What to Pack in Your Beach Bag, What to Leave at Home

You’re headed to the beach for the day. You may have to walk a distance from your car to your spot on the sand. You want to be prepped and prepared for whatever happens, but you don’t want to lug the entire kitchen sink with you.

There are a few items you’ll want to overpack and a few items you maybe don’t need at all.

Get your necessities in order — any beach gear (beach blanket, chairs, umbrella, etc.); towels; and any coverup clothing. Overpack sunscreen. Just throw another bottle in there. You’ll be glad you have it when you’re not walking to the nearest convenience store to buy an overpriced bottle of SPF 15 (because they’re out of every other SPF, even though the American Academy of Dermatology warns against using anything lower than SPF 30).

Additionally, overpack snacks; again, when you’re hungry at 2 p.m. and your beach cooler is empty, you’ll be glad you have something rather than walking to the nearest convenience store. For these two items, always go with more than you need.

For items you can leave at home, think about your entertainment options. Unless you’re traveling with a gaggle of kids, you probably don’t need all that much to keep you occupied on the beach. One beach toy, one book (go paperback rather than hardback for less weight), and your phone and headphones should be enough.

Likewise, don’t bring items that are a safety risk; avoid packing snacks in glass containers, and leave valuables like jewelry and excessive cash/cards in your hotel safe or at your Airbnb.