Buzz
A beach getaway can be incredibly enjoyable and relaxing, don’t you think? However, without proper preparation, your fun time might turn into a literal pain – especially if you forget to bring sunscreen. Your upcoming beach trip will be much more enjoyable if you take a few days to get everything ready.
Steps
Packing Essentials for the Trip
Choose appropriate clothing. Pack the swimsuit you’ve picked out and a change of clothes. The extra outfit is for wearing on your way back home, so you won’t have to stay in wet, sandy clothes.
- Additionally, make sure to select outfits that you’ll feel comfortable wearing all day long.
- Having a change of clothes is especially handy if you plan to go somewhere after leaving the beach.
- Don’t forget suitable footwear. Bring sandals and water shoes if you plan to venture further into the ocean, ensuring you’re prepared for various activities.
Protect your body from the sun. You certainly don’t want your trip ruined by a severe sunburn. Moreover, shielding your skin from the sun helps maintain a youthful appearance and prevents skin cancer.
- Start with sunscreen that has a minimum SPF of 15. Check the label to ensure it blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Don’t forget lip balm with SPF to protect your lips. Reapply sunscreen and lip balm regularly, especially after sweating or swimming.
- Wear sun-protective clothing. Hats and sunglasses cover most of your face and eyes, but a long-sleeved cover-up offers extra protection. If you prefer not to wear a cover-up, sit under a beach umbrella or a shaded tent.
Bring a mat or towel to sit on. A beach chair or towel works, but remember to use one towel for sitting and another for drying off. If you choose a plastic chair, bring an extra towel to drape over it to prevent it from getting too hot when not in use. You can also bring an old blanket if you don’t mind it getting sandy.
- Another option is a fitted sheet from a double bed. You can place items like backpacks and coolers in the corners to create a cozy barrier for your group.
Prepare a first aid kit. While you hope no one gets hurt, a basic first aid kit will give you peace of mind in case of minor injuries. You can buy a pre-made kit or assemble your own.
- Ensure the kit includes band-aids, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, a thermometer, and anti-diarrheal medication. You might also want to include antihistamines.
- Pack various types of bandages, including adhesive bandages, gauze rolls, and medical tape. Also, include items like antiseptic wipes, hydrocortisone cream, latex-free gloves, and an elastic bandage.
- Don’t forget to bring any over-the-counter medications you regularly use.
Bring a waterproof or water-resistant bag. You’ll need a safe place to store your valuables away from water and sand. Choose a waterproof bag for your wallet and phone. Keep your valuables onshore to avoid losing or damaging them while swimming.
- Another tip is to clean out an old sunscreen bottle and hide small items inside to prevent theft and keep them dry.
- You can also store electronic devices in resealable plastic bags for added safety.
- Use a mesh bag for beach toys to let sand fall through and return to the beach. Store all food in a cooler.
Plan activities for your trip
Prepare group activities. If you’re traveling with a group, bring along games that everyone can enjoy. For example, a waterproof deck of cards is perfect for beach fun if it’s not too windy. You can also bring compact board games with minimal pieces. Games like Twister are ideal for beach settings.
- Don’t forget toys for the kids in the group. Simple items like buckets, shovels, and other inexpensive toys are all you need. The children will have a blast playing with sand and water.
Don’t forget music. Music is a fantastic way to keep everyone entertained. A simple option is to bring a battery-powered waterproof radio, like the kind used in bathrooms. Alternatively, you can use a waterproof Bluetooth speaker to play music from your phone.
Plan solo activities. While lounging on a chair is enjoyable, you might also want some personal entertainment. For instance, bring a captivating paperback book. A beach trip is the perfect time to dive into a good read.
- If you prefer e-books, ensure your device is readable in bright sunlight and bring a charger if needed. Also, pack a phone charger. Store your e-reader in a resealable plastic bag for safety.
- You can also bring brain-teasing books like puzzle or Sudoku books to keep your mind sharp.
Pack snacks. If you plan to spend hours on the beach, you’ll need drinks and snacks. Keep it simple with easy-to-eat foods. Avoid anything that requires elaborate setup, as it might get sandy.
