If you’re a straight guy, then chances are that you’re not accustomed to carrying a bag around with you. There’s nothing wrong with that in itself, of course, but it does mean that you’ll often find yourself without the things you need the most.
Now it’s time to make the change and discover how much better and easier life can be when you’re well-prepared for any eventuality. This time round, we’re covering your beach bag. So pick out your favourite—be it a crossbody, a backpack, or a tote—and start putting together the following things.
- A Waterproof Pouch: One of the most annoying things about being at the seaside is trying to keep the sand and water off your personal items, like your phone, car fob, sunglasses, and wallet. With a waterproof pouch, you’ll have somewhere handy and safe to store them while you chill, swim, or go grab those seaside margaritas.
- A Microfibre Towel: Ordinary beach towels are okay, but microfibre towels are better. Not only do they dry in a fraction of the time, but they fold down to the size of a paperback and are incredibly lightweight. This means more space in your beach bag and less chance of getting everything else soaking wet.
- Reusable Insulated Water Bottle: Instead of wasting time trudging through the sand to get to the nearest kiosk to buy a single-use plastic bottle of water that will become lukewarm in less than half an hour, invest in a good-quality reusable water bottle that has built-in insulation. It’s a win for you, and it’s an even bigger win for the environment.
- A Light Read: Chilling at the beach or by the pool often means hours of doomscrolling, which can be low-key stressful for the brain. Instead, consider taking something light to read, like a murder mystery, a romance novel, or a thriller. Oh, and ‘light’ in this case also means light to carry: leave the hardback at home and opt for a paperback or a Kindle.
- High-SPF Sunscreen: Don’t assume someone else will bring the sunblock, and certainly do not spend a whole day in the sun without it. Instead, buy a good SPF 40+ sunscreen and always carry it with you. You will thank yourself later, the next day, and in 10 years’ time.
And with just that, you’ve already made your trip to the beach or the pool a dozen times better!
