There’s nothing quite like a day at the beach – the sun, the sand, and the sound of the waves lapping against the shore. But while the beach may be a relaxing getaway, packing for it can be a bit of a challenge. Finding the perfect balance between practicality and style, while making sure you don’t forget any of your essentials, requires a bit of know-how. Enter the humble beach tote bag – your all-in-one solution for carrying everything you need for a fun, stress-free day at the shore.
To help you pack like a pro and keep everything organised and accessible, we’ve put together this ultimate guide to packing a beach tote. From sunscreen to snacks, books to towels, here’s how to pack efficiently for a day of sun and relaxation.
1. Start with the Right Beach Tote
Before we dive into what to pack, it’s important to choose the right beach tote. Look for a bag that’s spacious enough to fit all your essentials but not so large that you end up throwing in unnecessary items. Ideally, it should have multiple compartments or pockets to help keep everything organised. A sturdy, water-resistant fabric like canvas or nylon is perfect for the beach, as it can handle sand, water, and the occasional spilled drink.
Some great features to look for in a beach tote include:
- A zippered main compartment for keeping valuables safe and secure.
- External pockets for easy access to items like your phone, keys, and sunscreen.
- A waterproof lining to protect your items from water or damp towels.
- A removable base insert to help maintain the bag’s shape and prevent it from sagging when filled.
Once you have the perfect bag, it’s time to organise your essentials.
2. Pack the Beach Essentials
Sunscreen and Sun Protection
No beach day is complete without proper sun protection. Be sure to pack your sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and any other sun protection you may need, such as a wide-brimmed hat or sunglasses. It’s best to keep your sunscreen in an easily accessible pocket or section of your tote, so you can reapply as needed without having to dig around. Consider opting for a reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and the environment.
For extra sun protection, include a lightweight sarong or beach cover-up. This will come in handy if you want to cover up for a stroll or while grabbing a bite to eat at a beachside café.
Towels and Beach Blankets
When it comes to towels, pack at least one large beach towel per person. If you’re planning on lounging, it’s always a good idea to bring a beach blanket, too. Microfibre towels are a great choice as they’re lightweight, absorbent, and quick-drying. Roll your towels up tightly to save space, or use a towel pouch that keeps everything neatly folded and organised.
Water and Snacks
A day at the beach can work up quite an appetite, so don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle. Staying hydrated is key, especially in the sun, and a good-sized bottle will ensure you’re never far from a refreshing sip. You might also want to pack a small cooler bag (or a section of your tote for cool packs) to keep drinks and snacks chilled.
For snacks, think easy-to-carry options like granola bars, nuts, or fresh fruit. Zip-lock bags or small reusable containers are perfect for keeping everything fresh and free from sand.
Books, Magazines, and Entertainment
If you’re someone who loves to unwind with a book by the sea, don’t forget to bring one. Choose lightweight paperbacks or waterproof reading material to avoid soggy pages. If you prefer a bit of music or a podcast, make sure your headphones are within easy reach – a small pocket on the inside of your tote will do the trick. And for beach games, you can pack a frisbee, a beach ball, or even a portable speaker (just remember to be mindful of others).
3. Organise with Pouches and Bags
To avoid the dreaded "tote chaos," use pouches or smaller bags inside your tote to keep everything organised and easy to find. Mesh pouches are ideal for items like sunscreen, lip balm, and your phone. They allow sand to fall through but keep everything else safe and contained.
For valuables like your phone, wallet, and keys, use a waterproof zip pouch to protect them from moisture and sand. If your tote doesn’t have any built-in compartments, this is an essential step in keeping your items safe and secure.
4. Keep Your Phone and Electronics Protected
Electronics and the beach don’t always mix well, but with the right protection, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Consider packing a waterproof phone case to safeguard your device from water, sand, and sun damage. You might also want to bring a portable charger so your phone stays powered up for photos, maps, or music throughout the day.
If you plan to take a lot of pictures, waterproof bags for your camera, GoPro, or any other gadgets will ensure they stay dry and safe.
5. Don’t Forget the Beauty Essentials
While the beach is all about relaxation, that doesn’t mean you can’t still feel your best. Pack a light facial mist to refresh yourself throughout the day, and consider a hydrating body lotion for after your swim. Hand sanitiser is always a good idea to have on hand for those moments when soap and water aren’t nearby.
If you’re planning to stay for the entire day, bring along makeup essentials like waterproof mascara or a tinted lip balm. Just be sure to pack them in a sealed bag or pouch to avoid spills.
6. Bonus: Extra Items You Might Need
Depending on your day at the beach, there are a few extra items you may want to bring along:
- A hat or cap for extra sun protection.
- Flip-flops or sandals for easy footwear.
- A beach umbrella or pop-up tent for shade.
- A beach chair if you prefer not to sit on the sand.
- Wet wipes for quick clean-ups or sand removal.
7. Pack Light, Pack Smart
The key to packing a beach tote like a pro is keeping it simple. Stick to the essentials, and avoid over-packing. Remember, everything you bring should have a purpose, whether it’s for comfort, protection, or entertainment. The best beach totes balance size and functionality, so make sure yours has enough room for all your essentials, but isn’t so big that it becomes cumbersome.
Conclusion
With a well-packed beach tote, you’ll be ready to enjoy your day at the shore without worrying about forgotten essentials or a messy bag. The secret lies in organisation – use smaller pouches for your items, choose multi-functional pieces like a large towel that doubles as a blanket, and always have your sun protection easily accessible. With these tips, you’ll not only be prepared for a day of fun in the sun but will also look like a beach style pro while doing it. So, grab your tote, pack smart, and head to the beach for a day of relaxation!
