beach bag travel essentials

Beach Packing List: 75 Essentials For Everyone & Every Trip

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

Take the stress out of packing with my ultimate beach packing list for your next beach day or tropical vacation.

Looking for a free beach packing list? I’ve got you covered. 

You’re probably looking forward to your upcoming beach time and relaxation.

But your level of zen may waver based on the type of beach you’re heading to, the length of your beach trip, how many people are joining you…and so forth. 

One way to guarantee relaxation is to make a sufficient beach packing list. 

I’ve gone on my fair share of beach trips and beach vacations, and I’ve always felt that I prepared well. 

So, I put together the ultimate beach packing list that will have you covered for what to bring to the beach in any circumstance. 

My packing list for beach vacations serves as a to-do list ahead of your trip. 

Gathering all the beach necessities before your next beach vacation will make your beach days that much more leisurely.  

Whether these items are a given or something you haven’t considered before, check off each one that’s applicable to you and your needs!

Here’s my printable beach packing list based on my experience at beaches from North Carolina to Italy.

Table of Contents

Beach Clothes and Accessories

Read our guides to the best sustainable swimwear brands and best surf bikinis .

Read our guides to the best Yeti alternatives , the best ice packs for coolers , and the best coolers for camping .

Beach Shoes & Footwear

Read our guide to the best waterproof walking shoes and the best water shoes for kayaking (that also work well for the beach!)

Other Things For the Beach

What Should I Bring on a Beach Day Trip?

Of course, my beach day packing list is shorter than my entire beach vacation checklist. 

That being said, there are certain things to bring to the beach no matter how long you plan to stay. Let’s talk about the components of any essential beach packing list.

Sun Protection

First and foremost: don’t forget sun protection. Wear sunscreen , sunglasses , and a cute sun hat .

Wearing sunscreen is important for protecting your skin from sun exposure and sunburns.

Some form of sunblock should be the first thing in your beach bag.

I burn easily, so I always opt for a rub-in lotion over a spray or mist. Coral Isles is my go-to reef-safe sunscreen– I want to do all that I can to protect our coral reefs from bleaching.

Reef-safe sunscreens don’t contain coral-damaging chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. 

Along with sunscreen, I throw in small items like SPF lip balm and hand sanitizer.

Note: Remember to account for the travel size requirements if you’re traveling via airplane (less than or equal to 100 ml/3.4 oz in volume). Otherwise, you’ll need to make a pit stop once you’ve arrived at your special beach destination.

Drinking Water

If there’s anything I want you to take away from what you should bring to the beach, it’s sunscreen and a water bottle. 

We talked about protecting your skin with sunscreen. Now it’s time for water.

Having water on hand combats a variety of potential problems, like dehydration and heat exhaustion. 

Staying hydrated also helps you recover from long hours in the sun and keeps your skin hydrated.

The hot sun does make it hard to keep your water cold, but it’s important to drink from your water bottle, no matter the temperature. 

Luckily, you can keep water cold with an insulated reusable water bottle like a Hydroflask or Cirkul Bottle . 

Remember to bring an extra bottle of water and a dish if your dog is coming along for the adventure!

My Secret Tips

I try to learn from my previous vacations. Here are a few of my secret items that I carry: 

If you wear contacts like me, bring an extra pair. You never know if one will get messed up while swimming (been there, dealt with that). 

Hair Protection

I also color my hair, so a heat protection spray that protects hair from sun damage is a great idea. It also helps keep the color in good condition. 

Speaking of spray–I always bring bug spray . Sometimes bugs or gnats surprise you on the beach and come out of nowhere…I’m personally not a fan.

On that note, research what wildlife might be at the beach you’re going to. 

Sting Swabs

I recently found out you can purchase insect sting swabs . 

This would have been helpful when my friend got stung by a jellyfish during one of our beach trips in North Carolina…or when I was stung by a bee in New Hampshire.

I’m sensitive to the sun, and sunscreen wears off. I always bring a rash guard to prevent burning when I’m in and out of the water. 

Water Shoes

I also bring water shoes if I’m going to a rocky beach. Bruises from pointy stones are painful, and I get unbalanced trying to tiptoe across the rocks.

Portable Speaker

Everyone loves the person who remembers their portable speaker .

Reusable Bags

Pack snacks using reusable bags –after all, we’re trying to keep this beach clean!

Choosing Your Perfect Beach Bag

Okay, we’ve talked about a handful of helpful beach items–but as you probably realize, there are plenty more. Consider how you want to transport them all…

Help yourself out by choosing a big beach bag with lots of space. 

I like carry-all totes that I can drop everything into. This tote , in particular, is perfect. It has a classic striped pattern and outer pockets to keep your sandals.

I recommend backpacks if you’re bringing a beach chair or larger beach items because of the hands-free carrying.

When it comes to keeping your items dry inside that bag, you have a variety of options. 

Sometimes, I use a waterproof phone case that I can take straight into the water for underwater videos. 

But other times, I put my cell phone and important belongings into a dry bag . Then, I take pictures with a waterproof camera like a GoPro .

You know yourself best–maybe you need all of the precautions: a waterproof phone case and a dry bag!

Curious about dry bags? Read our guide to the best dry bags for kayaking and the best waterproof duffel bags .

How Do You Pack for 7 Days at the Beach?

A seven-day beach vacation packing list requires more planning and thought, but it doesn’t have to be daunting.

My beach packing list for a week of fun is more comprehensive than my normal beach packing list. 

Instead of daytime necessities, now we’re talking about changes of clothes and outfits suitable for sunrise beach walks and seaside dinners. 

Planning ahead instead of tossing stuff into a bag on Friday night makes each day that much better. 

Consider what you want your setup to look like–do you prefer beach chairs, or are you okay with sitting on a beach blanket for multiple days? 

When I head somewhere for an extended stay, I take all the beach gear, from items I’ll need on the beach to after-sun products. 

I take everything that is normally in my beach bag, plus larger items like chairs , a snack table , an umbrella , and a cooler .

After all, there’s nothing like napping in comfortable beach chairs under the shade of a beach umbrella. 

If you’re going on an extended beach vacation, it’s a good idea to bring at least one swimsuit cover-up . 

A bathing suit and flip-flops are suitable for the beach itself, but cover-ups and a change of clothes are more appropriate if you’re heading to any other activity or a restaurant for dinner.

I know– clothes take up extra space in your beach bag or carry-on…but wet clothes feel heavy and cold when you’re not on the beach. 

Plus, bringing a cover-up or change of clothes with you means you don’t need to rely on going back to the hotel room to change.

Pre-Trip Double-Check

Before leaving home, I do one last check of the beach essentials. A beach weekend away or seven-day stay is the perfect time to restock. 

If the sunscreen is empty, buy a new one. Same with sting swabs, lip balm, and anything else that runs out. 

Right before a big trip is also the best time to upgrade things like ice chests, beach chairs, and towels . 

Maybe you can even spring for a cute new swimsuit or snorkel for the kids.

How Do I Not Overpack on a Beach Vacation?

As an over-preparer who always wants to have everything on hand, I know how much of a challenge it can be to pack light. 

Ultimately, you will have to weigh what matters most to you. 

Items like sunscreen and water are necessary. Bathing suits, towels, and lightweight clothing are a given as well. 

I try to help myself save space by bringing travel-size creams, shower products, and medicine. 

Items like a beach chair are a bonus, but many of us beach lovers are content with beach blankets.

While I prefer a plush beach towel, sometimes I’ll take a thin microfiber sand-resistant beach towel to save room.

Also, factor in what type of beach you’re going to. 

Sure, a rocky beach is usually sand-free, but you’ll probably need water shoes slim enough to fit in your beach bag or (carry-on if you’re flying there). 

These little things are easy to overlook, so help yourself out by planning ahead of time.

Is There Anything You Should Add to the Packing List for Your Beach Vacation with Family?

My beach packing list for family trips includes the essentials of any day at the beach but supersized. 

After all, you’ll have more hands to help carry things like a beach umbrella or beach cooler.

All-inclusive resorts or a fully stocked vacation rental will provide beach towels.

If it’s easy and you have the space, throw an extra cheap pair of flip-flops or sunglasses in your beach bag. 

I found that on a family beach vacation, someone always loses a shoe or steals their sibling’s pair…

I’d also plan on either one communal wet swimsuit bag or having each person bring their own. No one wants to get stuck carrying a wet swimsuit without a waterproof bag, let alone multiple.

Always keep additional sun protection in mind. 

If you’re heading for the beach with multiple family members, a bottle of sunscreen is going to run out much faster than you may expect (speaking from experience). 

Aaaaand aloe vera. I know from my own family beach trips that some of my family members were convinced they wouldn’t get sunburnt. 

Then, I was always the one handing over the tube of aloe vera when they showed up red later that day…

Depending on the ages of your family members, consider bringing beach toys or an underwater camera. 

No matter what age you are, in-person entertainment is better than scrolling on your cell phone, which could overheat.

And remember, everyone has different interests! 

I’m personally not a huge fan of water sports or searching for marine life, so you probably won’t find me with snorkel gear on. 

You’ll find me on the beach blanket with a book . 

However, I have family members who love playing beach tennis and skidding into the surf with boogie boards–so I make sure to think through everyone’s interests when making a family beach vacation packing list. 

What Should You Put on the Beach Packing List for a Couple?

The key to packing for a couple’s beach trip is turning up the romance and showing your partner that you know what they like.

That being said, if you are going on a couple’s beach vacation, consider bringing specific items related to your relationship. 

Maybe you and your partner enjoy the same type of beverage or share a favorite beach pastime (e.g. volleyball , bocce, reading, portable board game).

Find little ways to feel connected to one another! Share one large beach blanket instead of two individual beach towels. 

Talk through the packing list with your partner ahead of your trip so you can focus on each other once at your romantic beach destinations.

Double-check that you’re both packing appropriate clothes for your activities.

This is especially important if you’re going on a honeymoon or celebrating an anniversary with a nice dinner. 

Some restaurants may have a dress code where sandy flip-flops won’t fly.

You can also surprise them with a new accessory to use on your beach trip, like a hat or cover-up. Or go the homemade route by coordinating a beach picnic. 

If nothing else, set aside time for a long walk up and down the shore. 

What Do You Need on the Beach Packing List for a Toddler?

Your beach trip packing list with a baby or toddler is going to look similar to your family beach vacation packing list 

Here are additional beach essentials for toddlers:

Keep toddlers occupied for hours with a sand castle set . Just make sure there are enough mini shovels for everyone.

No one enjoys hot sand that burns your feet, especially toddlers. To avoid the fuss, ensure they have shoes or water shoes on (if you can get them to keep the shoes on, that is).

Kid’s Sunscreen

The last thing you’ll want is for your toddler to get a sunburn, so make sure to wear sunscreen that’s 50 SPF or higher. 

I suggest sunblock sticks (shaped like lip balm) for easy application if your toddler is fussy.

Get them a kids’ sun hat . Once again, it may or may not be hard to get them to keep it on, but you’ll be grateful to have it.

Rash Guards

Rash guards are an extra level of protection. They also help if you’re heading somewhere with slightly cold water.

First Aid Kit

Because we all know how clumsy toddlers can be, bringing a first aid kit will be a good idea. 

Waterproof Bandaids

Maybe bring waterproof bandaids as well because the standard kits will likely have regular ones inside.  

Spill-Proof Cup

On that clumsy note–make sure to bring a spill-proof cup for your toddler. Fresh water is valuable when far from the nearest beach stand or your accommodation. 

The commotion of a beach day with kids will make it all too easy for an open cup to be knocked over. 

Bring floaties for safety if you plan on playing in the water. Toss them in the bag even if you don’t plan on taking them into the waves. 

Water wing floaties are flat to pack, quick to inflate, and add peace of mind.

Make sure to have snacks for toddlers or kids. You can never go wrong with granola bars and juice boxes. 

Just make sure to have some form of trash container with you for all the snack wrappers.

There you go–all the beach essentials you’ll need for your next beach vacation. Grab your flip-flops and beach towel. It’s time for some sun!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Monroe Dziersk

Monroe Dziersk was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. She was quickly drawn to the Southeastern coast of the United States after she discovered a world outside of Midwest winters. During her time attending Elon University, she studied abroad in Florence, Italy. A switch was flipped, and she quickly fell in love with the European culture and lifestyle.

She has now traveled to more than 20 countries and hopes to continue the tally while testing out new and unique travel gear along the way. You can often find her accompanied by a good book and her calico cat.

Looking for more beach gear? Check out these related articles below! 

Cupshe Swimwear Review

Best Gifts for Beach Lovers

Best Inflatable Loungers

Best Pop-Up Tents

Best Beaches in Orange County

Best Beaches in Santa Cruz

Best Beaches in Malibu

Best Beaches in Laguna Beach

Best Beaches on Catalina Island

Shark Fin Cove

Pin this image for future reference

Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

The Atlas Heart is a California travel website dedicated to showing you the best of the Golden State from a local perspective.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

©2024 The Atlas Heart

38 Beach Essentials: The Ultimate Beach Packing List

Headed off on an exciting beach vacation? Let go of your beach packing list stress by reading this beach packing list before you go. We have listed our top must-have beach essentials and some fun extras if you have the room to pack them. 

Packing ahead of time will ensure you don’t forget items and that you will save money. Most must-have beach items cost more money on location than what you would pay for them at home. 

Don’t sweat the small stuff, and refine your list of beach items so you are prepared for every activity you want to do on your beach vacation. Here is our must-have list of the beach!

Beach Essentials & Ultimate Beach Packing List

Table of Contents

Sun Protection

1. sunscreen .

Skin cancer is a real threat, and any great beach vacation can be ruined by a bad sunburn on your first day. This is why sunscreen is the ultimate in beach essentials.

We recommend packing your favorite sunscreen before leaving the house as you’ll pay high prices for sunscreen once you’re at your beach destination.

We highly recommend bringing sunscreen you are familiar with. There is nothing worse than buying a sunscreen for a trip just to find out you don’t like the scent or feel of it.

Another tip, look for an eco-friendly sunscreen like REN Clean Screen SPF 30 sunscreen , that does not contain harmful chemicals. They are mineral-based and help protect our oceans.

2. UPF Clothing

In addition to bringing sunscreen, you should also pack some lightweight UPF clothing. UPF clothing has built-in sun protection in the fabric.

If you are a person who hates applying sunscreen repeatedly throughout the day then UPF clothing is definitely for you!

Thanks to the rise in skin cancer awareness, there is a variety of stylish UPF clothing available for both men and women. Coolibar makes a great selection of clothing items for men and women .

3. Rash Guard

If you plan on spending a large amount of your beach vacation doing any surfing, snorkeling, or diving, you won’t need a full wetsuit but you should consider adding a rashguard to your beach packing list.

A rashguard not only protects you from skin rashes, but also keeps you warm, and contains UPF which protects from the sun.

For women, I really like O’Neill’s UV Sun Protection Long Sleeve rash guard. It offers UPF 50 sun protection and comes in a variety of colors for everyone’s needs.

For men, Dave likes the Columbia Men’s Terminal Deflector Long Sleeve rash guard. Columbia’s UPF 50 Omni-Shade blocks UVA and UVB rays to help prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage.

When packing for your beach vacation do not forget that you should have something to protect your head, ears, and neck such as a good beach hat.

Buy a hat with at least a 3-inch brim, like the Columbia Unisex Bora Bora II Booney Hat , to provide ear and neck coverage.

Your ears and neck are the most commonly forgotten areas when it comes to applying sunscreen, so save yourself some time and a painful sunburn by bringing a sunhat with. 

5. Umbrella

Just like a beach towel or monkey mat is a must-have, so is an umbrella if your luggage has enough room.

Even when you want to get some sun, it is always nice to have an area of shade to sit under when you need it without having to leave the beach.  This is one of our beach packing list staples.

6. Sunglasses 

Sunglasses are equally as important for your eyes as sunscreen is for your body. There is a wide variety of sunglass brands that provide UV protection in their lenses but our favorite brand is Oakley.

They offer a wide range of men’s and women’s styles with many different designs.

Another great feature to look for in sunglasses is polarized lenses. This helps to cut and reduce glare making your vision in the daylight much more clear.

However, polarization does not provide any extra UV protection so make sure, first and foremost, that your sunglasses have UV protection.

7. Chapstick

Sun protection is a given in regards to your body, but protecting your lips is equally as important. Your lips are very sensitive and it’s a common area to receive a burn.

Make sure to bring some sun-protective lip balm for your lips when you are putting together your beach packing list. There is nothing worse than getting to the beach and not having it!

Beach Essential Clothing

8. bathing suit .

Heading on a beach vacation undoubtedly means you will need to add a swimsuit (or two!) to your beach packing list. We always bring two swimsuits each with us so there is always one dry suit to put on.

Ladies, if you’re planning on being quite active on the beach and in the water you may want to opt for a supportive one-piece swimsuit . 

For men, I would say one to two is a good number of swim shorts to travel to the beach as well.

Look for shorts that are lightweight and built for surfing, so they stretch and move with the body. Also, try to stick with dark colors as they will hold up longer in the sun, sand, and sea. 

9. Sandals 

With all the time you will be spending going in and out of the water, a great pair of sandals is one of the top beach essentials for any warm weather vacation.

If your beach vacation will include some hiking or walking in the water, choose a good waterproof sandal such as the Merrell Women’s Jacardia Sandal and the Teva Men’s Katavi Sandal are great multi-use sandals that we love!

10. Tank Tops

Lightweight breathable tank tops are a great versatile clothing option for men and women traveling to beach destinations. They are great for layering under nicer tops or for wearing by themselves.

Even though they don’t cover a lot of skin, opt for a UPF tank top, like this Coolibar UPF 50+ Women’s Basic Tank or Men’s Dri Fit UPF50+ Tank Top , for a little extra sun protection on your midsection.

11. Shorts  

As with tank tops, shorts are a great beach going item for every traveler. We recommend buying lightweight, breathable, flexible and lightly colored shorts to help keep you cool even on the hottest days.

Another great bonus to lightweight flexible shorts is that if you get them wet they will still be quite comfortable and will dry quickly.

Great beach shorts we love are Women’s Amazon Essentials drawstring linen short and Men’s Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit Short . Both of these shorts are nice enough to wear out to dinner but comfy enough for all-day wear as well.

They have several pockets, are very lightweight and offer multiple color options.

12. Beach Cover-Up

A cover-up is one of those beach vacation clothes you should always have in your luggage. When checking your beach packing list for a day in the sun, make sure you don’t forget one.

Not only can you choose from a variety of cute styles, like the Coolibar UPF 50 Catalina beach cover-up , but many establishments don’t allow beachgoers to wear just a swimsuit, so this is where the cover-up is essential.

13. Comfy Pants

Comfy pants are a great clothing addition for late afternoon and evenings when the sun goes down and the weather starts to cool. We both like linen pants since they are lightweight and very comfortable.

Some great choices for linen pants are Roxy Women’s Oceanside Pant and Men’s Casual Linen Beach Trousers . These two options are very comfortable, come in many colors, and are a great price!

14. Warm Top

Packing a warm top is solely dependent on what the weather will be like at night at your beach destination.

For those heading to the beach in colder climates or coastlines like the East or West, you may want to pack something a little warmer for those cooler nights. 

We both really love fleece pullovers for those breezy beach nights and always pack these two by Eddie Bauer: Women’s Brushed Fleece Hooded Pullover and Men’s Cloud Layer Pro 1/4 Zip Pullover .

Electronics

15. a good book or e-reader.

No beach vacation is complete without a good book to dive into. Whether you are an e-reader person or still love the feel of a real book, be sure to pack/download your favorite books for your vacation.

There are several e-readers available now, but a favorite of ours is the Kindle Paperwhite , simply because the battery life is 8 weeks and the newest version is waterproof.

A GoPro is one of the best cameras for the beach and the activities you will likely be doing while there. The new GoPro Hero 8 is waterproof down to 30 ft. Needless to say this comes is one of your beach essentials.

Looking for some great accessories? Before you go, read this The Best GoPro Accessories for Adventure Travelers . Our top purchase recommendations are a shorty grip and a dome port !

Read more How to Decide Which GoPro to Buy

17. Power Bank

Worried about your phone running out of battery while you are out exploring? Don’t leave home without packing a rechargeable power bank.

Purchase one with at least 10,000 mAh to ensure you can get a full charge or two throughout the day if needed.

If you know you will be spending your days on the beach in full sun, you can also purchase a solar power bank , which will use the sun’s rays to keep the power bank charged for when you need it.

18. Portable Waterproof Speaker

This all depends on what the atmosphere will be like on the beach, of course, but a portable Bluetooth speaker is great to have when you’re in a group.

Traveling with a small speaker is convenient and it takes up very little space. Just think twice about what your beach situation will be before packing it, nobody likes loud music blaring on a quiet serene beach.

19. Headphones

One of my favorite things to do on the beach is to plug into my favorite playlist and relax while lying on the beach.

Of course, headphones are an essential part of this plan and therefore you should make sure you have a great comfy pair you won’t mind wearing in the hot sun during the day. 

Beach Packing List Necessities

20. goggles, snorkel & fins.

If you’re into snorkeling, then pick up some fins, a mask, and snorkel , so you don’t get stuck paying to rent them once you arrive. 

We both like Aqualung masks and which can be used for snorkeling and diving. Alternatively, if you’re staying at a resort or hotel while on your beach vacation, check to see if they offer equipment rental for free.

21. Beach Towel or Monkey Mat

One of the most important beach essentials you can put on your list is a towel. Everyone needs a good beach towel to dry off after a swim or lay down in the sand.

Monkey mats are specifically made for outdoor activities and have four weighted corners to keep the mat down and in place on the sand while in use. They come in multiple sizes and colors for everyone’s needs.

22. Water Bottle

Traveling to the beach with fresh water in hand is important as it is easy to get dehydrated in the sun on the beach.

We like to use insulated stainless steel water bottles at the beach because they are well insulated and great for the environment. A favorite water bottle of ours is the Camelbak Chute .

Read more 9 Best Travel Water Bottles for Any Traveler

23. Dry Bag

We always travel with a dry bag whether or no matter where we are traveling.

They pack up easily and are lightweight so there really is no reason not to have one. They are great for protecting your belongings from the water and sand.

If you like to bring camera gear on vacation, this is one of those beach essentials that you won’t be able to live without.

Read more Best Dry Bag For your Next Adventure

24. Beach Blanket

Another great option is to pack a beach blanket. A great multi-use blanket is the Wellax Sand Free Beach Blanket .

At 9’ x 10’ your whole family or friends can take advantage and chill on this amazingly soft and HUGE blanket!

The best part: it collapses to 4” x 8”. The integrated storage sack makes it so EASY to store and carry around!

25. Beach Hammock

Travel hammocks are an awesome addition to your packing list for a beach vacation. They offer the perfect way to relax in the shade under two palm trees. We love this ENO portable Hammock for two .

This design is versatile, durable, and compact, making it perfect for camping, hiking, or lounging around with a friend.

Weighing in at only 19 ounces, this hammock stuffs easily into the attached storage bag taking up very little room in your luggage.

26. Insulated Tote

For any day trip to the beach, you’re going to want some cold drinks. After we throw our bathing suits on it’s the first thing we pack up.

Traditional coolers are heavy and a pain on the beach so we use a portable travel cooler .

Not only does it make the list of beach essentials, but if you like spending time in the outdoors it can be reused on other trips.

A portable cooler is an especially great investment if you like to go camping, canoeing, or just lounging at the park. Make sure to buy one that is durable, waterproof, and comfortable to carry. 

