travel beach gear

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Activity + Adventure
• Beach + Water Activities

The Best Beach Accessories and Gear For Your Next Summer Getaway

From protective sunscreens to waterproof speakers, here’s what we’re taking to the beach this summer.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Tips for Packing
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

I'm a Jersey Girl who grew up spending my summers at the shore and have since been to beaches on all seven continents, so I know what essential accessories you need to have a successful day on the beach. From easy-to-use canopies to waterproof speakers to beach games for every age, beach gear can vastly increase your fun in the sun — or keep you cool in the shade.

Here are some of my favorite products that I personally use at the beach. Whether you want a cooler that will keep your 'claw cold all day or a reclining chair with all the bells and whistles, this is your guide to planning the best beach day of your life.

Best Reef-safe sunscreen

Hawaiian tropic mineral sun milk body lotion spf 50.

It smells heavenly, absorbs easily, and leaves skin silky smooth.

The pump can leak.

Our favorite reef-safe sunscreen has a leg up on the competition — it doesn't leave a chalky white cast on your skin, as many mineral sunscreens do. It also has a non-greasy feel and a hydrating effect, which we consider a crucial element of any sunscreen. With 80 minutes of water resistance, it’s a must-have for ocean swimming .

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Facial Sunscreen

Supergoop unseen sunscreen spf 40.

It absorbs so quickly, it feels like you're wearing nothing.

It's a chemical sunscreen, and it's only water-resistant for 40 minutes.

Since I was a kid, I've hated the greasy, icky feeling of sunscreen. These days, I'm thrilled that "invisible" sunscreens exist, and my favorite right now has to be Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen. While most sunscreens are marketed as lightweight non-greasy, I find those claims to be largely untrue — but not here. The gel-like sunscreen applies clear (no white cast!) and absorbs immediately, leaving my skin feeling soft and velvety, as if it were a moisturizer rather than just a sunscreen. If I were to critique it at all, I'd have to note that the sunscreen only lasts 40 minutes in the water, so you'll need to reapply regularly if you're sweating or going for a swim. (And to be fair, you should be regularly reapplying anyway.)

Best Spray Sunscreen

Naked sundays spf50+ glow mist top up duo.

Naked Sundays

It can be applied on top of make-up so you can re-apply all day long.

This Glow Mist is designed to use on top of other sunscreens and shouldn't be applied as a base layer.

As someone who hates the sensation of sunscreens, I find spray sunscreens to be marginally better than lotions, simply because I don't have to rub it in. I can air dry and hope that the product doesn't feel greasy. But with Naked Sundays' sprays, I'm delighted by the gentle mist that doesn't immediately feel sticky or oily on my skin — in fact, it's even moisturizing thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid. There are two versions of this sunscreen, one for your face and one for your body, and both feel refreshingly lightweight, leaving a gentle glow to your skin. Something else I like about the product is its scent, which incorporates Australian botanical extracts for a fruity effect. The most important thing to know about this sunscreen though is that it's not designed to be a base layer. Instead, it's a top-up spray to be used over a base layer when you reapply throughout the day.

Best Cooler

Yeti hopper flip.

It keeps refreshments ice-cold for hours in the sun, floats, and is watertight.

Although we love that it's easy to carry, family-size loads may call for a cooler with wheels.

If you want your drinks to stay frosty no matter how high the temperatures get, you can't go wrong with Yeti. With the brand's renowned durability and floatable design, the Hopper Flip is also the perfect choice for boat trips and other rough-and-tumble water adventures. A special zipper lubricant is included so struggling with the watertight build never stands between you and your seltzer.

Travel + Leisure / Lydia Price

Travel + Leisure / William Price

Travel + Leisure / Brooke Dubuque

Best Beach Canopy

Lightspeed outdoors quick cabana beach tent.

It's easy to set up, spacious, and water-resistant.

The stakes have a tendency not to stay put, but the sandbags keep the tent secure.

After hitting the beach with the Lightspeed Quick Cabana, you won't know how you ever survived without it. In addition to being lightweight, easy enough for one person to quickly set up, and packed with pockets, this tent has three windows that can be opened for ventilation or closed when you need some privacy to change out of a wet suit before driving home. We also love that the water-resistant cover keeps things dry when you get caught in the rain.

Best Waterproof Speakers

Ultimate ears wonderboom 3.

Ultimate Ears

It's engineered to produce high-quality sound in outdoor spaces and boasts a long-lasting battery — plus, it floats!

It doesn't have a ton of bells and whistles for true audiophiles.

When it comes to travel-friendly speakers, I always think easier is better, and it doesn't get easier than this waterproof speaker. It takes about two seconds to connect a phone (at a distance of up to 130 feet), and the controls are super simple: there's a power button, a Bluetooth connection button for pairing, a play/pause/skip button, and big plus and minus buttons for volume.

The speaker also features a secret weapon: flip it upside down and you'll find the "Outdoor Boost" button, which adjusts the sound for outdoor use — you'll probably want to use this feature for your beach days. You can also pair the speaker with another one to double up on volume or provide stereo sound. As for the quality of that sound, I find it to be perfectly suitable for a beach day. Plus, it's IP67-rated, meaning it's protected against dust and water.

Best Beach Chair

Tommy bahama backpack beach chair.

It’s lightweight and has backpack straps for hands-free carrying.

It's tricky to fold and unfold the chair at first.

There's a reason you see these chairs all over the beach. Between their backpack straps for easy carrying, handy pouches for storage, and full recline for the ultimate sunbathing (or beach napping), they truly hit all the marks. Overall, they're quite lightweight, which makes toting them from the parking lot to the beach a breeze.

Travel + Leisure / Karen Chen

Best Recliner

Ostrich deluxe 3-in-1 beach chair.

One of the most comfortable beach chairs we've ever tested, this lounger includes a host of amenities like face and arm holes and a lumbar pillow.

It takes a bit to get the hang of adjusting the recline position.

If you want lounging on the beach to be as comfortable as possible, meet your new favorite chair. The Ostrich Deluxe 3-N-1 has adjustable foot and backrests, a face hole for even tanning and convenient reading, storage pockets, cup holder, and a lumbar pillow. While adjusting the back — which can lie completely flat, by the way — takes some getting used to, we credit this chair for endless hours of beachside bliss.

Travel + Leisure / Lizz Leonard

Coyuchi Mediterranean Organic Towel

It's spacious and incredibly soft.

It's not technically sand-repellent, but shaking sand off isn't difficult.

If you want a luxurious beach experience , these Turkish towels are an absolute must-have. We were immediately impressed by its soft feel, and even after putting it through the ringer, the durable towel looks good as new when it comes out of the washing machine. It's even light enough to travel with so you never have to go without a premium way to dry off.

Travel & Leisure / Anna Popp

Best Umbrella

Beachbub all-in-one beach umbrella.

It's wind tested up to 44 miles per hour, thanks to a sand-based anchoring system around its pole.

The canopy doesn't tilt.

Shade is crucial for a long beach day, but umbrellas have an unfortunate reputation for blowing over. This umbrella, however, has a feature to combat wind gusts — a sand anchor. The anchor is a tarp that you fill with sand and wrap around the pole, creating a heavy weight that stabilizes the umbrella. It was easy for us to set up, and it nailed it's most important job: protecting us from the hot sun.

Travel + Leisure / Sarah Naftzger

Best Backpack Cooler

Igloo pro snapdown backpack.

It can be carried in multiple ways, including as a tote.

It's more practical than it is chic.

This is a durable backpack cooler that can handle multiple trips without breaking, leaking, or losing its cool — you can toss up to 42 cans into the bag, and they'll remain chilled for hours. We're particularly fond of its roll-top opening, which makes it easy to load and unload the bag so you can spend more time taking in the beauty of the beach .

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Wheeled Cooler

Igloo 70 qt premium trailmate wheeled rolling cooler.

It's easy to roll through the sand.

It's pretty pricey, though the cost is reasonable when you consider its extra-large capacity and ultra-long cooling abilities.

Thanks to oversize wheels with treads and a high ground clearance, this cooler can handle all sorts of terrain, from sand to gravel paths to dirt roads. When you're taking it to the beach, you can fill it up with up to 112 cans. Toss in some ice, and your cans will stay cool for up to four days. It’s also loaded with features like an umbrella holder and butler tray.

Travel + Leisure / Henry Wortock

Best Flip-flops

Clarks breeze sea flip flop.

They're supportive and adjustable for the perfect fit.

They're a bit heavy.

This shoe's adjustable velcro strap puts an end to blisters. It also has a nicely cushioned footbed, thick sole, and plenty of traction for comfortable walks to the beach and beyond.

Best Snorkel Set

Cressi adult snorkel set.

This compact set is easy to pack.

The fins only come in two sizes, but are adjustable.

Commerce Editor and PADI-certified diver Taylor Fox has taken this snorkel set all over the world from Greece to the Bahamas to Indonesia. It includes a mask, short fins, and a snorkel — in other words, the three essential items you need for snorkeling. The mask is made from tempered glass with a hypoallergenic silicone skirt, while the snorkel has a "dry" design that prevents water from getting in the top. As for the fins, they only come in two sizes, but they're open-back with an adjustable strap. Fox suggests you might want to get better-fitting fins for a long day of snorkeling or for frequent adventurers, but for a casual outing, these do the trick.

Best Sunglasses for Women

Eleventh hour essential polarized sunglasses.

Eleventh Hour

They're a perfect mix of stylish and comfortable.

The frames are on the larger side.

With a subtle cat-eye shape, weightless feel, and glare-reducing lenses, these sunglasses are your ticket to all-day comfort and style at the beach. We tested them in multiple lens and frame colors and found that every combination offers top-tier UV protection. When it comes to comfort, the arms and bridge apply just enough pressure to feel secure without causing irritation.

Travel + Leisure / Alessandra Amodio

Best Sunglasses for Men

Raen aren polarized sunglasses.

These lightweight sunglasses are comfortable to wear for hours.

The frames are on the smaller side.

Raen's polarized sunglasses are equally sophisticated and effective at keeping your eyes comfortable in the bright sun. You won't find any annoying pressure points caused by their sturdy arms, and they're durable enough to survive even the rowdiest of beach games .

Travel + Leisure / Chris Abell

Best Beach Game

Spikeball game set.

Gameplay can be adjusted to suit the group of players.

If you're playing by the rules, you'll need four players.

I love a good lazy beach day, but when I'm at the beach with an active group, this is the game I like to have on hand. Spikeball is a cross between volleyball and four square — the official rules have two teams of two spiking the ball onto a center net, attempting to thwart the other team's return. But you can really adapt the game to your liking, whether that's attempting to keep a rally going for as long as possible to changing the number of players. Best of all, it breaks down and packs up into a bag for easy transport (or you can even buy a branded Spikeball backpack for the kit!)

Best Sun Hat

Buff booney hat.

It's UPF 50 certified against UV rays.

It's more practical than fashion-forward.

Long gone are my sun-worshiping days — I'm now all about keeping my skin protected. And for me, that means donning a hat while I'm at the beach. Buff's Booney Hat hits the mark for me for four reasons. One, it's rated UPF 50. Two, it's ventilated to keep my head cool. Three, it has a chin strap so it doesn't blow away. And four, it folds into a tiny pocket in its own interior, making it ultra-packable. (I am still sore about a non-packable sun hat I accidentally left behind in a ferry terminal more than a decade ago, so knowing this folds down to fit into my bag is a great feature.) Sure, it's definitely got a more outdoorsy look than a fashion-forward one, but that suits me just fine.

Best Rash Guard for Women

Roxy whole hearted long sleeve.

It's made from recycled jersey fabric.

It's very branded with the logo and company name.

Rash guards aren't just for surfers. If you plan on swimming or snorkeling, rash guards like this one can protect you from the sun, from sharp coral, and even jellyfish stings. This one is made from recycled jersey fabric and has a UPF 50 rating for solid sun protection.

Best Rash Guard for Men

O'neill long sleeve rash guard.

It has minimal seams to reduce irritation.

It's form-fitting.

This quick-dry rash guard has a UPF 50+ rating to protect your skin while you're doing any sort of outdoor water activity . Though this is a form-fitting shirt, it does have a four-way stretch for the ultimate freedom of movement. We also appreciate that the branding is somewhat subtle.

Best Women's Sun Hoodie

Backcountry tahoe 2 sun hoodie.

Backcountry

It's moisture-wicking.

It's a relaxed fit.

It might seem counterintuitive to wear a hoodie when you're at the beach, but this isn't your classic cold-weather hoodie — it's a lightweight sun hoodie designed to protect your skin from rays. It has a UPF 50+ rating, and you can use the hood and thumb holes to ensure you're covering as much skin as possible.

