Cool girl summer starts with a well-packed beach bag. From SPF to emergency supplies to snacks that actually survive the heat, our guide covers all the must-haves you need to stay stylish, safe and totally unbothered by the shore.
The absolute essentials
The key to a tote-ally (get it?) flawless bag is knowing what you *actually* need… and what isn’t as necessary. While it can be tempting to throw in everything you could possibly want, there are only a few absolutely necessary items to bring to the shore. Make sure, no matter what else, you pack these core items:
- Sunscreen: Yep, SPF 15 or higher. Yep, every two hours or after being in the water.
- Towel: Light, absorbent and not the thing you accidentally leave behind in a rush. Keep one in your bag always.
- Back-up clothes: If you’re driving, toss in a dry outfit so you’re not stuck in wet swimwear the whole ride home.
- Water bottle: You’ll need it. Beach days = sun + salt + dehydration if you’re not careful. Reusable and cute is the move.
- Snacks: Pack dried fruit, trail mix or pretzels. That Snickers bar will just turn into chocolate fondue. And we don’t need to lecture you about food safety, right? No keeping anything that will go bad if left out in the sun (looking at you, tuna salad sandwich).
The glow-up kit
Just because you’re at the beach doesn’t mean you can’t look (and feel) put together. These items will keep you fresh, glowing, and photo-ready—without going overboard. Whether you’re taking golden hour selfies or heading straight from sand to smoothie bar, these mini must-haves have your back.
- Mini brush or comb: The ocean is amazing… to everything except our hair. To keep the tangles at bay, run a brush through those wet tresses right on the sand.
- Face mist or blotting sheets: So you’ll stay feeling refreshed while sunbathing.
- Waterproof mascara and lip gloss: Don’t go overboard on the makeup since it’ll inevitably melt off in the water, but these light essentials will give you that dewy, sun-kissed glow.
- Deodorant wipes: Not commonly thought of, but a literal lifesaver when the summer sun makes you sweat.
- Pads or tampons: Even if you’re not on your cycle, it can never hurt to be prepared. (And, your bestie who does end up needing one will be forever grateful.)
The fun extras
It can never hurt to throw in a few extra supplies. These added elements can take a beach day from good to TSITP-worthy. Whether you’re curating a vibe, constantly on the go, or just want to be the ultimate mom-friend with all the supplies—you’ll want these it girl supplies in the, well, bag.
- Lip balm with SPF: Crusty lips? Not on your beach day. Pick a tropical flavor like coconut with a tint.
- Sunnies: Totally essential for blocking the rays and serving face like the ultimate cool girl.
- Mini speaker: Perfect for instant beach party vibes. Not so cute when it’s blasting loud and disrupting other beach-goers…so keep the volume low enough for just your party, k?
- Hair essentials: Pack a claw clip, scrunchie or scarf for an effortlessly cool updo to keep the beach waves out of your face. (And, check out the latest GL issue for more summer hair inspo!)
- A beach read: Nothing is better than devouring your latest literary obsession by the water. Plus, you’ll be that much cooler for pursuing prose rather than scrolling on IG.
The bag itself
Let’s be honest—your beach bag says a lot about you. It’s not just what’s in the bag, it’s the bag itself. Whether you’re going for sporty, boho or full influencer vibes, choose something that’s both functional and fabulous. The best bags keep things organized and give you aesthetic points.
- Mesh totes: Boho, lightweight and perfect for on-the-go gals. If your beach day is just one tick on the to-do list, this cute n’ simple bag is for you.
- Canvas bags: Artsy, spacious and easy to wash. There are endless patterns and versions for every girl, and nothing says beach quite like these ones.
- Waterproof backpacks: Sporty, aesthetic and perf for those of us who like *extra* room to pack.
Tag us in your next beach day post @girlslifemag!
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Top and slider image: @jazlinmarie
