I can be found at Sydney’s Balmoral Beach most days in summer and it’s one of my favourite ways to spend a day out with my family. And while a great beach day is fun, having two kids in tow also means that I need to be prepared with a well-stocked beach bag.
I like to be prepared for lazing about on the sand, but also for wherever the day may take us so it means I always have a few key things on hand at all times. Here’s what I often take with me…
A big tote
I always carry a nice roomy tote to the beach as it’s perfect for throwing everyone’s things in it. There are so many gorgeous beach bags out now whether it’s made of canvas or straw so shop around and find one that perfectly suits your lifestyle.
Beach towel
The bigger the better! I like a nice, big fluffy beach towel. I always need to be able to spread out my things and I like being able to lay down without having my feet hanging off into the sand so space is a necessity.
Sunglasses
I usually opt for a pair that has larger lenses so I can be guaranteed extra coverage throughout the day. I’m quite militant about wearing sunglasses to protect my eyes in summer so I always invest in the best quality I can.
Sunscreen
Believe it or not I bring three different kinds! One for the body, one specifically for the face and a kids’ sunscreen for the girls.
Lipgloss with SPF
I like a multitasking lip gloss with a built in SPF. The sun can be quite dehydrating so I like one that I can use as a moisturiser but can protect me at the same time.
A wide brimmed hat is a necessity
A wide brimmed hat
I am all about protecting my face from the sun’s rays so I definitely always pack a wide brimmed hat in my beach tote. A beautiful straw hat is my go-to.
Plain one piece or bikini
My swimsuits tend to be in plain block colours a lot of the time as I’m not really into wearing too many prints. I go for navy as it’s classic but I’ve also got swimmers in black, khaki and cream.
Waterproof watch
I’m a watch girl so I always wear a watch to the beach. The only mandatory is that it be waterproof. There are so many great, inexpensive watches out there now so I’ve found some great options that will survive a day in the sun.
Sandals
I like to take a pair of sandals that I can slip on and off quite easily. I hate having to deal with multiple straps when I know I’ll have to be in and out of them the whole day.
Sarong
I always bring a cover up of some sort so I can pop it on really quickly if I need to grab lunch or a drink for the girls. I like anything lightweight (linen is good!), airy and really uncomplicated – I just need to be able to take it on and off quite easily.
What are some of your beach essentials?