Best Men's Sun Hoodie

Rei co-op sahara shade hoodie - men's.

It has an antimicrobial treatment to prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria.

It has the weight of a T-shirt.

This super-soft hoodie is comfortable to be worn regularly, but it has some features designed for active use: It has a UPF 50+ rating, an antimicrobial treatment to reduce odors, and moisture-wicking and quick-drying tendencies. Wear it during your beach day for skin protection — or if you're feeling slightly chilly as the sun goes down.

Best Water Bottle

Yeti rambler 36 oz water bottle.

Dick's Sporting Goods

The chug cap is perfect for keeping sand and bug out of your beverage.

It doesn't fit in most cup holders.

When I want a drink to stay cold all day long — and I need a hefty amount of hydration throughout the day — I immediately go for my Yeti Rambler. The insulation on this large water bottle is top-tier, keeping my drink perfectly icy. But the real feature that seals the deal for me is the chug cap. While you can unscrew the entire lid to load up the bottle with your drink of choice and plenty of ice, the chug cap allows you to enjoy the drink without fear of spilling ice all over your face. (Yes, I've been there.) The only downside is the water bottle doesn't fit in most cup holders, but at the beach, I just leave it in the sand.

Best Sand Cup Holder

Home queen beach cup holder.

They keep your cups sand-free.

They can be knocked over pretty easily.

Love or hate the sand, you're going to have to deal with it at the beach. And these cup holders are the perfect way to put that sand to work in your favor. Simply stick them into the sand, and you have a place to hold your drink — there's even a separate compartment for your keys or phone!

Best Metal Detector

Garrett at pro metal detector.

It's a solid tool for beginners to learn the art of metal detecting.

This is a lower-end model, and it's still a costly piece of beach gear.

You never know what's buried in the sand, which is why you might want to invest in a metal detector for some next-level beachcombing. This is a solid one for beginners who are ready to take metal detecting seriously, but be forewarned that buying a metal detector is not a budget-friendly act. 

Best Sand Toys

Click n' play sand toy set.

 Amazon

The toys come in a mesh carrying bag.

The minimum recommended age for use is 3 years old.

For some classic sand toy action, this kit comes with all the essentials, from numerous molds to shovels, rakes, sifters, a bucket, and even a watering can. They're all stored in a mesh carrying bag, which makes it easy to shake out sand when you're ready to leave the beach. You can even hose down the toys when they're in the back for a quick rinse.

Best Portable Blender

Blendjet blendjet 2.

It really is compact in size.

It's single-serve.

Fancy a blended drink at the beach? We love the BlendJet for blending on the go — despite its compact size, it's powerful enough to perfectly blend up drinks wherever you go. The blender is single-serve, though, so it's best to have a few of them if you're traveling with a group. That said, it can handle up to 15 blends on a single charge, so you can share. We also like the compact size of the blender for storage at home. Oh, and did we mention it comes in dozens of fun colors and patterns?

Best Beach Tote

Fjällräven kånken totepack.

It has a zip top and three different carrying styles.

It has a fairly small capacity of 14 liters.

I have to admit, I'm not much of a tote carrier — I find they usually slip off my shoulders. But I do recognize the convenience of a tote at times, particularly at the beach. That's why I love the Fjällräven Kånken Totepack, which has three different handle configurations for easy carrying: there are handles, a shoulder strap, and backpack straps. But for me, the most important element of a beach tote is a zippered main compartment, as I hate getting sand in my bag. And yes, the Kånken Totepack has that, too. It's also water resistant, which is ideal for a beach trip.

Best Dry Bag

Rux waterproof 25l bag.

It has a wide mouth for easy packing.

To make it fully waterproof, you'll need to use the roll-top.

Here's the thing about most waterproof bags — they're often a somewhat cylindrical shape with a roll-top. I personally find those a little difficult to use from an organization perspective, since you have to dig through to get to your items. And that's why I love the Rux Waterproof Bag as a wide-mouthed alternative. This bag is more like a traditional beach tote in shape, but it is fully waterproof (and comes with a lifetime guarantee) when you seal it up with its roll top. Alternatively, you could also carry it as a standard tote without the roll top, which is great for stashing things quickly and easily. Plus, this is a heavy-duty, highly durable bag that works for rugged adventures just as much as it does a leisurely day on the beach.

Best Beach Blanket

Tesalate sand-free beach blanket.

Sand doesn't stick to this blanket.

It only fits two people, so isn't great for families or group trips.

This beach blanket is serious about getting the job done. First and foremost, it's thin and lightweight yet absorbent — it does an excellent job of drying you off and drying out quickly afterward. But it also repels sand, which makes it my top pick as a beach blanket. I'm also a fan of its packability (and its numerous color options), even in its beach blanket size, which is twice the size of a standard towel. But if you're traveling with a group, you might find it a tad small.

Best Folding Table

Portal compact folding camping table.

It's low to the ground for compatibility with most beach chairs.

It has a small surface area.

Keep snacks, drinks, and playing cards out of the sand with this small folding table that's perfect for use at the beach. It only has 6 inches of clearance, which works well when you're sitting in low-to-the-ground beach chairs. And it doesn't just fold flat, but rather stacks into itself so it can fit into a carrying case. 

Best Waterproof Phone Pouch

Pelican waterproof floating phone pouch.

The pouch floats.

It can be a little tricky to use your phone through the plastic.

Most phones are water-resistant these days, but that doesn't necessarily mean you should keep them submerged for extended periods of time. For genuine waterproofing, I use this Pelican phone pouch, which also floats. (Ask me about the time I saw someone drop their phone into the ocean, and you'll learn why floating is now at the top of my mind.) Overall, I find the pouch pretty easy to use, though it helps to have longer nails to open the fasteners that keep the pouch shut. While you can your touchscreen through the plastic, it does feel a bit clunky. I have, however, taken fairly good photos through the plastic window over the lenses.

Best Waterproof Camera

Gopro hero12 black.

It's ideal for snorkeling and swimming.

The battery life isn't stellar.

When I got my first GoPro, I found I never used it — I didn't find it particularly user friendly and didn't take the time to learn. Years later, I now have the GoPro Hero12, and I've stepped up my game (and it really wasn't as hard to learn as I thought it was). For me, GoPro is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, particularly when paired with accessories like the floating hand grip and the high-vis case. That way I don't have to worry about it sinking if I accidentally let go while in the water. I find that my GoPro is generally better at video than still photography, at least when it comes to my photography tastes, but I do love that you have options to shoot both. And because the camera is waterproof on its own, that makes it perfect for beach or pool use.

Best Power Bank

Goal zero venture 75 portable charger power bank.

It's waterproof and dustproof (a.k.a. sandproof).

It's slow to charge up between uses.

Toss this portable charger in your beach bag and you'll never have to worry about your phone running out of juice. (It can also be used for portable speakers with USB chargers!) What stands out about this specific charger is that it has an IP67 rating, which means it's both waterproof and dustproof.

Best Refreshing Wipes

Sea to summit wilderness wipes.

They're compostable.

They're fragrance-free.

Beach days are, more often than not, a little sweaty or salty at some point or another. When you need to clean up, use these gentle wipes to feel refreshed. They're infused with aloe and vitamin E to soothe and moisturize your skin — something you'll probably need after a day in the sun.

Beau Jardin Folding Beach Wagon

It folds up easily for transportation and storage, and it can traverse all kinds of terrain with its durable wheels.

There are no wheel brakes.

Able to carry up to 300 pounds of goods, this heavy-duty wagon isn't actually heavy at all — it's extremely lightweight yet quite durable. During our beach wagon testing , we loved its rugged wheels that handle everything from cobblestones to sand, as well as the ease of its set-up and take-down. (Yes, it's collapsible!) The spacious build allows us to bring all our oceanside essentials along without an ounce of hassle, and features like mesh cup holders and easy-to-clean fabric make using it even more of, well, a day at the beach.

Travel + Leisure / Kaya Abrahamson

Tips for Packing for a Beach Day

Think about sun protection.

Perhaps the most important thing to do at the beach is protect yourself from the sun. UV rays are harmful to the skin, so you should always apply sunscreen regularly, both to your face and to your body. It's best to use a lotion for your base layer of sunscreen, then you can top up with sprays throughout the day. But if you go swimming, you'll probably want to consider reapplying the lotion more regularly. It's also a good idea to have some form of shade while you're at the beach, which could be in the form of a sun hat, a beach umbrella, or a full tent setup.

Stay hydrated

Another crucial element of staying comfortable and safe at the beach is to rehydrate throughout long days in the sun. It's usually hot when you're at the beach, and your body will likely lose water quickly — even more so if you're drinking alcohol. Always bring plenty of water for each person in your group, using coolers or water bottles to keep your beverages cold. It might not hurt to have a few electrolyte packets on hand, too, as you lose electrolytes when you sweat.

Opt for waterproof items

If there's a beach, there's water. And unfortunately, many items we take with us to the beach don't mix well with water. If you can, opt for waterproof gear like waterproof speakers or waterproof cameras. And for anything that isn't waterproof, make sure you have a waterproof bag on hand to protect it.

Depending on the age of your kids, they may enjoy simple beach toys like shovels and pails or beach games like Spikeball. Beyond entertainment, provide your kids with ample shade, too, in case they overheat or would like to enjoy reading a book without breaking a sweat. And, of course, please don't forget sunscreen and water.

There's no limit to the amount of time you can spend at a beach — that is, of course, unless the beach closes at a specific time. If you plan on being out all day, be sure you're prepared with food, water, and sun protection, as you need to keep yourself energized, hydrated, and protected against harmful UV rays.

I don't love getting sandy at the beach, but unfortunately sand is a reality at most beaches, unless you're at a pebble beach. Keep in mind that sand really sticks when it's wet, so the dryer you stay, the less sand you'll collect. One method to help is to apply sunscreen before going to the beach, so it won't be wet by the time you reach the sand. You should also use a sand-free towel or beach blanket to keep you as separated from the sand as possible. If you end up sandy, you can use baby powder to help rid yourself of those pesky grains — sprinkle some on, and dust yourself off.

To avoid bringing sand home with you, you have a few options. First, make sure all your bags can be zipped, so sand doesn't get inside them. Second, rinse everything off after exiting the beach but before getting in your car. Many beaches have outdoor showers for this purpose, but if yours doesn't, you might consider bringing a portable shower along. And third, line the trunk of your car with a mat or blanket to catch all the sand.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Stefanie Waldek is a freelance travel writer with nearly a decade of experience. She grew up in New Jersey, and yes, she went down to the shore every summer. She’s since been to beaches on all seven continents (though her packing list for Antarctica is slightly different than this list), so she’s perfected the art of packing for a beach day. For this article, she used her own product recommendations, as well as recommendations from T+L editors and product testers.

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

29 Best Beach Gear In 2023 | Beach Expert

(I may earn a small commission on the products mentioned in this post.)

We all need gear for the beach.  We need safety gear so we aren’t injured in the ocean or by the harsh rays of the sun and we need practical items.  We also need fun beach items to keep our family entertained.

In this article, I’ve compiled a list of essential beach gear for 2023.  You might not need all of them, but I’m sure there are a few that will meet your beach needs.

I consider myself a minimalist when going to the beach but I always take my bodysurfing fins, a hat, and natural (non-chemical) sunscreen. Let’s get started!

#1 Sand Socks

What are sand socks?  Even though you might not have heard of them, they’ve been around for a while. They are a lifesaver when the sand becomes too hot for our feet.

Sand socks are popular for beach athletes, like volleyball players and soccer players, who stand on the sand for long periods of time.

They’re also popular with snorkelers to protect their feet from being cut on the reef.

Sand socks can be used for the casual beachgoer. They are great for walking from the car to the beach and provide some protection from the sun as well.

>> check colors and sizing on Amazon

I doubt I’m the only one who applies sunscreen all over my body yet always forgets to apply it to my feet.  Sunburned feet are no fun.  We like these well-reviewed, inexpensive socks.

#2 Non-Pole Umbrella

How can a beach umbrella not have a pole?  Well, it does have a pole but it doesn’t need to be buried in the sand.

Umbrellas can be difficult to get into the sand.  I’ve spent 10-15 minutes digging a hole and trying to force a pole down into the sand.

They can be a headache to set up if there’s a breeze.   If there’s wind, you might have to chase an umbrella across the beach.

>> check umbrella options on Amazon

The great thing about Sport-Brella is that it can attach to nearly anything.  An ice chest and chair work great to stabilize the umbrella and the angle can be adjusted for the sun.  It beats the problems associated with the sand by avoiding it altogether!

#3 Churchill Makapuu Bodysurfing Fins

If you’re a swimmer you’ve no doubt enjoyed the ocean waves.  I love body surfing and usually do it with no equipment.

