The beach always sounds like a good idea, especially after a mind-racking exam or an exhausting week at work. While the thought sounds like a fool-proof plan to briefly escape reality, it can easily be ruined without the right beach essentials.

Avoid wasting that much-awaited vacation by failing to pack all the must-have items. This checklist will help anyone prepare for that dream trip to the beach.

Sunscreen

There’s no surprise that this tops any essential beach checklist. Applying a good amount of sunscreen with at least SPF 30 protects against UVA and UVB rays, which are known to cause harmful effects on the skin.

10 Beach Essentials That Scream Fashion and Functionality

Experts recommend applying sunscreen at least 15 minutes before heading outdoors, allowing the skin enough time to absorb the product and provide the ultimate protection.

Water bottle

It can be easy to forget to hydrate while having the most fun under the sun. Before hitting the beach, it’s a must to bring a bottle of water to cool off during a hot summer day.

10 Beach Essentials That Scream Fashion and Functionality

An insulated tumbler helps keep drinks cold as long as possible, but a personalized insulated tumbler makes the drinking experience more fashionable. Anyone can have their water bottles customized with their designs or photos.

Wide-brimmed hat

Speaking of sun protection, wearing a wide-brimmed sun hat can add a layer of UV defense while looking chic at the beach. Whether that’s a bucket hat, nylon sun hat, or a floppy straw hat, anything that can shield one’s face and vision from the sun’s heat and glare will do the trick.

10 Beach Essentials That Scream Fashion and Functionality

Cover-up shirt

Sunscreen can only do so much in protecting the skin from the sun’s rays. It also helps to wear some cover-up clothing when frolicking at the beach.

10 Beach Essentials That Scream Fashion and Functionality

Men and women have plenty of clothing options to choose from. For women, donning a breezy long kimono robe over their swimwear offers a chic yet functional look. For men, wearing a long-sleeved button-down shirt should help shield them from the sun’s rays.

Swimwear

Of course, swimwear is non-negotiable when packing for a beach trip. There are different types of swimwear available for men and women, depending on their preference.

Women can wear bikinis if they plan to get a gorgeous, even tan. If their priority is sun protection, they can opt for a rashguard, which is also a great choice for those planning to engage in watersports or athletic activities.

10 Beach Essentials That Scream Fashion and Functionality

Meanwhile, men can opt for swimming trunks or a pair of board shorts when going to the beach.

Sunglasses

A good pair of sunglasses prevents eye strain caused by the sun’s harsh glare. When choosing a pair to bring to the beach, look for a UV protection feature and an anti-scratch lens coating. The last thing anyone wants is ruining their sunglasses after leaving them on the sand.

10 Beach Essentials That Scream Fashion and Functionality

Style and comfort are also two important things to consider. It’s best to find a pair of sleek sunglasses that won’t hurt the head after long hours of wear.

On-the-go beach chairs

Beach chairs provide great relief when basking for hours at the beach. It allows one to sit comfortably while chilling on the sand and reading a good book. Say goodbye to back pains!

10 Beach Essentials That Scream Fashion and Functionality

Consider comfort, style, and functionality when looking for a good beach chair. Get one with a cushioned seat that can be personalized based on one’s style preference. Aside from that, it should also be easily foldable and stored to make it easy to use on the go.

Beach blanket

Beach blankets are perfect for chilling and sunbathing by the beach, so it’s an ultimate must-have for those planning to do so.

10 Beach Essentials That Scream Fashion and Functionality

The best beach blankets are large enough to seat many people and beach stuff. But it should also repel sand and water for easy cleaning. Go for one that’s not too bulky and is easy to store when it’s time to go.

Beach umbrella

Those who want shade will not want to forget to bring a beach umbrella to their trip. Most beach umbrellas are big and bulky to provide enough shade. But there are a lot of options that offer more portability and functionality, such as an umbrella-tent hybrid or a chair-attachable umbrella.

10 Beach Essentials That Scream Fashion and Functionality

Beach bag

Lastly, bringing a beach bag can help store all these essentials in one place. The perfect beach bag should be fashionable, spacious, and functional.

10 Beach Essentials That Scream Fashion and Functionality

The bag’s material is also something worth considering. Whether a waterproof PVC tote bag or a durable straw beach bag, choosing one heavily depends on one’s needs and preferences.

Don’t Forget to Have Fun!

The most important beach must-have? Some jolly good fun! Once all the right beach essentials are packed, the hardest part is over. Now, get that well-deserved vacation!