27. Reusable Plastic Bags

It may seem like an obscure item, but reusable plastic bags come in handy on the beach. If you are changing at the beach they make for great storage of a wet swimsuit.

They are also a cheap way to protect items you don’t want getting full of sand and water.

Note: Please make sure you pack out what you pack in, reuse your plastic bags for feature adventures.

Beach Items for Family Vacation

28. beach tent.

Beach tents are great for those that want to enjoy the beach, yet stay out of the sun at the same time! It’s also very important to protect young children and babies from sun damage.

The added layer of protection from the wind and sand is also nice on those windy days. Plus if you need to change your kid’s clothes at the beach it provides an added layer of privacy.

29. Sun Protective Bathing Suits

I swear by rash guards because they protect backs and shoulders—prime real estate for sunburns—without having to reapply sunscreen all day, which is a definite plus when you are worried about little ones.

Swim shorts help, too, for boys of course, and for girls as long as they’ll wear them. UVSkinz is a great kids brand because they have built-in UV protection and offer several different styles of boys and girls suits.

Tuga swimwear is also great for the tiny travelers since they offer an abundance of colorful prints to choose from. Sure to please any kiddo your buying for.

Packing snacks is a smart thing to do for any beach vacation. Snacks and meals can be quite expensive, especially when located right on the water. Bring non-perishable type items for easy storage in your day bag. 

31. First Aid Kit

When traveling with littles it is always a good idea to bring a small first aid kit . Just pack the essentials for minor cuts and scrapes and a basic medicine kit in case they get sick while you’re on vacation.

But who’s kidding who here? Even if you’re not traveling with kids, a first aid kit is one of those beach essentials you should pack regardless.

32. Beach Toys

If you’re heading to the beach with some little ones then bringing along a few beach toys and beach balls never hurt. You can never go wrong with a set to build some sandcastles.

Sometimes it’s worth considering if you want pails and shovels that are cheap enough to leave behind when vacation is over. But some sand toys, the ones that nest for easy packing or a few toys in one, are worth hanging on to.

A great option is Eduplay nesting soft buckets. Pair them with the Triplet digging tool and you’re set, with plenty of room in your tote for a book, snacks, and water.

33. Floaties

Floaties are great items for ensuring some safety and entertainment for your littles while playing the water. There are several different kinds depending on the age and weight of your child. 

This is a really great floatie/swim trainer for any young kids that need some extra support. It wraps around the waist and has attached arm floaties.

34. Games (Deck of Cards)

Depending on the age of your children, it may be a great idea to have some games to play during the downtime when they need a little entertaining.

I have been on countless trips and never leave without my UNO cards . They make my beach essentials packing list every single time.

35. Disposable Wipes

Always a great item to have on you for a beach trip. Odds are you will be eating some snacks while out on the beach and this way you can wipe your hands down before eating.

Another plus to packing disposable wipes they can double as toilet paper if those beach toilets run out.

36. Baby Powder

Baby powder is a beach essential because it’s brilliant for getting sand out of all those areas where kids inevitably get sand.

A great refillable baby powder-like Powder Pouch , lets you de-sand hands before lunch and de-sand feet at the end of the day, without baby powder going all over.

The best part, it’s small enough that you don’t mind one more thing in your tote bag.

37. Tote Bag

The kind of your beach essentials list is the beach bag. Besides, you’re going to need somewhere to put all this stuff you’re bringing!

The ideal beach bag is mesh so that you’re more likely to leave water and sand behind. Make sure it’s sturdy, roomy, has lots of handy pockets, and folds up nicely in your suitcase.

38. Family Size Beach blanket 

A great child-friendly beach blanket is a necessity for any family vacation. This JJ Cole outdoor blanket takes up a little bit of room in the suitcase, but it’s water-resistant, easy to clean and folds up pretty compactly (for a blanket). Plus, the fun patterns will keep non-walkers entertained.

We hope you have found everything you were looking for and maybe even some new ideas to help make your beach vacation stress free and fun!

More on Tropical Travel:

• Ultimate Cruise Packing List (Cruise Essentials for Any Destination!)
• 16 Exotic Islands That Are Worth Adding to Your Bucket List
• 20 Best Beaches in Maui: Ultimate Maui Beach Guide
• 7 Exotic Places to Travel Without a Passport
• 13 Stunning Cheap Islands to Visit
• Ultimate Trip to Maldives Planning Tips
• 16 Bucket List Things to do in Fiji
• Epic Miami to Key West Road Trip Guide

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

The Epicurean Traveler

Inspiring Cultural Exploration Through Culinary Travel

30 Beach Bag Essentials: What to Pack in Your Beach Bag

Calling all sunbathing beauties, sand castle builders, and brave souls who actually enter the water! If you are heading to the beach, ensure you’ve packed these beach bag essentials.

Disclosure:  This beach bag essentials packing list contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you click a link and purchase an item. 

Packing for Beach Trips

As a Michigander, I’ve been going on beach vacations in Great Lakes destinations since early childhood.

I’ve also walked along a black-sand beach in Santorini , paddled a kayak from a beach in Maui, relaxed in a hammock on a beach in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, and watched the sunset from a beach in Naples, Florida .

Drawing upon those and more beachgoing experiences over the years, I’ve compiled the ultimate beach bag packing list for you!

Don’t have time to read my full beach bag packing guide? Check out some of my recommended beach essentials on Amazon!

My Favorite Beach Totes

First, before we discuss what to pack in your beach bag, you should consider what kind of beach tote will best suit your beach-going needs.

The type and size of the beach bag you choose may depend on various factors, such as:

• Are you packing this tote for yourself or multiple people?
• Is your beach tote accompanying you on a beach vacation? If so, what kind of beach services are included in your accommodations?
• Are you driving or flying to your beach destination?

With those considerations in mind, the following are my suggestions for the best beach bags.

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

If you are looking for a beach bag that can double as a travel bag, grocery bag, and everyday carry-all, the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote is it.

The Maine-based outdoor apparel retailer introduced this iconic tote as an ice carrier in the 1940s, and these timeless beach totes are still handcrafted from heavyweight canvas, making them durable bags for beach vacations and road trips.

Particularly convenient for beachgoers, L.L. Bean’s signature tote comes in multiple sizes with an open or zip top, which helps keep pesky sand out of your bag. You can also choose from two handle lengths and multiple colors for the trim, and you can have your tote monogrammed with your name or initials.

The large Boat and Tote Zip-Top should fit the beach essentials of two beachgoers, and L.L. Bean also makes an extra large Boat and Tote if you need more space for your family’s must-have items for the beach.

Most importantly, these well-made bags are built to last; my mom still has L.L. Bean totes we used on family road trips when I was a child 30+ years ago!

Lands’ End Canvas Tote

I love my Lands’ End tote bags for beach vacations, pool days, and road trips. Like its L.L.Bean counterpart, the Lands’ End Canvas Tote also comes in varying sizes and colors, as well as open-top and zip-top varieties.

I’ve used my open-top medium tote with long handles during beach vacations in Mexico, Florida, and Costa Rica. It has five convenient pockets, which hold all of my essential beach day items, and is monogrammed with my initials. I also have a large open-top tote with long handles , which I use when packing for both myself and my husband.

Lands’ End Packable Beach Tote

The Lands’ End Packable Beach Tote is a lightweight alternative to pack for a beach vacation, especially when you are flying to your destination.

It is particularly convenient when your suitcase has limited space because it folds into an interior pocket for compact storage.

Made from laminated polyethylene, it will keep your beach essentials dry, and interior mesh pockets can hold water bottles and sunscreen.

Sea Bags Tote

What I love most about Sea Bags beach totes is that each bag is handcrafted in Portland, Maine, from boat sails.

When you carry one of these sustainable beach totes, each with a unique, nautically-inspired design, you’ll fit right in with the preppy style of the East Coast and Great Lakes beach towns!

Sun Protection Essentials

Now that you’ve picked out the perfect beach tote, we’ll look at the most critical items to pack in your beach bag — sun protection essentials!

The following must-have beach day items will help to protect your skin and eyes against sunburn, skin and eye cancers, vision loss, and sun damage.

Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

When choosing the best sunscreen for the beach, look for a “broad spectrum” and water-resistant sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.

Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect your skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays, and water-resistant sunscreens ensure your skin is still protected in the water.

You should also check the local guidelines for the beach destination you’ll be visiting. In Hawaii, sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate have been banned. So, if you are packing for a beach vacation in Hawaii, you should pack reef-safe sunscreen .

Going to the beach with kids? Sun Bum’s Baby Bum mineral sunscreen is a highly rated reef-safe sunscreen for babies and children. With broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection and water resistance for up to 80 minutes, this sunscreen is essential for your family’s beach bag.

Travel Health Tip: Remember to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Wearing a rash guard or swim shirt is one of the most effective ways to protect your skin at the beach, making it an essential item for your beach bag.

A rash guard is especially important to wear or bring if you plan to surf, kayak, water ski, or participate in another water sport during your beach day.

When selecting your rash guard, you should check the Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). The Skin Cancer Foundation considers a UPF of 50 or higher “excellent,” reducing exposure to the sun’s radiation to 2% or less, while a UPF of 30 – 49 offers “good protection.”

Lands’ End rash guards offer UPF 50 sun protection for women , men , girls , and boys .

Lip Balm with SPF

Like sunscreen for your skin, you should pack a broad-spectrum lip balm with SPF 30 or higher, such as Sun Bum Broad Spectrum SPF 30 lip balm with aloe and Vitamin E.

Another option is Panama Jack sunscreen lip balm , which has 45 SPF and comes in a pack with four tropical flavors.

Sunshine and salt water can also dry out lips. To moisturize and hydrate your lips, look for beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil in the ingredients.

Also, if you prefer a pop of color, you can opt for a tinted lip balm with SPF. The MDSolarSciences tinted lip balm with SPF 30 has a vegan, gluten-free formula that hydrates lips with shea butter and avocado oil. It comes in a few color options and multicolor packs.

So far, we’ve discussed essentials for protecting your skin and lips. But did you know that 90% of skin cancers are basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas that often occur on the face and neck?

That is why the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends wearing a tightly woven hat with a wide brim of at least three inches to protect your face, neck, and scalp.

THE NORTH FACE Horizon Breeze Brimmer — with its wide brim, adjustable chin strap, sweat-wicking band, and UPF 40+ — certainly fits the bill and has earned the foundation’s Seal of Recommendation . It comes in various colors and can also be worn during other outdoor activities, such as hiking and boating.

If you want a hat more suited to a tropical beach vacation style, you might like the fedoras and other wide-brimmed sun hats from Wallaroo Hat Company’s Carkella UPF Collection. Every hat in the women’s and men’s collections is UPF 50+.

Scalp & Hair Sunscreen Spray

No more burned parts, ladies! In addition to wearing a hat at the beach, you can protect your scalp with Coola Organic Scalp & Hair Mist Sunscreen .

This vegan sunscreen with 30 SPF is safe for color-treated hair. It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for beach days. Just remember to spray it on 15 minutes before sun exposure!

Are you wondering what makes a good pair of sunglasses ? When picking out sunglasses for the beach, ensure they have 100% UV protection and polarized lenses that reduce glare from sunshine off the water.

Due to their UVA, UVB, and HEV (comprehensive solar blue light) protection, I recommend Maui Jim’s Red Sands sunglasses for beachgoers. These stylish sunglasses are durable and lightweight with a rectangular frame and polarized lenses that reduce 99.9% of glare.

Of course, the Ray-Ban Wayfarer and Aviator sunglasses are always classic choices for fashionable, well-made sunglasses, and both iconic styles have models with polarized lenses, too.

If you are worried about losing or damaging your sunglasses at the beach, you might not want to invest hundreds of dollars in a pair of designer shades. That doesn’t mean you should sacrifice your eye health or strain to see without polarized lenses though!

For example, these Suncloud sunglasses have polarized lenses and look similar to the Maui Jim Red Sands and Ray-Ban Wayfarer at a more budget-friendly price.

Best Swimsuits for the Beach

Naturally, a swimsuit is one of the most essential clothing items to pack for beach days, and you should feel comfortable and confident wearing it.

Most importantly, you should make sure your swimwear fits properly and is a style you like on your body.

Women’s Swimwear

Investing in two-piece separates that can be mixed and matched will give you more swimwear options when going on a beach vacation.

So, I recommend shopping the Patagonia , Lands’ End , or Andie swimwear collections to create mix-and-match pairings.

Lands’ End offers a variety of sizes, including petite, tall, and plus-size up to US 24W. For sizes up to US size 34, check out Swimsuits for All . It’s where I found this tropical-print high-waisted bikini for my Maui honeymoon!

Here are a few styles to consider:

• Patagonia: Nanogrip Bikini Bottoms + Focal Point Bikini Top + Swell Seeker Cropped Rashguard
• Andie:  The High Waisted Bottom + The Valencia Top
• Lands’ End:  Gingham Tugless High Waisted Bottom   + Gingham Square Halter Neck Bikini Top

Men’s Swimwear

These days, it’s not just women who have a variety of swimwear styles!

Men’s swimwear styles include skimpy and stylish swimming briefs , classic swim trunks perfect for leisurely beach days, and  board shorts best suited for surfing and water sports.

• Dandy Del Mar The Cassis Square Cut Swim Brief (Made from recycled material)
• Faherty Beacon Trunk (Eco-friendly)
• Southern Tide Solid Swim Trunk (UV protection, made from recycled material)
• Fair Harbor The Nautilus Boardshorts (8″ inseam, made from 11 recycled plastic bottles)
• Patagonia Wavefarer Boardshorts (Regular fit, 19″ outseam, made from recycled material)

Kids’ Swimsuits

For children’s swimwear with UPF 50 sun protection, check out swimsuits from Andy & Evan , Lands’ End , and SwimZip .

• Baby/Toddler:  SwimZip Long Sleeve Romper Suit
• Boys: Lands’ End Swim Trunks
• Girls:  Lands’ End Swimsuit Set

Must-Have Beach Day Apparel

Beyond the swimsuits and sun-protection apparel I’ve already mentioned, here are a few more clothing and footwear items you should wear to the beach or pack in your beach tote.

Swimsuit Cover-Up

A rash guard or swim tee can often double as a swimsuit cover-up. However, you may want or need a cover-up that offers more modesty — or looks less like swimwear. For those cases, I prefer swimsuit cover-ups that look like dresses, such as this cotton jersey hooded cover-up dress .

These classic rubber-soled sandals with a thong strap are essential beach footwear that can easily be kicked off in the sand. Reef’s women’s Cushion Breeze Sandal and men’s Phantoms Flip-Flop are stylish options known for their durability, comfort, and arch support.

Water Shoes

Water shoes protect your feet from hot sand, jagged rocks, and sharp shells while walking along the beach or exploring tide pools. Lands’ End makes slip-on water shoes for women , men , kids , and toddlers .

Beach Picnic Essentials

If you are staying at a beachfront hotel or resort that delivers food and drinks to your lounge chair, you may not need to pack all of these beach picnic items. However, these items are quite useful for DIY beach days and vacations!

Water Bottle

Packing a water bottle is essential for staying hydrated during a beach day in the sunshine! Like those from S’well  and Stanley , reusable stainless steel water bottles keep your water cold all day.

Beach Cup Holders

Beach cup holders keep your water bottle, drinks, and snacks sand-free. They also hold phones, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Plus, the bottle opener on the cup’s bottom is a handy feature!

Foldable Beach Blanket

You’ll need somewhere to sit and eat to picnic on the beach. This durable, water-resistant beach blanket conveniently folds up, has a handle, and even has a zippered pouch where you can stash your phone or car keys.

Travel Utensil Set

A full picnic set is a great option for road trips to the beach as a couple, family, or group, but a travel utensil set is a compact option for individuals and when flying to a beach destination. Also, using a travel utensil set reduces plastic waste from your beach picnic.

Snacks in Reusable Food Storage Bags

Snacks and a beach day go hand-in-hand, and packing your fruit and veggie slices, trail mix, or potato chips in reusable food storage bags will reduce your waste at the beach.

Tech Essentials for the Beach

Pack these gadgets in your beach bag if you want to capture memories in photos and videos, listen to music, or read books you’ve downloaded at the beach.

Mobile Phone with Data Plan

Even if you want to “unplug” from your devices at the beach, at least one person in your group should bring their fully charged mobile phone in case of an emergency.

Since Wi-Fi is unlikely to be found at the beach, having an eSIM or international data plan through your wireless provider is advisable when traveling to beach destinations abroad.

With a digital SIM card, your phone can be connected to a local network, helping you avoid high roaming fees while using your phone’s apps — even in some of the world’s remote beach destinations.

Waterproof Phone Pouch

Speaking of your phone, you’ll want to keep it protected. A waterproof phone pouch protects your phone from water and sand at the beach, so you can take it along as you swim, snorkel, or kayak.

A beach day can drain your phone’s battery. You’ll likely use your phone to take photos, post to social media, text family and friends, and/or listen to music throughout the day, so packing a portable phone charger is essential.

Packing Tip: Remember to charge your power bank before your beach day and pack the necessary compatibility cords to charge your devices at the beach!

Amazon Kindle Paperweight

If you are like me, you love reading a light-hearted book at the beach. With the Amazon Kindle Paperweight , you don’t have to worry about dripping water on the pages. This lightweight e-reader is fully beach-ready with a waterproof design, a glare-free screen, and library space to download all your favorite beach reads!

Action Camera

If you want to snorkel and capture cinematic-like video and stunning underwater photos, the GoPro HERO12 is the camera for you. It is waterproof up to 33 feet, and you can add The Handler , a floating hand grip.

Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

When you want to play music at the beach, a portable Bluetooth speaker offers better-quality sound than your phone. With a waterproof design and the ability to float, the Bose SoundLink Flex is made for beach days. Also, you can pack it (and its charging cord) in this convenient travel case !

Hair, Body & Beauty Beach Essentials

The sunshine, salt water, sea breeze, heat, and humidity affect our hair, skin, and body. So, add these must-have hair, body, and beauty essentials to your beach bag!

Hair Clips & Hair Ties

It can be hot, humid, and/or breezy at the beach, so you may want to put your hair up with a hair tie or hair clip . These adjustable scrunchies and snap hair ties from Black-owned SwirlyCurly are well-rated for various hair types, including thick, curly, natural hair.

Amika Supernova Moisture and Shine Cream

If you have naturally curly or coily hair, you can prevent sun and saltwater damage by pre-treating your hair with Amika Supernova Moisture and Shine Cream . Then, pack it in your beach bag to reapply throughout the day to keep moisture locked into your hair.

Applying hair oil protects your hair from the sun and salt water. It also works as a detangler and can add softness and shine.

Waterproof Mascara

I prefer to wear minimal makeup at the beach, but I can’t go anywhere without my go-to mascara , which conveniently comes in a waterproof version and compact travel size.

Aloe Vera Gel or After Sun Lotion

As someone with fair skin, an aloe vera gel or an after-sun lotion is essential to have in my beach bag. SunBurnt After-Sun Gel hydrates and cools sunburned skin and helps reduce peeling and redness.

Other Beach Bag Essentials

Lastly, here are some other items to add to your beach packing checklist!

A wet bag is essential if you plan to change out of your wet swimsuit before leaving the beach. Wet bags are lined with water-resistant fabric, so your damp swimsuit won’t get other items in your beach bag wet. Also, pack a wet bag in your suitcase for beach vacations in case your swimwear is still damp when you pack to fly home.

Portable Air Pump

You can inflate and deflate inflatable floaties, kayaks, and beach toys with a portable air pump when you are at the beach. I used this water-resistant, rechargeable travel-size air pump to inflate our pineapple pool floats in Hawaii.

Water-Resistant Card Games

Do you or your kids get bored at the beach? Then pack a deck of water-resistant playing cards or UNO Splash to keep everyone entertained! These card games are designed to endure splashes and spills, so you don’t have to worry about water damage.

Fast-Drying Beach Towel

Last but certainly not least important is a lightweight beach towel. A Turkish towel or microfiber towel will occupy less space in your beach bag than a plush beach towel. Also, these towels dry much faster than plush towels, and shaking sand from them is generally easier. Sounds like a win-win, right?

Whether you are vacationing in a beachfront destination or just spending a day at the beach, this beach bag packing list will help you be fully prepared for the sun, sand, and water. You can also shop here for many of these must-have beach items!

Read More About Beach Vacation Destinations

• Oahu Road Trip Guide: 7 Places You Shouldn’t Miss
• Grand Beach Hotel Surfside Review: Beachfront Luxury for Families & Couples Near Miami
• Island House Hotel Orange Beach Review: Where to Stay Along Alabama’s Gulf Coast
• Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica Review: All-Inclusive Luxury Along Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast
• Playa del Carmen, Mexico: Vacation Guide for First-Time Visitors
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Weekend Getaway Guide
• Fun Things to Do in Saugatuck, Michigan
• Where to Eat in Saugatuck, Michigan
• Lake Michigan Caves Kayak Tour in Door County, Wisconsin
• Where to Eat Like a Local in Door County
• Five Things to Do in Nantucket for First-Time Visitors
• Maldives Foods Guide: Seven Must-Try Traditional Maldivian Dishes
• Paros, Greece Travel Guide: Visit Beaches and Fishing Villages in the Cyclades Islands

Save the image below to your beach vacation or packing lists Pinterest board!

Photo credits:

• Lounge chair and beach bag essentials on a white sand beach, © boophotography /AdobeStock

About Erin Klema

Erin Klema is the founder and editor of The Epicurean Traveler, combining her journalism background with her passion for culinary travel. When she isn't exploring the world through unique, local culinary experiences, she enjoys cooking with her husband, planning her next trip, and reading or watching a good rom com.

Reader Interactions

June 28, 2017 at 3:30 pm

This is the most detailed and helpful list I have read in a while! Excellent job!

June 25, 2017 at 5:54 am

Love the infographic! It’s perfect for those of us who forget the essentials. And I always leave my book home too.

June 24, 2017 at 10:57 pm

Great list! I’m currently on a conference trip with a blogger from Michigan and we have been talking about those Michigan beaches all day! Fun!

June 23, 2017 at 12:44 pm

A waterproof phone case is so smart! I’m always trying to take beach pictures just praying I don’t drop my phone in the ocean!

June 22, 2017 at 7:17 am

Thanks for the list it’s so easy to forget important essential items.

June 22, 2017 at 6:14 am

This is a handy list! I’m absolutely lost without sunglasses, I even wear them on overcast winter days haha.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of new posts by email.

Privacy Overview

• 243 Pinterest
• More Networks

60 Beach Essentials: The Ultimate Beach Day Packing List

Sharing is caring!

There’s almost nothing better than a day at the beach! Whether you’re going on a beach vacation, road trip or even planning a beach day as a cruise shore excursion , you’ll want to be prepared with the “essentials”.

Beyond “sunscreen”, this beach day packing list includes the essentials (so you don’t forget anything), but also some truly amazing beach accessories that will make the day even better!

You’ll find everything you might need for kids and families, ladies and our personal items, and tech items that we all use so much!

The items below are all available on Amazon, and I’ve included links where you can see details including reviews and pricing.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List

Beach Day Essentials

These are the must-pack items you definitely need to pack for a day at the beach. You may even want to keep these items stored, prepacked and ready to go if you have a few beach days planned.

1. Sunscreen

2. Lip balm with SPF

3. Bug Spray/Mosquito Repellent

4. Microfiber Beach towels (quick dry and absorbent)

6. Large beach bag

You have a few choices for beach bags, however you’ll want it to be large enough to carry towels and all your beach day necessities. You may want to choose a mesh tote (great if you have kids) or a good quality water resistant beach bag with a zipper.

