16 Beach Bag Essentials to Pack This Summer

This nylon tote is lightweight and easy to fold up for storage, but it's also spacious enough to fit all your beach day essentials.

To buy: madewell.com, $28

This top-rated sunscreen has a non-greasy texture and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

To buy: amazon.com, $36

Beach waves look great on anyone, but the combination of salty water and sun can damage your mane. This rich oil will protect your hair (especially if it’s been color treated) and nourish it.

To buy: sephora.com, $28

Your lips can actually get sunburned, too, so it’s important to apply lip balm with SPF 15 or higher.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $15 for set of two

This beautiful cotton towel is lightweight, quick-drying, and will fit in any beach bag. We love the striped print and the fringe details on both ends.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $50

This soothing and cooling aloe vera spray is rich in cocoa butter and jojoba oil to help moisturize and restore dry and sun-damaged skin.

To buy: amazon.com, $12 (originally $16)

Protect your head and face from the sun with this chic straw hat that is designed to keep its shape when packed in your bag.

To buy: madewell.com, $40

Listen to your favorite tunes at the beach or by the pool with this waterproof Bluetooth speaker that delivers impressive sound quality despite its compact size.

To buy: amazon.com, from $39

Dehydration looks good on no one, so make sure to fill this stainless steel canteen with water, and it will stay cold all day, even in the hot sun.

To buy: amazon.com, from $21

To protect your valuables from water and sand, opt for a compact, waterproof pouch to store your money, phone, and keys.

To buy: llbean.com, $40

Taking photos at the beach (and posting them to Instagram) will drain your phone battery in no time, so make sure you have a waterproof battery charger with you.

To buy: amazon.com, $21 (originally $26)

This tablet is lightweight and easy-to-use as an e-reader, but you can also browse the internet or play a game on it.

To buy: amazon.com, $90

Always pack a breezy cotton cover-up in case you need extra protection from the sun, or you simply want to grab a bite (or a cocktail) from a casual spot near the beach.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $68

A pair of easy-to-slide-into flip flops is a must when you’re headed for a day at the beach. Let’s face it — you probably don’t want to ruin your pretty summer sandals with sand.

To buy: zappos.com, $28

The modern take on the Wayfarer silhouette makes these sunglasses both timeless and cool.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $167

You can use this pouch to protect your phone from water and sand, or to store valuables like money and small jewelry.

To buy: amazon.com, $7

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.