- Great snack options include fruits, granola bars, veggie sticks, and bottled water. Avoid sugary sodas, as they can dehydrate you.
- For a full-day trip, consider packing lunch. While a cooler is an option, it’s best to choose non-perishable items like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
- Bring a small trash bag. Finding a trash bin on the beach can be challenging.
- Pack wet wipes to clean your hands before and after eating.
Find your spot on the beach. Once you arrive, claim a spot to set up. Arriving early is a good idea, as the beach will be less crowded, and you’ll have a better chance of securing a prime location.
- Choose an area close to the water but not so close that you’ll need to move when the tide rises.
- If beach chair and umbrella rentals are available, consider renting one for added comfort.
- Look for areas with like-minded beachgoers. If you’re there to party and have fun with friends, pick a lively spot with music. For a quieter experience, find a secluded area. If you’re with family, choose a spot near other families so the kids can play together.
Buying Swimwear
Wear well-fitting undergarments. When trying on swimwear, you’ll need to wear undergarments, but ensure the swimsuit fits snugly. Therefore, wear thin, close-fitting undergarments when shopping for swimwear.
Choose swimwear that makes you feel comfortable. While many websites offer advice on selecting swimwear for your body type, the truth is you can find a flattering swimsuit in any style. The key is to feel comfortable and confident in your choice.
- For example, if you’re self-conscious about your curves, you might prefer a tankini, which consists of a tank top and swim bottoms, or a high-waisted bikini. Opt for cheerful patterns to brighten your look.
- Men should also decide on the style of swim trunks, such as how much coverage they prefer. Options range from long shorts to briefs.
Move around. You don’t need to run, but try to move as much as possible while trying on swimwear. Ensure the swimsuit stays in place, as you’ll likely be active in the water.
- Step in and out of the fitting room or jump in place to test the fit. Make sure the swimwear doesn’t shift or sag.
Don’t forget a cover-up. This is something you can wear over your swimsuit when walking from the beach to your car or strolling along the shore. Men might opt for a simple T-shirt. Women can choose from shorts and tops to lightweight cotton dresses or sarongs designed to be worn over swimwear.
Body Care
Take time to shave. If you plan to wear a revealing swimsuit and don’t want body hair to show, set aside time to shave before heading to the beach. Shave your legs and other areas, such as the bikini line or underarms, before your trip.
- If you’re not used to shaving or waxing these areas, consider visiting a professional. Schedule an appointment for a bikini wax if needed.
- For men, you might need to shave your back or ask someone to help.
- Check your skin in natural sunlight, as hair is more visible under the sun.
Exfoliate your skin. To achieve a radiant glow, spend some time exfoliating your skin. This process removes dead skin cells, leaving your skin smooth and bright. You can use chemical or mechanical exfoliants.
- Chemical exfoliants use acids to dissolve dead skin cells.
- Mechanical exfoliants use small beads, crushed fruit pits, or shells to scrub away dead skin. Exfoliating gloves and washcloths also fall into this category.
- To exfoliate, wet your skin in the shower first. Use your hands, gloves, or a washcloth to apply the exfoliant in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly afterward. If using gloves or a washcloth, apply body wash and gently scrub in circular motions.
- Focus on areas with thicker skin, such as knees, elbows, and feet.
- After exfoliating, apply moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
Avoid bloating foods. If you want a flat stomach, avoid foods that cause bloating for two days before your trip. This will help prevent your stomach from puffing up.
- Steer clear of cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower. Also, avoid processed foods and carbonated drinks.
- Instead, opt for healthy options like avocados, eggs, peanut butter, salmon, bananas, Greek yogurt, and lemons.
Tips
- Try to locate areas with lifeguards on duty if you plan to swim in the water.
- If you start feeling unwell, leave the activity area and seek medical attention. Heatstroke can occur quickly when you’re exposed to the sun.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. It’s crucial to always carry water with you, as dehydration can happen easily, sometimes without you even realizing it.
- Remember to bring sunscreen and sit in shaded areas whenever possible.