These are 2 of my favorites:

Recommended : Large mesh tote beach bag (see Amazon reviews and details here)

Recommended: Extra large nautical stripe beach bag (Amazon link) – I have this one and use it as a carry on bag as well for my cruises

7. Cleansing wipes or baby wipes

8. Hand sanitizer

9. After sun care with aloe vera (see reviews)

10. Snacks and/or lunch

11. Ziplock bags

12. Flip flops

Recommended: Lightweight and comfortable Crocs Flip Flops (in different colors)

Beach Accessories and Handy Items

12. Backpack

If you may be walking a lot on your beach day, or even hiking or going along a trail to the beach, a lightweight backpack is a great beach essential.

Recommended: Lightweight backpack (see almost 2000 amazing reviews on Amazon)

13. Refillable Water bottles 

These collapsible water bottles are so handy, as they fold up into nothing and can be stored easily in your back pack or beach bag .

Recommended: Collapsible water bottles (leak proof and space saving)

14. Waterproof phone case

This handy item is amazing and can literally be used for years at the beach or pool when at a resort or on a cruise.

16. Towel clips

Towel clips are awesome especially when there’s a breeze. Plus, they are super cute and you’ll always feel like you’re on vacation!

Recommended: Towel clips (see variety on Amazon)

17. Towel bandits

If you’d like to save space, but still keep towels in place, these towel bandits are practical and cute.

18. Waterproof Dry Bag

Recommended: Wet Dry Bag (see detailed reviews and price)

19. Water shoes

20. Large Sand-free beach blanket

My pet peeve is a sandy towel, but this beach blanket which actually repels sand is amazing!

21. Misting fan

This is especially helpful if you’re walking to the beach or even heading to the beach on a cruise excursion on super hot days!

22. Mini travel first aid kit

You can buy a ready made first aid kit or make your own, with the most important items you may need for your beach day.

Recommended: Ready made mini first aid kit (check included items)

23. Beach umbrella

If you can, bring a good size beach umbrella or beach tent to provide some shade from the sun and shelter.

Recommended: Beach umbrella canopy (see why this is a top Amazon choice)

25. Foldable beach chairs

Nothing says relaxing beach day like a low folding sand chair. If you’re heading to the beach on a road trip, make sure to bring a couple of these.

Beach Day Packing for Kids and Families

If you’re bring the kids or teens to the beach, you’ll want to have a few fun things to occupy them. However, we can’t forget about beach safety items and things to keep everyone comfy on hot beach days.

26. Mesh Sand Toy Bag

This big mesh sand toy bag is the best ever! Take a look and see (it’s mesh, right?). You can actually run the entire bag through the shower at the beach and get all the sand, then just hang to dry. It’s the simplest and easiest (and not expensive at all).

Recommended: Mesh sand toy bag (check reviews & price on Amazon)

27. Collapsible sand buckets

When we head to the beach, space is always tight! So these space-saving sand pails are amazing. Plus, they’re so sturdy, that they can be used again and again for beach vacations and cruises.

Recommended: Collapsible sand toys

28. Inflatable beach balls

29. Swim life jacket or floating device

This swim life jacket comes highly recommended with over 1500 5 star reviews on Amazon. Please check for sizing and the best floating device for your child’s needs.

30. Swim goggles

Recommended: Quality swim goggles (see choice of colors and sizes)

31. Beach shirt/ Rash guard swim suit

Recommended: Rash guard 1 piece swim suit (awesome choices for girls and boys)

32. Beach tent

Recommended: Beach tent (large family size)

33. Children’s beach chairs

Folding beach chairs are great to keep in the car or mini van, ready for beach days and soccer games. I love this one with a canopy, for those times when it’s hard to find shade.

Recommended: Children’s beach chairs (see reviews and features on Amazon)

34. Beach stroller (with big wheels for sand)

Perfect for walks to the park in the sand and for jogging, this stroller gets amazing reviews by Moms who love it!

Recommended:  Beach stroller for jogging and sand (see Amazon reviews)

35. Utility Wagon for beach and sports

A carry all for everything for a beach day, this foldable utility wagon is awesome and priced right!

Recommended: Sturdy collapsible folding utility wagon (see over 2000 reviews)

36. Kid’s snacks

Bring your favorites – cut up fruit, snack packs, juice boxes

37. Baby wipes

Even if you don’t have babies anymore, aren’t baby wipes just the best and most practical thing ever for beach days, road trips and any other outings?

Beach Toys and Games for all Ages

38. Beach paddle ball games

Recommended: Beach paddle game (see great reviews on Amazon)

39. Beach sports balls

Recommended:  Outdoor ball with easy grip

40. Inflatable toys

Inflatables to float at the beach, lake or pool are always fun!

Recommended: Inflatable toy for beach or pool

41. Boogie board for beach

Recommended: Boogie board (with tether)

Snorkeling Gear

If you plan to snorkel a little during your beach day, you may as well buy your own snorkel gear, rather than rent. Many people save these and bring them along during cruise holidays and Caribbean vacations, and they can be used for years.

41. Snorkel Mask (full face)

This anti-fog full and anti-leak full face snorkel mask is so comfortable that it makes snorkeling so much more enjoyable than older, traditional masks.

This one is available for children and adults, and is foldable so it can easily be stored and packed for beach vacations and cruises.

Recommended : Full face snorkel masks (see Amazon choices and reviews)

42. Reef safe sunscreen

A must for snorkelers is a reef safe sunscreen, which is important to protect the coral, but also the rule in many destinations.

Recommended:  Reef safe sunscreen SPF 30 (see 1500+ amazon reviews)

Beach Day Gadgets and Tech Items

These are some favorite tech items that are great for beach days and vacations.

We love our Go-Pro, which we bought before our last Caribbean cruise. 

Shameless plug 😉 – if you’d like to check out those videos (Southern Caribbean islands on Crown Princess), please check out my YouTube Channel at Life Well Cruised.

Recommended: Go pro Hero 8 (see awesome reviews on Amazon here)

44. Portable waterproof  speaker

This Bluetooth speaker is waterproof, small and portable, and inexpensive. Plus, it gets great reviews!

Recommended: Bluetooth waterproof speaker

45. Apple Airpods with charging case

I’m actually in love with my airpods and finally use ear buds because of them. Of course, they are handy for every time of the day, and not just at the beach!

Recommended:  Apple airbods (on Amazon)

Bring a book or kindle to read on the beach, while listening to those peaceful beach waves.

Recommended: Kindle with built in front light

47. Binoculars

Portable and light binoculars are amazing for watching marine life on the beach or even on a cruise ship. Make sure to keep with your vacation packing gear, so you have them for your next holiday.

Recommended:  Easy viewing binoculars (see details here on Amazon)

48. Underwater camera

This 4K underwater camera is amazing for the price. While not necessary if you have a Go-Pro, if you want a less expensive, but still great underwater camera, this one is highly recommended.

Recommended:  4K Underwater camera (see reviews, price and details on Amazon here)

49. Cell phone fan

This happens to me all the time – my cell phone gets too hot! These mini cell phone fans are super helpful.

Recommended: Portable mini fans for cell phones

50. Cell phone portable charger/power bank

Cell phone batteries don’t last as long as they used to, so a portable charger or power bank is a must. This is especially true while on vacation when we tend to take lots of photos and videos.

Recommended: portable cell phone charger (see my Amazon recommedation here)

Beach Day Personal Items (for women)

Here are a few personal items to make sure you pack to have the most comfortable and best day at beach.

51. Beach tote bag for women

A practical tip for choosing a tote bag for the beach – make sure that it has a top zipper and is large enough to toss in some sun lotion, electronics and a book. Personally, I like a cute one that can double as a purse with a casual sundress in the evening on a beach vacation.

Recommended: Beach tote bag with top zipper (check Amazon price and reviews)

52. Polarized sunglasses

Obviously, you’ll want to bring sunglasses with you to the beach. I just had to share my favorite sunglasses, that I bought last summer before heading on a Bermuda cruise.

They are the perfect color of lens, where everything looks like it glows just a bit. I don’t like dark or green lens as it makes me feel like the sun went away – true story lol. They’re also a universally great shape, the flattering aviator style.

Recommended: Ralph Lauren Aviator Sunglasses (Amazon link)

53. Sunscreen with bronzer

While you can certainly use the family sunscreen, if you want a natural golden glow from day 1 of your beach or cruise vacation, I highly recommend this sunscreen spray with bronzer.

It’s available with an SPF 30 or 15, and actually moisturizes your skin and leaves it looking and feeling beautiful.

Recommended: Sunscreen with bronzer (see variety on Amazon)

54. Anti-Chafing cream rash guard

Rash guard is handy for everyone in the family, including Hubby. Let’s face it – you’re probably shopping for the your beach vacation must-haves 😉

Recommended: Anti-chafing rash guard

Make sure to pack sunhats or baseball caps for everyone in the family. However, there’s nothing more flattering (and useful) for women that a wide brim straw hat. 

This sunhat is perfect for both beach holidays and Caribbean cruise vacations, where you’ll want a sun hat for shore excursions and port days . It’s foldable so super easy to pack . 

Recommended: Foldable sunhat (see over 1000 reviews on Amazon)

56. Swimsuit cover up

A versatile swimsuit cover up is a must for a beach day! This one is available in white, black, as well as other colors and patterns. Like every item included in this list, this cover up has awesome reviews.

Recommended:  Swimsuit Cover up (see color options and pricing on Amazon)

57. Waterproof flip flops

Don’t forget to pack your flip flops (best shoes ever). I like to pack a pair of cute flip flops or sandals that can go from beach to evening wear with a sundress or white jeans. Neutrals or a sparkly gold go with everything!

Recommended: cute flip flops

58. Hair ties and clips

Definitely a beach day essential, make sure to toss your hair elastics and clips into your beach day bag .

Recommended: Goody hair elastics

59. Hair mist texturizing spray

If you have wavy or curly hair, you know how unruly and frizzy our hair can get at the beach. This is why I love a good beach hair sea salt mist, like this one:  Sea salt spray for all hair types (amazon link)

Recommended:  Sea salt spray/hair mist

60. Nautical jewelry

While not an essential beach day packing item, an anchor or starfish necklace is so pretty for a beach vacation or cruise.

If you’d like more ocean theme jewelry items and gift ideas , you’ll want to check out this post .

Recommended: Anchor necklace sterling silver

Read next:   38 Gift Ideas for People Who Love to Cruise

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Beach Day Packing List: 60 Essential Items

If you’re heading to the beach for the day, or for a week, I hope the packing tips were helpful and provided a good list of all the essentials you’ll want to pack. We’ve gone through the best things to pack for families and kids, tech items, beach toys and games, and personal items for ladies.

Is there an item that you just love and have packed for a beach day? Please let me know in the comments below, so it can also help others getting ready for a beach vacation.

Happy beach day!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Suggested posts:

25 Inspirational Ocean Quotes for Those That Love the Sea

25 Cruise Essentials Most Popular on Amazon

21 Things People Forget to Pack for a Cruise (and regret)

Let’s connect:

Follow me on Facebook at Life Well Cruised

Follow me on YouTube at Life Well Cruised  (Vlogs and cruise tips)

Follow me on Pinterest at Life Well Cruised

Follow me on Instagram at Life Well Cruised

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Gear » beach packing list

The Complete Beach Packing List – All You Need

When it comes to the ideal vacation for relaxing, unwinding, disconnecting and having an epic time – you can’t do much better than the beach. Whether it’s just for the day – or for several days – the beach offers endless opportunities for fun and leisure.

But with all these different opportunities to soak in all that outdoor glory, it can be difficult to know exactly what to pack for the beach. Men and women have different needs, as do families if you’re traveling with children. And that’s why we’re here! We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to walk you through all of your potential beach packing needs.

In this guide you’ll find a list of your beach essentials, a women’s and men’s beach packing list, a family beach vacation packing list, what to pack for a day trip to the beach, bonus items to pack for some extra beach-time fun, advice on how to stay organized and keep your valuables safe at the beach and other essential safety tips.

By the end, you’ll be a beach packing pro so get ready to soak in the relaxing vibes, surf, sun and fun!

Ok then, let’s get started!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Beach Essentials

Women’s beach packing list, men’s beach packing list, family beach vacation packing list, what to pack on a day trip to the beach, bonus: awesome things to bring to the beach, what bags to take to the beach, what to do with valuables at the beach, essential beach tips, final thoughts on what to take to the beach, #1 – beach blanket.

You’ll be spending a lot of time lounging around on the sand, so you want a big and quick-drying beach blanket on your beach packing list. The edges of these don’t fly up as easily – throwing annoying sand all over you – when the ocean breeze strikes like regular towels do! The extra cushioning adds another layer of comfort for picnics, sunbathing and midday napping. Fold it up into a nice, compact tote for easy packing and transport

#2 Planner/Travel Journal

Keeping a journal is one of the best things to do when traveling. The Drifter Leather Journal by Kodiak is our favorite, it works great for digital nomads and organized backpackers and can be used as planner or a dream diary – whatever you want! 

Keep on track with your goals, travels and save those precious memories, especially the ones you do not want to share online. This one is bound in beautiful leather so it looks beautiful and will withstand life on the road.

#3 – Abaco Sunglasses

A reliable pair of sunglasses is undoubtedly one of your beach packing essentials. Ou r favorites are Abaco Polarized Sunglasses because they deliver on quality and style. 

They’re built tough with triple-layer scratch-resistant lenses and trademarked Adventure-proof Frame Material. You can also customize them with your choice of lens and frame colors to reflect your own style. 

#4 – Sun Hat

Your face needs extra protection at the beach, even with sunscreen. It’s your body’s most sensitive area and the most prone to sunburn – and the most noticeable place for premature wrinkles! A protective sun hat is a must-have on your beach packing list. Women get maximum coverage from damaging rays with wide-brim hats – plus look fabulous in pictures. Men also need either a baseball hat to shade the face or a bucket hat for increased face and neck area protection.

#5 – Flip Flops

You can be sure that a pair of reliable flip flops are going to be your main beach footwear. For trekking through the hot sand and for slipping wet, sandy feet into – they’re always the best way to go. You may even want to bring more than one pair; a less expensive rubber pair and a more fashionable pair – perhaps with leather accents – for other beach activities and outings.

#6 – Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Spending so much time outdoors under the sun will quickly dehydrate you if you don’t drink water regularly throughout the day. It’s easier to stay hydrated if you have plenty of cool water readily accessible in an insulated stainless steel bottle, like the Grayl Geopress Water Bottle . Its extra-large 25-ounce size keeps liquid cold for up to 24 hours – which you’ll appreciate when you need refreshment.

#7 – Skeletool

We highly recommend a small multi-tool, like Skeletool , for your beach packing list. They’re extremely useful for the outdoors, especially for picnics or if you’re camping at the beach. A small knife comes in handy for slicing fruit or bread. If you’ve ever tried cutting an apple with disposable cutlery – you know how well that goes! Or if you need a bottle opener or a small pair of scissors, it’s all right there. They’re compact and easy to pack into your bag, too.

#8 – Matador Microfiber Travel Towel

You’re at the beach – getting wet comes with the territory! Be sure you have a compact and lightweight Matador Travel Towel on your beach packing checklist. It dries in less than an hour, and its material is anti-bacterial – so forget about having to lug around a heavy and stinky wet towel! And it folds up into the size of a small book – you gotta have it.

#10 – Camera

There are certain views you can only find at the beach – like the ocean-lined sunsets, rolling waves crashing and all that fun in the sun. The beach provides the perfect photo-ops for the most frame-worthy photos, so you’ll want to capture them in high resolution. Using your cell phone is great for impromptu shots, but also bring a digital camera to dial the quality up a notch. Another great option is a waterproof HD action camera that can really document the water action!

#11 – Protective Cell Phone Pouch

Being constantly surrounded by sand and water, you’re putting your cell phone in a very high-risk environment when you choose the beach as your travel destination. Including an inexpensive protective phone holder pouch on your beach vacation checklist could easily save you from the hassle – and cost – of repairing or replacing a damaged phone. It’s also waterproof, so feel free to take it into the water for some ocean-surrounded selfies!

#12 – Portable Charger

Finding an outlet at the beach isn’t exactly probable. And, depending on where your accommodations are, you may not have access to a power source for a long time. Having a portable charger tucked away in your day bag is a smart item for your beach packing list. That way you can keep your electronics charged – including your phone, your e-reader or any other device that accommodates USB charging. It’s such an easy way to avoid the bummer of finding yourself with a dead electronic device when you need it!

#13 – Sunscreen

One of your key beach essentials is good-quality sunscreen. You need to make sure you have a broad spectrum kind that will protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays – that not only cause painful sunburns – but are also responsible for skin’s premature ageing. Who wants that? We also recommend reef-safe sunscreen that’s free of Oxybenzone & Octinoxate – chemicals found in most sunscreens that have been shown to harm the marine ecosystem.

#14 – After-Sun Lotion

Even without getting a sunburn, a long day out in the sun can take a toll on your skin. It doesn’t take long for your skin to feel dry and unhealthy. Rejuvenate and rehydrate your skin with some after-sun lotion ; its moisturizing ingredients like cocoa butter, aloe lotion, vitamin E and jojoba oil feel heavenly after a refreshing shower! Also, remoisturizing helps to prevent peeling, so you can preserve that tan as long as possible.

#15 – Mosquito Repellent

Depending on your beach destination, mosquitoes could be prevalent – they do thrive in warm, wet environments, after all. You want to have potent bug repellant on hand in case you need to ward off their nasty and itchy bites. We like Jungle Formula Maximum Range because it contains 50% DEET for maximum protection and keeps nasty mosquitoes away.

#16 – Lip Balm

Your lips are another super sensitive area that you need to protect from prolonged sun exposure. Not just to avoid the discomfort of dry, chapped lips but also to safeguard them against the sun’s damaging UVA/UVB rays. A good lip balm with SPF needs to be on your beach packing list and is something everyone should use in addition to sunscreen. Keep that pucker moisturized and healthy!

Hey, ladies, there are specific items that you should consider adding to your beach vacation checklist, so we’ve put together this women’s beach packing list with you in mind!

Bikini and/or One-Piece

When you’re on a beach vacation, you can pretty much count on living in your swimsuit. You’ll want at least two swimwear options – so you have one to wear in case one doesn’t dry enough overnight. Plus, you’ll want to mix up your look in pictures by having different styles of bikinis or one-piece bathing suits – or a mix of both! For more active days, consider bringing a sporty style that offers more support.

Swimsuit Cover Up

For taking a stroll along the beach, grabbing a bite nearby, or just for giving your exposed torso a break from the sun’s rays, you’ll want to have a swimsuit cover-up on your beach packing list. They’re so convenient to throw on and be on the move. They’re comfortable and flattering on all body types. They look really stylish too – throw on a wide-brim hat, and you’re camera ready!

Leave-In Conditioner

Sun, saltwater and beach air leave your hair dry and lifeless pretty quickly. The best way to keep your hair from always being a tangled mess is to treat it with a leave-in conditioner . You don’t want to be blow-drying and dealing with hair styling tools anyway, so spritz on some product and be ready to rock that natural beach hair!

Tanning Oil

While we don’t advocate frying your skin to get that golden tan, we believe that adding an  SPF-containing and reef-safe tanning oil product to your beach packing list will allow you to safely achieve a sun-kissed, bronze tone. There’s nothing quite like having people know instantly that you’ve been on a beach vacation just by looking at your freshly-acquired tan. A healthy glow looks good on everyone!

Ok, fellas, we’ve put together this men’s beach packing list with some added items specifically for your own beach vacation needs.

Board Shorts

You’ll be using board shorts as your main daywear and swimwear – and could possibly be all you wear for your entire trip! So we suggest packing at least 2-3 pairs of board shorts to give you a fresh, dry option to choose every day. Funky, bright colors and patterns are perfectly fine for most beaches – unless you’re going somewhere in the world where that’s not the norm. It’s smart to make hybrid board shorts at least one of the pair you pack for your beach essentials. In case you go out to dinner or somewhere else other than the beach, these are meant to be worn in water or fashionably on dry land.

Rashguard Shirt

When you’re wearing only board shorts all day long, your upper body gets a lot of exposure to the sun’s strong rays. We suggest a  rashguard shirt as one of the things to bring to the beach for extra sun protection. Because they’re so lightweight and breathable, they’re also comfortable to wear for sand and water sports – like surfing, swimming, playing beach volleyball or just tossing around a frisbee.

Fashionable Tank Top

There usually isn’t much need to dress up on beach-focused vacations, but you’ll want some options apart from sports t-shirts to wear with a pair of solid-colored board shorts or casual shorts. Beach-style fashion is a perfect opportunity to show off your tan arms with a tank top that looks fashionable and helps you stay cool in the hot weather! Personally I love the trippy-Psychadelic range that PlazmaLab offers .

Be sure to include one or two of these on your beach packing list.

Kid-Friendly Sunscreen

Kid’s skin is so sensitive – please be careful about preventing sunburns by applying water-resistant and kid-friendly sunscreen regularly throughout the day. This goes for the whole family, but special attention needs to be given to the little ones, especially because they’re constantly running around and jumping in and out of the water. It’s best to leave the harsh chemicals found in most regular sunscreens off their skin and opt for a more gentle, hypo-allergenic kind that will protect and nourish.

As children sit on the sand for hours, building sandcastles and digging holes, their heads and faces get a lot of direct exposure to the sun’s harsh rays. In addition to sunscreen, give the kids extra sun protection with a UPF 50+ kids sun hat . Particularly for infants and toddlers, their scalps are much more sensitive than those of adults and will quickly sunburn without proper coverage.

Water Shoes

Each member of the family will benefit from having a pair of grip-sole water shoes to protect their feet from sharp rocks or shells found at many beaches. Especially if you trek over to explore tide pools or more remote marine areas, you’ll want shoes that will stay on your feet and keep everyone from slipping on the wet rocks. Also, for the little ones, kids water shoes stay on better than flip-flop style shoes and will protect their little feet from hot sand while they’re running around.

Who wants to build a sandcastle? Most likely, your kids do! And, really, who doesn’t? Don’t count on your kids staying still for very long, or lounging out on the beach blanket for extended periods of time. You’ll want a sand toy play set to give them plenty to play with and keep them entertained. All it takes is a bucket, shovel, and some moulds, and you’ve got hours worth of sand playtime!

Apart from having something spacious and comfortable to lay on while at the beach, having a source of shade for necessary breaks from direct sunlight makes for much more pleasant beach days. A portable beach tent is a perfect solution because it provides both of these things in one item – and is big enough to provide shelter for the whole family!

Floaties or Ocean Swimming Accessories

The beach is the world’s biggest playground. There’s the sand to play on, and of course, the ocean! Be sure to add floaties or swimming accessories to your beach packing list – not only will it provide extra fun for the kiddos, but they provide extra safety should a bigger wave roll through. Of course, you never want to keep your eyes off the kids while they’re swimming, but the extra measure adds to your peace of mind.

Sanitizing Wipes

Kids get really dirty at the beach. As they do everywhere, they get their little hands into everything. Making the trek to the nearest beach bathroom to find a sink and soap (if any is even stocked) isn’t convenient, so sanitizing wipes should definitely be on your family beach vacation packing list. The whole family needs to clean their hands before digging into those beach snacks.

