10 Essentials for Every Beach Bag
Floating in perfect-temperature ocean water in Puerto de Mazarron, seaweed fronds tickling your feet as you stare up at the enormous blue sky and glance over to the mountains towards Cartagena.
Don’t want for much….. The purity and simplicity of a day at the beach is one of life’s greatest pleasures, so packing for it should be as straightforward as possible - ideally, just a few basic items that manage to be fun, clean, and luxurious all at once.
Reef-safe, person-safe, is essential, but so are a black-seed-based hair oil that smells faintly of tropical flowers and a rich, citrusy balm that repels insects. Throw these (and a few other essentials) in your chic Medina Mercantile backpack/bag, get yourself out to the beach, spend your day doing and wanting for absolutely nothing, and emerge unbitten, unburned, clean, moisturized, and above all, indulged.
How many times have you arrived at the beach giddy and drunk on sunshine only to discover that you forgot about 10 essentials upon arrival? Nothing can ruin a beach day quite like being parched, sunburnt, and without a book to read. On second thought, there's not very much that can really, truly ruin a day by the sea, but we think you catch our drift: A beach day is much more enjoyable when you have all the little basics to keep yourself comfortable and entertained.
So to make sure you never have to run home when you're already halfway there, we came up with a comprehensive packing list of 16 beach bag essentials. Keep this handy next time you head to the beach!!
A Large Tote
First things first, you'll need a spacious carry-all to fit all of your essentials in. Opt for a straw bag to give your outfit beach-appropriate.
A Beach Towel
Being completely covered in sand is fun for a select few. If you are not one of those people, you will probably want to remember to pack your beach towel. This may seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how many times I've turned up without one by accident.
Face Sunscreen
Even if you apply some SPF to your face before you leave the house, it's important to reapply throughout the day as you sweat and swim it off.
Body Sunscreen
If you've ever turned up to a beach day empty-handed and hoping a friend will lend you their SPF, you might get lucky. But you also might end up getting some side-eye, or worse, having to settle for tanning oil with SPF 4.
A Bag for Keepsakes
Keep your valuables safe and clean in a small compartment or bag. Think keys, phone, credit cards, and other essentials. We love bright pink gingham pouch and we'd definitely bring it with us to the beach and beyond.
Beach Games
Bring something to play! Whether you prefer paddle ball, spike ball, or volleyball, having some sports equipment on hand will keep you busy and entertained until the sun sets.
Headphones
Nothing is better than falling asleep on the beach to some relaxing music. If you have AirPods, make sure you charge them beforehand.
Wine Carrier/Cooler
The beach isn't all about tanning and surfing. Sometimes the best moments happen when you just pack a picnic for sunset on the shore. With that in mind, these stylish wine bag coolers are sure to come in handy.
Portable Speakers
If you're planning on enjoying the beach with some friends and loved ones, considering bringing your portable speakers along! It's not an absolute essential, but the right tunes can definitely bring things up a notch.
Stylish Sunglasses
This is probably the second mst important yet most forgotten beach essential on my list (the towel takes the cake). Opt for a pair that protects your eyes from the sun but also earns you some style points.
A Change of Clothes
You definitely don't need to bring a change of clothes, but I usually throw in a lightweight dress or cover-up if there's room. It's nice to have the option in case your other clothing gets dirty or wet.
Leave-In Conditioner
Consider bringing some leave-in conditioner to apply at the end of the beach day to restore moisture.
Easy Sandals
Bringing a change of sandals is always a good call. These are easy to slide in and out of, and you won't have to worry about getting them super sandy since that's what they're made for. Even better, they take up barely any room in your beach bag.
Reading Material
A great beach read will keep you busy while also taking you on a mental vacation. There's nothing that's more relaxing and exciting at the same time than reading while lying in the sun.
Sunhat
If you're someone who likes to keep their face out the sun, don't forget to pack a hat. We love classic wide-brim sunhats but visors are also making a comeback.
Reusable Water Bottle
Fill up your reusable water bottle before you make the trek so you stay hydrated all day long.