While you can get by without fins, you won’t be able to ride the wave very long.  Most serious bodysurfers use fins, and not just any fins.

The most common fins available at stores are long and made for scuba diving or snorkeling.   They are for slow, long strokes in the ocean.

>> check Churchhill sizes and reviews on Amazon

Bodysurfers don’t need slow long strokes.  They need short, explosive bursts of speed to catch a wave and remain in it.

Thus, bodysurfing fins are smaller than most.  The most popular are the old-school Churchill Makapuu blue and yellows.

They’ve been around for decades, since 1936 to be exact . My father even had a pair.  If you use Churchill’s people will know you’re serious about bodysurfing.

#4 Beach Wagon with Folding Table (All-Terrain)

Adding to the problems is that our hands are usually full with bags, towels, food, umbrellas and sometimes kids!

This beach wagon makes walking on the beach easier.  The oversized tires move over sand easily and the wagon can hold your umbrella, food, ice chest, and towels.  You’ll only need one hand to pull the beach wagon.

>>check Beach Wagon price and reviews on Amazon

Although there are a few beach wagon options on the market we like this one from Mac Sports.  It breaks down easy to fit in your car and takes up less space than a stroller.  It has two extras as well:

• A handy table that folds out to hold drinks and personal belongings
• A nice cover to put over the wagon for storage (with handle).

#5 Sandal + Bottle Opener

Yep, these exist.  These sandals have been around a while so you may have heard or them or seen the sandals yourself.

The bottle opener isn’t seen because it’s on the bottom of the sandal. It’s not felt either because the opener is on the arch of the foot.  Brilliantly made!

Reef has the most popular sandals with a bottle opener (maybe they have a patent).  The sandals aren’t bulky or strange looking, rather they are built well and can be worn anywhere.

>> check Reef colors and sizes on Amazon

Sandals are great for lazy days at the beach and at the house. You could even use it on the couch while watching football on the weekends

#6 Beach Lock

A beach lock is a handy item, especially if you’re headed to sunbathe or swim by yourself.  I always had the dilemma of where to put my valuables while I’m swimming.

Usually I’d wrap important items in a towel and keep a close eye on it from the water.  But this isn’t always a good idea.  People walking by can easily run away by the time you get out of the water.

A beach lock allows you to put important items like phones, keys, and wallets in a secure place and attach it to something big.  Keep in mind you’ll need a chair, umbrella, or ice chest to attach it to.

It also makes for a good, practical gift for any beach-loving family member.  Beach locks are available for a reasonable price and come with a bag.  Check out  beach lock options on Amazon .

#7 Spike Ball

If you’ve traveled to the beach over the past few years you’ve definitely seen Spike Ball.  Or you may have seen it on Shark Tank where the inventors were pitching for investment.

Spike Ball is a team game, 2 people per team, and plays around a circular court similar to a mini-trampoline.  The ball is bounced off the trampoline and teams take turns hitting the ball.

It can be played in a small area and works great for the park or backyard, however, the best place is the beach.  At the beach players can dive for balls and don’t need to worry about their landing because the court is soft sand.

>> check Spike Ball options on Amazon

Spike Ball is easy to learn and simple enough for all ages.  It’s one of the best selling beach games today.

#8 Natural Sunscreen (Safe For People and Ocean)

You might not realize it but most sunscreens out there aren’t healthy for you or the environment.  Chemical-based sunscreens do a great job of protecting your skin, however, the long-term impact of chemicals on the skin is unknown.

Some chemicals have been found in urine, weeks after application.  Similarly, sunscreens wreak havoc on the environment by coating reefs and destroying ocean life and water quality.

Sunscreens even cause problems once we get home and bathe.  Bath water goes right back out to our oceans and lakes!

We like mineral-based sunscreens and sunscreens that are ocean-friendly.  Luckily they are similarly priced as regular sunscreens but you won’t find many of them at the grocery store.

#9 Morey Body Board (Boogie Board)

Morey Boogie coined the term boogieboard and it’s stuck ever since.  If you’ve owned or rented a body board in the past chances are it was a Morey.

The company is known for making the best casual boards but they also make high-end options for professionals.  Consider Morey the Nike of the body boards.

Whether your kids need a decent board for summer vacation or you have an athletic family member that knows how to bodyboard, you can’t go wrong with Morey.

They have plenty of colors and styles to choose from.  If you want something simple they make it.  If you need a board that will last years they’ve got those too.

We reviewed the best body boards for the beach – check it out!

#10 Hat with Neck Protector

It receives sun every day, no matter if we’re walking the beach or walking to work.  Why not protect yourself?

If you’re on a budget, you can cut a tee-shirt or use a hand towel.  It can be stuck under the back of the hat or sewn into the hat.

If you’d rather have something commercially designed, this hat (shown right) has a little style with it.  It’s lightweight, thin, but still has UV protection built in.

It’s perfect for a day at the beach, on the lake fishing, or working in the yard.

>> check Hat color options on Amazon

It even protects your ears!  I wear mine whenever I’m out for long hikes or days at the beach.

#11 Waterproof Iphone Cover

A waterproof cover will do more than just protect from water.  It should also protect from sand (sand gets everywhere). As an alternative, you could use a large ziplock bag.

>> check cover colors and reviews on Amazon

I usually put my cell phone in a ziplock.  The phone can be used while covered.  If you prefer something a bit more stylish, there are plenty of options available.

#12 Binoculars for the Beach

Binoculars for the beach are a must have for any family.  You never know what you’ll see.

It could be transport-ships off the coast, whales breaching, dolphins riding the waves, or attractive people walking by on the beach.  Just make sure you’re prepared to get a better view.

Binoculars come in all shapes and sizes.   We really like Bushnell’s waterproof and fogproof porro prism.

Check out our review for the best beach binoculars for whale watching from shore.

#13 Beach Tent

Beach tents are a great addition to the beach if you have young kids or a large family. Beach tents usually have one side open for a view of the ocean and have windows for air to pass through so it won’t blow away.

If you’ve had bad experiences with umbrellas like I have, then a beach tent is a good alternative.  Beach tents are lightweight, durable, simple to set up and break down – almost like a pop-up tent.

>> check out the reviews for best beach tent for families on Amazon

We think the best beach tent is the Pacific Breeze Easy Up Beach Tent.  It’s a number 1 seller with reviews to support it.  Add this item to your essential beach list and skip the umbrella altogether!

Related: Best Baby Beach Tent

#14 Beach Lounger

Chillbo Baggins (great name right) makes inflatable lounge chairs or air hammocks for use at the beach, park, or yard. I’ve seen these a lot recently so I added them to the list.

There isn’t much to it so they are lightweight and easy to pack.

Beach loungers inflate easily, so you don’t even need a pump or mouth to blow air.  Just 2 “scoops of air” according to the directions.

They can also be used in the pool as a water lounge chair.  We like that it’s adaptable for land and water.

>> check Beach Lounger colors on Amazon

Although it won’t give you the back support that a regular chair will provide, it will be comfy to take a nap on or sunbathe.

#15 Stand Up Paddle Board

Stand up paddle boards, or SUPs have caught on quickly in the past decade.  The concept has been around for centuries, but its introduction as a commercial leisure activity has made SUPs a must-have for summer.

SUPs are a fun challenge to learn and provide an excellent workout on the water.  Once you get the hang of balancing on the board, you really start to have some fun.

Some people even do SUP yoga.  SUPs can be used for competition, leisure, or actual transport across the bay.  If your dog loves the water too, he can join you on the board.

>> The Best SUP Board Reviews on Amazon

#16 Inflatable Kayak (Intex Explorer K2 Kayak)

The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is a great option for people who don’t have much space or have a roof rack on top of their car.  This isn’t your backyard blow up toy, it’s strong and sturdy and does well in the water, however, it’s recommended for calm waters, not the surf.

If you plan on using in the harbor or bay then the Intex Explorer is a pretty good option.

>> check Intex Explorer Inflatable Kayak on Amazon

It measures 20 x 36 x 123, weighs 35 lbs, has 2 inflatable and adjustable seats, and a fin on the bottom to assist with stability (can be removed).  The color is yellow so it attracts attention in the water (mostly for safety).

It uses heavy duty puncture resistant vinyl and has multiple air chambers to protect the integrity of the kayak if something goes wrong.

Also included is a repair kit, 2 strong oars, and an efficient high input pump that will aid fast inflation and deflation.

#17 GoPro Compatible Snorkeling Mask

Waterproof GoPro cameras are great because they’re perfect for getting memorable photos in and out of the water.  Underwater photos are fun to take but how are we supposed to wear it while wearing a snorkel mask?  Look no further…

This snorkel mask was designed for the person who loves GoPro.  It features a 180 degree panoramic view for your GoPro with a fog-resistant design.

>> check full face snorkeling masks on Amazon

We haven’t tried it yet, but 1000’s of other people love it.

#18 Beach Builder Create-A-Sand Castle

Sandcastles never get old.  Kids have been building them for generations and their talent has increased tenfold (or has it).  If you’re like me, maybe you’ve been fooled by the amazing detail in sand castles made by kids.

I ran past a group of kids last month and couldn’t understand how they made the lines in the castle.  Yes, I know it’s obvious.

Well, families can now purchase buckets with the detail built in (it’s been around a long time).  To speed up the castle building process get the Sand Castle Building Kits for kids.

>> check sand castle kit options on Amazon

It features 18 pieces to help make arches and towers.  Just don’t let the waves ruin your work!

#19 Kite for the Beach

There are a few different kites available for kids and adults.  Most of us are familiar with the single-line kite that we used growing up but there are others that are much more fun.

The best kite for the beach are stunt kites that are dual-line kites.  They can be controlled by pulling on each line, which causes them to dip, dive, dodge, duck, and dip (movie reference).

Dual-line kites are great for older children and adults.  The best for traveling is a parafoil kite that is frameless.

It can easily be stuffed in a sack and they are durable.  I purchased one for my dad and we’ve been using at the beach.

>> Read our kite reviews here on Amazon

A duel-line parafoil kite will be a good workout on a windy day and can be used to train for kiteboarding.

#20 Beach Remote Control Car

If you’ve never seen a remote control car on the beach then you’re missing out.

Occasionally I’ll see someone and a rather large remote controlled car zooming around the sand.  The car is oversized compared to a normal RC car for pavement, and uses paddle tires to accelerate.

When I see people playing with their RC cars they’re usually near the back of the beach on the dunes away from people where they can drive up and down, spit up sand, and get airborne.

The Traxxas company is the leader in powerful RC cars and they have a cult following.

>> check Traxxas options and reviews on Amazon

Don’t use any RC car because the sand and water can damage them.  The Traxxas Revo 3.3. 4WD is a beast and performs well on any terrain.

It’s quite the investment but if you enjoy racing, you’ll love doing it at the beach.  Be sure to also get paddle tires!  Check out what Traxxas RC cars can do below:

#21 Beach Drone

You might be wondering why you’d need a drone on a beach.  Drones are no different from remote control cars.

They’re fun and they can do things that cars can’t.  Besides flying, they take video.  With video you can capture your family’s vacation way better than you could with a camera phone or GoPro.

A drone can take pictures too.  The camera is mounted on the remote so you see, in real time, what the drone is seeing.

>> check beach drone options on Amazon

This makes pictures and video easy.  If you have a big family or simply want to share your vacation memories with others, using a drone for imaging will no-doubt impress everyone.

These days drones are relatively inexpensive and fun for the whole family.  Just make sure you don’t fly out of range when it’s over the ocean.  Once it gets wet, it’s done!

#22 Slackline

I’ll preface this item by stating that you won’t be able to use a slackline on the beach (prove me wrong).

However, you will be able to use a slackline near the beach if there are trees, picnic tables, or volleyball nets.  Slacklines need anchors to attach to and the beach rarely has sturdy poles.

If you’re at Venice Beach in Los Angeles or Mission Beach in San Diego then you should be able to find a place to test your skills.  It’s a fun hobby to start and helps build balance and core strength.

>> check slack line options and reviews on Amazon

You can also use these in the backyard when you’re not at the beach.  Slack lines are easy to carry and you can keep it in the car for random inspiration or a road trip.

#23 Big Thing-Big Bubbles

Big bubbles are fun no matter what age you are.  Most of us learned to make huge bubbles in school with a rope or string.

“Big Thing-Big Bubbles” makes it easy for us by providing all the materials.  If you want to draw attention to yourself at the beach, consider making these huge bubbles.

Kids will wander over to watch and chase the bubbles.  Better yet, you can do this activity with kids and teach them how to do it.