Foldable Beach Chairs

When you want to read, eat your picnic lunch or socialize – sitting upright in a chair is a much more comfortable option to have in addition to your beach blanket. With all the gear you probably already have lightweight foldable beach chairs that collapse down into a tiny 14 x 5” tote that weight only 2 lbs are much more convenient and portable. You’ll appreciate that you included them on your list of what to bring to the beach for the day.

Collapsible Cooler

A beach day isn’t complete without a cooler full of drinks and food. The best way to keep so many items cool and refreshing is with a collapsible cooler . One like this is perfect because it’s spacious enough to hold several cans, fruit, sandwiches – or whatever is on the menu for the day – but collapses down flat for easy packing and portability when not in use.

Beach Umbrella

Being out in the sun and getting your dose of vitamin D is awesome, and natural part of any beach vacation. But, having a source of shade to cool off and get shelter from the sun’s rays is a welcome reprieve. A beach umbrella makes a full day at the beach much more bearable and enjoyable, so make sure you include one on your list of what to bring to the beach for the day.

E-reader or Kindle

When you need to pack light, lugging around books is far from ideal. But who doesn’t enjoy getting lost in a good book while lounging at the beach? With an e-reader or Kindle , you can download as much reading material as you want and only have to worry about carrying one device that weighs less than 10 ounces! The anti-glare screen is a welcome feature for the bright beach sunshine too.

Waterproof Speaker

Music always improves any ambience – whether you’re looking to relax while sunbathing or pump up the energy while playing beach games – a portable waterproof speaker you can play music on through your phone adds instant pleasure. Be sure to include it on your beach packing list, and get it prepped by downloading some awesome beach playlists – set the ultimate beach vacation mood with your favorite tunes.

Beach Games

Relaxing and lounging around is one of the best parts of beach vacations, but there will be times you want to get up and get the blood pumping. Classic beach games are the perfect things to bring to the beach, like paddle ball or a frisbee , for having some fun and getting exercise! Organize an intense game of beach volleyball, and you’ll really get a workout!

Obviously, the main star of the beach is the ocean. The water is great for cooling off from the heat, but the waves are a serious source of fun! Take advantage of those rolling waves with a small bodyboard that offers hours of entertainment and enjoyment. Kids and adults alike will love it.

Nomatic Travel Bag

If the beach is your travel destination for a few days – or more – you’re going to want a reliable and awesome bag to pack all of your beach must-haves. Spoiler alert: a rolling suitcase is not our top recommendation. But we’ll tell you what is: the Nomatic Travel Bag . It’s made of waterproof, durable material that’s perfect to handle beach air moisture. It’s also packed with smart and convenient pockets and compartments that maximize space and allow for easy packing for everything on your beach packing list. To learn more about its awesome functions, read our Nomatic Travel Bag in-depth review.

Multi-purpose Beach and Day Bag

Beach trips require having many daily essentials on hand to get you comfortably through the day. You need a convenient way to carry your camera, phone, sunscreen, travel towel, water bottle, and wallet as one of your beach bags. A water-resistant beach bag will serve you well on the sand, and if you decide to wander off to explore or take a stroll to areas nearby. No need for anything fancy – just something practical and versatile.

It’s pretty easy to get things wet – that you don’t want wet – when you’re vacationing at the beach. A dry bag stays watertight after it’s rolled and sealed, so you can easily pack your wallet, camera, phone, and any other valuables without fear of damaging anything – even if you take it into the ocean. It’s also a good idea to pack an extra set of clothes in there if you plan on showering off and changing in the beach facilities to go to dinner or to go out and about straight from the beach.

Take valuables with you

If you’re leaving your stuff unattended for extended periods of time, your most secure option for keeping your valuables safe is to take them with you – even in the ocean. Or use a solid fanny pack to store your valuables and sling across your chest or around your waist.

Use a security belt when possible

When you’re not in your swimwear in areas around the beach, a safety accessory like the Pacsafe Money Belt is a smart and subtle way to go. You can hide your cash in a zipper pocket that’s hidden inside but otherwise looks like an everyday fashion belt from the outside.

Have travelers insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Beaches are fun and amazing – whether you’re a kid, an adult or a dog! But there are essential beach tips to follow in order to keep your beach time as safe and enjoyable as it can be.

No matter which spectacular tropical island place you’re vacationing in, stay safe!

Stay hydrated

We can’t emphasize this enough. You will get dehydrated quickly, and it can lead to dangerous consequences. Please keep your water bottle filled and drink often.

Reapply sunscreen

Too many hours under the sun under damaging rays is bad for your skin and your health. Don’t just apply sunscreen in the morning and call it a day. Be sure to reapply every few hours to protect yourself.

Take heed to lifeguard surf/tide warnings

As fun as the ocean is, it can also be very dangerous. Changes in surf and tide can happen quickly, and dangers such as rip currents are things we can’t see. Check swimming conditions ahead of time, and definitely be mindful of any lifeguard safety warnings and signs before you enter the water.

Always keep an eye on your party

Whether or not every member of your group is an excellent swimmer, always keep an eye on each other. The ocean is an immense power of nature and can be unpredictable. Especially with children, be aware of where they are at all times and stay safely within quick access.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

That’s it, friends – you’re ready to hit the beach! You now know everything you need for your ultimate beach packing list. We’ve covered all beach scenarios with details on your top beach essentials, beach bags you’ll need and want, and special packing lists for women, men and for families. We’ve also included some suggestions for how to keep your valuables safe at the beach and essential beach safety tips to make sure that your trip is nothing but fun.

So now it’s time to start getting those beach must-haves organized and packed, and you’re ready for some serious fun in the sun!

Ana Pereira

Share or save this post

Definitely worth reading. thanks for the tips as I am taking my family for our late holiday trip!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Find anything you save across the site in your account

44 Beach Essentials to Keep on Deck for 4th of July Weekend

By Talia Abbas

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Is it just us, or does it feel like summer arrived faster than ever before? That's right, the Fourth of July Weekend is coming up—and packing beach essentials is a must if you're headed oceanside or lakeside to soak up the sunshine.  

Of course, if you’re already near water and have all your beach essentials (and summer capsule wardrobe ) on lock, bravo. But if you're not as prepared and still plan on hotfooting it to the nearest shore to officially ring in the season, consider this a comprehensive guide to everything you’ll need for the upcoming long weekend. 

From roomy beach bags and engaging reads to pretty swimsuits and airy summer dresses , start ticking items off your packing list with our summer must-haves, below. Oh, and don't forget to shop the best Fourth of July sales of 2023 —from fashion to beauty and everything in between—before venturing on your beach vacation. 

Beach-bag mainstays

At the bare minimum, your beach tote should include a pretty towel or beach blanket and SPF (though more on that later). Some form of entertainment, like a book or a game, will keep you busy in between taking a dip and sipping coconut water with pruned fingers. An umbrella for shade is always welcome—as is an inflatable pool lounger or foldable deck chair to keep you horizontal at all times. Also encouraged to bring along: insulated water bottles (snaps for hydration!), a cooler bag to store valuables (ahem, lunch), and a water-resistant portable Bluetooth speaker for playing DJ.

J.Crew Cadiz Hand-Knotted Rope Tote

Hapa Oversize Beach Towel Slowtide

“Happy Place” by Emily Henry

“Yellowface” by R. F. Kuang

Stanley IceFlow Stainless Steel Water Jug with Straw

Igloo 11 QT Grapefruit TAG-Along-Too Insulated Cooler

Sunnylife Ride With Me Inflatable Surfboard Pool Float

Sunnylife Beach Sounds Speaker

Free People

Business & Pleasure The Holiday Beach Umbrella

Sunday Supply Co. Dunes Beach Chair

Sunday Supply Co.

Gray Malin Beach Playing Cards Set

Anthropologie

Frescobol Carioca Trancoso Beach Bat Game Set

Frescobol Carioca

Sun’s out, buns out

A beach trip? Without sunscreen ? We would never. Cover all your bases with sun protection for the face and body , then bring a bottle of soothing aloe lotion for after-sun skin hydration. Add a few other essentials to the mix, like a nourishing body oil for an all-day glow, plus some moisturizing hair care products to ensure your waves look smooth pre- and postdip. Not sure about you, but we can feel water drops glistening on our skin already….

Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen

Sun Bum Cool Down Aloe Vera Spray Vegan After Sun Care with Cocoa Butter to Soothe and Hydrate Sunburn

Avene Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Face and Body Lotion

Sachajuan Hair After The Sun Treatment

Saks Fifth Avenue

Vacation Baby Oil SPF 30 Sunscreen Oil

Davines Solu Sea Salt Scrub Hair Cleanser

Sisley-Paris Hair Rituel Restructuring Nourishing Balm

Yves Durif Mini Brush & Comb Set

Swimsuits and cover-ups .

Half the fun—if not a solid 75%—of a beach day is deciding what swimsuit and cover-up to wear. Maybe your siren call comes in the form of a linen shirt or maxidress casually covering up a one-piece bathing suit ; maybe it's a printed sarong or shorts over a strapless two-piece; or maybe it’s something more laid-back, like a graphic T-shirt thrown over a high-waist bikini . Here’s all three, just in case. 

Good American Always Sunny One-Piece Swimsuit

Mango x Simon Miller Printed Linen Wide-Leg Pants

J.Crew Collection Rosaline Dress

Peony Vacation One-Piece Swimsuit

Cuup The Balconette Swim Top

Alémais Seeker Printed Linen Shorts

Moda Operandi

Snap-worthy outfits

If you want a look you can wear for 72 hours straight, we have a few ideas. Opt for a relaxed linen shirt and denim cutoffs if you’re going for a no-fail casual combo. Care for something more dressed up? Pair a puff-sleeve summer top with white jeans , or a plain T-shirt with a sequined miniskirt for a cool, unfussy vibe. Comfy walking sandals and summer sneakers tie it all together.

Rhode Kamala Short-Sleeve Linen Shirt

Levi's 501 High-Rise Shorts

Dôen Tennessee Poplin Blouse

Net-a-Porter

Levi's Wedgie Straight-Leg Jeans

Skims Cotton Jersey T-Shirt

Staud Rebecca Skirt

Matchesfashion

Birkenstock Milano Slingback Sandals

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low-Top Sneakers

The finishing touch.

From ’90s-inspired shades to summer jewelry and the perfect tote , we’ve got you covered with every accessory needed to complete your look on and off the beach. Think chic sun hats , beaded chokers, that'll turn this weekend into your sartorial oyster. 

Madewell Lantern Cotton Canvas Bucket Hat

Le Specs Outta Love Sunglasses

Fraiser Sterling Marseille Cord Choker

Frasier Sterling

Heimat Atlantica Cupid Bucket Bag

Petit Moments Kourtney Cubic Zirconia Necklace

Crystal Haze Jewelry Mega Nostalgia Bear

Éliou Multi Beaded Necklace

Loewe x Paula's Ibiza Flower Cat Eye Sunglasses

Zorrostuff Hand-Painted Palm Tree Design on Freshwater Pearl Earrings

Call It By Your Name Maxi Embroidered Bandana Bucket Bag

Glamour shopping.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Glamour. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

By Rebecca Brown and Jake Henry Smith

By Andrea Navarro

By Jake Henry Smith and Talia Abbas

By Deanna Pai

Protect Your Trip »

The 18 best beach bags for every style.

Discover traveler-approved styles for every type of beach trip.

The Best Beach Bags

Courtesy of BOGG BAGS

Hit the beach in style with a new beach bag such as the Original Bogg Bag.

Beach season is here. Whether you're heading down the street or across the country, you'll want to have a beach bag on your beach packing list . Whether you're at the beach , by the pool or on a boat, the right bag can carry all of your essentials.

When shopping for a beach bag, give thought to the size, material and style (think: a zip-top or open-top beach tote bag), as well as how you want to carry it. For a resort stay, you may consider a fashionable option that holds a sun hat and a beach read. Elsewhere, you might want a great mesh bag so the sand can flow right out.

If you're going to be tossing items in and out frequently, an open-top tote will work well, whereas a beach backpack is an ideal hands-free choice. If you'll be traveling, a lightweight style that can be easily packed or used as your personal carry-on item may be just right.

The Top Beach Bags for 2023

To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News has selected the best beach bags in a variety of categories based on consumer reviews.

• Best Overall Beach Bag: Becokan Large Waterproof Beach Tote Bag
• Best Beach Bag Tote: Sea Bags Navy Anchor Ogunquit Beach Tote
• Best Straw Beach Bag: Mar Y Sol Samana Tote
• Best Large Beach Bag: Dejaroo Large Lightweight Tote
• Best Waterproof Beach Bag: YETI Camino 35 Carryall Tote Bag
• Best Mesh Beach Bag: Hoxis Mesh Beach Tote
• Best Beach Bag With Zip: ALOHA Collection Day Tripper
• Best Beach Bag With Pockets: SCOUT The BJ Bag Pocket Tote
• Best Beach Bag With Hat Straps: Sidney Byron Suncatcher Carryall Tote
• Best Beach Cooler Bag: OdyseaCo Beach Bag with Cooler
• Best Personalized Beach Bag: Paravel Large Cabana Tote
• Best Inexpensive Beach Bag: IKEA FRAKTA Shopping Bag
• Best Rubber Beach Bag: Original Bogg Bag           
• Best Canvas Beach Bag : L.L.Bean Boat and Tote
• Best Kids Beach Bag: Mygreen Kids Drawstring Backpack
• Best Beach Bag Backpack: BeeGreen Mesh Drawstring Bag
• Best Neoprene Beach Bag: QOGiR Neoprene Multipurpose Tote
• Best Beach Bag for Moms: SHYLERO Beach Bag

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to supply chain issues.)

Best Overall: Becokan Large Waterproof Beach Tote Bag

What sets this bag apart: This tote bag is constructed with a lightweight, waterproof material. It has a large capacity for beach essentials like towels, cover-ups and snacks. What's more, it comes in stripes or a fun tropical print, making it ideal for daytrips or exotic beach locales.

Travelers appreciate: "I love how much this bag can fit – it's almost like a Mary Poppins bag," says Erin Evans , managing editor of travel at U.S. News, who adores this Becokan tote for beach trips. "I can typically stash multiple beach towels, a change of clothes, a speaker, snacks, books and more in it at once." She also likes the interior zippered pocket for keeping your phone and keys safe, and notes the two cup holder pockets are large enough to fit water bottles or YETI or Stanley tumblers. "Plus, it's really lightweight and foldable, making it easy to pack away when you don't need it," Evans adds.

Price: $31.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Tote Bag: Sea Bags Navy Anchor Ogunquit Beach Tote

Courtesy of Sea Bags

What sets this bag apart: Stylish, practical and good for the environment, this handcrafted tote is made in Maine using recycled sail cloth. The water-resistant material is machine-washable and protects all of your beach gear. Featuring three interior pockets, an exterior pocket ideal for sandy flip-flops and sturdy rope handles for easy carrying, this spacious bag is 18 inches long and 14 inches tall.

Travelers appreciate: The craftsmanship, inside pockets and overall roominess of the design.

Price: $260 or less Shop now: Sea Bags | Amazon

Best Straw: Mar Y Sol Samana Tote

Courtesy of Mar Y Sol

What sets this bag apart: If you're looking for a straw bag combining fashion and function, this open-top tote does just that. Handcrafted on the island of Madagascar , this sisal tote is constructed using sustainable materials. The large bag has a seagrass lining with an interior pocket and organic leather handles. Featuring three-shade ombre stripes in a choice of six colors including aqua and yellow, each one-of-a-kind bag is accented by a raffia pompom charm.

Travelers appreciate: The fact that it's stylish, holds up well, and can fit everything travelers need for a day at the beach or out shopping.

Price: $169.10 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Large: Dejaroo Large Lightweight Tote

What sets this bag apart: Constructed with a durable, water-resistant material in a variety of prints and colors (including leopard and royal blue), this bag has one inner pocket and seven exterior pockets where you can stow your sunglasses, sunscreen or hand sanitizer. The zippered top keeps the sand out and your valuables secured, while the comfortable straps make the tote easy to carry. This large beach bag measures 16 x 15 x 8.5 inches.

Travelers appreciate: The way the tote holds everything from a laptop to beach toys and works well for weekend trips .

Price: $29.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Waterproof: YETI Camino 35 Carryall Tote Bag

Courtesy of YETI

What sets this bag apart: Designed for adventure, this multifunctional tote is both waterproof and puncture-resistant, with a molded base to keep the bag upright. This beach bag boasts an abrasion-resistant surface (so those fishing lures won't damage your bag) as well as the YETI HitchPoint Grid to attach carabiners or other accessories on the exterior.

Travelers appreciate: The sturdy construction, the ability to rinse it out and the way the deployable dividers keep things upright – though some say this tote is on the heavier side for a bag of this size.

Price: $150 or less Shop now: YETI | Amazon | REI

Best Mesh: Hoxis Mesh Beach Tote

What sets this bag apart: This fashionable style goes from grocery shopping to the beach with ease. The Hoxis Mesh Beach Tote is a top-rated beach bag on Amazon for good reason. At less than $20, it's affordable and offered in an array of colors, such as coral and green.

Travelers appreciate: The way sand doesn't accumulate inside the bag, along with its roominess. It boasts enough space to hold two beach towels, swimsuits, sunglasses and a tablet. What's more, the polyester and nylon mesh is durable and comfortable to carry.

Price: $19.90 or less Shop now: Hoxis | Amazon

Best With Zip: ALOHA Collection Day Tripper

Courtesy of ALOHA Collection

What sets this bag apart: Designed with travel in mind, the ALOHA Collection Day Tripper is the ideal size for a carry-on at 19 x 14.5 inches and features an expandable zippered top to maximize space. Crafted with a special material to protect against splashes, the Day Tripper tote has an interior compartment and an exterior zippered pocket to keep your phone, wallet and boarding pass easily accessible.

Travelers appreciate: The lightweight and durable construction, roominess, and ease of packing of this bag.

Price: $74 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best With Pockets: SCOUT The BJ Bag Pocket Tote

Courtesy of SCOUT Bags

What sets this bag apart: An ideal multiuse bag, this option is made with a durable and lightweight material. There are four exterior pockets for organization and convenience, plus an interior zippered pocket to keep items like your phone or keys secure.

Travelers appreciate: "I've been using this bag as my beach bag for three summers now and it's the best bag I've ever used," says Marisa Méndez , senior editor of travel at U.S. News. "I love that it zips to keep everything inside and I appreciate the pockets on the outside to keep sunscreen within easy reach. And the best part? I just hose it down to clear out all the sand. Easy peasy."

Price: $56 or less Shop now: SCOUT Bags

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Best With Hat Straps: Sidney Byron Suncatcher Carryall Tote

What sets this bag apart: For a tote that can carry your favorite sun hat without crushing it, consider this style from Sidney Byron. Constructed with jute, this bag has exterior straps for your beach hat, along with an interior zippered pocket and an exterior back strap to trolley on your carry-on bag. There's also a coordinating pouch for personal items or to use as a clutch, and you can purchase each item alone or as a tote and pouch set .

Travelers appreciate: The hat straps and trolley sleeve, which make this bag ideal for going from the airport to the beach and everywhere in between.

Price: $115 or less Shop now: Sidney Byron

Best Cooler Bag: OdyseaCo Beach Bag with Cooler

What sets this bag apart: This two-in-one mesh beach bag with a detachable waterproof cooler allows you to stow towels, sunglasses and sunscreen separate from your cold picnic lunch. The quick-drying mesh bag has a large interior with a zippered top, two exterior pockets, two padded handles and a detachable shoulder strap. The insulated and removable cooler is designed to keep food cold for up to 12 hours with ice packs; it has space for up to 12 cans.

Travelers appreciate: The sturdy construction and detachable cooler make this combination beach bag work well for the boat, beach and pool.

Price: $32.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Read: The Best Cooler Bags

Best Personalized: Paravel Large Cabana Tote

Courtesy of Paravel

What sets this bag apart: This spill-resistant Paravel bag is constructed with sustainable EcoCraft Canvas, which is made from 30-plus upcycled plastic water bottles and protected with a more environmentally friendly silicone layer. The interior of the tote has three pockets, one of which is zippered, plus a clasp closure. The exterior is available in a choice of four color combinations, and you can personalize this bag with embroidered letters, hand-painted letters or hand-painted emojis for an extra fee, making it uniquely customizable.

Travelers appreciate: The way it's well-crafted, with wide straps that are comfortable for carrying the bag and a water-resistant finish that makes it an ideal beach or weekend option.

Price: $185 or less without monogram Shop now: Paravel

Best Inexpensive: IKEA FRAKTA Shopping Bag

Courtesy of IKEA

What sets this bag apart: For something sturdy and affordable, this IKEA design is an ideal inexpensive beach bag option. Crafted with durable polypropylene in bright blue and featuring two shoulder straps, this generously sized style measures 21.75 x 14.5 x 13.75 inches. Toss all of your beach essentials inside – and, when you're not catching some waves, you can wipe the bag clean and store it flat.

Travelers appreciate: "I'm not embarrassed to admit how much I adore this bag for family trips to the beach," says Amanda Norcross , travel content and SEO strategist at U.S. News. "It's lightweight, surprisingly durable, fits most or all of our beach gear, and is easy to hose down at the end of the day."

Price: $8.30 or less Shop now: IKEA | Amazon

Best Rubber: Original Bogg Bag

What sets this bag apart: Invented by a mom, this durable bag is both washable and waterproof. It is made of a rubber-like EVA material with a tip-proof design, sturdy sides, a nonslip bottom and shoulder straps for easy carrying. This extra-large tote measures 19 x 15 x 9.5 inches and comes with two clear accessory bags, which keep your bag organized and your essentials easy to find. The Original Bogg Bag comes in nearly three dozen color options.

Travelers appreciate: The durability, the way the bag stands upright and the fact that it can be easily washed.

Price: $169.99 or less Shop now: Bogg Bags | Amazon

Best Canvas: L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

What sets this bag apart: Classic and customizable, the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote is constructed of heavy-duty cotton canvas with double-stitched seams and reinforced handles. The iconic beach bag is handcrafted in Maine and available in multiple sizes ranging from small to extra-large. First introduced in 1944 as a way to haul ice, this durable top-handle tote is tested to hold up to 500 pounds, making it the ideal bag for going boating, heading to the lake or stocking up on beach reads at the bookstore.

Travelers appreciate: The quality construction, the classic styling and the yearslong durability. What's more, you can choose from multiple colors depending on size and add a monogram for a one-of-a-kind tote.

Price: $34.95 or less for medium Shop now: L.L.Bean

Best for Kids: Mygreen Kids Drawstring Backpack

What sets this bag apart: Little ones will love packing their sand toys, favorite snacks and sunglasses in this mesh backpack with its zippered pocket, adjustable padded straps and water bottle pocket. What's more, the backpack comes in four different colors and is adorned with your choice of a detachable or nondetachable rabbit, frog, elephant or unicorn.

Travelers appreciate: The size, which is ideal for young children to carry and easily fits a towel, goggles and water bottle, making it a good choice for swim class, the beach or the pool.

Price: $22.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Backpack: BeeGreen Mesh Drawstring Bag

What sets this bag apart: This packable yet roomy design is 25.2 x 18.9 inches when opened but conveniently folds into the bag's exterior pocket to store in your glove box or carry-on. Toss larger items like beach towels and flip-flops in the main compartment, then stow sunblock, goggles, your phone and your wallet in the front zippered pocket. In addition, there's a front drawstring pocket ideal for holding a reusable water bottle.

Travelers appreciate: The backpack's adjustable straps, the amount of items it can hold and the option to fold the backpack within itself for easy portability.

