We all know the basics: SPF, sunnies, a cute towel, maybe a cooler full of La Croix and snacks that melt in five seconds. But as someone who takes her beach days seriously (think romanticizing your walk to the water like it’s a scene in a Nancy Meyers film), I’ve learned that there are a few lesser-known items that can seriously level up your shoreline experience.
Here are 5 essentials to throw in your beach bag that you might not have thought of—but once you do, you’ll never beach the same way again.
5 Beach Day Essentials You Didn’t Know You Needed
1. A Travel-Sized Bottle of Baby Powder
Hear me out—baby powder = the end of sandy feet chaos. A quick sprinkle before getting in the car, and the sand literally falls off. It’s witchcraft. Your car, your sandals, and your dignity will thank you.
2. A Portable Phone Fan (Yes, They Exist)
Plug this tiny fan into your phone’s charging port, and boom—you’re the breeziest babe on the beach. It’s perfect for when the air is dead still, you’re sweating, and you’re trying to finish that beach read without spontaneously combusting.
3. A Spray Bottle of Water + Aloe Mix
DIY after-sun magic. Keep it chilled in your cooler and give yourself a mist mid-sizzle. It’s refreshing, smells good, and prevents the post-beach “I am a walking tomato” crisis.
4. A Clip-On Umbrella Hook or Towel Weight
No more chasing your towel down the beach like a lunatic. These little gadgets keep your stuff from flying away. Game Changer!
5. A Pair of Cheap Slides (That You Don’t Care About)
The hot sand will test your patience and your arch support. Toss a $5 pair of slides or flip-flops in your bag and thank yourself later. Bonus: they double as makeshift fans, mini paddles, or a way to carry snacks to your friends without sinking.
A great beach day isn’t just about the vibes—it’s about the prep. These five little add-ons may not be on your typical packing list, but trust me, once you bring them down to the sand, you’ll wonder how you ever survived without them.
Now go forth, beach smarter, and keep the sand where it belongs—anywhere but in your car seats.
