What to Take to the Beach: The Ultimate Summer Checklist

There's almost nothing that beats a beach day in summer, getting clean, salty air, vitamin-packed sunshine, and a refreshing ocean water cool down. Maybe you're out with your best mates catching some waves, or you're on a romantic beach vacation. No matter what inspires your adventure, it doesn't take much for a beach day to go to sh*t.

We've all been there. That golden tan you were hoping for starts to sizzle when you run out of sunscreen. Your romantic picnic is filled with sand because you left behind the blanket. You forgot the kids' boogie boards, completely ruining your family outing. As a beach bum myself, I've seen it all. Once, I even saw a lad try to use a plastic bag as a beach towel.

Being well prepared doesn't sound like the start to a relaxing beach day, but trust me, if you want to have some peace and quiet, especially with the little ones, then you have no other choice than to prep. 

But don't worry. We have the ultimate summer checklist for the local beach day trips and long vacations right here.

The Beach Bag Basics

Before we jump into the sand, it’s time to pack a bag worthy of the perfect beach day.

Your Go-To Beach Bag

Your beach bag is both your treasure chest and mission control centre. It needs to be water-resistant to keep everything dry, like your electronics, a change of clothes, and identity documents (like a copy of your passport if you're travelling abroad).

One big mistake to avoid is having too many pockets. As tempting as it is to organise everything into its own little pouches, sand gets into everything. The last thing you want to do is drop sand on some poor bloke's head when you put your bag away in the overhead compartment. I like having a separate waterproof organiser for the small things, like keys, snack bars, and medications. It makes it easy to find your items without bringing back half the beach.

Beach Towels, Blankets, and Cushions

Look, not all towels are created equal, especially when it comes to the beach. You want something oversized, quick-drying, and thick enough so you're not feeling hot grains of sand when you're trying to relax. When travelling, I get that it's tempting to pack light, especially if you're not expecting to get fancy, complimentary hotel towels. But you want at least one towel per person. Nothing's sadder than a perpetually damp towel that smells like an ocean's armpit.

A big blanket is fantastic for large groups. It gives everyone their space and keeps sand off the food and drinks. Plus, sitting on a blanket means your towel is free of scratchy sand when you dry off. You'll want to make sure your blanket is made for the outdoors, like a picnic blanket. For some extra comfort, especially bring some cushions to protect your back (I'm looking at you 30 and up).

Flip-flops and Sunglasses

No beach essentials list is complete without flip-flops or thongs. Nothing is more embarrassing or uncomfortable than walking around the beach in your sneakers. The alternative might be burning your feet on the hot sand, so make sure you have your sandals. Don't forget your sunglasses either. How can you enjoy the beautiful sea horizon when you're blinded by the sun?

Sun Protection

You can't be too careful when it comes to the sun. Everyone is susceptible to skin damage that can lead to cancer. It's also really important to remember that when you travel, the sun is hotter in different parts of the world. Looking like a lobster on your beach vacation can ruin your photos and it hurts like hell. 

Sunscreen & Aftercare

When it comes to sunscreen, you want to make sure you have broad-spectrum UV protection that's at least 30 SPF. 30 SPF sunscreen blocks over 90% of the harmful UV rays that can cause serious issues. Make sure you reapply as needed and get those often-overlooked spots like the lips and behind the ears. Be sure to research what brands of sunscreen you can use. Some places have strict rules on sunscreen ingredients in an effort to protect local marine life.

Now, despite your best efforts, you might get a little burned. So make sure to have some aloe vera with you if you're far from home. I also like to use a nice hydrating lotion after some time in the sun to keep my skin nice and healthy.

Cover Ups, Umbrellas, & Shade Essentials

While sunscreen is an absolute must, it doesn't block out the heat. Plus, it takes time for sunscreen to soak in, and after a swim in the ocean, it can come off. Cover-ups or baggy Hawaiian shirts are light options to give your skin a break. Also, don't be afraid to look like your great-nan. I personally love a wide-brimmed hat. It's one of my must-haves whenever I travel somewhere sunny.

While a beach umbrella may not be practical to take on a plane, I recommend adding them to your packing list for local excursions. In the middle of the day, there's just no escaping the sun. If you're staying at a hotel, they may have rentals.

Hydration

No matter how much you go swimming in the ocean to stay cool, it doesn't replace proper hydration. Make sure you have plenty of fresh water or a bottle you can refill at stations. Fruit is an excellent snack for staying hydrated. Just remember to bring some ice blocks to keep your cooler bag nice and chilly.