Price: $20.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Neoprene: QOGiR Neoprene Multipurpose Tote

What sets this bag apart: The QOGiR multipurpose beach bag transforms into three different styles, including a large tote or a smaller triangular silhouette. Putting a fashionable spin on function, this beach bag is constructed out of neoprene and polyester with sailing rope handles and a detachable shoulder pad for comfort. The machine-washable bag can be folded flat to toss in your carry-on bag, filled with beach essentials while on vacation and easily stowed in your suitcase when you return.

Travelers appreciate: The two interior zippered pockets, as well as the durability and versatility.

Price: $39.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best for Moms: SHYLERO Beach Bag

What sets this bag apart: The SHYLERO Beach Bag is tear-resistant and made with a waterproof canvas-style material. Toss cover-ups, beach towels, diapers or a change of clothes in the main compartment; stow smaller items in the three inner pockets and keep sunglasses and water bottles in the roomy exterior pockets. What's more, the bag includes a bonus clear waterproof bag that can be worn as a crossbody or belt bag to keep your cellphone, money and other valuables securely on your body when you need to step away from your larger tote.

Travelers appreciate: The comfortable rope handles, zip-top design, spacious interior and durability that make this beach bag a go-to for parents.

Price: $49.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

What to Pack in a Beach Bag

• Waterproof pouch for your phone and other valuables
• Lotion toiletry bag for sunscreen, lip balm and other essentials
• Water shoes or sandals
• Beach towel
• Swimsuit or swim trunks
• Beach cover-up
• Change of clothes
• Hair scrunchies

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood is a senior travel editor with a bag obsession. She's always searching for the perfect bag for every scenario, and constantly adding to her collection of go-to bag options for the beach and beyond. To create this list of the best beach bags, she used her own experience with bags for the beach along with her retail merchandising background.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Beach Tents
• The Top Beach Wagons
• The Top Beach Chairs
• The Top Beach Resorts in the World
• The Top Weekender Bags

Cheap Tropical Vacations

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear , Beach Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Top adults-only cruises.

Gwen Pratesi May 6, 2024

Top-Rated Newport Mansion Tours

Andrea McHugh May 6, 2024

The 9 New York City Boat Tours

Lyn Mettler May 6, 2024

The 13 Best Key West Tours of 2024

Gwen Pratesi May 3, 2024

Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross May 2, 2024

Swimming With Pigs in the Bahamas

Amanda Norcross May 2, 2024

The 15 Best Chicago Tours for 2024

John Rodwan May 1, 2024

The 10 Best Harry Potter Tours in London

Marisa Méndez April 30, 2024

12 Cheap Fourth of July Getaways

April 29, 2024

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

Laura French April 29, 2024

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 18 Best Beach Bags and Totes of 2024

We’ve collected the best options for every type of beach adventure.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

Few items are as necessary for a trip to the shore as a trusty bag or tote. Your perfect match should complement your beach style, whether you're packing it with snacks and drinks for the family or looking for one that’s chic and adaptable enough for both daytime lounging and evening cocktails with friends.

Fortunately, beach bag and tote options abound, which can also feel overwhelming in its own right. To help you narrow down your search, handbag expert Emily Blumenthal suggests starting by identifying what category best aligns with your needs. Popular options include canvas bags, straw bags, neoprene totes, and clear plastic totes. Each has its own unique advantages (and disadvantages) tailored to the preferences of different beach-goers.

To streamline your search, we've collected the best beach bags and totes T+L editors use during their own trips to the beach. Our curated list includes waterproof options, budget-friendly favorites, insulated designs, and much more, so you can hit the sand in style this summer.

Best Overall

Rothy’s the lightweight mega tote.

It’s crafted from recycled materials.

The short handles may not be comfortable for all users.

You may already be familiar with Rothy's popular washable flats, but it's time to introduce you to their beach tote as well. This bag is undeniably stylish, featuring a duo-tone striped design, an interior zip pocket, and not just one but two key leashes. It comes highly recommended by commerce writer Alexandra Domrongchai , who declares this lightweight tote "has it all." She highlights the bag’s spacious build and comfortable carrying straps as two of its most covetable features. "This bag will take you from the beach to the airport and beyond, all while looking effortlessly fabulous," she says. "I especially love its machine washable capability because no matter how much shaking, sometimes you need to throw it in the wash to get all  the sand out." Plus, it's sustainably crafted from marine and recycled plastic, making it an eco-friendly choice.

The Details: Recycled plastic water bottles and marine plastic | 13.6 x 19.7 x 7.4 inches

Best Lightweight

Shade & shore mesh tote handbag.

Its side pocket is ideal for stashing flip flops, keys, or any items you want separated from the bag's main compartment.

This style is exclusively available in mesh.

This is the go-to beach bag of senior commerce editor Jasmine Grant . This bag holds a surprising amount of items, and the double handles make carrying the bag to the beach or pool a breeze. The side pockets are also great for holding drinks, keys, your phone, and flip flops. "I have it in yellow, which means it's unmistakable at the beach and pool, and it's also just the perfect pop of color for the summertime," she says. And let's not forget its mesh construction, which is the perfect material to bring to the beach.

The Details: Polyester | 16.5 x 18.5 Inches x 6.62 Inches 

Best Waterproof

Bogg bag original bogg bag.

It’s not only waterproof, but also tip-proof.

Its structured silhouette takes up a good amount of space, something to keep in mind if you’re tight on storage.

I have this trendy tote in the large size, which is perfect for fitting everything you could possibly need for a beach day and then some. It's made from lightweight and rubbery EVA, giving it a flexible yet durable structured silhouette. Its bottom has a treaded, non-slip surface that ensures it stays upright, even on uneven sand. Inside, two clear zippered insert bags attach to the side where I stash small essentials like my keys, phone, and wallet. I recently discovered that I can personalize my tote with playful charms known as Bogg "bits" for an extra fun touch.  

The Details: EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) | 19 x 9 x 14 inches

Best Insulated

L.l. bean insulated tote, large.

Its versatility makes it perfect for both grocery runs and beach outings alike.

The lighter colors may show stains and smudge marks quickly.

Few tote bags rival the iconic status and timelessness of L.L. Bean's Tote, which was introduced in 1944, and now this timeless design comes in an insulated version. What makes this bag so special is its versatile design, durable canvas construction, front slip pocket, and versatile strap options. With both a detachable crossbody strap for easy shoulder-slinging and double hand straps for carrying, it's as practical as it gets. And, last but not least, as someone who has cherished monograms since my college sorority days, I appreciate the option to customize it with my initials.

The Details: Cotton | 14 x 22.5 x 7.5 inches 

Most Durable

Yeti camino 35 carryall with internal dividers.

It has internal dividers to keep your belongings organized. 

It’s a bit on the heavier side, even when empty.

This carry-all features an understated design and the durability of its "thickskin" shell, which is both waterproof and puncture-resistant — built to withstand years of use. I love the dividers on both ends of the bag, which can be pulled out to create additional organizing pockets as needed, or pushed back when they’re not in use. Plus, I can attest that even when submerged in several inches of water, nothing inside gets wet. 

The Details: Nylon | 18.1 x 9.8 x 15.2

Best Crossbody

Teeya straw crossbody bag.

You can wear it as a crossbody or carry it by its top handles.

This is more of a purse as opposed to a large beach bag.

For light packers who want a beach-friendly bag that can also be used when you head out to lunch, this small crossbody is the perfect choice. It complements all of your outfits and comfortably fits all the essentials — including a book, phone, wallet, sunglasses, and sunscreen — with some room to spare. This is one of my favorite crossbody bags for vacations, showing no signs of wear or tear despite how many trips we've taken together. 

The Details: Polyester and cotton | 17.3 x 5.5 x 11.8 inches

Best Easy-to-clean Bag

State wellington cabana tote.

 Its TPU exterior is super easy to clean: simply spot clean it with a damp cloth.

The translucent options may not be ideal for solo travelers.

The State Wellington Cabana Tote is simple yet chic. It’s such a perfect size and water-resistant, so you can use it poolside or on the beach without worrying about getting your books or magazines damp. The straps are nice and thick, so you can hold it for long periods of time, and it even comes in a mini size for those who like to pack light. As an added bonus, it comes with a detachable zippered pouch for valuables, which attaches to the bag with a chain for quick access.

The Details: TPU and nylon | 12.2 x 16.4 x 8 inches

Hat Attack Straw Traveler Bag

It has a built-in holder for your favorite beach hat.

The raffia exterior can be uncomfortably scratchy. 

When it comes to beach essentials, Hat Attack always steals the show. Over the years, the brand has consistently churned out more and more designs that are modern yet timeless. Its Original Straw Traveler Bag epitomizes the brand's aesthetic. It features a built-in spot to store your favorite sunhat securely — no more cramming it into your bag or leaving it behind due to logistical woes. Plus, its raffia design has a natural resistance to water. And because the material is made of cellulose and a natural polymer it is strong and durable, even if you stuff it to the rim.

The Details: Raffia straw and cotton | 20 x 14 inches

Best Zippered

Becokan beach bag.

It comes with a waterproof phone case.

The bag itself may be more water-resistant as opposed to waterproof.

Finding a great beach bag with a zippered top is surprisingly challenging, but this budget-friendly style is a great choice. The zip closure keeps water out, while the striped design and rope handles give it a quintessentially beachy vibe. It has a handy side pocket that fits most water bottles, includes a waterproof phone case, and its collapsible shape makes it easy to pack for vacations. The green and white-striped option is my personal favorite, but it comes in a total of six designs, including chevron and colorful leaf patterns, as well as striped versions in other colors.

The Details: Canvas | 20.8 x 7 x 14.5 inches

Best Durable

Lands’ end natural open top canvas tote bag.

It’s been tested to hold up to 500 pounds.

The large size may be too big for casual outings, so be sure to review the dimensions before ordering.

Not every brand delivers the durability and quality of Lands’ End when it comes to canvas totes. Its cotton canvas is crafted to withstand a whopping 500 pounds, a testament to its high-quality construction. Its wide-felled seams also enable it to stand upright, a feature that isn't exactly common with canvas totes. The water-repellent base exists to safeguard your bag's contents, and it also has an exterior pocket, four interior pockets, and a key ring attachment to keep you organized on the go. 

The Details: Cotton canvas | 17 x 6 x 13.5 inches

Hoxis Beach Tote

t comes in bold brights, classic neutrals, and even patterned options.

Sand can easily accumulate inside the bag.

Sometimes, you just  want a beach bag that serves its purpose but that you also know you don’t have to be overly precious about. For Associate Editorial Director Morgan Ashley Parker , this bag is exactly that. Unlike many fully mesh totes, this one actually has an internal pocket, which is big enough to keep a small wallet and phone away from the sand. It easily fits two large towels, plus sunscreen, water, and more, and we love how the solid bottom helps the bag hold its shape when packed full. It also comes in a rainbow of colors like coral, lavender, and bright yellow (along with neutrals like tan, cream, and black) so you can decide if you want to go bold or basic for your next beach day. 

The Details: Nylon and polyester | 17.3 x 15.7 x 5 inches

Best Net Bag

Longchamp le pliage filet mesh bag.

It’s a luxurious take on a classic net bag.

Small items may fall through the mesh holes if they’re not secured in a larger bag.

“There are so many ways to use market bags and beach days are just one of them,” Parker says. “I personally love this Longchamp take (made in partnership with Filt, the French brand making these bags since the 1800s). The classic style gets an upgrade with a little leather snap closure and shorter leather straps so you can carry it by hand or over your shoulder. The material is shockingly strong — I’ve carried two bottles of champagne plus my normal items inside — and the slits are not so small that things like keys will fall though. It’s such a versatile bag that once I was finally able to get my hands on one when it came out in 2021, I purchased a second color as soon as that came back in stock, too.”

The Details: Cotton and leather | 12.2 x 15 x 2 inches

Best Splurge

Loewe medium leather-trimmed woven basket bag.

Saks Fifth Avenue

It has a simple polished design with adjustable leather straps.

It doesn’t have any zippered enclosures.

"For a while, I was convinced this Loewe bag was haunting me," Parker explains. "I kept seeing it all over my vacations and on social media and, trust me, I resisted when I first saw the price. I didn’t think I could ever get my money’s worth on a beach bag but I was so wrong. I’ve used this for multiple summers but also love to work it in on warmer shoulder season days, too. The woven raffia has held up incredibly well, and the tote makes even a coverup and flip flops feel way more polished. I especially love that the straps can be adjusted so it sits perfectly on both bare shoulders and over a heavier top, too."

The Details: Raffia and leather | 15.75 x 10.5 x 6.25

Best for Kids

Tagitary beach toy mesh beach bag.

It’s perfect for collecting small treasures on the beach.

It’s not really big enough to hold a significant amount of things.

These beach bags are perfect for all ages, and an especially genius option for little ones. They have an adjustable strap to fit comfortably on anyone’s shoulder or as a crossbody. The mesh design is lightweight and easy to clean and store, and one of the best details is its zippered top to keep little one’s shell collections safe, or adults’ sunglasses and phones out of the way during a beach walk. The best part is they come in a value pack of three, so you’re covered if one goes missing.

The Details: Mesh | 9.84 x 9.84 x 0.79 inches

Mark & Graham Pom Pom Straw Beach Tote

Mark & Graham

It has chic details such as its pom fringe and woven texture.

If you opt for personalization, it’s not eligible for returns.

Few accessory brands craft their products as thoughtfully as Mark & Graham. Its section of straw bags is extensive and each one is unique. My go-to from the brand is this straw tote bag. It has no shortage of covetable details, from its woven texture and pom fringe to its playful contrast trim and lineup of fun monogram options. If you’d prefer an understated vibe, you can also opt out of the vibrant-colored trim and monogram entirely.

The Details: Paper straw | 21 x 5  x 13 inches

Best Sand-proof

Ledaou beach bag waterproof sandproof tote bag.

Sand falls straight through the mesh design rather than accumulating inside.

All of your belongings are quite visible through the bag.

While there’s no one definition of what makes a bag sand-proof, I find this one checks all of my boxes: it’s stylish, affordable, practical, and prevents my items from getting sandy. I love that it’s as stylish for vacation as it is practical against sand. (You can just shake it out without sand collecting in any corners and getting all over your car.) Plus, it has four front pockets to keep your belongings organized, not to mention a zippered top.

The Details: Polyester | 17.5 x 8 x 15.7 inch

Best Anti-theft

Flexsafe portable travel safe.

It has a fixed lock and attaches to your beach chair or any fixed object.

It doesn’t have a ton of space inside — it’s just for the essentials.

I know this isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing bag on this list, but it’s the leader in anti-theft beach bags. I love that this anti-theft bag is small, with an understated design that doesn’t draw attention, and it attaches to your beach chair or any fixed object — and it has a combination lock you choose your own number combination for. I've found it incredibly handy for keeping my keys, wallet, and other essentials safe during relaxed beach walks. That way, I’m able to enjoy myself without worrying about what will happen if my husband nods off while lounging on our beach blanket.

The Details: 3 x 3 x 7 inches

Best Sustainable

Baggu duck bag.

It’s crafted with recycled cotton, making it a more eco-friendly option.

It may be too small to fit a towel.

If you're always on the lookout for eco-friendly alternatives to popular products, the Baggu Horizontal Duck Bag deserves your attention. According to Senior Commerce Writer Merrell Readman : “this bag is the perfect size to fold up inside of my suitcase when traveling for a beach vacation. It’s also large enough to hold everything I need for a day out enjoying the surf and sun. I love the top zipper on this bag because it provides an added sense of security while I'm walking around (not to mention that it helps to keep sand out). Plus, it's adorable — and affordable!”

The Details: Recycled cotton canvas | 12.5 × 17 × 4.25 inches

Tips for Buying Beach Bags and Totes

Select high-quality materials.

There are many popular materials used to craft beach and tote bags, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common materials, according to Blumenthal, are canvas, straw, raffia, mesh, and plastic. While none are inherently superior to the others, certain materials may be more durable than others. For instance, straw totes exude a quintessential beach aesthetic but may not withstand harsh conditions well, while clear plastic totes are typically lightweight and durable, but can become uncomfortably warm in the sun. Mesh bags are often praised for their durability, easy maintenance, and lightness, whereas raffia bags may lose their shape if they become wet, making them better suited for the poolside than beach.

Prioritize easy transport

Few things are as frustrating as lugging around an uncomfortable bag. Hence, it's crucial to scrutinize its portability before you buy. Does your bag have both carry-top handles and a crossbody strap? Is the crossbody strap adjustable for a customized fit? Lastly, is the bag lightweight or heavy from the outset? Most brands provide this information in the details section of their website for easy reference, so you can find the most easily transportable bag for you.

Think about insulation

Insulation is a must if your beach day will include cold drinks and snacks. While coolers are most ideal for keeping food and beverages cool for long periods of time, insulated bags are typically lighter and easier to transport. If you don’t need a full day’s worth of refrigeration, it might be worth considering an insulated beach bag over a cooler.

Blumenthal says canvas is a viable option for the beach. She explains that when it’s tightly woven, it is water-resistant “because the fabric expands as soon as it absorbs water. This closes the gaps between the threads, making it harder for water to pass through the material.” Plus, “they can be machine washed, spot-treated for stains, and are durable enough to sustain that beach overstuffing.”

The reality is that most beach bags will collect sand, but mesh bags may be more sand-resistant than other options. Blumenthal says they’re your best option for keeping sand out of your car, home, and just about everywhere else since the sand easily falls through the mesh weave. 

The world is your oyster when it comes to packing your beach bag. However, some popular items to consider include extra bottles of sunscreen , your favorite pair of sunglasses , water bottles, and snacks. You can also add a change of clothes, a beach towel, a book, portable speaker, a hat, and more. Above all, the key is to pack whatever you need to make your day as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Marisa Petrarca has been testing, reviewing, and writing about fashion for nearly a decade. She worked with T+L editors to select the best beach bags and totes, conducted her own research, and spoke to handbag expert Emily Blumenthal for expert tips and product recommendations.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

23 Packable Beach Bags for Your Summer Vacation

By Erinne Magee

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Whether you’re hopping on a plane en route to a dreamy, faraway beach or road tripping for a closer-to-home sandy retreat, packing the right bag helps ensure you have just what you need to make your trip to the beach as easy and relaxing as possible. Of course, a solo traveler’s idea of the best beach bag can be quite different from someone on a family vacation who is in charge of carrying everything for everyone . We’ve got both of those needs covered, and everything in between.

To help you narrow down the perfect beach bag for your next trip, we’ve gathered 23 of our favorites, from oversized totes to classic straw bags. We’ve made sure to include a variety of different sizes, materials, colors, and price ranges to ensure you find the right match for your beach vacation. Some of our top finds include a lightweight and packable multi-pocket tote from Lululemon; a Sea Bags bucket bag made from recycled sails that is specifically made for seashell-hunters; and a waterproof structured tote from Rux with all the organization you could ever need.

Scroll through to see all of our finds or jump right to the section that suits your beach needs:

Packable beach bags

Classic totes, structured beach bags, small beach bags.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Madison Flager.

Finding something that lies flat in your suitcase can be super helpful when it comes to saving on precious space and weight in your carry-on . But packable finds don’t have to be limited to the reusable grocery store shopping bag. We love the Ogunquit Beach Bag, which is made from recycled sails and despite its roominess, lies completely flat (save for the unique rope handles). The Piccadilly Bag, made from recycled plastic bottles, can be worn over the shoulder, as a backpack, or held by its handles.

There are certain images associated with a day at the beach, and a classic tote bag with towels peeking out from the top is one of them. But the tote has evolved from the neutral canvas look. Take the Rothy’s Lightweight Tote that comes in more colors than we can count and is completely washable without losing its shape (I had to get the bright pink dragonfruit color to match my Rothy’s dragonfruit loafers ), for example. The Banana Republic Slouchy straw bag screams beach bag, matches any swimsuit, and holds a lot more than you think. For those who need even more space, the SMMT Powder tote bag is available in two sizes with a variety of interior and exterior pockets and a waterproof shell.

For those beachgoers who pack snacks and lunches that taste so much better when they’re not smooshed, or for anyone who wants to keep their items from possibly getting stepped on, structured totes offer protection for your favorite beach possessions. The Rux Essentials Set is a brilliant concept that's part bag and part box, with removable waterproof divider bags and compartments to keep items separate. Simple Modern’s water-resistant rubber material makes the Gateway bag easy to clean after a sandy day and the built-in holes give wet clothing a chance to breathe.

When you need your hands free (say, if you're biking over to the beach), a backpack makes for a great option. The Atlantic Daytrip backpack comes in bright colors and can transition from being used as your in-flight personal item to your beach day pack. On a recent trip to Portugal , I didn’t go a day without using my Jack Wolfskin’s Athmos pack, which held everything my teen and I needed as we put in almost 20,000 steps touring various cities, but also was used to store extra sunblock and water for our leisurely stops at the beach.

Not everyone spends the entire day at the beach. If you're heading over just to sit in the sand or take in a sunset, you may want something smaller that can store a few essentials and is versatile enough to take on your next adventure, like the Monos Metro sling, a crossbody that comes in both nylon and vegan leather and features a hidden back pocket to keep your phone, ID and money safe. For an elevated, chic option that pairs well with any linen or crotchet cover-up you're wearing to the hotel restaurant or bar, the Banana Republic Half-Moon shoulder bag is equal parts stylish and functional.For the shell-collectors, Sea Bags has the aptly named Beachcomber bucket bag with a mesh bottom, so you can leave at least some of the sand behind. Additionally, the bag has four interior mesh pockets, should you simply need a small beach bag with a fun shape and one-of-a-kind hemp handles (all ”imperfections” are on purpose, given the recycled nature of the materials).

18 Beach Essentials to Pack the Next Time You Head to the Shore

May your WiFi connection be spotty and your toes scrunched deep in the sand.

So, you've taken the first step and planned out your  summer vacation days . (I'm giving you a digital high-five—you deserve some time off after the year we've all had.) Up next: finding the must-haves to stash in your beach bag , and later asking yourself why you packed so much. Here, the best accessories to bring with you for your next trip to the beach.

The number one beach essential? A safe place to store snacks. Keep 'em cool in this cute lunch bag, then surprise your friends when you take out the subs and they're still cold.

Avoid the nightmare of trying to find your towel ("Did someone steal it?? Did my friends move without telling me??") with this standout oversized pick.

Invest in a pair of Meghan Markle-approved sunnies that will keep out harmful rays.

When you're floating and decide you've had enough alone time with your thoughts, whip out this portable waterproof speaker that lasts up to 15 hours.

Too much sun exposure can strip your skin of moisture and its essential oils (not to mention...wrinkles!). A powerful moisturizer should be at the top of your packing list, like this one that also doubles as a sun protectant. See our full list of options here.

If you can't get your favorite moisturizing products past TSA due to liquid regulations, Patchology's Resting Beach Face kit includes two sheet masks and two lips gels to keep your face and your lips moisturized.

Books? ✓ Snacks? ✓ Towel? ✓ A tote you can carry straight from the beach to dinner? ✓

The most obvious item on the list: sunscreen. Supergoop's bestselling suncreen is lightweight, adds a glowy finish to your face, and lasts long enough for you to take a dip in the water then re-apply. Thank us later.

The only thing worse than looking down to a hair tie-less wrist is knowing you left your scrunchie on your dresser. Take this sporty scrunchie with you when you head east this summer, then buy two more for a special three-for-$12 deal.

