What To Take To The Beach To Stay Hydrated and Have Fun

Warm summer months mean plenty of fun in the sun. And a family beach trip is always the perfect summer getaway!

Whether you’re close to home or road tripping to your coastal destination, the beach is also a great option to vacation on a budget. Grocery shopping instead of eating out will save you tons of money. And packing your own supplies, like a beach blanket, will be a cheaper alternative to rental chairs.

For most people, a day at the beach is casual. It’s chill time. Time to sit and relax, soak up the sun, play in the water and build sandcastles. So you don’t need to pack 18 outfits in your small luggage! I know it’s hard for us to not bring extras. I mean, nine pair of underwear for 3 nights isn’t ridiculous, right?! Didn’t think so.

But really… you’ll be on the beach in your swimsuit (and maybe a coverup) most of the time. So pack light and save the space and hassle of dragging along a heavy bag. If you do plan on going out to eat or participating in nightlife, don’t overthink it. Shorts and a light shirt or a sundress and sandals is the perfect attire for evening outings after a long day on the beach.

But there are lots of things you definitely want to pack up in your beach tote and bring with you once you’re ready to make your way across the sand.

So grab a pen and paper and feel free to jot down some of these beach essentials for fun and hydration!

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Beach Essentials for Fun in the Sun

A woman is sitting on a cliff in front of water. She is drinking True Lemon Energy.

Must Haves & Packing Essentials

Sunscreen – You want to protect your glowing skin from the sun’s harsh glare and UV rays. It’s important to stay lathered up while you’re enjoying a day outside! Be sure to reapply often and wait 30 minutes to get in the water after you do.

Sunglasses – Just like your skin, your eyes need sun protection, too! Grab a cute and casual pair of sunglasses to dim the sun’s rays.

Beach Towels and Blanket – Can’t forget these! A larger towel or blanket will give you something to sit on, because the sand gets hot. Ouch! Blankets make it more comfortable to lay down and relax sand free (somewhat at least.) And a few towels will keep you and your other essentials dry after tromping back in from the water. Bring a few more than you think you’ll need.

Swimsuit – This one should be pretty obvious. Whatever style you decide on, just make sure you’re comfortable for a full day outside!

Coverup – This is a beach day necessary beach day accessory. If you need to pop into a store or restaurant to grab a bite to eat, you’ll probably want something to throw on top of your swimsuit.

Beach Tote Bag – You’ll need something to carry all your essentials in! A good beach bag will be big enough to hold your personal items and towels. You also want to make sure it’s sturdy, water resistant…and cute, obvi!

First Aid Kit – Because it’s always good to be prepared. Grab a travel size first aid kit in case of small cuts or injuries. (Always be sure to seek help from a medical professional if you experience a medical emergency.)

Snacks – You can never have too many snacks! You and the kiddos are going to work up an appetite running around the beach all day and playing in the water. The perfect snacks are easy to make, easy to pack and transport well. Chips are great, but for healthier options you can also consider pre-cut fruits and veggies. Sandwiches are a good idea for beach day, too. Prep them before you head out and stick them in your cooler bag.

Bottled Water – Stay hydrated! Being in the sun all day means you need plenty of water to keep your body strong and healthy.

Insulated Travel Cooler –Something to keep your snacks and drinks cold! A good, insulated cooler will do the trick. Be sure it’s one that you don’t mind getting a little dirty.

Flip Flops – Protect your feet from the hot sand! Sandals and flip flops are easy to slip on and off, making it easier to get up and get moving.

Personal Items

A Good Book – The beach is a great place to destress and catch up on your reading. A good beach read is an easy read. And it can take your mind off of worries you’re leaving at home during your vacation.

Portable Speaker – This may be something you never thought of! It’s not an essential, but it definitely pumps up the energy. Bring a speaker to play your own music while you lounge and gaze out into the sunset.

Hat – A fun floppy hat is perfect for added protection from the sun.

A girl is sitting by the pool with a beach ball and some True Lemon Kids.

Extras & Just for Fun

Beach Chair – You don’t need a beach chair, but feel free to bring one if you want. You’ll probably have the option to rent chairs and umbrellas. But if you want to save money and you don’t mind carrying them, bring your own! Weigh the cost versus the option to bring your own. You can set it down virtually anywhere (just double check the rules at your destination beach.) But you’ll also have to carry it out to the beach and bring it back in with you every day.

Beach Umbrella – Just like the beach chairs, you can bring your own umbrella! Set it up in the sand to help keep your area shady and out of the sun.

Towel Clips – These are good for clasping your towel to the back of your chair. These aren’t essential but do help to keep your towel from slipping off the chair or flying away in the breeze!

Sand Bucket and Toys – You’re spending time in the sand so of course you want a shovel and bucket! With a little water and creativity, you can build the ultimate sandcastle. And the extra toys while help keep the little ones busy while you lay out in the sun.

Games – Extra games will ensure you have plenty of ways to keep the family busy if they get bored. A football to throw around or portable sand games like Ladder Toss are great options for beach day. Board games and a deck of cards will go a long way for a rainy day inside.

Headphones – Plug these into your phone or other device and drown out the noise around you. Headphones are a good idea to bring if you want to listen to your own music or podcasts.

Portable Phone Charger – Always bring your charger so your phone never runs out of juice!