Last Updated on July 31, 2024 by Angela Vaz
I recently went to the beach and I had such a good time.
But I realized that there were many things I missed apart from sunscreen (which I always carry).
So, I got back home and immediately ordered all of those.
And now, I’m ready for my next beach trip!
In this post, I’ll cover the must-haves.
Some of these will surprise you!
So, let’s get started!
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1. A secret compartment
It’s quite unfortunate, but people do flick your stuff at the beach.
And I’ve found it’s best to always keep my valuables in a secret compartment so that it doesn’t attract any unnecessary attention.
So, I have 2 items that I keep, one is this water bottle that has a secret compartment underneath.
You can fill it with water so it doesn’t look suspicious. It can even fit in your dashboard. And it is the most useful item I have in my car.
Second, is this scrunchy that comes with a secret pocket.
If you have a wad of cash or anything else you don’t want to leave in your beach bag – then this is super useful because you can quite literally keep it on your hair in a ponytail!
2. Portable charger
I quite literally never go anywhere without my portable charger.
My phone battery has died at critical moments and I never want to feel vulnerable or helpless.
So, I ALWAYS carry my portable charger – I keep 2 (one at home to charge) and it helps me feel safe and secure.
3. Sand-free Mat
I discovered this sand-free mat very recently.
It’s patented technology, believe it or not. So, it’s expensive but it’s a one-time purchase and I guarantee it’s worth it.
This mat allows dust/sand to fall through without it coming back up. And trust me, this is a life-changer!
It’s machine-washable and rolls up quite nicely so it’s extremely portable!
Check out the sand-free mat here!
4. Hand-held mini fan
If you are going to a very hot beach, this is so useful.
I usually have one in my bag because I live in a tropical climate but this something I bought only after seeing so many people buying it.
It’s quite budget-friendly and it lasts forever.
5. Portable Bluetooth speaker (waterproof and sand proof)
Since my partner plays a lot of sports, I actually quite enjoy having a Bluetooth speaker.
Just make sure your beach allows it and it’s not against the rules.
It was the best decision of my life.
I now draw and write for a living and couldn’t be happier.
6. Waterproof phone pouch for your phone
I saw a friend lose their phone because they were not careful about the water.
And it really hurts to see your phone stop working especially because it’s the most expensive item we have on us when we’re going out.
So, please ensure your phone is safe from the water – you never know what to expect at the beach!
7. Waterproof wet bag (reusable)
I actually only realized I needed this after we changed out of our wet clothes.
Up until then, I just dumped all our clothes in a plastic bag.
But this is honestly a game-changer.
I like that it’s reusable and you can just toss your swimsuit in there without worrying about leakage.
8. Sunscreen and Aloe vera Gel
I never leave the house without sunscreen, but to the beach, I carry extra SPF to be protected.
Since my partner is very prone to skin burns (he’s half Scottish), I carry aloe vera gel to soothe the burns.
It’s quite useful if you have kids/family members who burn easily under the sun.
9. Beach Bag with Cooler Compartment
My partner likes his water cold.
And when the beach is hot, you genuinely crave cool drinks.
So, a beach bag with a cooler compartment like this is perfect if you don’t want your drinks getting warm.
10. Reusable water bottle with filter
I actually bought this when I was traveling abroad and it’s been so handy!
Drinking water is something we take for granted.
But when you’re really thirsty, this bottle will help filter water from any source.
And it’s quite literally something that everybody should carry in their bag no matter where they’re going.
11. Mini First-Aid Kit
Safety first.
I never leave the house without pepper spray (especially when I’m traveling alone) or a first-aid kit.
It feels silly but these things are unpredictable.
Especially if you get a cut or a bruise at the beach – and the chances of it happening are higher than you think.
So, please always be safe and carry a first aid kit.
I loved this one because this has a nice hook that you can attach to your beach bag itself.
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