Beach Entertainment 

Not a fan of building sandcastles? Don’t forget some entertainment to wile away those sunny beach afternoons…

Beach games & Beach Toys

Of course, you have your typical sandcastle-building equipment, shovels, and buckets. There are squirt guns, boogie boards, and floaties, but beach games and toys aren't just for the kids. We adults like to have a little fun, too!

I know I love playing a game of paddle ball and have been known to get a little competitive on the beach volleyball court. A card-based game is also easy to take to the beach or when travelling. If you're not one to surf but a little too old for a boogie board, there are always bodyboards.

For the Chill Moments

Sometimes, the best part of any beach trip is just sitting back and taking it all in. Pack some beach reads (a good book you don't mind getting sandy), a journal, or a sketchpad. Playing your summer favourites on a portable speaker can really set the vibe. Just keep it respectful. You're not the only one having a beach day.

Food, Snacks & Cleanup

Smart Snacks

Pre-cut fruit, granola bars, and easy-to-eat wraps are many of my go-to. It's important to make sure your food doesn't need to be refrigerated beyond a cooler, won't melt, and is easy to eat with slightly sandy hands. 

If you're travelling, hit up the local bodega or deli to enjoy the beach like a true local. Also, make sure you have some cash on you. Sometimes, the best food is from local vendors who walk up and down the seaside.

Keeping it Clean

We want to keep these beautiful beaches clean, yeah? Take a rubbish bag with you for your rubbish. Sometimes, the beach trash can get overfilled and become ground zero for seagulls. 

First Aid Kits and Safety Gear

The beach can be a dangerous place (especially with overstimulated kids / adults in tow). Stock up on these essentials to be prepared.

First Aid Kits

Your beach first aid kit needs the classics: band-aids (waterproof ones if you can find them), pain relievers, allergy meds, and bug spray for those sneaky beach mosquitoes. Tweezers, gauze, and hand antiseptic wipes round out the basics.

For family beach trips, make sure you stock up. Kids have this incredible ability to find the one dangerous place on the beach, so get prepared.

Water Safety

I personally love a good pair of goggles. I get to meet the local fish and keep the burning salt and other bacteria out of my eyes. If your beach vacation is to a particularly rocky seaside, consider taking some water shoes or reef walkers. It only takes one sharp rock to ruin your feet. Floaties, pool noodles, and kickboards can make things a bit easier for the kids when going for a swim.

Clothes, Tech & Backup Essentials

Is it even a beach day if it doesn’t go on Instagram?!

Change of Clothes & Dry Storage

I always like to pack backup clothes (especially underwear) if I plan on staying at the beach into the night. Depending on where in the world you are, it can get pretty cold at night. Your lightweight cover-ups for sun protection can also double up as your shirt for the ride home if it's not too sandy.

Plastic bags to store your wet swimsuits can be a lifesaver. At the end of a long beach day, you may accidentally throw some wet clothes on your ID or sweaters. Plus, you don't want to leak all over the car.

Protect Your Tech

Part of any beach packing list should be plastic covers for your electronics, even if you're using something as simple as a ziplock bag. Waterproof cameras are a great alternative to using your phone, which is pretty critical when travelling.

Packing for a Longer Beach Vacation

Days at the beach call for more preparation!

Extra Swimsuits

I've made the mistake of only taking one suit with me on a beach vacation, and let me tell you, putting on a damp swimsuit is awful. If you don't have access to a dryer, don't bank on your swimsuits drying on time.

Laundry & Storage Tools

Portable detergent, laundry bags, and a travel washing line help keep your clothes fresh during longer beach trips. You can even get extra packing cubes for separating clean and sandy stuff to keep you organised and slightly less chaotic.

A Travel eSIM

I know eSIMs might sound a bit techy, but they're perfect for beach trips. Use a ZenSim travel eSIM to connect to local networks instantly and can relax knowing you have an open line of communication. It's always smart to be safe in the wilderness anywhere, especially when you're in a foreign country. ZenSim's setup is perfect for when you want to explore different beaches and coastlines without connectivity problems. Not sure what I am talking about? See WTF is an eSIM to have your questions answered.

Enjoy Your Beach Trip with the Ultimate Beach Packing List

Now that you have a go-to beach essentials list, go enjoy the surf and catch some rays. Always remember to be safe so you can have a summer filled with endless beach days. If you're travelling, it's smart to have an eSim. It can be the difference between a relaxing vacation and a messy trip.

At ZenSim, we make it easier. You can install your eSIM before you leave without the hassle of a little piece of plastic and be connected as soon as you land so you can focus on having fun in the sun.