There’s something magical about a day at the beach - the salty breeze, soft sand between your toes, and that first cool dip in the ocean. But if you’ve ever arrived at the beach only to realise you forgot sunscreen or your favourite sunnies, you know how quickly that perfect day can go sideways.
That’s where the perfect beach bag comes in.
Whether you’re heading for a quick morning swim or a full day of sunbathing and sandcastles, packing smart makes all the difference. Here’s a peek inside my ultimate beach bag - a mix of style, practicality, and comfort to keep you sun-ready from sunrise to sunset.
Top 8 Things to Carry in Your Beach Bag
1. The Essentials: Sun Protection Comes First
The number one rule for beach days? Protect your skin. The Australian sun doesn’t mess around, and a good SPF is non-negotiable.
What I always pack:
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+): Reapply every two hours - more if you’re swimming or sweating.
- Lip balm with SPF: Your lips are skin too, and they can burn faster than you think.
- Wide-brim hat: Stylish and protective. A floppy straw hat not only looks great with your swimsuit but shields your face and shoulders from harsh rays.
- Sunglasses with UV protection: Oversized sunnies add instant glamour while keeping your eyes safe.
Pro tip: Store your sunscreen and lip balm in a small waterproof pouch so they don’t leak or melt onto other items in your bag.
2. Swimwear That Feels as Good as It Looks
Of course, the star of any beach day is your salty ink swimwear. Whether you love the timeless look of a one-piece or the playful freedom of a bikini, your swimsuit should make you feel confident and comfortable.
When I pack for a beach day, I always include:
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My favourite swimsuit: I like to choose a piece that fits like a second skin - supportive, soft, and designed to move with me.
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A spare suit: If you plan to go out for lunch or lounge after swimming, a dry suit is a lifesaver.
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Rash vest or cover-up: Perfect for when the sun gets a little too strong or you’re heading to the café.
If you’re shopping for a new swimsuit, go for one that’s chlorine-resistant and UPF 50+ - like the ones from Salty Ink Designs. They last longer, feel amazing, and are made for real Aussie summers.
3. Hydration & Snacks: Stay Cool and Energised
A day at the beach can dehydrate you faster than you realise. Between the sun and salty air, it’s easy to forget to sip water.
That’s why I always pack:
- A reusable water bottle: Stainless steel bottles keep water icy cold all day.
- Light snacks: Fresh fruit, trail mix, or protein bars keep energy levels up without feeling heavy.
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Cooling face mist: A refreshing spritz is a little luxury when the afternoon heat hits.
Tip: Freeze your water bottle overnight - by midday, you’ll have a perfectly chilled drink.
4. Towels & Blankets: Comfort is Key
A soft, absorbent towel is a must-have - and if you’re staying for a while, a large beach blanket makes it easy to spread out and relax.
My go-tos:
- Microfibre towel: Lightweight, dries quickly, and sand shakes off easily.
- Oversized beach blanket: Great for lounging, sharing snacks, or setting up your perfect tanning spot.
Choose towels and blankets in bright, summery prints that complement your swimwear - it adds a fun, coordinated vibe to your setup (and looks fab in photos!).
5. Skincare & Post-Swim Care
Your skin deserves TLC - especially after a swim in salty water or chlorine.
In my beach bag, I always keep:
- After-sun lotion or aloe vera gel: Soothes skin and helps retain moisture.
- Moisturiser: A quick layer after rinsing off keeps your skin soft and smooth.
- Hair brush or wide-tooth comb: To detangle salty hair without breakage.
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Leave-in conditioner or hair serum: Protects your hair from dryness and UV exposure.
These little post-swim rituals keep you feeling fresh and glowing long after you’ve left the beach.
6. Accessories for Comfort and Style
A beach day is all about effortless style. You don’t need much - just a few accessories to elevate your look and make life easier.
My must-haves:
- Slide sandals or flip-flops: Easy to slip on and off, even with sandy feet.
- Lightweight beach cover-up or kaftan: Perfect for when you want to take a walk or grab lunch without changing.
- Beach tote: A roomy, sturdy bag that can handle towels, sunscreen, and snacks without losing shape.
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Waterproof phone pouch: Because no one wants to ruin their beach photos with a splash!
If you love coordinating, match your accessories - think pastel tones, tropical prints, or natural woven textures.
7. Beach Day Extras: The Fun Stuff
Beyond the basics, there are always a few things that make a beach day extra special.
Here’s what I usually toss in for fun and relaxation:
- A good book or magazine: Nothing beats reading with your toes in the sand.
- Bluetooth speaker: For chill background music (just keep the volume beach-friendly).
- Mini first-aid kit: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relief - just in case.
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Reusable tote for wet clothes: Keeps the rest of your bag clean and dry.
If you’re going with kids or friends, add beach toys, a frisbee, or a ball - something to keep everyone entertained.
8. The Secret Ingredient: Confidence
Last but definitely not least - the most important thing to pack in your beach bag is confidence.
It’s not about having the perfect- body or the most expensive swimsuit. It’s about feeling good in your skin, enjoying the sunshine, and making memories that’ll last long after the tan fades.
Confidence shines brighter than any SPF shimmer oil - and when you’re wearing something that fits beautifully and feels amazing (like a piece from Salty Ink Designs), that glow is unstoppable.
Final Thoughts:
A well-packed beach bag is your ticket to a stress-free, joy-filled day by the ocean. From sunscreen to snacks, every item has its place - and when you’re prepared, you can focus on what really matters: relaxing, laughing, and soaking up the magic of the coast.
So next time you’re planning a seaside escape, take a few minutes to pack smart and stylishly. Your future self - and your sun-kissed skin - will thank you.
After all, the best beach days aren’t just about what’s in your bag…
They’re about the memories you make once you unpack it.
FAQs
Why should I bother packing a spare swimsuit in my beach bag?
Sitting in a wet suit at lunch is the worst. Seriously, it's gross. I always bring a spare Road Trip One Piece just in case. One time I sat in a damp bikini for three hours and felt like a soggy noodle. Pack a dry one. Your skin will thank you later and you’ll look way more put-together at the café.
What's the best way to keep my sunscreen from making a mess in my bag?
The Aussie sun is harsh. SPF 50+ is non-negotiable but the bottles always leak. It’s so annoying! I use a small waterproof pouch now. It keeps the goop away from my phone. If a bottle explode, it stays in the pouch. Simple. Don't let a leaky bottle ruin your favorite tote because that's a mistake you only make once.
Do I really need to bring snacks if I'm only going for a quick dip?
Swimming makes you hungry. Like, starving. I usually toss in some fruit or trail mix. Just don't bring chocolate. I learned that the hard way when my bar turned into a literal soup in the heat! Also, freeze your water bottle the night before. It stays ice-cold and acts like a mini fridge for your grapes until midday.
How can I keep my hair from getting totally trashed by the salt and sun?
Salt water and UV rays are a nightmare for your hair. It gets so dry and tangled. I keep a wide-tooth comb and some serum in my bag at all times. Give it a quick brush after you rinse off. It stops the breakage. My hair used to look like a bird nest after the beach until I started doing this little ritual.
What kind of towel is actually best for a full day at the beach?
Microfibre is fast but sometimes you want luxury. I love the Tropic Tribe Reversible Towel because it’s huge. Plus the sand shakes off easy. I hate bringing half the beach home in my car! Use a towel that actually dries you properly. Life is too short for sandy, damp towels that smells like old ocean.