>> check big bubbles options on Amazon

At the beach, there is plenty of space and it won’t be annoying to other beach-goers.  In fact, everyone will like it!  Its a budget-friendly activity for the whole family.

#24 Brolar Solar Charger – Waterproof

Some people just can’t live without their phones.  If you’re spending all day at the beach you might need your phone.  Just to warn you, there won’t be an outlet nearby.

Solar chargers have become much more efficient in the past decade.  I remember using one in the early 2000’s and it would take all day to get a full charge.

Not anymore!  This solar charger can charge your phone 2 times before it needs to be recharged again.

It is small and lightweight so it can fit in a pocket.  Plus, it’s also waterproof and dustproof so you don’t have to worry about water or sand (maybe a little bit with sand).  Read more  about the waterproof brolar solar charger.

#25 Silicone Wine Glasses

Wine glasses just got less classy.  Don’t worry though, at least they won’t break.  If you’ve ever organized a romantic picnic at the beach  you know that wine glasses can be the cherry-on-top.  They make even the most mundane activity classy and impressive.

Unfortunately, wine glasses at the beach don’t always work.  If the glass falls it probably won’t break on the sand, however, if it does break, picking up the pieces will be impossible as glass can seriously damage feet.

>> check silicone cup options and reviews on Amazon

For those of you who must have wine on the beach, we offer these nifty silicone based wine glasses.  They won’t leak or break and you can play catch with them after drinking.

They come in a stylish color and won’t break the bank.

#26 Guardian Gear Pet Waterer

Dogs need space on this list! People love being at the beach with their dog and dogs love the beach.  But the ocean isn’t like the pool so they’ll need another source of water to drink from.

Thoughtful pet owners know their pet’s water needs, so consider where the dog will drink at the beach (maybe at the outside shower?).

Guardian Gear offers a simple waterer for people and dogs on the move.  The bottle can be refilled and drains into a small foldable tray, easy for your dog to drink from.

>> check Guardian Gear options on Amazon

This is the perfect size to hold while you’re on a beach walk.

#27 Behemoth Giant Beach Ball

Yep, this is a huge beach ball.  Taller than a man and woman.  If you want to do a practical joke, suggest a beach ball and tell people you will bring one.

If you have kids this will provide hours of fun for them (and all the friends they will make) on the beach.  Just don’t let a dog tear into it.

>> checkBehemoth Beach Hall options on Amazon

It’s 12 feet of fun so you won’t be able to blow it up.  Use an electric pump from your car before taking it out to the sand.  It might be fun for the ocean too!

#28 Flexsafe By AquaVault

The Flexsafe was featured on SharkTank and it’s perfect for travelers and beachgoers.  The safe attaches to your chair so it’s virtually impossible for thieves to make off with your keys, wallets and glasses.

Unless they decide to take off with your whole chair – we all know that won’t happen.

>>check price and reviews of Flexsafe on Amazon

Whether you’re going for a swim in the pool at a fancy hotel or at a beachside cabana, the Flexsafe is a great accessory for safety!

#29 Beach Games for Kids (book)

Ok, we’re out of ideas for now but beach fun is limitless.  There are a lot of beach games for kids.  Get outside, experience the sand and water, and create your own fun.

>> Best Beach Games for Kids and Adults on Amazon

We hope this list provided some practical and silly items for your 2023 beach trip.  Whether it’s fun or safety we tried to include something for everyone!

Visit our website to learn more about beach safety, tips, and products.  Thanks for reading!

• 100 Day Dream Home
• Bargain Block
• Battle on the Beach
• Battle on the Mountain
• Building Roots
• Celebrity IOU
• Christina on the Coast
• Down Home Fab
• Farmhouse Fixer
• Fixer to Fabulous
• Help! I Wrecked My House

House Hunters

• Lakefront Empire
• Lil Jon Wants to Do What?

Love It or List It

• Married to Real Estate
• My Lottery Dream Home
• No Demo Reno
• Property Brothers: Forever Home
• Renovation Aloha
• Rico to the Rescue
• Rock the Block
• Small Town Potential
• Tough Love With Hilary Farr

Ugliest House in America

Unsellable houses.

• Why the Heck Did I Buy This House?
• Zillow Gone Wild
• See Full Schedule
• Stream Full Seasons
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Ideas by Room
• Design Styles
• HGTV Magazine
• HGTV Newsletters
• Flowers and Plants
• Landscaping and Hardscaping
• Outdoor Spaces
• Curb Appeal
• Cleaning and Organizing
• Entertaining
• Healthy Home and Garden
• Real Estate
• Home Improvement
• DIY Projects
• HGTV Handmade
• HGTV Smart Home 2024
• Get Outside $5K Giveaway
• Spring Into Cooking $5K Giveaway
• Spring It Forward $5K Giveaway
• HGTV Dream Home 2024
• HGTV Urban Oasis 2023
• Product Reviews
• Gift Guides
• Sales and Deals
• News and Trends
• Newsletters
• TV Schedule

30 Must-Have Beach Essentials

Take an already great day at the beach to a whole new level. From staying sand-free to capturing incredible underwater pictures, the perfect beach day is possible with these must-bring products.

Related To:

You've booked your vacation and are counting down the days until you can turn on your out-of-office email notification and get your toes in the sand. But not so fast. Have you made your packing list yet? Because nothing ruins a beach day like forgetting sunscreen. These essential items will make your beach day relaxed and carefree — just like any vacation should be.

Sand-Proof Beach Blanket: Sand Cloud Wanderlust XL Towel

Tired of carrying a pile of bulky towels to the beach? This one from Sand Cloud fits in your bag and is extra large at the same time. We love the sand-resistant design and that it dries three times faster than traditional towels. Plus, you're doing good, too; the brand donates 10 percent of its profits to marine conservation efforts.

This May Just Be the Last Beach Towel You'll Ever Need

Sun-Protective Swimwear: Body GloveSmoothies Sleek Rashguard

Double up your sun protection with a UPF swim shirt. UPF clothing blocks ultraviolet rays from penetrating the fabric and reaching your skin. It’s not a replacement for sunscreen, but it is a great addition to SPF.

Sun-Protective Hat: FurTalk Wide-Brim Sun Hat

Like UPF clothing, you can find hats that feature UPF material, too, but they’re not always that fashionable. Most are geared toward fishing or hiking. I love this wide-brim, straw hat. Not only does it look like a trendy floppy hat, but it has UPF 50 protection and features magical packable technology which means no more weird suitcase creases.

12 Best Sun Hats to Protect Your Face

Supergoop! PLAY Lip Balm SPF 30 with Mint

This isn't just for the beach, but Supergoop's h ydrating honey, Shea butter and sunflower seed oil just taste like summer. And after a long day in the sun, the all-purpose salve will keep your lips (hands, elbows, etc.) smooth and hydrated and protected.

Sun-Protective Hair Spray: Sun Bum Sea Spray

It's easy to forget about protecting your hair on beach days, but it's just as important. This Sun Bum Sea Salt Spray protects your hair from the elements while giving it extra body, waves and texture for that windswept look. Plus, it offers protection from damaging UV rays which prevents your hair from becoming dull, brittle and discolored over time.

Sunscreen: Supergoop! PLAY Everyday SPF 50 Lotion

This one is obvious, but before you get to the beach to discover last year’s bottle is basically empty or even several years old, make sure you’re stocked up on a solid sunblock. We love Supergoop!'s PLAY Everyday Lotion, which provides broad-spectrum UVA, UVB and IRA protection. It absorbs quickly and feels lightweight.

Our Favorite Sunscreens and Sun Protection Essentials

Beach Tent: Coleman Beach Shade Shelter

Sunscreen aside, sometimes you just need a break from the sun. And if you’re beaching with little ones or seniors, it’s especially important to have shade. This pop-up beach tent from Coleman sets up in minutes and features material with a UPF 50 rating for extra sun protection.

The Best Beach Umbrellas and Tents for Summer

Beach Wagon: Delta Children x Jeep Wrangler Stroller Wagon

The more people in your family, the more gear you have to schlep to the beach. Bringing chairs, toys, coolers, umbrellas and more from the car to the beach and back again is no easy task ... unless you have an all-terrain beach cart. With heavy-duty airless tires, large gear compartments and even cup holders, you'll have plenty of room to fit everything your family needs. We also love that it can be used beyond the beach for kid-friendly adventures around town — attach your current infant car seat with the included adapter for babies, or use the two seats with safety harnesses to safely transport older kids. Plus, the UV-blocking canopy protects little ones from the sun, while pull-down shades block additional light during naptime.

Beach Chair: Coleman Lightweight Utopia Breeze Beach Chair

Up your lounge game with lightweight travel chairs. This sling chair from Coleman features a cup holder and a pocket in the back for beach towels. The low-profile design is perfect for sinking your toes in the sand while remaining sand-free everywhere else.

14 Best Beach Chairs

Sand-Proof Beach Bag: CGear Sand-Free Tote

Like CGear’s beach blanket , the brand’s sand-free tote features the same patented technology to keep sand out of the bottom of your bag so no more tracking sand into your car or home. The tote is also great for camping and picnics.

Quick-Drying Towel: Seaview 180 Akumal Oversized Microfiber Beach Towel

Leaving the beach is sad, but you know what’s worse? Getting into your car with a soggy bottom and realizing that all of your towels are still wet, too. Quick-driving towels are a great investment and perfect for a beach vacation where you want to hop from the water to other activities. The Seaview 180 beach towel from Wildhorn Outfitters drys three times faster than cotton towels and can hold up to four times its weight in water.

The Best Picnic Blankets and Beach Mats for Every Style

Cooler Bag: YETI Hopper Flip 12 Soft Cooler

Instead of trying to lug a big, bulky cooler through the sand, throw a lightweight cooler bag around your shoulder. The YETI Hopper Flip 12 cooler bag is just as chilly as coolers in the YETI fleet, yet it fits a surprisingly large amount of cans and ice.

14 Best Coolers and Cooler Bags for Summer

Waterproof Speaker: Anker SoundCore Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Wet Bag: Kanga Care Wet Bag

What do you do with all of your wet bathing suits after a day at the beach? This is a challenge we’ve all had to deal with, but getting a few wet bags would make it way easier. These wet bags are specifically designed to hold damp or wet items and will help you avoid getting everything else in your bag wet, too. You can throw the bags into your tote, and when you get home everything can go straight into the wash.

Polarized Sunglasses: Sunski Dipsea Recycled Sunglasses

Polarized lenses are more expensive and you might not think you need them, but when you’re out in the sun, they make a world of a difference. In addition to UV ray protection, polarized lenses cut down on the glare from the sun, and that glare can be brutal when reflected off white sandy beaches. For sunglasses less than $100, check out the designs from Sunski.

Waterproof Phone Bag: geckobrands Waterproof Phone Tote

We’ve seen it too many times. Someone pulls out his or her phone to Instagram the perfect beach sunset and accidentally drops the phone into the ocean. Use your phone while keeping it waterproof with this pouch from geckobrands. The bag features a shoulder strap that’s perfect for keeping your phone out of harm’s way while kayaking or boating.

Portable Safe: SAFEGO Portable Safe

The most common dilemma about visiting the beach is what to do with your stuff when you want to take a stroll. Pack it all up? Take a risk of something being stolen? Try to hide it? With the SAFEGO, you can lock up all your valuables anytime you need to leave your beach area.

Portable Wine Bag: Wine2Go Foldable Wine Bottle

Most public beaches have a no-glass policy, and if you’re more of a wine drinker, your options can be limited. Not that there’s anything wrong with canned wine, but if you want to bring your favorite bottle, just fill up the collapsible Wine2Go bag, and you’re all set.

Baby Powder: Nature's Baby Organics Dusting Powder

While this isn’t necessarily gear , baby powder is essential for any day at the beach. Why? It magically dusts sand off your skin. And at the end of the day, wiping all that sand off your feet before getting in a car is a wonderful feeling.

7 Weird Items That Are Useful at the Beach

Cup Holders: Turtleback Sand Coaster + Cup Holder

It’s happened to everyone: You reach for a cold beverage and realize that it’s coated with a layer of wet sand. And no matter how hard you try to shake it off, that stuff clings all over your drink. Turtlebacks are special cup holders that elevate drinks and keep them totally sand-free. They come in tons of different colors and you can buy a multi-color pack so that everyone can keep track of their drink easily.

Beach-Friendly Drinkware: The Beach Glass Classic Outdoor Drinkware

A plastic red cup? You can do better. A beach day and a cold drink go hand-in-hand, and these plastic drink “glasses” from The Beach Glass are perfect for sipping on something fruity. They’re made from BPA-free acrylic, are dishwasher safe and will hold up to 12 ounces. The patented ball and stem design holds the glass upright in the sand, and they even float.