Summer: The time of the year to catch up on all those must-reads piled in the corner. Bring along a great book like Zakiya Dalila Harris's novel, The Other Black Girl, which is Marie Claire's June book club pick. You can read an excerpt here.

Hydration is key while spending a full day in the sun. Keep yourself and your water cool with an insulated S'well bottle.

GOD! It's brutal out here...without a bucket hat like this cute one from Olivia Rodrigo.

Beach cover-up or happy hour outfit? Condense your packing list with this two-for-one Hill House nap dress that earned a stellar reputation during the pandemic.

Slip on these blister-free sandals for lunch on the water (piña colada in hand) or dinner and drinks in the evening.

The problem with a dead phone is a) no Instagram pictures and b) no use for that bluetooth waterproof speaker you just brought with you. Avoid both situations with this Native Union portable charger.

A hydrating oil that protects color-treated hair from sun exposure and nourishes salt-stiffened strands.

Pro tip: Use your towel as a pillow and place a blanket underneath you so you can splay like a starfish during your afternoon nap.

If you're taking a car to the beach, make sure to bring this top-rated, easy-to-set-up L.L.Bean umbrella that offers UPF 50+ sun protection. Fin!

Stay In The Know

Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.

Rachel Epstein is a writer, editor, and content strategist based in New York City. Most recently, she was the Managing Editor at Coveteur, where she oversaw the site’s day-to-day editorial operations. Previously, she was an editor at Marie Claire , where she wrote and edited culture, politics, and lifestyle stories ranging from op-eds to profiles to ambitious packages. She also launched and managed the site’s virtual book club, #ReadWithMC. Offline, she’s likely watching a Heat game or finding a new coffee shop. 

Next stop: The airport.

By Julia Marzovilla Published 7 May 24

The success of ‘Scoop’ is reportedly prompting the streaming giant’s bosses to bring ‘The Crown’ back in a new, interesting form after the show concluded last year.

By Rachel Burchfield Published 7 May 24

The skirt alone took three days to create.

By Halie LeSavage Last updated 7 May 24

It’s pampering time.

By Michelle Stansbury Published 11 May 23

The most stylish things to see and do in the creative hub of Paris, the 6th arrondissement.

By Sara Holzman Published 2 May 23

Explore one of the happiest cities in the world.

By Emma Childs Published 25 April 23

Where to stay and what to do in the City of Lights.

By Sara Holzman Published 8 December 22

BRB, setting my "out of office" message.

By Emma Childs Published 18 November 22

In case you needed another reason to be pumped about your trip.

By Julia Marzovilla Last updated 25 September 23

Wine, oysters, and more wine please.

By Sara Holzman Last updated 18 August 22

Find love in all the right places.

By Sara Holzman Last updated 13 February 23

• Contact Future's experts
• Advertise Online
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy

Marie Claire is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The 11 Best Beach Bags for Travelers

Adele Chapin

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

You’ve got all your swimsuits, flip-flops, and beach essentials packed in your suitcase for a summer getaway. Now you just need a bag to haul everything to the shore. Here are 11 of the best beach bags for travelers, including totes that would fit right in on the beaches of Bali or the boardwalk. You’ll also find practical options that are waterproof, fold flat, and feature tons of pockets for valuables.

1. Sea Star Beachwear Small Voyager Tote

The Sea Star Beachwear Small Voyager Tote is designed with water in mind: made of lightweight neoprene, it even floats if you drop it in the ocean. The roomy bag zips close and features interior pockets for cards and keys. Opt for a preppy navy or a floral print collab with Frances Valentine.

2. Ban.do Deluxe Reusable Canvas Tote

Whimsical Los Angeles brand Ban.do makes the most cheerful products, like this sunshine yellow canvas tote printed with the words “Make time for sunshine.” This Ban.do Deluxe Reusable Canvas Tote snaps down if you want to adjust the size of the tote, with yellow nylon straps to schlep flip flops and towels.

3. Boden Olivia Large Canvas Tote 

The shape of Boden’s Olivia Large Canvas Tote is so classic, with cotton handles that wrap around the entire bag for extra reinforcement. The beach bag comes in three patterns spanning flowers to pineapples, but we’re partial to the bold rainbow stripes.

10 Best Packable Women’s Sun Hats for Travel 2021

4. Hat Attack Anya Tote 

This neutral beach bag made entirely from raffia will match every swimsuit you throw into your suitcase. The Anya Tote by Hat Attack is lined in cotton and outfitted with leather handles so you can wear it as a shoulder bag.

5. The Beaded Crochet Tote Bag

With wooden beads, a nearly 12″ drop handle, and a spacious interior, The Beaded Crochet Tote bag can handle your beach gear and will compliment any summer outfit.

6. Mercado Global Blanca Tote

There’s a feel-good backstory behind this handcrafted colorful bag from Mercado Global, a brand that employs female artisan weavers in Guatemala. The Mercado Global Blanca Tote is made of canvas and roomy enough for all your beach essentials.

9 Lightweight Summer Sandals Perfect for Packing

7. L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

The L.L. Bean Boat and Tote canvas bag goes all the way back to 1944, and it still looks as fresh as ever. It’s still made in Maine as well. Customize the beach tote by choosing between four different sizes, two handle lengths, and five handle colors (then add your monogram, of course).

8. Scout La Bumba Large Tote Bag

D.C.-based company Scout makes cult-favorite bags that are stylish, lightweight, and easy to clean.The Scout La Bumba Large Tote Bag folds flat for easy packing, and you can zip up the top or use it as an open tote bag. There’s an inside zippered pocket for valuables too. 

9. Dejaroo Mesh Beach Bag 

Need to see exactly what’s in your bag? The Dejaroo Mesh Beach Bag is made of see-through mesh, which means it’s no big deal if the bag gets wet. There are a ton of pockets too, so you can corral all your stuff. The bag is sold in 11 different color combinations.

8 Essential Items to Pack in Your Beach Bag

10. Genovega Extra Large Waterproof Canvas Beach Bag

The Extra Large Waterproof Canvas Beach Bag from Genovega looks extra nautical thanks to stripes and oversize hemp rope handles. Other fun features include a drink holder and a built-in bottle opener and keychain. 

11. Upper Canada Reusable Organic Cotton Mesh Bag

Want to save on a beach bag and spend that vacation money on margaritas? This organic cotton bag from Old Navy is only $6. It’s not a big bag, but there’s room for sunscreen and sunglasses and a few more essentials — and the mesh shape is timeless and easily packable.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

9-Nt Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway...

Railbookers

Luxe, 7-Night Caribbean & Mexico Cruise...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

17 Seasonal Charcuterie and Snack Board Ideas that Guests Will Love for the 4th of July!

Our Favorite Home Decor for Easter and Spring You Will Love!

• Search Search for:

Summer , Travel

Summer Beach Bag Essentials - Over 50 Beach Items You Will Love!

We spend a LOT of time at the beach and pool during the Summer. The temps are definitely heating up here in Arizona! I feel like a beach trip is long overdue. Since we spend so much time there, I pretty much have my essentials packed at all times in my beach bag . We can pick up and go at a moments notice, and I don't need to spend hours packing. I wanted to share some of my Summer beach bag essentials with you guys today, since Summer is just a few days away!

This post has been updated as of May 2024

Shop Summer Beach Bag Essentials

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10 // 11 // 12 // 13 // 14 // 15 // 16 (similar) // 17

Click on any image below to shop!

This post has been very popular over the last few months and I wanted to update this with a new round up! You can shop any image below by clicking it.

Our Go-To Beach Favorites

These items are all such must haves for us when we hit the beach. The girls could play in the sand for hours, so we always pack an abundance of toys.

A good cooler is also a must have. This one is quite spendy, but it is SO worth it! We are loving these zip top containers for traveling, storing food, snacks, etc.

We bring a lot with us when we head to the beach because we want to spend at least a few hours playing. Our wagon is a must have. I wish I would have gotten one like this one because of the larger, all terrain wheels.

This adorable rainbow kite is a must have! I can't wait to take it with us next time we go to the beach! We also always bring our Yeti water bottles because the water stays cold in the heat. We don't have a pop-up tent, but they are super helpful if you have little babies that want to keep cool or shaded from the sun.

This next item will forever remain in my beach bag for blowing up floaties! It works SO well and can be used on several sized floats. It is USB rechargeable and can also be used as a night light if you're camping.

shop electric pump here

make sure to pack your rechargable pump if you're bringing floaties to the beach!

@thehouseofhoodblog The tiny rechargeable air pump strikes again! It took 5 minutes to blow up this flamingo float and I love that this tiny pump fits in my pool/beach bag! Tap the link in my bio to shop this on my Amazon store front! #amazonmusthaves #amazonfinds #amazonhome #summermusthaves #flamingofloatie ♬ -

love this beach bag by Logan and Lenora  (use code hood15 for an extra discount!)

18 Must Pack Beach Day Items

One - I love having a beach chair to hang out on while the girls play.  It gets super uncomfortable sitting on the sand for so long!  This one also lays flat so you can lay on your stomach!

@thehouseofhoodblog I have the most amazing beach chair to share with you guys today! We brought this to the beach and it was life changing! It was easy to carry, you can sit on it like normal, or lay flat on your stomach. It has a hole for your face with padding and arm holes so laying on your stomach is actually comfortable! I’m linking this in my Amazon store front! #amazonfinds #amazonhome #amazonhomefinds #beachchair #beachhack #beachmusthaves ♬ Riptide - Vance Joy

Two - These are my all time favorite flip flops. They are SO comfortable and hold up well. I have owned Havianas for the last 15 years or so.

Three - I love a good sunscreen stick, and this one is a fave.  It makes things so easy to apply to your face.

Four - I also love a good sunscreen spray, and this one by Coola is a must have.  It goes on evenly and doesn't have any gross stuff in it plus it smells AMAZING!

Five - A towel is a no brainer, and we usually bring several. I'm a sucker for stripes, so I love this print!

Six - I am a Wetbrush girl through and through.  We probably own 10 of them placed in different areas of our home, car, purse, etc.  They are great when the girls get tangled hair at the beach or pool.  They work wonders!

Seven - We always pack lots of small items in our beach and pool bag, and I love these small pouch bags for keeping things separated. They're also 'wet' bags so you can put a wet bathing suit inside and it won't leak.

Eight - This is a great bag for packing sand toys or to even use as your beach bag!

Nine - I live for my Corkcicle water bottles. They keep our water cold on hot days. I have had ice cubes not melt in this bottle for over 48 hours! I also love that it can be tossed in your bag and you don't have to worry about it spilling or leaking.

Ten - An umbrella is always a good idea if you need a break from the sun. The beach doesn't offer much shade, so it's nice to have the option. This one is super lightweight and portable.

Eleven - I HAVE to have a good lip sunscreen, and this one is a great option at just $10!

Twelve - We love portable beach/park blankets, and this one zips up with it's own handle. I love that it is thicker than a towel and it's waterproof. We own several!

Thirteen - Have you used a powder sunscreen? I am really loving them! I used this one all summer long.

Fourteen - A good cooler is an absolute must for beach or pool days. I love this print, plus it keeps our food cold!

Fifteen - I love packing a portable blue tooth speaker with us to the pool and beach! This one is waterproof too!

Sixteen - Now for the most important part of our beach bag is the beach bag! This one is a great size with lots of space for everything you might need. It's waterproof and has lots of zipper pockets.

Seventeen - It's always nice to have a cool breeze on hot days, and I love this portable fan!

Eighteen - These cup holders are great for keeping sand off your cup, or you can put other items in them too!

all the beach day essentials! 

adorable fringe suit by Shade Critters - check out this post on mommy and me matching swimsuits too! 

Other Posts You Might Like

Summer Porch Decor Ideas // DIY Outdoor Kitchen // the Best Summer Flowers to Plant

Pin This for Later

Hopefully you were able to find some summer beach bag essentials that you'll love as much as we do! Do you have any fun plans to head to the beach this Summer? We go almost weekly! Check out our beach fun here!  Thanks so much for reading and please let me know if you have any questions!

Pin this for later!

Shop these items here by clicking the photo!

2 comments on “Summer Beach Bag Essentials - Over 50 Beach Items You Will Love!”

Traveling with a baby is also awesome. Thanks for the wonderful tips.

Great post about some absolute beach essentials.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The 11 Best Beach Bags of 2024

Pack up for your day out on the sand

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Tripsavvy / Chloe Jeong

To prep for a day at the seaside that delivers on the promise of big fun, make sure you have a beach bag that holds your stuff comfortably, tidily, and with style. Everyone’s ideal beach bag will look different. If you’re heading to the beach for a day of solo relaxation, you’ll want a solution that’s streamlined, secure, lightweight, and polished enough to be versatile.

If you've got family in tow (whether you're heading straight for the sand or taking a dip in the pool first), you’ll need something large, well-organized, durable, and easily cleaned. To find the best options for every scenario, we researched and evaluated bags based on size, fabric, pockets, and handles.

Final Verdict

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, dejaroo mesh beach bag.

Tons of pockets

The sides aren't structured

Suppose you come to the beach fully prepared for anything and need maximum space for all your gear. In that case, the Dejaroo Mesh Beach Bag has a whopping eight pockets: seven external pockets for smaller belongings like electronics, sunblock, and flip-flops, and one interior pocket. There's also a zippered section inside for keys, so they don't get buried. 

There's nothing exceptionally creative about the design, but our tester found the bag more convenient for travel than a bulky canvas beach bag. She could fit several towels, extra shoes, large water bottles, and even a big camera or lunchbox in the bag. The woven mesh material is ideal for shaking sand out; however, this also means the bag isn't waterproof, and our tester noted it might not hold up well to keys, a wine opener, or other sharp objects. On the first use of the bag, we noticed fraying on the stitching around the handles, which are double-layered on top to create extra shoulder padding; however, it's held up well since then despite packing it into overstuffed suitcases several times. 

Size: 16.5 x 15 x 8.5 inches | Waterproof: No | Closure: Zipper

TripSavvy / Suzie Dundas

Best Budget

Cruise on collapsible travel tote bag.

Compact when folded down

Easy to use and carry

Big enough for large items

Keep your space clutter-free with a collapsible tote bag. The Cruise On Collapsible Tote Bag reduces to pocket size for easy travel, then expands to fit many items. Made from premium nylon for durability and easy machine washing, the bag is also waterproof, making it ideal for long days at the beach. Not to mention, the long straps make the bag lightweight and comfortable for use, so you can enjoy whatever environment you're in without adding stress to your shoulders. One downside of this tote bag is that it does not include a closure to secure your belongings, but your beach hat won't complain about the extra space.

Size: 16 x 4 x 24 inches | Waterproof: Yes | Closure: None

Best Sand-Proof

Cgear sand-free tote bag.

Lightweight

Packs up well

Sturdily constructed

Only comes in one color

Could use more compartments

After a relaxing day at the right beach , it's frustrating to come home and realize you've brought a whole bunch of sand with you. A sand-proof beach bag can help minimize the mess, both in your house and in your car. The CGear Sand-Free Tote differs from other beach bags because it's made from a patented double-layer mesh weave that allows sand to sift right through. Even if you throw in sand-covered shoes or beach toys, all that grit should fall out of the bottom of the bag the minute you pick it up.

This beach tote is made from water-resistant PVC with reinforced seams for added durability. To clean it, rinse it with water. And it's roomy enough to hold towels and toys alike. The bag has one smaller interior pocket for valuables and comes in an eye-catching blue plaid that'll be easy to spot on the beach. And, as our product tester noted, "it lies entirely flat when empty, so it's very easy to pack and store."

Unfortunately, the CGear bag doesn't totally live up to its sand-free promise due to its lack of zipper closure, allowing sand to enter from the top. Our tester plopped the bag in the sand when she arrived at the beach, and no sand got in from the bottom or the sides throughout the day. However, when a young boy ran by with a soccer ball, he kicked a big cloud of sand directly into the bag. Although it isn't fully sand-free, our tester felt it's still worth buying. 

Size: 17 x 7.5 x 15 inches | Waterproof: Yes | Closure: None

TripSavvy / Sage McHugh

Best Splurge

Yeti camino carryall.

Multiple color options

Spacious yet easy to carry

Just as tough as their famous coolers, this rugged bag from Yeti is for serious beachgoers and boaters. It's waterproof, super durable, puncture and abrasion-resistant, and easy to clean. A huge opening and zipped pockets with a molded base keep the bag upright and protect it from water seeping in. Some unique features in this tote are the crossbar handles across each strap for another method of carrying the bag and the hitch point grid that can be used to attach outdoor gear or your favorite beach accessories. It is available in five different colors.

"The straps aren't too long or too short—plus, I love that I can carry it with the big handles and throw it over my shoulder or pinch the parallel bars right above the lip to carry at my side," says our senior commerce editor. "It'll hold everything you need for an excursion to the beach or all the food you need for a day trip—and then some. I also use this bag for my daily grocery run since it keeps things relatively cold, and as I said, you can pack a lot (think a week's worth of groceries, plus some!)."

Size: 18 x 14 x 9 inches | Waterproof: Yes | Closure: None

Best Multipurpose

L.l.bean everyday lightweight tote.

Global LL Bean

Comes in various colors

Durable, but lightweight

Unstructured

Straps are a little short

For a multi-functional bag that’s great at the beach and for day-to-day use, the Everyday Lightweight Tote by L.L.Bean is an excellent option at a reasonable price. Available in three sizes—medium, large, and extra large—the bag is big enough for beach gear without being bulky, so go ahead and throw in that beach blanket . With several great colors to choose from including Burgundy, Navy Blue, and Sunflower with contrasting stitching, it’s an easy choice for men and women. For storage, there’s a front pocket for quick grab-and-go items, and the interior has a zipped pocket with a key clip. The well-built beach bag has a zipped top, reinforced handles, and a double-layered bottom.

Size: 12 x 6 x 13 inches (medium), 15 x 7.5 x 17 inches (large), 17.75 x 7.5 x 18.5 inches (extra large) | Waterproof: Yes | Closure: Zipper

OdyseaCo Oahu Mesh Tote Bag

Oversized capacity

Internal organizational features

Material gets hot in the sun

This extra-large mesh bag has enough space to carry everything you need to the beach. Despite its large size, the mesh material folds up so it can easily fit into your suitcase when traveling. An internal carabiner and zippered waterproof pocket keep keys, phones, and jewelry secure. Plus, the mesh material dries quickly and allows air to flow throughout the bag, so your damp towels won't stink after a long day at the beach. However, our product tester thinks "the best feature of the Oahu Mesh Beach Bag is its sturdiness."

When we took this bag to the beach, we were able to shake out excess sand before bringing it back to the car and then the house—eliminating sand lingering on the floor for days. This is also the type of product that can go far beyond beach season and become a staple to keep in your trunk. We found it was large and durable enough for taking clothes to and from the laundromat, going grocery shopping or camping, or even lugging around sports equipment. The reinforced handles and stitching showed no signs of wear and tear after testing.

Size: 18 x 29 inches | Waterproof: No | Closure: None

TripSavvy / Brie Dyas

Best Insulated

Hydro flask 20l insulated tote.

Long-lasting material

35-liter capacity

Easy maintenance

Hydro Flask's Insulated Tote is your solution to transporting food stress-free. This bag is made from durable polyester fabric and provides lightweight insulation for up to four hours—perfect for those extra-long days at the beach. Its zippers are water-resistant, and the bag's exterior is waterproof to keep moisture out and your contents dry. The collapsible design feature is ideal for travel and quick storage, while the fully lined, welded interior makes for easy cleaning. It's also great for grocery store runs, camping trips, and picnic dates and is available in six shades, including vibrant Magenta, Gulf Blue, and a classic Black.

Size: 23 x 14.5 x 5.5 inches | Waterproof: No | Closure: Snap

Best Canvas Bag

Lands’ end natural open top canvas tote bag.

Can be personalized

Comes in multiple handle lengths

Colors will get dirty quickly

Lands' End's quintessential beach bag is ideal for families and is a beloved bestseller. It's made from ultra-durable 24-ounce cotton canvas and has reinforced handles to support a heavy load. It also has a water-resistant base and trims for protection and inside pockets for organization. With size options ranging from small to extra large and with seven color choices, there's a version to suit every kind of traveler. Add a personal monogram or family name and make it your own.

Size: 13 x 5.5 x 9 inches (small), 17 x 6 x 13.5 inches (medium), 22.5 x 9.5 x 17 inches (large), 26 x 10.3 x 17.5 inches (extra large) | Waterproof: No | Closure: Zipper or none

Best Oversized

Lucazzi extra large utility tote bag.

Easy to carry

Doesn't zip

It may remind you of something you’d take to the grocery store or laundromat, but these oversized bags are also great to bring to the beach. At 22.75 x 10.25 x 11.75 inches, this tote is large enough to stow away towels, sunscreen, and the kids’ beach toys all in one, but it also easily collapses for you to travel with. The fabric is made from polyester, and the structure is secured with a metal wire frame and velcro straps, so the bag feels durable yet still lightweight when carrying all these items. Plus, it comes in many playful patterns. 

Size: 22.75 x 10.25 x 11.75 inches | Waterproof: No | Closure: None

Best Design

Shylero beach & pool bag.

Fun color options

Extra features

No hard bottom

The Shylero bag works well as a beach bag because it's made of durable, easily washable waterproof fabric and has an interior water, dust, and sand-proof PVC case to store phones or other valuables. In addition to being convenient, the 17 x 15 x 6-inch bag is super spacious. We also love the range of colors the beach bag comes in, its beachy rope straps, and the built-in key holder and bottle opener.

Size: 17 x 15 x 6 inches | Waterproof: Yes | Closure: Zipper or magnet

Best Backpack

Venture pal lightweight hiking backpack.

Tons of color options

Zippered wet pocket

Backpacks are a great way to bring towels and food to the beach because they free your hands for carrying extra essentials like an umbrella or folding chairs. The Venture Pal Lightweight Hiking Backpack is our favorite option in this category. The pack features a waterproof pocket within the main compartment, perfect for separating wet swimsuits from other objects.

The outside is made of durable material with heavy-duty zippers, so it won't fall apart after your first outing. There are also many pockets suitable for storing car keys, sunglasses, or other small items. It measures 9 x 6.5 x 2 inches and has comfortable shoulder straps. Reviewers love how large the bag is: many reported it could hold towels, shoes, goggles, and snorkeling gear with room to spare.

Size: 9 x 6.5 x 2 inches | Waterproof: No | Closure: Zipper

The Dejaroo Mesh Beach Bag is our favorite pick because of how large it is, holding all the beach-going essentials, and its ability to pack down small for travel. We like Cruise On's Collapsible Travel Tote Bag for a solid budget pick.

What to Look For in a Beach Bag

Whether you’re looking to bring just a book and a towel or gear for the whole family, you’ll want a bag to haul everything on your packing list . The ideal beach bag depends on your plan and how many people you are accommodating. If you have to hike to the beach or make several other stops that day, go for a smaller backpack or tote that can fit the essentials without weighing you down while providing more versatility. For a larger family and friends affair, look for oversized models with room for all your creature comforts.

The most traditional beach bag material, canvas, is durable and offers a classic aesthetic. If you need a waterproof bag, look for one made of nylon or polyester. Other materials offer additional benefits, such as sand-sifting mesh. Pay attention to the handles as well—braided ones look great but might bite your shoulders or hands if you’re hauling your bag for a long time, while flat cloth or canvas handles are durable and comfortable.

Pockets are a valuable feature in a beach bag: External pockets can hold liquid containers upright and compartmentalize wet and sandy items. Inside pockets can help hide and secure your valuables while keeping them accessible, so you can easily grab your car keys or phone when your hands are full. For added security, consider pockets that zip or at least snap closed.

