The winter blues are common this time of year, and most people are planning a trip to beach to help cure their symptoms. The beach is a great place to get some sun, play in the sand, and just relax, and offers the perfect antidote to any dreary, winter feelings. But, as with any vacation, you should never go to the beach unprepared! Here are some tips on what you should plan on bringing to your next beach vacation.
1. Sunscreen. Skin cancer is on the rise, and as chic as a great tan looks, it isn’t always what’s best for everyone’s health. So, it’s important to play in safe and have plenty of sunscreen that is SPF 15 or higher and some lip balm with sunscreen in it to protect your skin from sunburns and help you to get your dose of Vitamin D the right way.
2. Hat. Another great way to protect your skin, especially your face is with a wide brimmed hat. Not only will you be able to see better, because of the shade it will provide, but it will help to keep those nasty wrinkles and sun damage at bay.
3. Sunglasses. Most people wouldn’t think of going to the beach on a sunny day without sunglasses, just because the sun reflecting off the sand is so blinding. But, even if it’s a little cloudy, you should still plan on bring them, because even when it’s sunny, you still need to protect your eyes from UV rays.
4. Bathing suit. If you are planning to take a dip, you may want to be sure you have this. A great bathing suit tip, especially for kids, is that right now a lot of department stores are selling bathing suits for children that contain UV protection. It may be able to invest in a swimsuit like this for your kids, because starting protection from sun damage early will benefit them greatly in the long run.
5. Large blanket and towels. As beautiful as the beach is, the sand usually contains little critters and sand burrs. By packing these you will have something to sit and lie on, as well as protect yourself from whatever may be hiding in the sand.
6. Bottled water and snacks. The sun is bound to cause dehydration, so its important to have several bottles of water on hand to keep yourself refreshed and hydrated. Snacks are also a great way to re fuel and get back some of the energy the sun can drain from you. Be sure to pack items that don’t produce a lot of trash, and to take all your trash with you when you leave.
7. A swimsuit cover up. A cover up is not only another way to add some protection from the sun especially during the hottest part of the day, but it will provide some warmth, especially at the end of the day when the sun goes down.
8.Plenty of toys, a good book, etc. While the beach is a beautiful place to play and relax, you may want to plan on bringing enough toys for the kiddos to play with in the sand and water. You should be sure to bring enough to share, because the less fighting your kids do, the more relaxing the trip will be. The beach is also an ideal time to catch up on your reading, so be sure to bring that best selling novel you bought and have been dying to start reading.