Can Cooler: YETI Rambler Colster Can Insulator

If you're drinking from a can at the beach, you'll want to keep it ice-cold as long as possible. The YETI Colster's 12-ounce size is perfect for sparkling water, soft drinks and good old-fashioned beer, all kept straight-from-the-cooler cold for hours.

Reusable Water Bottle: Cupture Fruit Infuser Water Bottle

Drinking water is always important, but even more so when you’re spending hours in the sun. This water bottle allows you to amp up the flavor profile by including chopped fruit or vegetables.

Portable Table: Crate & Barrel Table In a Bag

If your beach crew is large and in charge, it might be time for a lunchtime upgrade. This sturdy, low-profile table is easy to transport and comes with a canvas carrying bag. Plus, it makes playing games even easier.

Waterproof Camera: Sunnylife Underwater Camera

Kids and adults alike will love taking this underwater camera for a spin. The cute device from Sunnylife features a detachable waterproof casing, a 28mm, f/90 lens and a wrist strap. All you need to buy is some 35mm film for a bit of old-school summer fun.

Portable Charger: Anker PowerCore 5000 Portable Charger

Portable chargers are ridiculously convenient, but we've noticed they can also be ridiculously heavy. Keep your beach bag light with this small, lipstick-sized, high-speed smartphone charger. You'll get one full additional charge during your beach day shenanigans, so you can capture every fun moment.

Reading Material: Kindle Paperwhite

This waterproof reader is made to be read by the beach. But if you just want to close your eyes and listen to your beach read, then consider an Audible subscription . Audible allows you to enjoy all of your favorite books from your tablet, iPhone and more. This means you can "read" while sitting at the beach staring at the ocean with your headphones.

Body Wipes: Public Goods Bamboo Wet Wipes

Maybe you're not heading home after the beach or plan on stopping at a beachfront restaurant for lunch. These bamboo wet wipes will give you just the quick refresh you need. They're made with a moisturizing blend of aloe, vitamin E, cucumber extract and other nourishing ingredients that soothe the skin while keeping you clean and refreshed on the go.

Sand Toys: Click N Play 18-Piece Beach Sand Toy Set

This huge beach toy set will keep kids busy for hours. The high-quality, BPA-free set comes with a bucket, two shovels, three rakes, two sand sifters, a watering can and eight adorable sand molds, all in a mesh bag to make post-beach cleanup a breeze.

Waterproof Games: Hoyle Waterproof Playing Cards

While the kiddos are building castles or digging holes in the sand, the adults deserve to have some fun, too. These waterproof playing cards are a perfect, easy beach game that will keep you busy for hours. Set up a game under an umbrella or beach tent to stay out of the sun, and play some fun group games like gin rummy or poker. Cards are easily washable, so you can keep bringing them back to the beach again and again.

The Pared-Down Packing Guide for a Family Beach Trip

More summer must-buys.

The Best Beach Chairs on Amazon for Summer 2024

The 10 Best Cornhole Boards of 2024

The Best Bug Repellents for Kids

5 Best Outdoor Mosquito Repellers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

10 Best Hammocks of 2024 to Help You Enjoy Some R&R

9 Best Cooling Sheets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

8 Best Tower Fans of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

42 Stylish Home Accents That Will Make You Feel Like You're Still on Vacation

Get Ready for Shark Week With These Fierce Finds

The Best Camping Essentials for Kids & Teens This Summer

48 Mermaidcore Home Finds Guaranteed to Make a Splash This Summer

Our 15 Favorite Popsicle Molds for Summer

11 Inflatable Sprinklers Kids Will Love This Summer

The Best Ceiling Fans for Every Style and Budget

10 Best Coolers for Summer 2023

The Best Inflatable Pools for Everyone in 2023

• The Best Beach Bags for Summer 2023

The Best Garage Fans to Keep You Cool This Season

The Best Memorial Day Sales on Outdoor Furniture & Accessories to Shop Now

This Is the Best Machine for Making Authentic Hawaiian Shave Ice at Home

Our Favorite Summer Host Gifts That Aren't Wine, Flowers or Food

These Are the 32 Must-Have Summer Products on Amazon

These Are the Kitchen and Grilling Tools You Need for Summer

42 Cute Doormats You Need for Summer

15 Breathable Bedding Sets for Summer

These Are the 15 Best Pool Floats for Summer 2023

Bring the Fun With These 22 Swimming Pool Games

• 18 Must-Haves to Pack for a Family Beach Trip

The 16 Best Stadium Seats for Comfort and Support

The Best Beach Towels to Pack for Your Next Vacation

• The Best Beach Umbrellas for Summer 2023

10 Stylish Ways to Keep Mosquitos at Bay

• 41 Things You Need for Your Next Road Trip

13 Essential Items to Keep Dogs Cool in Hot Weather

Go shopping.

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

Our Honest Review of the AeroGarden 2.0 Apr 26, 2024

6 Best Garden Carts of 2024, Tested and Reviewed Apr 26, 2024

The 10 Best Bug Zappers for Chemical-Free Pest Control Apr 23, 2024

The Best Beach Chairs on Amazon for Summer 2024 Apr 22, 2024

The 15 Best Mosquito Repellents on Amazon Apr 19, 2024

The Best Patio Chairs for Every Style and Budget Apr 21, 2024

The 7 Best Espresso Machines, Tested and Reviewed Apr 18, 2024

40+ Gifts for Teachers That Really Show Your Appreciation Apr 18, 2024

Mermaid + Blobcore = Jellyfish Aesthetic, and We’re Ready Apr 17, 2024

13 Wearable Mosquito Repellents That Aren't Smelly Aerosol Sprays Apr 26, 2024

8 Cool Catios for Every Feline, Style and Budget Apr 15, 2024

The Best Flower and Plant Services That Ship Quickly Apr 15, 2024

13 Best Adirondack Chairs for Every Style and Budget Apr 15, 2024

12 Best Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents Apr 15, 2024

The 7 Best Sewing Machines, Tested and Reviewed Apr 12, 2024

Our Honest Review of Caraway’s Best-Selling Cookware Set Apr 12, 2024

105 Best Patio Furniture Buys for Every Style and Budget Apr 12, 2024

20 Dining Room Rugs for Every Style, Size and Budget Apr 12, 2024

Our Top 33 College Graduation Gift Ideas Apr 12, 2024

I Tried the Oura Ring for Four Weeks — Here's How It Changed My Sleep Apr 12, 2024

8 Best Lawn Aerators in 2024 Apr 12, 2024

The Best Indoor Fly Traps Apr 11, 2024

23 Asian American and Pacific Islander-Owned Home Brands We Love Apr 11, 2024

I Own a Lovesac Sofa – Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying One Apr 15, 2024

The 10 Best Cornhole Boards of 2024 Apr 10, 2024

42 Best Graduation Gift Ideas for the Class of 2024 Apr 9, 2024

Target's Circle Week Sale Is Back and You Don't Want to Miss These Deals Apr 9, 2024

8 Best Clothing Steamers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed Apr 23, 2024

20 Best Inexpensive Graduation Gift Ideas Apr 8, 2024

7 Best Smokeless Fire Pits of 2024, Tested and Reviewed Apr 5, 2024

House hunters international, get the hgtv today newsletter.

Subscribe now to get our latest decorating tips, household hacks and more delivered to your inbox daily.

By entering your email address, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the Privacy Policy . HGTV and its affiliates may use your email address to provide updates, ads, and offers.

To withdraw your consent or learn more about your rights, see the Privacy Policy .

• HGTV Insider
• HGTV Shopping
• HGTV Makeovers
• HGTV This Week
• HGTV Gardens and Outdoors
• HGTV Daily Sweepstakes Reminder
• HGTV Inspiration
• HGTV Weekend Projects
• Sweepstakes Updates

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.

Related Pages

• 12 Great Beaches Where You Can Pitch a Tent or...
• 28 Garden Tools and Essentials for Year-Round Care
• The Best Beach Chairs for Summer 2023
• 18 Tailgating Essentials to Score for Football...
• These Are the 32 Must-Have Summer Products on...

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

The 30 Best Beach Accessories for Your Next Vacation [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

778 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

33 Published Articles 3136 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

1. Beach Blanket

2. waterproof phone pouch, 3. sunshade, 4. beach chair, 5. sand toys, 6. beach games, 7. solar phone charger, 8. foldable grill, 10. inflatable lounger, 11. sunglasses, 12. beach bag, 13. beach towel, 14. beach cart, 15. sunscreen, 16. portable fan, 17. snorkel and fin set, 18. foldable sun hat, 19. water shoes, 20. beach cover-up, 21. rash guard, 22. portable lock box, 23. pop-up tent, 24. picnic bag, 25. folding table, 26. beach first aid kit, 27. portable speaker, 28. waterproof camera, 29. water bottle, 30. trash bags and stands, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

A trip to the beach is the highlight of any vacation and the perfect way to spend time with friends and family in the sun.

While nothing feels more laid back than the sand between your toes and the waves lapping at your feet, getting you and all of your beach gear comfortably settled can be a bit of a chore.

To make it easier to hit the beach like an absolute expert, your collection should be made up of items that help to keep you comfortable, give you shade, let you play, eat, drink, and sleep in style on your next visit to the ocean.

The Best Beach Accessories

These oversized, sand-proof beach blankets are comfortable to sit on and the perfect spot from which to watch the ocean in the sun.

Made from high-quality synthetic materials, a beach blanket can fold up super small for easy transportation , then open wide enough to let you and your crew chat, play, and eat together on the beach.

With a wide variety of colors and designs to choose from, you can set up your own little picnic area on the sand, and the lightweight, water-repellent, and sand-proof designs are easy to shake clean before packing away at the end of the day.

A waterproof phone pouch lets you keep your cell phone close, both in and out of the water. Made with a water-resistant, transparent casing, these phone covers offer full touchscreen functionality allowing you to use your phone and camera while you are in the water .

With an extra layer of protection, you no longer need to leave your cell phone on the sand as you take a dip in the water, and with a detachable lanyard, you can safely hang your cell phone around your neck, keeping it visible at all times.

Easy to use and incredibly effective against damage from water, sand, or even snow, a waterproof phone pouch is perfect for use while fishing, swimming, sailing, snorkeling, and many more water-based activities.

Stay safe in the sun with your own portable sunshade . With a huge variety of sunshades and parasols to choose from, you and your crew can always enjoy instant access to your own shaded area, even on the sunniest of beach days.

Choose from oversized shades with collapsible poles and umbrella-folding canopies, pop-up shelters weighed down with sand and rocks, or go all out with a pop-up tent that can be zipped up to give you complete privacy, even on busy beaches.

These are all made from materials that offer UPF protection , and with poles, anchors, screws, and other accessories included, these sunshades offer family-size protection.

A folding beach chair is a must-have item for lazy days by the ocean, and with lower-profiles and comfortable high-back designs, you can stretch your legs out for hours at a time.

Made with strong metal frames with tough and durable water-resistant fabric seats , these awesome beach chairs are easy to open and close.

Lightweight and highly portable, your beach chair can be used in the park, at festivals, and even in your own backyard, and with a wealth of colors and designs to choose from, your beach chair will quickly become one of your best-loved beach essentials.

Bottom Line: With cup holders in the armrests, reclining backs, and built-in sunshades, these awesome beach chairs are affordable, easy to use, and come with carry bags for easy transportation.

Let your little ones enjoy spending time by the water with a selection of sandbox toys that are perfect for use on the beach.

Making sandcastles is a rite of passage for all young sun-lovers, and taking your own toys with you will help to keep them entertained for longer. Build magnificent castles or make friendly animal faces in the sand using a set of sand molds , and let your kids dig to their heart’s content with their very own bucket and spade.

For even more awesome adventures, you could even add small boats and floating toys for use in rock pools, and with carry bags included, your little one can pack away their toys at the end of each day.

Beach games offer a fun and competitive way to enjoy your time in the sun for older children and young-at-heart adults.

Stay active with easy-to-play games such as bocce ball, cornhole, bucket ball, Jazzminton , and many more ball games that have simple rules and offer many hours of fun in the sun. Designed specifically to be used on the beach, these game sets are resistant to water, easy to wipe free of sand, and come with their very own carry bags for easy transportation.

If you want to play in larger groups, look at bringing your own net and ball for a good beach volleyball or soccer game in the sand, and keep fit while having fun by the ocean.

If you like to stay connected on the go, a solar phone charger will help you to keep your cell phone topped up without the need for any electricity. Perfect for sunny days on the beach, these clever little chargers work by harnessing the power of the sun into Li-polymer batteries that can give you many hours of charge for your cell phone or tablet.