Some of the most stylish beach bags are carried by hand. However, these aren’t always the most practical, as they prevent at least one hand from carrying other items. If you’re traveling with kids —or clutching an iced coffee or your smartphone—you’ll probably want a tote with shoulder or crossbody straps, or a backpack.

You might be attracted to a mesh bag for its sand-filtering properties, which keep it cleaner in the first place. Many beach bags can be thrown in the washing machine; others should be spot cleaned using a damp cloth and soap to rub out any stains. More delicate bags should be air dried. When in doubt, consult the care label or visit the brand's website.

Pack your bag with the essentials: sunscreen, sunglasses, water, snacks, a towel, a beach hat, and dry clothes. Stash a plastic bag to keep any wet gear separated. Use your inside pockets to tuck away your keys and phone, but ideally, you’ll bring as few valuables out on the sand as possible to mitigate the risk of theft and increase your peace of mind when you're in the water.

If you’re planning to pack your beach bag in your luggage, look for one that's super light and easily foldable or able to be packed flat, such as a cotton mesh bag. Avoid bulky, rigid bags with lots of structure. Beach bags with a shoulder strap or crossbody option keep your hands free for taking pictures or consulting a map on your adventures.

The author of this article, Amber Nolan , is a travel writer located in Key West with over 10 years of experience in the travel industry. Her work has been published in USA Today, Jetsetter, Cruise Critic, Frommers, and several other travel publications. She is currently covering tourism for the local Key West newspaper, the Blue Paper. In addition to her research, we also sent several of the products to testers for their feedback. 

The 11 Best Beach Blankets of 2024

The 12 Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Beach Chairs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Travel Toiletry Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Hardside Luggage Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Camp Trunks of 2024

The 6 Best Small Coolers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Travel Money Belts of 2024

The 14 Best Backpack Brands of 2024

The 9 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Duffel Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Luggage Sets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 10 Best Shoes for Disney of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Travel Pillows of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best UV Umbrellas of 2024

• 100 Day Dream Home
• Bargain Block
• Battle on the Beach
• Battle on the Mountain
• Building Roots
• Celebrity IOU

Christina on the Coast

• Down Home Fab

Farmhouse Fixer

• Fixer to Fabulous
• Help! I Wrecked My House
• Home Town Takeover

House Hunters

Lakefront empire.

• Lil Jon Wants to Do What?

Love It or List It

• Married to Real Estate
• My Lottery Dream Home
• No Demo Reno
• Property Brothers: Forever Home
• Renovation Aloha
• Rico to the Rescue
• Rock the Block
• Small Town Potential
• Ugliest House in America
• Unsellable Houses
• Who's Afraid of a Cheap Old House?
• Why the Heck Did I Buy This House?
• Zillow Gone Wild
• See Full Schedule
• Stream Full Seasons
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Ideas by Room
• Design Styles
• HGTV Magazine
• HGTV Newsletters
• Flowers and Plants
• Landscaping and Hardscaping
• Outdoor Spaces
• Curb Appeal
• Cleaning and Organizing
• Entertaining
• Healthy Home and Garden
• Real Estate
• Home Improvement
• DIY Projects
• HGTV Handmade
• HGTV Smart Home 2024: Enter the Sweepstakes
• Get Outside $5K Giveaway
• Spring It Forward $5K Giveaway
• HGTV Dream Home 2024
• HGTV Urban Oasis 2023
• Product Reviews
• Gift Guides
• Sales and Deals
• News and Trends
• Newsletters
• TV Schedule

30 Must-Have Beach Essentials

Take an already great day at the beach to a whole new level. From staying sand-free to capturing incredible underwater pictures, the perfect beach day is possible with these must-bring products.

Related To:

You've booked your vacation and are counting down the days until you can turn on your out-of-office email notification and get your toes in the sand. But not so fast. Have you made your packing list yet? Because nothing ruins a beach day like forgetting sunscreen. These essential items will make your beach day relaxed and carefree — just like any vacation should be.

Sand-Proof Beach Blanket: Sand Cloud Wanderlust XL Towel

Tired of carrying a pile of bulky towels to the beach? This one from Sand Cloud fits in your bag and is extra large at the same time. We love the sand-resistant design and that it dries three times faster than traditional towels. Plus, you're doing good, too; the brand donates 10 percent of its profits to marine conservation efforts.

This May Just Be the Last Beach Towel You'll Ever Need

Sun-Protective Swimwear: Body GloveSmoothies Sleek Rashguard

Double up your sun protection with a UPF swim shirt. UPF clothing blocks ultraviolet rays from penetrating the fabric and reaching your skin. It’s not a replacement for sunscreen, but it is a great addition to SPF.

Sun-Protective Hat: FurTalk Wide-Brim Sun Hat

Like UPF clothing, you can find hats that feature UPF material, too, but they’re not always that fashionable. Most are geared toward fishing or hiking. I love this wide-brim, straw hat. Not only does it look like a trendy floppy hat, but it has UPF 50 protection and features magical packable technology which means no more weird suitcase creases.

12 Best Sun Hats to Protect Your Face

Supergoop! PLAY Lip Balm SPF 30 with Mint

This isn't just for the beach, but Supergoop's h ydrating honey, Shea butter and sunflower seed oil just taste like summer. And after a long day in the sun, the all-purpose salve will keep your lips (hands, elbows, etc.) smooth and hydrated and protected.

Sun-Protective Hair Spray: Sun Bum Sea Spray

It's easy to forget about protecting your hair on beach days, but it's just as important. This Sun Bum Sea Salt Spray protects your hair from the elements while giving it extra body, waves and texture for that windswept look. Plus, it offers protection from damaging UV rays which prevents your hair from becoming dull, brittle and discolored over time.

Sunscreen: Supergoop! PLAY Everyday SPF 50 Lotion

This one is obvious, but before you get to the beach to discover last year’s bottle is basically empty or even several years old, make sure you’re stocked up on a solid sunblock. We love Supergoop!'s PLAY Everyday Lotion, which provides broad-spectrum UVA, UVB and IRA protection. It absorbs quickly and feels lightweight.

Our Favorite Sunscreens and Sun Protection Essentials

Beach Tent: Coleman Beach Shade Shelter

Sunscreen aside, sometimes you just need a break from the sun. And if you’re beaching with little ones or seniors, it’s especially important to have shade. This pop-up beach tent from Coleman sets up in minutes and features material with a UPF 50 rating for extra sun protection.

The Best Beach Umbrellas and Tents for Summer

Beach Wagon: Delta Children x Jeep Wrangler Stroller Wagon

The more people in your family, the more gear you have to schlep to the beach. Bringing chairs, toys, coolers, umbrellas and more from the car to the beach and back again is no easy task ... unless you have an all-terrain beach cart. With heavy-duty airless tires, large gear compartments and even cup holders, you'll have plenty of room to fit everything your family needs. We also love that it can be used beyond the beach for kid-friendly adventures around town — attach your current infant car seat with the included adapter for babies, or use the two seats with safety harnesses to safely transport older kids. Plus, the UV-blocking canopy protects little ones from the sun, while pull-down shades block additional light during naptime.

Beach Chair: Coleman Lightweight Utopia Breeze Beach Chair

Up your lounge game with lightweight travel chairs. This sling chair from Coleman features a cup holder and a pocket in the back for beach towels. The low-profile design is perfect for sinking your toes in the sand while remaining sand-free everywhere else.

14 Best Beach Chairs

Sand-Proof Beach Bag: CGear Sand-Free Tote

Like CGear’s beach blanket , the brand’s sand-free tote features the same patented technology to keep sand out of the bottom of your bag so no more tracking sand into your car or home. The tote is also great for camping and picnics.

Quick-Drying Towel: Seaview 180 Akumal Oversized Microfiber Beach Towel

Leaving the beach is sad, but you know what’s worse? Getting into your car with a soggy bottom and realizing that all of your towels are still wet, too. Quick-driving towels are a great investment and perfect for a beach vacation where you want to hop from the water to other activities. The Seaview 180 beach towel from Wildhorn Outfitters drys three times faster than cotton towels and can hold up to four times its weight in water.

The Best Picnic Blankets and Beach Mats for Every Style

Cooler Bag: YETI Hopper Flip 12 Soft Cooler

Instead of trying to lug a big, bulky cooler through the sand, throw a lightweight cooler bag around your shoulder. The YETI Hopper Flip 12 cooler bag is just as chilly as coolers in the YETI fleet, yet it fits a surprisingly large amount of cans and ice.

14 Best Coolers and Cooler Bags for Summer

Waterproof Speaker: Anker SoundCore Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Wet Bag: Kanga Care Wet Bag

What do you do with all of your wet bathing suits after a day at the beach? This is a challenge we’ve all had to deal with, but getting a few wet bags would make it way easier. These wet bags are specifically designed to hold damp or wet items and will help you avoid getting everything else in your bag wet, too. You can throw the bags into your tote, and when you get home everything can go straight into the wash.

Polarized Sunglasses: Sunski Dipsea Recycled Sunglasses

Polarized lenses are more expensive and you might not think you need them, but when you’re out in the sun, they make a world of a difference. In addition to UV ray protection, polarized lenses cut down on the glare from the sun, and that glare can be brutal when reflected off white sandy beaches. For sunglasses less than $100, check out the designs from Sunski.

Waterproof Phone Bag: geckobrands Waterproof Phone Tote

We’ve seen it too many times. Someone pulls out his or her phone to Instagram the perfect beach sunset and accidentally drops the phone into the ocean. Use your phone while keeping it waterproof with this pouch from geckobrands. The bag features a shoulder strap that’s perfect for keeping your phone out of harm’s way while kayaking or boating.

Portable Safe: SAFEGO Portable Safe

The most common dilemma about visiting the beach is what to do with your stuff when you want to take a stroll. Pack it all up? Take a risk of something being stolen? Try to hide it? With the SAFEGO, you can lock up all your valuables anytime you need to leave your beach area.

Portable Wine Bag: Wine2Go Foldable Wine Bottle

Most public beaches have a no-glass policy, and if you’re more of a wine drinker, your options can be limited. Not that there’s anything wrong with canned wine, but if you want to bring your favorite bottle, just fill up the collapsible Wine2Go bag, and you’re all set.

Baby Powder: Nature's Baby Organics Dusting Powder

While this isn’t necessarily gear , baby powder is essential for any day at the beach. Why? It magically dusts sand off your skin. And at the end of the day, wiping all that sand off your feet before getting in a car is a wonderful feeling.

7 Weird Items That Are Useful at the Beach

Cup Holders: Turtleback Sand Coaster + Cup Holder

It’s happened to everyone: You reach for a cold beverage and realize that it’s coated with a layer of wet sand. And no matter how hard you try to shake it off, that stuff clings all over your drink. Turtlebacks are special cup holders that elevate drinks and keep them totally sand-free. They come in tons of different colors and you can buy a multi-color pack so that everyone can keep track of their drink easily.

Beach-Friendly Drinkware: The Beach Glass Classic Outdoor Drinkware

A plastic red cup? You can do better. A beach day and a cold drink go hand-in-hand, and these plastic drink “glasses” from The Beach Glass are perfect for sipping on something fruity. They’re made from BPA-free acrylic, are dishwasher safe and will hold up to 12 ounces. The patented ball and stem design holds the glass upright in the sand, and they even float.

Can Cooler: YETI Rambler Colster Can Insulator

If you're drinking from a can at the beach, you'll want to keep it ice-cold as long as possible. The YETI Colster's 12-ounce size is perfect for sparkling water, soft drinks and good old-fashioned beer, all kept straight-from-the-cooler cold for hours.

Reusable Water Bottle: Cupture Fruit Infuser Water Bottle

Drinking water is always important, but even more so when you’re spending hours in the sun. This water bottle allows you to amp up the flavor profile by including chopped fruit or vegetables.

Portable Table: Crate & Barrel Table In a Bag

If your beach crew is large and in charge, it might be time for a lunchtime upgrade. This sturdy, low-profile table is easy to transport and comes with a canvas carrying bag. Plus, it makes playing games even easier.

Waterproof Camera: Sunnylife Underwater Camera

Kids and adults alike will love taking this underwater camera for a spin. The cute device from Sunnylife features a detachable waterproof casing, a 28mm, f/90 lens and a wrist strap. All you need to buy is some 35mm film for a bit of old-school summer fun.

Portable Charger: Anker PowerCore 5000 Portable Charger

Portable chargers are ridiculously convenient, but we've noticed they can also be ridiculously heavy. Keep your beach bag light with this small, lipstick-sized, high-speed smartphone charger. You'll get one full additional charge during your beach day shenanigans, so you can capture every fun moment.

Reading Material: Kindle Paperwhite

This waterproof reader is made to be read by the beach. But if you just want to close your eyes and listen to your beach read, then consider an Audible subscription . Audible allows you to enjoy all of your favorite books from your tablet, iPhone and more. This means you can "read" while sitting at the beach staring at the ocean with your headphones.

Body Wipes: Public Goods Bamboo Wet Wipes

Maybe you're not heading home after the beach or plan on stopping at a beachfront restaurant for lunch. These bamboo wet wipes will give you just the quick refresh you need. They're made with a moisturizing blend of aloe, vitamin E, cucumber extract and other nourishing ingredients that soothe the skin while keeping you clean and refreshed on the go.

Sand Toys: Click N Play 18-Piece Beach Sand Toy Set

This huge beach toy set will keep kids busy for hours. The high-quality, BPA-free set comes with a bucket, two shovels, three rakes, two sand sifters, a watering can and eight adorable sand molds, all in a mesh bag to make post-beach cleanup a breeze.

Waterproof Games: Hoyle Waterproof Playing Cards

While the kiddos are building castles or digging holes in the sand, the adults deserve to have some fun, too. These waterproof playing cards are a perfect, easy beach game that will keep you busy for hours. Set up a game under an umbrella or beach tent to stay out of the sun, and play some fun group games like gin rummy or poker. Cards are easily washable, so you can keep bringing them back to the beach again and again.

The Pared-Down Packing Guide for a Family Beach Trip

More summer must-buys.

8 Best Tower Fans of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The Best Beach Chairs on Amazon for Summer 2024

The 10 Best Cornhole Boards of 2024

The Best Bug Repellents for Kids

5 Best Outdoor Mosquito Repellers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

10 Best Hammocks of 2024 to Help You Enjoy Some R&R

9 Best Cooling Sheets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

42 Stylish Home Accents That Will Make You Feel Like You're Still on Vacation

Get Ready for Shark Week With These Fierce Finds

The Best Camping Essentials for Kids & Teens This Summer

48 Mermaidcore Home Finds Guaranteed to Make a Splash This Summer

Our 15 Favorite Popsicle Molds for Summer

11 Inflatable Sprinklers Kids Will Love This Summer

The Best Ceiling Fans for Every Style and Budget

10 Best Coolers for Summer 2023

The Best Inflatable Pools for Everyone in 2023

• The Best Beach Bags for Summer 2023

The Best Garage Fans to Keep You Cool This Season

The Best Memorial Day Sales on Outdoor Furniture & Accessories to Shop Now

This Is the Best Machine for Making Authentic Hawaiian Shave Ice at Home

Our Favorite Summer Host Gifts That Aren't Wine, Flowers or Food

These Are the 32 Must-Have Summer Products on Amazon

These Are the Kitchen and Grilling Tools You Need for Summer

42 Cute Doormats You Need for Summer

15 Breathable Bedding Sets for Summer

These Are the 15 Best Pool Floats for Summer 2023

Bring the Fun With These 22 Swimming Pool Games

• 18 Must-Haves to Pack for a Family Beach Trip

The Best Beach Towels to Pack for Your Next Vacation

• The Best Beach Umbrellas for Summer 2023

• 41 Things You Need for Your Next Road Trip

13 Essential Items to Keep Dogs Cool in Hot Weather

Minnidip Pools Are The Best Inflatable Pools for Adults This Summer

Go shopping.

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

The Best Father's Day Gifts May 7, 2024

8 Best Stadium Chairs, Tested and Reviewed May 6, 2024

Wayfair's Biggest Annual Sale, Way Day, Is Back With Deals Up to 80% Off May 6, 2024

HGTV Fans Are Obsessed With These 20 Top-Selling Products From Amazon May 3, 2024

84 Last-Minute Mother's Day Gift Ideas You Can Still Get to Her in Time May 2, 2024

The Best Furniture to Buy on Amazon for Every Room May 1, 2024

The 10 Best Bookcases and Bookshelves on Amazon Apr 30, 2024

8 Best Tower Fans of 2024, Tested and Reviewed Apr 29, 2024

7 Best Duvet Covers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed May 1, 2024

Our Honest Review of the AeroGarden 2.0 Apr 26, 2024

6 Best Garden Carts of 2024, Tested and Reviewed Apr 26, 2024

The 10 Best Bug Zappers for Chemical-Free Pest Control Apr 23, 2024

The Best Beach Chairs on Amazon for Summer 2024 Apr 22, 2024

The 15 Best Mosquito Repellents on Amazon Apr 19, 2024

The Best Patio Chairs for Every Style and Budget Apr 21, 2024

The 7 Best Espresso Machines, Tested and Reviewed Apr 18, 2024

40+ Gifts for Teachers That Really Show Your Appreciation Apr 18, 2024

Mermaid + Blobcore = Jellyfish Aesthetic, and We’re Ready Apr 17, 2024

13 Wearable Mosquito Repellents That Aren't Smelly Aerosol Sprays Apr 26, 2024

8 Cool Catios for Every Feline, Style and Budget Apr 15, 2024

The Best Flower and Plant Services That Ship Quickly Apr 15, 2024

13 Best Adirondack Chairs for Every Style and Budget Apr 15, 2024

12 Best Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents Apr 15, 2024

The 7 Best Sewing Machines, Tested and Reviewed Apr 12, 2024

Our Honest Review of Caraway’s Best-Selling Cookware Set Apr 12, 2024

105 Best Patio Furniture Buys for Every Style and Budget Apr 12, 2024

20 Dining Room Rugs for Every Style, Size and Budget Apr 12, 2024

Our Top 33 College Graduation Gift Ideas Apr 12, 2024

I Tried the Oura Ring for Four Weeks — Here's How It Changed My Sleep Apr 12, 2024

8 Best Lawn Aerators in 2024 Apr 12, 2024

Beachfront bargain hunt, house hunters: where are they now, get the hgtv today newsletter.

Subscribe now to get our latest decorating tips, household hacks and more delivered to your inbox daily.

By entering your email address, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the Privacy Policy . HGTV and its affiliates may use your email address to provide updates, ads, and offers.

To withdraw your consent or learn more about your rights, see the Privacy Policy .

• HGTV Insider
• HGTV Shopping
• HGTV Makeovers
• HGTV This Week
• HGTV Gardens and Outdoors
• HGTV Daily Sweepstakes Reminder
• HGTV Inspiration
• HGTV Weekend Projects
• Sweepstakes Updates

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.

Related Pages

• 12 Great Beaches Where You Can Pitch a Tent or...
• 28 Garden Tools and Essentials for Year-Round Care
• The Best Beach Chairs for Summer 2023
• 18 Tailgating Essentials to Score for Football...
• These Are the 32 Must-Have Summer Products on...

30 Beach Essentials to Pack for a Stress-Free Day on the Shore

This list includes top-rated beach umbrellas, beach chairs, sunscreen, coolers, and more.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Woman's Day editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The first necessities on your list should be items important for beach safety . Think insulated water bottles to keep you hydrated and cool, sun protection items like hats and umbrellas, and even proper footwear to make sure the kids don't step on anything sharp. Once that's taken care of, start thinking about the items that will make it a fun day. Bring your beach read , a cooler backpack full of your favorite beverages, a comfortable chair , a fun game for the kids, sand toys, and anything else to keep everyone entertained and comfortable. Then, think about how you're packing everything up . You can load up some roomy tote bags or pile everything into a beach wagon, or find another solution.

Luckily, we've thought of it all. All you have to do is click "add to cart" and start dreaming up your beach Instagram captions !

WEKAPO XL Sandproof Beach Blanket

Need more space for your crew? This nylon beach blanket measures 7 feet by 7 feet, so everyone has a spot. It comes with six stakes and folds up into an attached carrying pouch. Best of all, when you're ready to pack up, the sand shakes off easily.

Bumkins Waterproof Wet Dry Bag

Per Reddit commenters , one beach essential you should have on your list is a separate bag to hold wet swimsuits and towels so they don't get everything else soggy. This bag has one compartment for wet items and one compartment for dry items, so everything has a place. Genius!

FURTALK Sun Visor Hat

Sun protection is key when you're spending the day at the beach. This one protects your face and can be worn with your hair in any hairstyle, including a ponytail or topknot. It also rolls up, making it easy to pack for your next beach trip.

Roxy Girls' Rashguard Surf Shirt

Another option for sun protection for the whole family is UV rash guards. Unlike sunscreen, it won't wash off or need reapplying. This one from Roxy is available for kids ranging from toddlers to 16 years old.

SHAKALO SANDSCREEN Sand Removal Bag

This nifty item helps brush sand off everyone's body before they hop in the car. "My husband was skeptical, but this little gadget totally saved our beach trip," wrote one reviewer . "Totally worth it! Small and compact, but got the sand off tiny hands and feet like it was nothing! Everyone kept asking to use it."

F-color Beach Bag

You'll want a beach bag that has plenty of room and won't bring a ton of sand back home. This affordable mesh pick with nine pockets checks both boxes. " This bag has been magical," wrote one reviewer . "The pocket that is water-resistant for your phone or other valuables is great. It has tons of side pockets for sunscreen or water bottles. I can roll up three to four towels and fit them in the bag along with pool toys and snacks."

Sport-Brella SPF 50+ Sun and Rain Canopy Umbrella

This heavy-duty umbrella will keep you shielded from sun and wind all day long. It measures eight feet across and several reviewers note that they were able to fit two to three people, plus dogs and big bags, underneath the canopy.

Utopia Towels Cabana Stripe Beach Towels

If your beach towels have seen better days, upgrade to this set of extra-large cotton beach towels. The set comes with four different colors, so everyone will always know which one is theirs.

Wal-Mart Equate Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen

The last thing you want is to run out of sunscreen when you're at the beach. This 32-oz bottle ensures that there's enough to go around. It's SPF 50, water-resistant, and free of octinoxate and oxybenzone, which makes it reef-friendly. Plus, it's more affordable than many sunscreens. If you know there's no way the kids will stand still long enough for you to apply sunscreen, you can grab the same type of sunscreen in a spray version .

Palterwear Mesh Drawstring Bag With Clip

Another item that should be in your beach bag is a small mesh bag. It's the perfect way for you and the kids to collect shells and interesting rocks without also bringing home a ton of sand. These ones from Amazon come in a set of four and measure 6 inches by 8 inches.

MacSports Collapsible Beach Wagon

If you know there's no way you're getting all your beach essentials — towels, toys, coolers, umbrellas, games, and more — to the beach in a tote bag, consider investing in a beach wagon. This one gets a ton of love from Amazon reviewers thanks to the extra-large wheels that roll easily over sand, the large capacity, and the fact that it folds up compactly. And it's not just for the beach: You can easily transport camping supplies, groceries, sporting equipment, and practically anything else with this little wagon.

EMUST Dog Life Jacket

How adorable is this? If Fido's part of the beach day, put him in this cute doggy life vest. Even if you're not worried about his swimming skills, the bright colors will make it easier to spot him in the water (and seriously, that shark fin is amazing).

