11 Must-pack Beach Bag Essentials

To make beach day as stress-free as possible, we’ve created a packing list with this season’s must-haves

From sunscreen to speakers to facial sprays, read on for our top beach product picks…

 

1. A super-protective sunscreen

Protect your skin from harmful UV rays this summer with this nourishing sunscreen by Sun Bum. We love that their products are all cruelty-free, natural and approved by the Skin Cancer Foundation. The high SPF is also a plus!
Sun Bum original sunscreen SPF 70, $10

 

2. A luminous tanning oil

If you’re looking for a rich, sun-kissed glow this season, then this Pineapple Tanning Oil by Bali Body will become a quick favourite. Made in Australia, this 100 percent plant-based oil will give you a deep tan, while keeping your skin healthy with ingredients like coconut oil, sweet almond oil, fruit extract and Vitamin E.
Bali Body pineapple tanning oil, $30 (+ free shipping)

 

3. A hydrating facial spray

Throw this refreshing spray in your beach bag and give your face a good spritz whenever you need to re-energize. Packed with cooling nutrients like cucumber, aloe vera and Vitamin B3, it will not just rehydrate, but also tone your skin and give you a perfect, dewy glow.
Dr. Roebuck’s Bondi hydrating mist, $32

 

4. A good summer read

A day at the beach is also the best time to relax and catch up on some summer reading. Our top pick is Chanel Cleeton’s Next Year in Havana, which is also actress Reese Witherspoon’s July recommendation for her Hello Sunshine Book Club. The story follows the journey of a young Cuban-American woman as she discovers her family’s secrets, romance and political unrest in the backdrop of beautiful Havana. It doesn’t get more tropical than that.
Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton, $15 paperback edition

 

5. A waterproof speaker

This 100 percent waterproof speaker by Wonderboom is top-rated, a great size to carry in your bag—and comes in super chic colours like this lilac. It can play up to 10 hours of music on a single battery charge, floats in water, and can be controlled within a 100 feet of wireless range. Talk about an awesome investment!
Wonderboom Waterproof speaker, $125

 

6. A fabulous towel

A plush beach towel is a necessity for the beach, and this Simons Maison exclusive is a must-have. It’s made from 100 percent cotton, and you’ll be bang on trend with the cactus motif.
Cactus beach towel, $15

 

7. A sun hat

A hat is a must-buy for the summer, and we’re especially loving this stylish fedora that not only looks great with any beach outfit, but protects your head from overheating. The paper straw material is easily collapsible, which means it will fit right into your beach bag.
Straw hat from Nordstom, $26

 

8. A pair of sunnies

Have all eyes on you at the beach with these retro-inspired sunglasses by Blythe. Summer is the perfect time for experimenting with colour, and this fun pink pair will not disappoint.
Anthropologie Blythe round cat-eye sunglasses, $38

 

9. A texture mist for beachy hair

If you love easy, natural looking wavy locks for the beach, this spray by The Ouai should be a staple in your bag. Not only is it made of coconut water and rice protein, it smells like bergamot, Italian lemon, magnolia, lily and white musk. All you have to do is mist damp hair and use your hands to add some texture.
The Ouai Wave Spray, $26

 

10. A tinted lip balm

Here’s an award-winning lip balm that will keep your lips smooth and soft for a day in the sun. This lip treatment is made of sugar, nourishing oils, avocado, jojoba and grapeseed oil. P.S. We love this product in tinted nude, but there are a lot of other shimmery colours to choose from.
Fresh Sugar llp treatment in nude tinted, $29

 

11. A trendy tote bag

Last but definitely not least, you need a fabulous bag to put everything in! This classic navy-and-white-striped tote in durable cotton canvas is perfect for the park, seashore, or even as a carry-on bag. With its wide base, there’s plenty of room for all your summer essentials, including sunscreen, water bottles and even a towel. And the coated lining means that all you have to do is wipe it clean when you’re done, then plan your next day at the beach.
Simply Beautiful Nautical Beach Tote, $30