Foldable when not in use, these high-efficiency solar panel chargers come with USB ports for high-speed charging, and the rugged construction has been specifically designed for use in the great outdoors.

Hot Tip: Prefer to have your power ready to go? Check out our guide to the best portable power bank chargers for travel .

These supercute little BBQ grills fold up nicely and neatly when not in use and can be stored in their own carry cases for easy transportation. Made from premium, heat-resistant materials such as stainless steel , these portable grills offer just enough space to cook up a storm on the beach.

With easy-to-clean removable grills and lids for increased safety, these awesome little beach BBQ stoves can fold up easily and are small enough to be stored in your trunk when not in use.

No trip to the beach would be complete without a cooler . Whether you bring enough cold beverages to cool down a crowd or just need a little cooler for keeping your water and snacks cold, your beach cooler will quickly become your new best friend.

Choose from hardside heavyweights that have the capacity to keep your stuff cold for hours on end  or a lunch box-style cooler that can be carried like a tote bag to keep everything fresh until lunchtime, and enjoy a nice refreshing drink from your very own personal beach bar.

With a wide variety of sizes, capacities, and styles to choose from, you can easily find a cooler to suit every type of beach day.

Lounge like a king with an inflatable lounger . These supercool, raised air beds can be inflated with just a few scoops of air , and once closed and tied shut, they stay inflated all day long.

Available in a wide range of colors and designs, they are easy to set up and fold up small for easy transportation when not in use.

With additional pockets and elastic holders to keep your books, magazines, cell phone, and drink close at hand, these inflatable loungers can be set up and ready to sit on in just a few moments. Some models come with a built-in pillow to let you lay back in style, and all of them are wide enough to sit 2 of you in an upright position.

Hot Tip: You may also want a floating tube for lounging in the water.

Protect your eyes while staying on trend with a pair of super-stylish sunglasses. With so many different sizes, styles, and designs to choose from, you should easily be able to find the perfect pair to suit both the shape of your face and your own personal style, and there are sunglasses available to suit every budget.

If you are planning on enjoying some sporting activities out on the water, look for sunglasses with polarized lenses to help reduce the glare from the water . Even if you just want to lay still and catch some rays on the beach, you should still choose shades that block up to 99% of both UVA and UVB rays to ensure an efficient level of protection.

Throw your swimsuits, towels, and other essentials in an oversized beach bag and make your way down to the ocean.

Made from breathable mesh materials, these beach bags offer lots of useful storage spaces , and the open design lets your wet towels and clothing dry out nicely as you are walking home.

With internal zippered pockets for your most valuable items, and lots of external pockets for your sunscreen, sunglasses, books, magazines, drinks, and so much more, these open beach bags sit nicely over your shoulder, and their casual styling makes them perfect for use on the beach, at the park or anywhere the sun is shining.

These ultra-soft and oversized beach towels are perfect for drying off after a dip in the ocean. Large enough to use as a blanket, dedicated beach towels come with bright and colorful designs that are resistant to fading from the sun, salt water, or chlorine .

As soft as the towels you would use back at home, beach towels are designed to be incredibly absorbent to help soak up excess water after a swim.

Bottom Line: Gorgeous to look at and soft against the skin, your beach towel should be able to repel sand with a good shake and be able to roll or fold up to be carried in your beach bag.

Make light work of moving your sunshades, beach chairs, and other accessories from the car to your campout spot with a dedicated beach cart .

With big chunky wheels that can easily handle deep sand and uneven terrain , these foldable metal carts come with sizable, heavy-duty storage areas, and their durable construction allows them to take an impressive amount of weight.

With adjustable handles that make it easy to maneuver, even when full, these super-useful beach carts can be folded down and stored in your trunk or garage when not in use.

Wearing sunscreen is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your skin against the dangers of the sun, and when used regularly and frequently reapplied, it will help to lower the risk of painful sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging.

Available in creams, sprays, oils, mists, and lotions, sunscreens come with an SPF rating that indicates how long the product will keep your skin safe in the sun.

If you are spending hours at a time on the beach, look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks UVA, UVB, and UVC rays, and choose an SPF of between 30 and 50 to keep your skin safe in the sun.

It can feel pretty oppressive and airless during the hottest part of the day, even when you are next to the ocean. If you need a quick cooldown, a portable fan will give you an instant blast of cool air.

Powered up using regular batteries and available with a selection of different settings , portable fans can be held in your hand or attached to your chair, sunshade, or shelter by using a clamp.

A great choice for keeping the air nice and cool inside your pop-up tent, a portable fan also helps make the air more comfortable if you have littles on who needs to take a nap or just want to take some time out of the heat of the sun.

Get up close and personal with the fishes in the sea with an easy-to-use snorkel and fin set . Perfect for beginners, these easy-to-use snorkel sets come with wide-eyed, waterproof face masks that let you see brilliantly underwater, and with soft silicone seals, they fit neatly against your face to stop any water from getting in.

With a PVC snorkel tube that extends beyond the top of your head, you can lay face down in the water and marvel at the seascapes beneath you without having to pop up to breathe. Add a pair of fins to increase your speed and power up your swim , and enjoy endless hours of fun just underneath the surface of the water.

Wearing a hat in the sun will help protect the dedicated skin on your face, neck, and eyes from harmful UV rays and help to shade your eyes from the sun. While you should always wear a good quality sunscreen applied directly to your skin, a sun hat will add extra protection.

With plenty of styles to choose from, most sun hats come with wide brims or rounded bills to offer increased shade , ventilated crowns to keep your head cool, and adjustable drawcords to keep your hat firmly on your head. A sun hat is a must-have for every outdoor adventurer.

These supersoft water shoes are made from breathable synthetic materials that won’t turn to mush in the water. Like a second skin, they are designed to never chafe or cause blisters, and the stretchy fit makes them easy to pop on and take off in an instant.

Designed to protect your feet from sharp rocks and rough sand, these shoes have flexible rubber outsoles for increased comfort, and available in a wide range of sizes and designs, they are perfect for swimming, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, yoga and so much more.

Take a break from the sun with a stylish and comfortable cover-up . Made from soft and breathable fabrics such as lightweight cotton or breezy chiffon, these throw-overs are perfect for wearing over your bikini or bathing suit.

Available in a huge variety of styles and designs, they are usually short in length and come with loose-fitting, cap style sleeves or off-the-shoulder designs for a supercool, laid-back look and feel on the beach .

Suitable for use when you want to cover your skin after a long day in the sun or for wearing as you walk away from the beach to enjoy your lunch, a good cover-up can even be worn with shorts and sandals for casual drinks or romantic walks in the evening.

These slim-fitting t-shirts are great for wearing both in and out of the water. Made from soft and stretchy fabrics such as nylon, spandex, and elastane , rash guards are designed to offer protection against irritants like sand, salt water, and the sun.

In addition, the tightly woven fibers have been constructed to block out up to 98% of the harmful rays of the sun, giving them a UPF 50+ sun protection rating to keep your skin safer while you play.

Available in a huge variety of styles and different sizes to suit all ages, a rash guard shirt is perfect for swimming, sailing, surfing, and a wide range of water-based activities.

Keep your most valuable items safe on public beaches with a portable lockbox. These useful little security devices are available in hardshell or soft body designs and are perfect for use on the beach, at your hotel, or while traveling.

With cut-proof steel cables that can be attached to any fixed object , slash-resistant materials, and secure locks, these portable lock boxes have enough space to hold your passport, cell phone, money, watches, and other important possessions to ensure that they stay safely by your side on the beach.

Many lock boxes and bags also feature an RFID lining that helps to protect your cards from data fraud and will keep your ID safe from portable scanners. Easy to use and compact enough to carry around with you, a portable safe would make an excellent addition to your beach day essentials.

Create your own space or instant shade with a pop-up beach tent . Made with quick-fixing fiberglass frames, these compact and lightweight little sunshades can be popped up in an instant. Perfect for providing a shaded space for impromptu picnics, afternoon snoozes, or a play space for little ones, a pop-up beach tent has many uses.

Offering UPF 50+ protection while also being resistant to water and hardy enough to stay upright in the wind , pop-up beach tents come with their own carry bags and don’t require extra stakes, poles, or other accessories, making them highly portable and perfect for all types of outdoor occasions.

Take some snacks and nice cool drinks with you to enjoy on the beach with an insulated picnic bag. These cute little picnic bags are made from wipe-clean materials and have all the room you need to keep your lunch cool and sand-free on the beach.

Available in a wide choice of designs and sizes , these bags come with shoulder or grab handles that make them easy to carry from the car to the waterfront. Designed to keep things cool with the use of an ice block or cold pack, they have a layer of insulation on the inside that helps to keep your food cooler for longer.

With additional pockets for utensils , cups, plates, and other essentials, some picnic bags are more like traditional hampers, while others simply offer enough space for a sandwich and a drink to keep you well-fed.

If you like to dine in style, even on the beach, a folding table offers a stable perch from which to enjoy your alfresco offerings. Made from strong yet lightweight materials, these tables can fold up for easy transportation, and with easy-to-clean surfaces , they are an excellent choice for campouts on the beach.

Available in a wide range of styles and sizes, they come with sturdy legs that stay stable, even in the sand, and some come with built-in cup holders to ensure that your drink stays upright so you can enjoy every last drop.

Bottom Line: With carry-bags included and quick and easy open and close functionality, a folding beach table can also be used for playing games, keeping your belongings up off of the floor, and as a snack and hydration station for kids as they graze.

A waterproof first aid kit is a must-have for anyone who loves to spend time in and around the water, and if you enjoy long lazy days on the beach, it is always handy to have your own medical kit close at hand.

Look for dedicated first aid pouches or boxes that can handle being in wet and sandy conditions , and either invest in one that comes ready-filled or procure your own items to keep you safe on the sand. Jellyfish stings, cuts on rocks or sharp objects, sunburn, and even sunstroke can all be made better using over-the-counter medications.

If you are making your own kit, consider including calamine lotion for bites and stings, Tylenol, anti-itch cream, bandages, Band-Aids, aloe vera cream, sunscreen, tweezers, and hand sanitizer, all of which are useful for common beach-based accidents and ailments, and even if you never have to use them, it is a great idea to be able to keep all of these things close by.

Pump up the party with a portable speaker . Powered up using batteries or solar power, a portable beach speaker should come with a waterproof and sand-proof casing.

Designed to offer crystal clear sound and booming bass, these speakers offer excellent waterproof capabilities and are made from durable components that won’t be affected by the sand.

Featuring rechargeable Li-ion batteries, these speakers connect to your cell phone or tablet using Bluetooth to let you enjoy your favorite playlists wherever you are.

Compact and portable, most portable speakers don’t need to be massive to offer a huge amount of sound, and many come with a bungee strap attached that makes it easy to hang them from your beach chair, sunshade, or parasol.

Capture every moment with a waterproof sports camera that can be used both in and out of the water. These super-compact and incredibly proficient little cameras can shoot in 4K and offer a wide range of awesome features.

Take pictures or shoot video in the water using a wrist strap or head mount and view your work instantly on the super clear LCD display screens. Offering IPX-rated waterproof protection, these sports cameras come with a secure casing , and with rechargeable batteries, they can offer many hours of incredible images that you can share with your friends using Bluetooth.

Hot Tip: Interested in what are the best GoPro alternatives ? We’ve found lots of options in our helpful guide.

Stay hydrated with your very own water bottle , and help to reduce the need for single-use plastics. With so many awesome water bottles to choose from, you should look for ones made from BPA-free, food-grade materials that offer a layer of insulation to help keep your drink cool even in the sun.

Many flasks and canteen-style water bottles come with a straw lid or a wide mouth opening, making it easy to drink from, and if you want to spice it up a little, add some fresh fruit or cold cucumber for a healthy, refreshing drink that you can sip on all day long.

Keep the environment clean and our beaches beautiful by taking your trash home with you. It can get very busy on the beach during peak season, and trash cans can start to overflow.

However, no matter how full the municipal trash facilities may be, there is no excuse for leaving your empty cans, food wrappers, and other detritus in the sand, so take some trash bags and leave no trace.

There are zillions of different types of trash bags to choose from, and you can take whichever ones you use at home, but if you also invest in a portable trash bag holder, you can set up your very own waste station next to your sunbathing spot .

A great choice for family days out, you can rest easy knowing that you did your bit to keep the beach clean on your big day out.

From beach towels and picnic bags to portable tables and 4-wheeled carts, there are a ton of awesome accessories out there that will add value to your beach vacation.

Choose items that suit the needs of you and your family, and get ready to enjoy your most relaxing and comfortable beach day ever!

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our  Medical & Legal Disclaimers .

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some beach must haves.

