There is nothing better than those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer after a long semester full of essays, tests, and labs. By the time June rolls around, I cannot wait to pack up the car and head out to a relaxing weekend at the beach. For hassle-free packing, check out my list of essentials that will make your vacation the best it can be.
1. Woven Beach Tote.
When a new beach bag is needed, my motto is “Go big or go home.” This bucket-style bag will fit everyone’s essentials without making you look like a pack horse in the process. The pompom detailing and bright color makes this a practical accessory for your summer wardrobe.
2. Cooler Tote.
A stylish alternative to your Igloo cooler, this insulated tote can hold up to twelve cans or four large bottles. After vacation save this bag for a picnic with friends or add it to the pile of essentials to take back to school.
3. Panama Hat.
The Panama hat is the ultimate upgrade to your floppy hat. You will stand out from the crowd in this timeless piece while fighting off the sun’s glaring rays.
4. Turkish Towel.
You will never go back to your old beach towel after trying out the Turkish variant. Made of 100% cotton, this counterpart soaks up just as much water but dries more quickly. In addition to being lightweight and compact, the endless color options guarantee you'll be able to find one that's a perfect match for your swimsuit.
5. Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Lotion.
This is a must-have for anyone's beach bag. This product combines the cooling relief of Aloe Vera with moisturizing lotion to bring your skin back to its full potential. Say goodbye to that summertime sunburn sadness and, more importantly, those raccoon cheeks.
6. A Good Read.
There is nothing I look forward to more than settling down on the beach with a good book in hand. My current recommendation is The Royal We by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan, a tale based on the story of Prince William and Kate Middleton’s relationship. Don’t let the 400-page count scare you away, this witty tale is a real page-turner.
7. Mirrored Sunglasses.
Summer is all about adding color to your wardrobe and blue lenses make these shades pop (and match everything in your closet).
8. Waterproof Speakers.
Everyone spends time curating the perfect summer playlist, and this speaker is the ideal way to showcase your work. A waterproof exterior opens to a padded interior that has an aux cord for your iPod. Never again will you live in fear of water damage spoiling your sunny day. My top songs for easy listening are:
- "California Girls" - The Beach Boys
- "House Party" - Sam Hunt
- "Somebody To You" - The Vamps
- " Dog Days Are Over" - Florence + The Machine
9. Spiked Cup Holder.
While not the most necessary item on the list, these cup holders are a fun way to keep your drink nearby and the sand where it belongs.
10. Cover Up.
The perfect cover up will also double as a dress, allowing you to seamlessly transition from the beach to going out in public without an outfit change. Add pompoms or tassels and you have one of summer's hottest trends.
