How To Pack the Perfect Beach Bag

Like anything in life, it takes planning.  From something as large as a wedding to something as small as a beach bag, it takes planning or your experience may be less than you expected.  What you bring to the beach is not simply a grab and go business. The idea is to get there and whatever happens, you do not need to leave your spot or cut your beach time short because you have what you need in your bag.

First, you need to buy a beach bag.  Make sure it is big enough for all your things because you don't want to look like a bellhop.  Keep it simple...one bag.  A good beach bag can be found at most department stores and specialty shops. Make sure the bag is tough enough to carry all your things and do the job many times over, meaning it is durable and is not going kaput after one use.

Put the following items in the bag: beach towels, cover-up or light jacket, swimsuit (or put it on before you get there), flip-flops or sandals, books or magazines, sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), aloe vera (you just never know), sunglasses, hat, snacks, beverages, MP3 player (ipod or whatever you have for music), cell phone (fully charged), wallet or purse with cash/credit cards, a change of clothes (including underwear). Optional items to bring to make the day extra awesome include, a beach chair, beach umbrella, and beach toys or sporting goods.  This is a basic list of things to bring.  You can add whatever else you feel is necessary.

You need to remember to bring more than one towel because one is for sitting on and the other is to dry yourself off with. Nothing worse than not having enough towels...it is very inconvenient.  Don't forget to include an insulated bag to keep your food and snacks cool if refrigeration is necessary. Insulated bottles are good too to keep your beverages cold.

This is why the beach bag needs to be big.  Here is a tip...if you put the towels at the bottom of the bag it will help you get everything else in a little easier.  Now you are ready to go!