There are many essentials that will make your trip to the beach more enjoyable and comfortable. Some of these include beach chairs, games, a beach blanket, sunscreen, beach towels, a sunshade, and a cooler.

How do you carry beach gear?

There are 2 ways to carry beach gear, and it depends on how much you have. For simple trips with only a few items, the best way to carry your gear is with a dedicated beach bag that has a small cooler compartment and mesh lining that allows sand to pass through easily. The other way is to use a beach cart that can hold bigger items such as coolers, shades, and games and makes light work of getting over sand.

What do I need in my beach bag?

Essentials that you should have in your beach bag include sunscreen, a water bottle, a beach towel, a sun hat, sunglasses, some entertainment, and a swim shirt or cover-up.

Are mesh bags good for the beach?

Mesh bags are great for the beach as they are more breathable and easier to clean than other bags. They also make finding your belongings easy and are lightweight.

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

26 Beach Accessories to Rock on the Sand

This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase through these links. See our full disclosure here .

Hit the beach in style this season with these chic summer essentials, cool accessories, and high-tech devices meant to take your sunny escape to the next level. If you have already picked out your destination, it means it’s time to gear up for your next trip to the ocean. Sure, you will remember to pack a classy swimsuit and a trendy pair of sunglasses, but don’t forget to bring along those cool beach accessories that make all the difference, like an inflatable sofa, some sleek wooden bats, or that sand-free towel everyone is talking about lately.

From chic swimwear to the latest seaside essentials, our picks for the best beach accessories in 2023 will have you ready for a stylish, fun-filled summer in the sand.

Sun Shelter: Sunnylife Beach Cabana

If your list of beach supplies doesn’t include a sun shelter, it probably should. A better alternative to the common beach umbrella, this broad four-corner canopy from Sunnylife keeps sun worshippers ventilated and protected from harmful UV rays. Its coated fabric offers UPF 50 sun protection, and the smart design allows for pleasant airflow.

Chic and lightweight, the Beach Cabana can be easily assembled by one person but provides shade for the entire family.

Beach Mat: CGEAR Original Sand-Free Mat

Make the most of your trip to the seaside with CGear Original Mat , a sandless beach blanket that keeps you and your belongings clean. Featuring two separate dual-weave layers, the revolutionary ground sheet keeps dirt and dust away, ensuring an unworried sand-free experience on the shoreline. Undeniably, this beach accessory is one of the smartest inventions ever!

Beach Table: Woodland Steelworks Portable Beer Table

A day at the beach will never be the same with a clever portable wooden table like this one. Designed for summertime leisure, the Portable Beer Table is ideal for enjoying lunch or a cold beer on the sand, but can also hold your laptop if you fancy watching a movie or getting work done under a palm tree.

Handcrafted using premium materials and equipped with a bottle opener and a carrying handle that doubles as a phone holder, this cool piece of beach furniture adds class and convenience to your littoral experience.

Phone Protection: PHOOZY Apollo II + Antimicrobial Insulated Phone Case

Fun in the sun requires special protection, and not just for you, but for your phone, as well! With PHOOZY’s NEW Apollo II + Antimicrobial Series Thermal Capsule , you can prevent your device from overheating on those hot summer days spent soaking up the sun thanks to its chromium-infused outer shell that reflects over 90 percent of solar radiation. Not only that, but this clever beach-ready item uses AGION Antimicrobial Technology to reduce microbes by up to 99.99%.

The case is also buoyant, which means it will keep your phone from sinking if it accidentally falls in the water. On top of all, its layered NASA-inspired materials offer military-grade drop protection and keep your device’s battery going longer in the cold. One of the best things to bring to the beach in 2023, if you ask us!

Beach Cooler: YETI Hopper M20 Soft Backpack Cooler

A beach cooler that can be carried as a backpack? It’s possible with YETI’s Hopper M20 Soft Backpack Cooler . Made with waterproof high-density fabric and complete with ergonomic shoulder straps, this ingenious beach must-have holds up to 18 beer cans (or 26 lbs of ice) while resisting punctures and UV rays. The brand’s ColdCell Insulation promises superior cold-holding, and its innovative magnetic closure makes it easy to load and unload contents.

Inflatable Sofa: Fatboy Lamzac The Original

Sturdy, portable, and ridiculously easy to inflate, Lamzac the Original takes beach lounging to a whole new level. All you have to do is simply pull it through the air, and this innovative product will magically transform into a cool, comfortable airbed, perfect for chilling outdoors. Needless to say, the inflatable sofa deflates just as easily, and, when not in use, can be folded up into a small bag for easy transportation.

Sun Protection: Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

If there’s one item that can’t be missing from your beach accessories packing list, it’s sunscreen. Our bet for innovative sun protection this year is Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 , a lightweight, invisible daily primer that protects against harmful UVA, UVB, and blue light while leaving your skin hydrated. Infused with antioxidants, this oil-free multi-tasker is safe for all skin types and absorbs seamlessly, leaving behind a pleasant velvety finish.

Solar Charger & Speaker: Solgaard Solarbank Boombox

Power up your gadgets in the sun while enjoying your favorite tunes with this cool 4-in-1 device from Solgaard. A waterproof power bank, Bluetooth speaker, and wireless charger rolled into one portable solar-powered unit, the Solarbank Boombox is the perfect companion when hanging on the beach. Complete with a 12,000 mAh battery and 4G solar technology, this little guy provides up to 5 full charges for your smartphone or 96 hours of music via Bluetooth, making for a practical add-on to your beach gear repertoire.

Reusable Water Bottle: LARQ Insulated Bottle

Using a reusable water bottle will help reduce the huge amounts of plastic that end up in the ocean every year. But LARQ takes things a step further by creating a reusable water bottle that’s not just friendly to the environment, but also chic, inexpensive, and utterly efficient.

Made of lightweight and durable food-grade 18/8 stainless steel, the BPA-free 17oz LARQ Insulated Bottle keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot for up to 12 hours. Its award-winning two-toned design with a powdery semi-matte finish means staying hydrated has never been more stylish, so make sure to add one of these beauties to your beach packing list this summer!

Beach Lounger: Sunnylife Deluxe Beach Chair

With an adjustable padded headrest, classy wooden armrests, and its own insulated cooler pocket, Sunnylife’s Deluxe Beach Chair is sure to become your new favorite summer accessory. Designed to convert into a backpack and recline to six different positions (including flat), this luxurious item is as comfortable as it is easy to transport. It also features a handy drink holder and comes in a beautiful terracotta hue that’ll go perfectly with your tan.

Eyewear: Oliver Peoples Mandeville Aviators

A small accessory with a big impact, sunglasses make life comfortable on the beach while adding that instant cool factor to any look. If it’s a modern take on a classic style you’re after, look no further than these gorgeous Mandeville Aviators from American luxury eyewear brand Oliver Peoples.

Made in Japan and complete with etched metal frames and adjustable nose pads, these square, retro-inspired sunglasses combine fashion and functionality into a must-have beach item. The unisex pair comes with flat mustard-toned lenses to give the summer of 2023 some much-needed bounce.

Waterproof Camera: Olympus Tough TG-6

True to its name, Olympus’ Tough TG-6 is a rugged 12-megapixel digital camera designed to survive whatever you put it through. Waterproof, shockproof, crushproof, dustproof, and even freezeproof, it’s ideal for most outdoor adventures, including a trip to the beach or a diving session. As well as delivering impressive image quality, this durable point-and-shoot camera is packed with pro features – built-in Wi-Fi, 4x optical zoom lens, advanced shooting modes, and a multitude of sensors, to say the least.

Insulated Lunch Bag: TSKMonograms Monogrammed Cooler Tote

Move over, boring paper bags! Handmade totes are a much more elegant way to bring your lunch to the beach these days. Insulated with sealed interior lining and complete with a handy front pocket, this tiny, lightweight cooler bag will keep your food cold and fresh in hot weather, while also making for an appealing beach accessory. And the best part, you can choose from a variety of fun, colorful fonts and also personalize your lunch box with your initials in the color of your choice.

Swimwear for Him: Orlebar Brown Bulldog Swim Shorts

Stand out at the beach this summer with Orlebar Brown’s stylish, quick-drying Bulldog beachwear . Comfortable, expertly tailored, and elegant enough for lunch, the brand’s Summer Red/marina Aqua O.b Stripe Mid-length Swim Shorts are some of the trendiest around. This particular pair sports a retro-inspired striped design, a zippered back pocket, and adjustable side fasteners for a perfect fit.

Swimwear for Her: Cuyana Le Classique Swimsuit by Vanessa Sposi

Designed in collaboration with Paris-based swimwear brand Vanessa Sposi, Cuyana’s Le Classique Swimsuit is not only the epitome of timeless sophistication, but it’s also made with sustainable materials. Handmade in Portugal, its rounded neckline and thin fixed straps ensure a flawless, flattering fit, while the quick-drying fabric, enriched with antioxidants, aloe vera, and vitamin E, keeps the skin soft.

Beach Footwear: BIRKENSTOCK Arizona EVA

Walking barefoot on the sand is one of life’s greatest pleasures, but most of the time, you’ll still need something comfortable to slip your feet in. If a beach vacation looms on the horizon, the BIRKENSTOCK Arizona EVA should be the next item on your summer shopping list.

Crafted in the brand’s legendary two-strap design, they provide the ultimate in lightweight comfort. Additionally, they’re easy to clean & dry, water resistant, and shock-absorbing. Throw in some bright, summery colors like Dusty Blue, Coral Peach, and Popcorn and you have the perfect pair of warm-weather footwear for the beach and beyond.

Wet Bag: Matador Droplet Water-Resistant Stuff Sack

Designed to hang on a key ring, Matador’s Droplet Water-Resistant Stuff Sack is a must-have for any self-respecting bather. Ultra-compact and completely waterproof, this handy beach accessory will keep your wet bathing suit separate from your other beach stuff and can also be used as a dry bag for electronic gadgets.

Portable Shower: NEMO Helio Pressure Shower

With a water capacity of 2.9 gallons and a complimentary foot pump, the award-winning Helio Pressure Shower is, no doubt, one of the best portable showers out there. It sits securely on the ground and delivers a pressurized spray for up to 9 minutes, which makes it an excellent beach gadget whether you are an avid surfer who needs to rinse off his gear or just a nature lover always venturing to remote stretches of sand.

Beach Bag: CGEAR Classic Sand-Free Canvas Tote

Add a touch of style to your next coastal getaway with this oversized carry-all whose striped design captures summer on the coast. Made of water-resistant, mold-free material, the Ocean Stripe Canvas Sand-Free Tote from CGEAR is light and comfy on your shoulder, yet roomy enough for your towel, beach read, and all the summer essentials you need for a day of fun in the sun.

Good looks and versatility aside, the bag features a unique sand-free technology that allows sand and other particles to fall right through its mesh-like fabric, making it one of the best beach accessories on the market.

Portable Safe: SAFEGO

Keep your valuables safe by the seashore with SAFEGO , a portable travel safe and lock box designed to attach to most beach furnishings out there. Stylish, durable, and gloriously lightweight, the all-in-one security device locks with a key or a tree number combination and is capacious enough to hold your wallet, phone, watch, and jewelry when you head into the water or play in the sand.

Water Toy: Bote Breeze Aero Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

Who’s ready for hours of entertainment by the sea? A full-sized SUP which folds down to half the size of a regular inflatable paddle board, the Bote Breeze Aero Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is designed for maximum performance.

Thanks to its advanced AeroULTRA Technology, this revolutionary product delivers unparalleled convenience without sacrificing performance or durability. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more versatile and easier-to-transport paddle board anywhere on the market. Completing the package is a 3-piece adjustable SUP paddle, a removable center fin, repair kit, hand pump, and a travel bag for easy transport. We love the Native Floral Jaws, but there are 3 style options to choose from.

Beach Game: Frescobol Carioca Trancoso Beach Bat Set

If spending the whole day sunbathing sounds boring to you, hit the beach Brazilian style by playing the nation’s favorite game – Frescobol.

Classy, active beachgoers will definitely appreciate the quality and beautiful design of Frescobol Carioca’s beach bats , each handcrafted by local artisans from carefully chosen reclaimed wood.

The Trancoso Beach Bat Set comes with a complimentary carry bag and makes for a cool beach toy for adults, whether the destination is Ipanema or a remote stretch of coastline on the other side of the globe. As an added bonus, a tree will be planted in Amazonia with every purchase.

Sun Hat: Cuyana Folding Panama Hat

Top off your seaside outfit with a timeless straw hat that keeps you cool, stylish, and protected on hot summer days. Handwoven in Ecuador from natural Toquilla straw and complete with an interior adjustable band, Cuyana’s Folding Panama Hat oozes vacation vibes and tropical elegance while remaining highly functional. And the best part, its collapsible design makes it the perfect beach accessory to pack for your coastal trip.

