6 Things Every Beach Bum Needs In Their Tote

You amble down to the seafront after a leisurely breakfast of tropical fruits. You find the perfect spot on the beach that’s bare of tourists and just close enough to the water to splash around in it from time-to-time only to reach into your beach tote and realize with dread that you’ve forgotten some of the essentials.

Never forget the important things again. Read on as we give you a checklist of necessities you’ll need for your day-long tanning sesh—just don’t forget your tote bag to carry it all in.

Sunscreen

We all love watching our skin turn a beautiful bronze color—not so much a tomato red. Sunburn isn’t a good look for anyone, and skin cancer isn’t exactly a treat, either. So stay prudent and protected with a good dollop of sunscreen.

Hairspray

And don’t forget your locks need to be shielded from the harsh rays of the sun, too. Bring along a hairspray that will protect your tresses from harmful UV rays.

Shade

No, we’re not talking about bringing your attitude with you to the beach—you can leave that in your hotel room. We already know you’re careful not to stay out in the sun for too long, right? So when you’re taking a break, find a place under a tree and shade yourself with sunglasses and a sunhat.

Towel

The worst part about busy beaches is the skirmish for sun-tanning territory. And when you want to get up to take a quick dip in the sea, you don’t want to lose your place. Guard it well with a huge printed beach towel that’s so bright it screams “Back off.”

Book

When you’re bored of people-watching (or when your eyes are burning from the image of too many topless elderly women), stay entertained with a good book.

Phone Charger

If your high-powered job doesn’t allow you to take a break even when you’re on vacation, then the idea of lounging around on a beach for hours on end can give you anxiety. After all, there’s no rest for the ambitious. Bring along a portable phone charger with you so you can stay on top of all your work emails and get your tan on.

You love all things sea, sun and sand—and who can blame you? There’s a chemical reaction that happens when you soak in the Vitamin D radiating from the sun, and saltwater can do wonders for your skin. Don’t let anything ruin that experience for you, and remember to pack your beach tote with everything you’ll need for an uninterrupted day of rest and relaxation.

Beach totes are a beach bum’s best friend.