! I started with some ibuprofen and bandaids and it has grown into a full first aid kit!. Always better to be prepared!
Excellent guide on What to Pack For a Beach Day with 13 Beach Bag Essentials. I so wished I loved or was going to a beach!
Thank youuu! I do love going to the beach and I having a detailed beach packing list really helps me!
Great list, going to the beach without a snack is a no no for us haha. We get hungry and need to have going to beach day. I agree with these recommendations 100%
Righttt?? And it also saves soo much moneyy!! I used to spend at least 10 usd a day on beach snacks but never again!!
I love the idea of freezing aloe vera gel in ice cube trays for instant sunburn relief! Will def try it this summer! Thanks for sharing this handy list!
You really should try ittt! I discovered it a couple of years ago and now it´s one of my favorite beach hacks!
Absolutely! I totally get it! Having a comprehensive beach bag essentials list is a game-changer. Thanks for sharing!
I knowww if I don´t have a beach packing list I´m always going to forget something!