17 Beach Bag Essentials for Your Next Coastal Getaway

Hey there beach lovers!

If you’re anything like me, you’re counting down the days until you can kick off those shoes, sink your toes in the sand, and soak up some serious sunshine. But let’s not forget the most important part of any beach day: the beach bag essentials!

Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way that a well-packed tote can make all the difference between a day of fun in the sun and a borderline-disaster. So grab your favorite straw hat and let’s dive into 17 must-have beach bag essentials!

Beach Bag Essentials: What to Pack in a Beach Bag

These beach bag necessities will help your day in the sun run smoothly so you can focus on relaxing and making memories! From trips to kid-friendly beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast to the sandy shorelines of California, we’ve got you covered.

Read on to check out a complete list of all the things you need for the beach.

1. Sunscreen

This might be the #1 beach bag essential you don’t want to forget! We love this Badger Sunscreen because it is mineral based and goes on smoothly.

*Pro-tip: Set your phone alarm to go off every hour to remind you to reapply!

N/A

2. Beach Towels

We love this oversized beach towel because it is incredibly soft and comes in the best beachy colors. Pick a different color for every family member to easily remember which towel belongs to which person!

N/A

3. Beach Blanket

A large beach blanket is the perfect place to lounge with a good book. These blankets are sand and water resistant, machine washable and fold up very small for packing in your beach bag.

N/A

4. Sun Hat

Sun hats are one of the top beach bag essentials that will help protect you from the sun’s harsh rays.  Plus, it has the bonus of adding style to your vacation aesthetic. I love the shape and fit of the Lanzom wide brim straw hat.

N/A

5. Sunglasses

No beach style is complete without a great pair of shades! I recommend a budget-friendly pair like this one from Sojos so you don’t have to worry about your nice sunglasses getting damaged by the sand and water.

N/A

6. Swimsuit

One of the main things you need for the beach is a swimsuit! Choose a swimsuit that is flattering, yet lets you move and play freely. I have had great luck with the Cupshe brand for a quality, cute suit at an affordable price. This one is my personal favorite that I wear all the time!

N/A

7. Swimsuit Coverup

A great cover-up can be the perfect addition to your beach aesthetic. This crochet cover-up works with any swimsuit and will keep you comfortable going to and from the beach.

N/A

8. Battery-Powered Fan

If you are heading to the beach in the heat of the summer, you’ll want a battery-powered fan to keep you cool. This fan is a great option since it can easily wrap around an umbrella handle or sit on a cooler.

N/A

9. Beach Umbrella or Tent

Beach umbrellas and tents can be a nice reprieve from the sun. Make sure the one you choose gets high reviews for durability and that it can easily anchor to the ground.

N/A

10. Water Bottle

Choose a water bottle that is spill-proof and well insulated to keep your drink cold. We love the Hydro Flask since it is stainless steel and has lasted us for years! A good water bottle will help you stay hydrated which is especially important when you are basking in the sun all day.

N/A

11. Snacks

Who doesn’t love good beach snacks?! Our favorite way to snack at the beach is by filling a snackle box with a variety of salty and sweet foods, as well as healthy protein. This snackle box we use is so cute and is even waterproof, making it perfect for packing in a cooler.

Check out our snackle box ideas guide to read all about the best snack options to include in your snackle box!

N/A

12. First Aid Kit

This is one of those things that you don’t need until the one time you don’t bring it. Am I right?? Having a first aid kit on hand can save a trip back to your vacation rental if you need treatment for minor scrapes and bruises.

N/A

13. Sporting Equipment

Add extra fun to your beach day by bringing a game of Spikeball! This is a fun, active game for the whole family that can easily be played on the beach. Other ideas include a football, volleyball, or frisbee.

N/A

14. A Good Book

If you’re a reader like me,  you know there is nothing better than reading a book with your toes in the sand while the waves crash in front of you. It simply can’t be beat! So grab a book from your genre of choice and pack it in your beach bag.

N/A

15. Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Have a beach playlist ready to go on your phone prior to your tip, then simply connect this waterproof bluetooth speaker to round out your beach vibes!

N/A

16. Shell Bags

If you enjoy collecting shells on your trip to the beach, these shell bags will be perfect for you! The mesh material allows water and sand to easily fall through, keeping your belongings clean and dry. Our kids loved using these to collect shells during our recent trip to 30a in Florida.

N/A

17. Waterproof Phone Pouch

Keep your phone free from sand and water with a clear, waterproof phone pouch. You can even use these for your wallet and keys! 

N/A

Free Printable Beach Bag Checklist PDF

We love making your trip preparation as easy as possible. Enter your email below to download our complete beach bag necessities checklist. Then, print the PDF and store it in a pocket of your beach bag for easy access!

Choosing a Beach Bag

Finally, let’s talk about the beach bag itself.

We all know the value of a great bag, right? For your beach tote you will want to choose one that is waterproof, the right size for your family, and durable. 

Check out the post of our favorite waterproof beach bags that blend functionality with style.

Beach Bag Essentials Summary

And there you have it, friends! With these beach bag essentials, you’re all set for a sun-soaked adventure that’s as stylish as it is stress-free.

Remember, a little preparation goes a long way as you think about what to pack in a beach bag. So pack smart, protect your skin, and most importantly, soak in every moment of that salty sea-breeze and golden sunshine. Until next time!

Read More Beach Trip Planning Resources:

• Top 10 Family-Friendly Beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast
• The Only Beach Vacation Packing List You’ll Ever Need
• Top Picks for the Best Family Beach Bags
• 13 Best Things to Do on 30A for an Unforgettable Trip
• Best Time to Visit Anna Maria Island for Perfect Weather and Less Crowds
• Martha’s Vineyard vs. Nantucket: Which Island Should You Visit?
• Beach Essentials for Toddlers {What You Actually Need}