Bayside Babe Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a must-have when you're headed to the beach. This Privé Revaux pair has a classic oversized silhouette that will never go out of style. The same pair comes in black or teal if that's more your style.

newppon Floating Waterproof Phone Pouch

Nothing will ruin a beach day like your phone falling victim to the water. This waterproof floating pouch keeps your phone and other essentials like keys and cash safe. It's also possible to safely take this with you if you decide to wade into the water, which can provide some peace of mind if you're nervous about leaving your valuables ashore.

GoSports Slammo Game Set

Kids, teens, and adults alike will have a blast with this beach game that involves bouncing balls back and forth on the net. The set comes with the playing net, three balls, a carrying case, and the official game rules.

Click N' Play Beach Toys for Kids

The little ones in your family will love digging around with the fun molds, rakes, shovels, scoopers, and more. This kit comes with 18 pieces and a mesh carrying bag that makes it easy to transport.

STANLEY 40 oz Tumbler

If you haven't grabbed one of these TikTok-viral cups, consider getting one before your next beach trip. Hydration is important when you're out in the sun all day, after all! It's also insulated, so you can enjoy ice-cold water all day long.

Nuun Hydration Tablets

Staying hydrated is particularly important when you're spending the day running around in the sun. Grab a tube of these electrolyte tablets that can be added to everyone's water bottle for a flavor boost and extra hydration.

Maelstrom Cooler Backpack

Why get a bulky cooler when you can carry this cooler backpack? The insulated backpack can hold up to 35 cans and will keep items cool for up to 16 hours. It also has additional pockets to hold utensils, sunscreen, snacks, or other items.

Horton Party Pack

If you want to be the life of the beach party, bring a box of these canned cocktails made with coconut rum. Flavors include lime soda, pineapple soda, and diet kola. Plus, the whimsical design of these cans is an instant conversation starter!

Jamie Ballard (she/her) is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle, and entertainment topics, including sex and relationships, TV, movies, books, health, pets, food and drinks, pop culture, shopping, and personal finance. She regularly contributes to Cosmopolitan , Woman’s Day , Good Housekeeping , and YouGov, among other publications. When she’s not working, you can find her running, traveling, or scrolling TikTok. Follow her on Twitter .

.css-2lr79s:before{top:1.4rem;left:calc(-50vw + 50%);width:100vw;height:0.0625rem;z-index:-1;content:'';position:absolute;border-top:0.0625rem solid #CDCDCD;} Lifestyle

Prince William and Kate “Are Going Through Hell”

28 Best End-of-Year Teacher Gifts

35 Best Gift Ideas for 2024 Law School Grads

A Full List of Holidays in May

42 Best Medical School Graduation Gifts

50 Best Gifts for Seniors That They'll Really Use

90 Short and Sweet Father's Day Quotes

50 Bible Verses About Mothers

31 Easy Dog Treats You Can Make at Home

25 Powerful Prayers for Healing and Strength

30 Graduation Bible Verses for Faithful Graduates

Seventeen picks products that we think you'll love the most. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

30 Beach Bag Essentials That'll Level-Up Your Summer

Packing up for a day at the beach? Don't forget to take these must-haves with you.

All those things and more ( insulated beach bag , SPF eyeshadow , etc.) are right up ahead on the ultimate list of beach bag essentials. These are all the things you need for a guaranteed fun-as-hell day in the sand, because rolling up with nothing but a towel just isn't it.

Bluboon Mesh Beach Tote Bag with Detachable Cooler

Get you a beach bag that does both: hold your beach essentials and keep them cool.

Sol Coastal Portable Outdoor Beach Table with No-Slip Surface

There's literally no beach experience worse than realizing someone kicked sand into your drink after you've already taken a sip. *Shudders.* Keep your bevs safe from harm on this mini beach table – just stick it right in the sand.

Lands' End Medium Natural 5 Pocket Open Top Canvas Tote Bag

Ahhh, the infamous Lands' End tote. It's preppy, it's spacious, and according to the website, it can (technically) hold up to 500 lbs. You can have them embroider your initials on the front, or add a custom word that's meaningful to you.

Native Sweet Peach & Nectar

Native reigns supreme when it comes to aluminum-free deodorant, so you should totally toss it in your bag when you're headed to the beach this summer. You'll be able to relax on the sand and dive into the ocean without any worries about a greasy application and yucky residue.

IGK x Chamberlain Coffee Direct Flight Dry Shampoo

After a long day of salt water and wind, you'll be glad you packed some dry shampoo for a pre-dinner hair refresh. Voila! Instant heatless volume, courtesy of Emma Chamberlain & IGK.

Peach Slices Redness Relief Calming Cream

The summer sun is a total vibe, but it can be harsh on your skin. Pack a gentle calming cream that counters some of that post-sun redness.

Supergoop! SPF Bestsellers Kit

Supergoop's sunscreen is so silky smooth, you'll actually get excited to put it on. Before you hit the beach, shop this kit, which comes with their cult-favorite Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, an SPF 40 setting spray, and their everyday SPF 50 moisturizer.

Marea Sullivan Dress

Maxi dresses are the perfect swimsuit cover-up, and also the ideal way to go straight from the beach to dinner with minimal getting-ready time in between.

Extra Pink Lemonade Chewing Gum

The ocean breeze is great for your ~beach waves~ but not so great when it ends up leaving a salty taste in your mouth. A stick of chewing gum will do the trick.

Sunnylife Catalina Lovers Picnic Set

Say it with me: END 👏 SINGLE-USE 👏PLASTIC 👏. This reusable cutlery set will go back into its carrying case once you're done, instead of into an overflowing trash can.

Teva Hurricane XLT2

These outdoor-ready sandals were specifically made for active days. Yes, they're cute enough for a grid pic, but they also have a quick-dry fabric and an easy-wash rubber sole.

Kangol Tie Dye Bucket

Double up on sun protection and level-up on style, with a trendy bucket hat.

Ruby Love Period Swimwear One Piece

FYI: your period doesn't actually stop when you get in the water (sorry). Ruby Love makes period-proof suits that will keep you from any accidental leakage, even without a tampon. They're designed for water sports, with an absorbent built-in liner that won't swell up in the water.

COOLA Organic Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30

As someone who burns *literally* every time they leave their house, let me tell you: PROTECT YOUR PART. Spritz on this SPF-packed scalp and hair mist to protect your part.

pbteen The Emily & Meritt Cabana Stripe Beach Towel

Bath towels and beach towels are NOT the same. This 62" towel is long enough for lounging (and, yes, good vibes).

Baggu Standard Baggu

If you have "save the turtles" in your IG bio, you are legally obligated to pick up trash when you go to the beach. (I don't make the rules.) Place items in this washable, reusable tote made from 40% recycled nylon.

Fresh Sugar Spice Tinted Lip Treatment Sunscreen SPF 15

Trust me, this will become your favorite lip balm for all occasions. It's especially beach-appropriate, thanks to the added SPF protection.

Billabong Sincerely Jules Worn Away T-Shirt

Sunscreen is great, but a real cover-up is better. A breezy crop will keep you cool and protect from burns.

PopSockets PopThirst Can Holder

Keep your drink icy cold and secured firmly to your hand (where it belongs).

Sonix Eden Portable Charger

Your phone's gonna be on red after all those bikini pics – charge up with this portable power pank.

Kelsey is Seventeen.com's fashion expert and resident Harry Potter nerd. At the office, she spends her day writing about style, beauty, and literally every move Kylie Jenner makes. On the weekends, you can find her sifting through vintage shops and hunting for the perfect burger. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.

Hannah is the assistant shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things from cute apartment decor to trendy fashion finds, TikTok products that are actually worth your $$$, and the perfect gift to buy for your boyfriend's mom. She previously wrote for Seventeen and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram for hot takes on red carpet fashion and unhinged updates on the books she’s reading on the train. 

Style Advice

15 Actually Cute Bras For Girls D Cup and Larger

17 Easy DIY "Legally Blonde" Costumes

What to Wear to a Summer Concert

The Best Plus-Size Swimsuits on Sale for Prime Day

Top-Rated Backpacks are on Sale for Prime Day

College Outfit Ideas That Don't Scream "Freshman"

25 Cute Matching Couple Outfits Are Actually Cute

FYI: This Viral Bodysuit Is on Sale for Under $27

26 Stunning Homecoming Dresses You'll Love

13 Best Crossbody Bags You'll Love for Travel

34 Unforgettable Group Halloween Costume Ideas

• Updated Terms of Use
• New Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices
• Closed Caption Policy
• Accessibility Statement

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. ©2024 FOX News Network, LLC. All rights reserved. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. Market data provided by Factset . Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions . Legal Statement . Mutual Fund and ETF data provided by Refinitiv Lipper .

20 essentials to bring on your next beach vacation

Here's everything you need for the perfect beach vacation.

Prepare to relax on the beach with everything you need.  (iStock)

Picture it, you’re relaxing on the beach with a cold drink of your choice, and suddenly you feel your worries slip away. A chill vacation with warm sand between your toes can be made even better when you pack the right beach essentials.

Whether you’re going with the whole family, a group of friends or on your own, we’ve got 20 things that will make your beach vacation a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

If you’ve been waiting to book your next vacation to find the best deal, rest assured: Shareit Travel can show you all your flight and lodging options. Sign up today and potentially save up to 50% on your next beach vacation.

Clothes and accessories

Clothes and Accessories

Swimsuit coverup.

Amazon offers an affordable coverup. (Amazon)

Coverups provide the ultimate comfort for a day on the beach, protecting you from getting covered in sand. The popular swim brand, Billabong , has long, flowy coverups for under $60. Amazon also has more affordable options in over a dozen colors.

Long sleeve rash guards make surfing more comfortable.  (Amazon)

Surfers, wakeboarders and everyday swimmers can appreciate a rash guard. They’re waterproof shirts that protect your skin from the water if you’re frequently falling off a surfboard or paddleboard. Quicksilver has unique patterned rash guards for under $50. Amazon also has long-sleeve rash guards in a bunch of different styles for just about $20.

Get one-piece bathing suits in a ton of different colors.  (Amazon)

The perfect swimsuit makes you feel comfortable and suits your style. Women can find unique swimsuit options at swimwear brand, O’Neill for around $80 - $100. Beachgoers on a budget will prefer Amazon’s selection of women’s bathing suits .

Men can find dozens of swimsuit options with different designs at Fair Harbor . You can also find budget options on Amazon for under $20.

Get a nice pair of sandals for cheap on Amazon.  (Amazon)

Although you’ll be barefoot most of your vacation, you need a good pair of sandals to get you from one place to another. You can get women’s waterproof sandals that are colorful and stylish at OluKai or through Amazon .

Men who want simple sandals can find Under Armour sandals on Amazon for under $15. Teva also has more durable sandals for a little more money.

Hawaiian shirt

These stylish Hawaiian shirts provide the ultimate comfort.  (Kenny Flowers)

An oversized Hawaiian shirt blends seamlessly with beach culture. For luxurious options between $80 - $145, Kenny Flowers and California Cowboy offer unique Hawaiian shirts in various colors and designs.

Elephant pants

Elephant pants are light and breathable for ultimate comfort.  (Amazon)

Since you want to fully relax on your beach vacation, comfy clothes are a must. Not much is comfier than elephant pants. You can get dozens of options from Amazon for under $20 or spring for a slightly more luxurious option at Cupshe .

(ShareItTravel)

This beach hat is simple and affordable.  (Amazon )

Sun hats help you from getting a sunburn and add some style to your beach look. Women can find reversible sun hat options from Solbari or simple, cost-effective options from Amazon . Guys looking for hats can find unique options from Salt Life or more basic options through Amazon .

Beach towel

Oversized beach towels make it easier to relax on the beach.  (Sand Cloud)

Soft, durable beach towels make hanging out at the beach more relaxing. Sand Cloud has beautiful beach towels for under $50. Weezie Towels also has oversized beach towels with unique designs.

Carry everything you need in this beach bag. (Amazon )

A good beach bag helps you carry everything from your hotel room to the beach with ease. Find giant, waterproof beach bags from Bogg Bag or grab smaller options for under $20 at Amazon .

Keep everything cold in an easy-to-carry cooler bag.  (Amazon )

Keeping your drinks nice and cold helps cool you off while soaking in the sun. You can get canvas cooler bags that are easy to carry from Sunny Life . Or choose from one of over a dozen designs from Amazon .

Reusable water bottle

Stay hydrated during your beach vacation.  (Amazon )

Staying hydrated in hot climates is important, particularly if your cooler is full of beer. Don’t forget to pack a reusable water bottle from Camelbak for under $20. Amazon also has options that are easy to attach to any backpack or cooler. 

Volleyball set

Beach volleyball is a hugely popular vacation game.  (Amazon )

Volleyball is a classic beach game that doesn’t require much besides a net and a ball, making it easy to take along wherever you’re going on vacation. Find volleyball sets on Amazon or at Dick’s Sporting Goods for under $100.

Collapsible cornhole set

Bring one of America's most popular games to the beach with you.  (Amazon )

Another popular game for the beach is cornhole. Amazon has a collapsible cornhole set that fits into a small carrying case for easy travel. HearthSong also has a collapsible set complete with everything you need to play.

Keep your skin happy and healthy with this natural sunscreen.  (Native)

Whenever you’re out in the sun for long periods of time, you need to apply sunscreen regularly. Since a beach vacation fits that description, make sure you stock up. Walmart had a two-pack you can get for just a couple bucks. Anyone with sensitive skin can find options on Native’s site .

Travel hand sanitizer

Carry sanitizer with you while you travel.  (Amazon)

Hand sanitizer is still a must when traveling. Thankfully, it’s not as difficult to come by as it once was. Amazon has an eight-pack of travel hand sanitizers for under $15. Walmart also has hand sanitizer for just a few dollars.

SPF lip balm

Make sure even your lips are protected from the sun.  (Burt's Bees)

Warm climates lead to chapped lips. To help prevent this, grab some lip balm with SPF protection included. Burt's Bees has an all-weather lip balm with SPF 15 , perfect for beach vacations. Walmart also has a higher SPF lip balm.

Travel shampoo and conditioner

Bring you own shampoo and conditioner when you travel.  (Amazon )

Don’t rely on hotel shampoo and conditioner when you can get nicer options for just a few bucks. Walmart has travel shampoo and conditioners for under $10 and Amazon has name-brand options for just a few dollars more.

Don’t forget other travel toiletries, like a travel-sized toothbrush and mini razor , both of which you can get on Amazon.

Lotion with sun protection

This lotion has added sun protection.  (Amazon)

Do you use lotion frequently? If you do, and you’re going to spend your vacation on the beach, a lotion with added sun protection can help save you from a sunburn. Burts Bees has an SPF 30 lotion for sensitive skin. You can find more generic options at Amazon .

Keep everything clean after you leave the beach.  (Amazon )

Laying on the beach all day is great until you start getting ready to go home and realize you’re completely covered in sand. Wet wipes can help immensely. Walmart has travel-size Wet Wipes you can easily pack in your suitcase. Amazon also has a giant 10-pack of travel Wet Wipes.

Shampoo bottle covers

Make sure you keep your belongings safe by covering your shampoo bottles.  (Amazon )

Save the rest of your luggage from getting ruined by a shampoo or conditioner bottle opening by getting some shampoo bottle covers. Both Walmart and Amazon have multipack shampoo covers for under $10.

For more Deals, visit www.foxnews.com/category/deals

Fun stories about food, relationships, the great outdoors and more.

You've successfully subscribed to this newsletter!

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The 16 Best Beach Bags for Toting Your Sunscreen, Towels, and More

Sunshiny picks ranging from Loewe to L.L.Bean

Compared to your go-to laptop and work bags , the best beach totes are more casual, many with slouchier shapes and whimsical details you may not typically tend toward Monday through Friday. Designer straw bags , breezy baskets , and airy raffia designs are among the most quintessential, often with that Parisian je ne sais quoi that has you ready to escape at a moment’s notice. Similarly, cool crochet carryalls and elevated canvas totes are iconic when waterside, whether you tend toward a classically nautical stripe or multicolored motif for a bolder pop.

The Best Beach Bags & Beach Totes 2024

Best Weekend-to-Work Beach Bag

Stuart weitzman the moda hobo bag.

Best Dolce Vita–Inspired Beach Bag

Gucci medium tote bag with gucci patch.

Best Eco-Friendly Beach Bag

Wallace tote in chevron.

Best Straw Beach Bag

Altuzarra large watermill straw tote in confetti.

Best Printed Beach Bag

Tory burch ella printed tote.

Best Striped Beach Bag

Jw anderson the x-large jwa corner stripe canvas tote.

Best Basket Beach Bag

Loewe large anagram basket tote bag.

Best Water-Resistant Beach Bag

Naghedi medium st. barths tote.

Best Nylon Beach Bag

Isabel marant darwen stripe jacquard tote.

Best Jute Beach Bag

Will & atlas paris stripe jute tote.

Of course, there are the super-durable workhorses you use whenever you’re lugging everything but the kitchen sink, like bags crafted from durable nylon , neoprene, PVC, or mesh. Bonus: These are often water-resistant —you never know when a splash will sneak up on you.

Whether you’re planning vacation outfits down to the last detail or simply seeking a bag destined for sunshiny days, scroll to discover the 16 topping our list, from brands ranging from Loewe to L.L.Bean.

You won’t want to relegate this beach tote to the beach only. While the spacious raffia style is well suited to the sand, the hobo silhouette is elegant enough to wear to the office once your weekend away is over.

Dimensions: 16" D

Materials: Handwoven raffia

What reviewers say: “Love this handbag, extremely soft but resistant at the same time. Great size. Very practical to go from the beach to a walk around and looking stylish. Love the Raffia tone with the tan accents. Great value for the quality. Great job SW.”

Inspired by beach clubs on the Italian coast, this multicolor jute design is a playful take on the classic woven tote—a perfect choice for a getaway.

Dimensions : 11.8" H x 15.7" W x 7.1" D

Materials: Jute with leather trim

Unique handles lend a nontraditional allure to this tote bag, which nods to classic nautical style. It’s also made from recycled plastic bottles and is incredibly durable.

Dimensions : 16.5" L at base x 22.4" L at top x 5.3" W x 12.6" H

Materials: Recycled plastic bottles

What reviewers say : “I’m using it for the beach since it can hold a towel, fan, books, sunscreen... Huge, washable, light....LOVE It!”

All your beach essentials will be secure in Altuzarra’s modern take on the woven tote, featuring a unique cage design crafted from leather. Though multicolor, the straw appears almost neutral, meaning it stands out but can still go with whatever bikini you choose.

Dimensions : 12.5" H x 8" W x 4" D

Materials: Straw and leather

Why not shake things up with a version featuring colorful print? The rope design boasts a timeless maritime feel while looking fresh as ever in green.

Dimensions : 13" H x 17.1" L x 5.1" D

Materials: Outer shell: 100% recycled polyester with faux leather trim; lining: 100% recycled polyester

What reviewers say: “I purchased this bag to use as a stylish pool/beach bag. It looks great, has two internal compartments (one zippered) to keep me organized, and its soft nylon fabric does well if it gets damp. Bonus points for being lightweight and quite packable and for having a leather covered magnetic closure on top. In short, I love it!”

What canvas totes offer in durability, they can sometimes lack in aesthetics. But not in this case: The ultra-spacious design is just the right size for fitting a towel, snacks, and change of clothes, with a captivatingly bold blue-and-white stripe motif.

Dimensions : 15" H x 16.5" W x 9" D

Materials: Textile with leather trim

Loewe’s collaboration with iconic boutique Paula’s Ibiza resulted in this, the perfect vacation bag.

Dimensions : 13.3" H x 24.6" W x 7.8" D

Materials: Iraca palm and leather

Naghedi’s St. Barths water-resistant tote is quickly becoming a cult favorite among the fashion set, as it’s incredibly practical yet sleek.

Dimensions : 10.5"H x 12" W x 7" D

Materials: Terylene

What reviewers say : “Great tote! Strong & packable.”

Vibrant multicolor stripes are just the thing for a long summer weekend. The nylon fabric is durable indeed, while the wide straps are long enough to sit over your shoulder—so key when you’re trudging through the sand.

Dimensions : 12.5" H x 16" W x 8" D

Materials: Nylon

Will & Atlas Paris Stripe Jute Tote

A striped carryall has long been a staple for the beach. Will & Atlas’s take looks expensive, but comes in at just $125.

Dimensions : 15" H x 21" W x 9.5" D

Materials: Jute

What reviewers say : “I carry this all summer. It’s light, machine washable and holds everything—laptop included. A little bit of graphic Parisian stripe complements most outfits.”

Valentino Garavani Resort Large Mermaid Canvas Tote Bag

A cotton carryall unlike any other, this bag with a mermaid theme is a standout. Shoulder straps and a softly structured silhouette ensure it is both bold and functional.

Dimensions : 12.9" H x 18.5" W x 7.8" D

Materials: Cotton

Saint Laurent Panier Medium Basket Bag

We love a vinyl bag when we’re waterside. And it doesn’t get more luxe than Saint Laurent’s take on the water-resistant look.

Dimensions : 9.3–19.3" x 12.8" x 3.9–5.9"

Materials: Vinyl with vegetable-tanned leather trim

Zimmermann Large Striped Jacquard Tote Bag

This pastel-striped canvas shopper is as sturdy as it is sweet.

Dimensions : 19.1" H x 15.6" W x 11.4" D

Materials: Cotton canvas

3.1 Phillip Lim Mesh Market Tote Bag

Calling all beach goths. Here’s a black bag that’s perfect for stowing your beach necessities. The mesh will let sand through, so you may want to keep your small items in a pouch to protect them.

Dimensions : 21" H x 18.5" W x 9" D

Materials: Mesh polyester

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

There’s a reason L.L.Bean’s Boat and Tote remains a favorite among men and women alike. The canvas is durable, and the range of sizes, from mini to XL, means you can find the space for your beachy necessities.

Dimensions : 15" H x 17" W x 7.5" D

Materials: Canvas

What reviewers say: "I've owned well over 15 L.L. Bean Boat and Totes in various sizes. These rugged and heavy-duty totes are by far the most durable and the best tote bags on the market."

MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote Deluxe

Lightweight yet incredibly sturdy (the carryall double whammy), MZ Wallace’s nylon totes are a staple when you’re toting everything but the kitchen sink. Don’t let this large size fool you—it’s easily packable for a vacation, too.

Dimensions: 14.5" H x 11" W x 14.5" L

Materials: Nylon with leather trim

What reviewers say : “It is a perfect size for travel and it fits under the airplane seat. I especially like how lightweight the bag is.”

.css-p3fpzg{font-family:NewParisTextBook,NewParisTextBook-roboto,NewParisTextBook-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:-0.015rem;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-p3fpzg b,.css-p3fpzg strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-p3fpzg em,.css-p3fpzg i{font-style:normal;font-family:NewParisTextItalic,NewParisTextItalic-roboto,NewParisTextItalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;} Why trust Harper’s Bazaar ?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.

The Edit: Fashion

15 Best Designer Travel Bags

20 Comfortable Clogs to Wear Everywhere

The 15 Best Crossbody Bags for Travel

15 Best Summer Sneakers You Can Wear All Day

Shop Gisele Bündchen–Approved Walking Sneakers

9 Best Hoka Shoes for Walking

The 15 Best Crochet Tote Bags for Summer

27 Excellent T-Shirts You Won’t Want to Take Off

12 Travel Pants for Women on Long Flights

The 12 Best Garment Bags to Travel In Style

24 Spring Sneakers to Shop for 2024