1. Tanning oil or lotion.
I personally like to use Banana Boat's tanning oil with a little SPF so I don't fry myself, but still get that glowing tan I like. I prefer to use SPF 15 on long days at the beach and SPF 8 when I'm feeling a little risky or only have an hour in the sun.
2. Self-Tanner.
What's that, you're working all summer? No time for the beach? No problem, that's what self-tanning products are for. Tan Towels are my go-to. You just rub the towel on your skin and a nice glowing tan appears in just a couple hours and lasts for a few of days. How can you beat that?
3. A pitcher and cup set.
What better way than to prepare drinks for you and your friends by having a giant pitcher with a nozzle at the bottom for sharing? Make sure you get a whole set with cups and stirrers to make your favorite summer time drink for that poolside barbecue.
4. Hair lighteners.
If you're a blonde, go John Frieda on your hair and lighten it up! I like to use the shampoo and conditioner and save myself from getting expensive highlights. If you're a brunette, find another way to brighten up your hair for the summer, like lemon juice!
5. A wet brush.
Nothing gets out knots from a gnarly day at the beach like a wet brush. Whether your hair is drenched from salty water or chlorine-concentrated water, the wet brush can untangle those nasty knots that bring back horrid memories of your mom ripping away at your hair with a brush when you were a little kid.
6. A s'mores kit.
For those summer nights by the bonfire, you're going to need a set of sticks, marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers. You can't have a bonfire without s'mores. They are easy, fun and delicious!
7. Your favorite go-to summer sundress.
This is the dress that you can dress up or down for any occasion. You can either wear it to the beach, or dress it up for a night out to dinner or a friend's pool party. It's your go-to dress that you can always rely on and know looks good on you.
8. Bug spray.
Nothing is more irritating or gross than having a million mosquito bites all over your arms and legs. I think we've all been there; having at least 20 red and annoyingly itchy welts all over your body. Wear bug spray. If you're like me and hate the smell, get those wristbands that repel the bugs away. Don't want to spend money? Grab dryer sheets from your laundry room and tuck them in your jean pockets before spending the night outside. Works like a charm.
9. A selfie stick.
Yes, I said it, and yes, they are obnoxious at times. But what better way to capture you and all your friends hanging out at the beach or enjoying a summer concert? If you are going on vacation, you can document it with videos and make a sick summer vacation film to show your friends and family when you get home. Stick out that stick and take a pic!
10. A waterproof phone case.
You need a waterproof phone case or even a life-proof one if you plan on keeping your phone un-damaged for the summer. I like to use the new LifeProof phone case that came out, which allows you to touch your actual screen but keeps it completely waterproof, sand-proof, dirt-proof, and anything else that comes along with summer!
Now get out there, get your essentials, and have a safe and fun summer!