Beach Float: Sunnylife My Mediterranean Vintage Hammock Float

Does it get more summery than a pool inflatable? This year, cool off in style on this chic, water accessory from Australian brand Sunnylife. Sporting a net center and an inflated pillow on either side, My Mediterranean Vintage Hammock Float is sure to add a dose of comfort and pretty nostalgic flair to your beach days and poolside sessions. Plus, it can be used as both a seat and lounger.

Beach Towel: CGEAR Sand-Free Beach Towel

Made from a soft, quick-drying material and enhanced with the brand’s innovative sand-free technology, CGEAR’s Sand-Free Beach Towel is the latest seaside accessory. Its patented dual-layer weave allows sand, dirt, and dust to fall through the fabric, and the lightweight, compact construction makes it easily portable. To make sure your sun-kissed escapes go as smoothly as possible, the fabric is also mold-free, UV resistant, and super absorbent.

Portable Fan: RIYA Bladeless Neck Fan

Escape the heat on scorching beach days with this cool portable neck fan designed to resemble a set of headphones.

Made of food-grade silicone and equipped with a 5200mAh battery, the Bladeless Neck Fan from RIYA is comfortable, adjustable, and can be used for up to 20 hours. With its 360° surround air supply, it also cools quickly, providing relief in as little as 3 seconds.

I’m not generally a beach person, but I might change my tune with some of this great stuff!

This stuff is great! Do you have anything for dogs though? I’d love something for my pup.

Maybe this will help: https://travelaway.me/pet-travel-accessories/

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Never Miss A Story

I consent to receive email updates from Travel Away

Welcome to Beach180

Beach Essentials, Gear Guides, Reviews & Tips

Your ultimate guide to find the best beach gear and essential must-haves for ultimate beach fun.

Discover our easy guides, top product lists, full reviews, detailed comparisons and practical tips to choose the best beach items for unforgettable beach days and vacations.

Reviews & Comparisons

Full reviews and detailed comparisons to dive into beach product pros and cons.

Best beach essentials, accessories and gear

Complete lists of the best beach essentials must-haves. From beach bags, towels, sunscreens to canopies, chairs, and much more. Explore top beach product to pick the best for you.

Choose The Best beach Products with ease!

Beach180 provides complete lists of the most RECOMMENDED best beach essentials, accessories and gear. Our team only recommends top products based on our full reviews, comparisons, and research. We are happy to provide you with the best choices for a relaxed and enjoyable beach time.

Are You Ready For The Beach?

Get ready for beach time fully prepared! Explore our best lists of must-have beach items.

Recent posts

Beach Tents for Wind Ultimate Guide + 2024 Best 3 Picks

Dog Beach Tents Ultimate Guide + top 3 Picks of 2024

The Ultimate Baby Beach Tents Guide: Tips, Tricks, Top Picks

Pop-Up Beach Tents Guide – Pick Your Ideal Tent

The 11 Best Pop-Up Beach Tents – 2024 Top Picks

Beach Packing List – Free Download

Free and printable beach packing list for beach days or vacations. The ultimate beach checklist to assist you in preparing for a solo or family beach day or vacation. From Must-have beach essentials, accessories and gear for a beach day to the ultimate packing list for beach vacation travel. Enjoy your beach time with peace of mind, knowing you’re fully prepared and ready for ultimate beach fun! Download free beach packing list & DON’T MISS A THING!

Why you trust us?

Beach180 was founded in 2021 primarily to help our visitors to choose the best beach products. We believe that the perfect beach day starts with the right beach gear. Beach180 team recommends only top products aiming to transform your beach time 180 degrees towards unforgettable happy moments.

38 Beach Essentials: The Ultimate Beach Packing List

Headed off on an exciting beach vacation? Let go of your beach packing list stress by reading this beach packing list before you go. We have listed our top must-have beach essentials and some fun extras if you have the room to pack them. 

Packing ahead of time will ensure you don’t forget items and that you will save money. Most must-have beach items cost more money on location than what you would pay for them at home. 

Don’t sweat the small stuff, and refine your list of beach items so you are prepared for every activity you want to do on your beach vacation. Here is our must-have list of the beach!

Beach Essentials & Ultimate Beach Packing List

Table of Contents

Sun Protection

1. sunscreen .

Skin cancer is a real threat, and any great beach vacation can be ruined by a bad sunburn on your first day. This is why sunscreen is the ultimate in beach essentials.

We recommend packing your favorite sunscreen before leaving the house as you’ll pay high prices for sunscreen once you’re at your beach destination.

We highly recommend bringing sunscreen you are familiar with. There is nothing worse than buying a sunscreen for a trip just to find out you don’t like the scent or feel of it.

Another tip, look for an eco-friendly sunscreen like REN Clean Screen SPF 30 sunscreen , that does not contain harmful chemicals. They are mineral-based and help protect our oceans.

2. UPF Clothing

In addition to bringing sunscreen, you should also pack some lightweight UPF clothing. UPF clothing has built-in sun protection in the fabric.

If you are a person who hates applying sunscreen repeatedly throughout the day then UPF clothing is definitely for you!

Thanks to the rise in skin cancer awareness, there is a variety of stylish UPF clothing available for both men and women. Coolibar makes a great selection of clothing items for men and women .

3. Rash Guard

If you plan on spending a large amount of your beach vacation doing any surfing, snorkeling, or diving, you won’t need a full wetsuit but you should consider adding a rashguard to your beach packing list.

A rashguard not only protects you from skin rashes, but also keeps you warm, and contains UPF which protects from the sun.

For women, I really like O’Neill’s UV Sun Protection Long Sleeve rash guard. It offers UPF 50 sun protection and comes in a variety of colors for everyone’s needs.

For men, Dave likes the Columbia Men’s Terminal Deflector Long Sleeve rash guard. Columbia’s UPF 50 Omni-Shade blocks UVA and UVB rays to help prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage.

When packing for your beach vacation do not forget that you should have something to protect your head, ears, and neck such as a good beach hat.

Buy a hat with at least a 3-inch brim, like the Columbia Unisex Bora Bora II Booney Hat , to provide ear and neck coverage.

Your ears and neck are the most commonly forgotten areas when it comes to applying sunscreen, so save yourself some time and a painful sunburn by bringing a sunhat with. 

5. Umbrella

Just like a beach towel or monkey mat is a must-have, so is an umbrella if your luggage has enough room.

Even when you want to get some sun, it is always nice to have an area of shade to sit under when you need it without having to leave the beach.  This is one of our beach packing list staples.

6. Sunglasses 

Sunglasses are equally as important for your eyes as sunscreen is for your body. There is a wide variety of sunglass brands that provide UV protection in their lenses but our favorite brand is Oakley.

They offer a wide range of men’s and women’s styles with many different designs.

Another great feature to look for in sunglasses is polarized lenses. This helps to cut and reduce glare making your vision in the daylight much more clear.

However, polarization does not provide any extra UV protection so make sure, first and foremost, that your sunglasses have UV protection.

7. Chapstick

Sun protection is a given in regards to your body, but protecting your lips is equally as important. Your lips are very sensitive and it’s a common area to receive a burn.

Make sure to bring some sun-protective lip balm for your lips when you are putting together your beach packing list. There is nothing worse than getting to the beach and not having it!

Beach Essential Clothing

8. bathing suit .

Heading on a beach vacation undoubtedly means you will need to add a swimsuit (or two!) to your beach packing list. We always bring two swimsuits each with us so there is always one dry suit to put on.

Ladies, if you’re planning on being quite active on the beach and in the water you may want to opt for a supportive one-piece swimsuit . 

For men, I would say one to two is a good number of swim shorts to travel to the beach as well.

Look for shorts that are lightweight and built for surfing, so they stretch and move with the body. Also, try to stick with dark colors as they will hold up longer in the sun, sand, and sea. 

9. Sandals 

With all the time you will be spending going in and out of the water, a great pair of sandals is one of the top beach essentials for any warm weather vacation.

If your beach vacation will include some hiking or walking in the water, choose a good waterproof sandal such as the Merrell Women’s Jacardia Sandal and the Teva Men’s Katavi Sandal are great multi-use sandals that we love!

10. Tank Tops

Lightweight breathable tank tops are a great versatile clothing option for men and women traveling to beach destinations. They are great for layering under nicer tops or for wearing by themselves.

Even though they don’t cover a lot of skin, opt for a UPF tank top, like this Coolibar UPF 50+ Women’s Basic Tank or Men’s Dri Fit UPF50+ Tank Top , for a little extra sun protection on your midsection.

11. Shorts  

As with tank tops, shorts are a great beach going item for every traveler. We recommend buying lightweight, breathable, flexible and lightly colored shorts to help keep you cool even on the hottest days.

Another great bonus to lightweight flexible shorts is that if you get them wet they will still be quite comfortable and will dry quickly.

Great beach shorts we love are Women’s Amazon Essentials drawstring linen short and Men’s Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit Short . Both of these shorts are nice enough to wear out to dinner but comfy enough for all-day wear as well.

They have several pockets, are very lightweight and offer multiple color options.

12. Beach Cover-Up

A cover-up is one of those beach vacation clothes you should always have in your luggage. When checking your beach packing list for a day in the sun, make sure you don’t forget one.

Not only can you choose from a variety of cute styles, like the Coolibar UPF 50 Catalina beach cover-up , but many establishments don’t allow beachgoers to wear just a swimsuit, so this is where the cover-up is essential.

13. Comfy Pants

Comfy pants are a great clothing addition for late afternoon and evenings when the sun goes down and the weather starts to cool. We both like linen pants since they are lightweight and very comfortable.

Some great choices for linen pants are Roxy Women’s Oceanside Pant and Men’s Casual Linen Beach Trousers . These two options are very comfortable, come in many colors, and are a great price!

14. Warm Top

Packing a warm top is solely dependent on what the weather will be like at night at your beach destination.

For those heading to the beach in colder climates or coastlines like the East or West, you may want to pack something a little warmer for those cooler nights. 

We both really love fleece pullovers for those breezy beach nights and always pack these two by Eddie Bauer: Women’s Brushed Fleece Hooded Pullover and Men’s Cloud Layer Pro 1/4 Zip Pullover .

Electronics

15. a good book or e-reader.

No beach vacation is complete without a good book to dive into. Whether you are an e-reader person or still love the feel of a real book, be sure to pack/download your favorite books for your vacation.

There are several e-readers available now, but a favorite of ours is the Kindle Paperwhite , simply because the battery life is 8 weeks and the newest version is waterproof.

A GoPro is one of the best cameras for the beach and the activities you will likely be doing while there. The new GoPro Hero 8 is waterproof down to 30 ft. Needless to say this comes is one of your beach essentials.

Looking for some great accessories? Before you go, read this The Best GoPro Accessories for Adventure Travelers . Our top purchase recommendations are a shorty grip and a dome port !

Read more How to Decide Which GoPro to Buy

17. Power Bank

Worried about your phone running out of battery while you are out exploring? Don’t leave home without packing a rechargeable power bank.

Purchase one with at least 10,000 mAh to ensure you can get a full charge or two throughout the day if needed.

If you know you will be spending your days on the beach in full sun, you can also purchase a solar power bank , which will use the sun’s rays to keep the power bank charged for when you need it.

18. Portable Waterproof Speaker

This all depends on what the atmosphere will be like on the beach, of course, but a portable Bluetooth speaker is great to have when you’re in a group.

Traveling with a small speaker is convenient and it takes up very little space. Just think twice about what your beach situation will be before packing it, nobody likes loud music blaring on a quiet serene beach.

19. Headphones

One of my favorite things to do on the beach is to plug into my favorite playlist and relax while lying on the beach.

Of course, headphones are an essential part of this plan and therefore you should make sure you have a great comfy pair you won’t mind wearing in the hot sun during the day. 

Beach Packing List Necessities

20. goggles, snorkel & fins.

If you’re into snorkeling, then pick up some fins, a mask, and snorkel , so you don’t get stuck paying to rent them once you arrive. 

We both like Aqualung masks and which can be used for snorkeling and diving. Alternatively, if you’re staying at a resort or hotel while on your beach vacation, check to see if they offer equipment rental for free.

21. Beach Towel or Monkey Mat

One of the most important beach essentials you can put on your list is a towel. Everyone needs a good beach towel to dry off after a swim or lay down in the sand.

Monkey mats are specifically made for outdoor activities and have four weighted corners to keep the mat down and in place on the sand while in use. They come in multiple sizes and colors for everyone’s needs.

22. Water Bottle

Traveling to the beach with fresh water in hand is important as it is easy to get dehydrated in the sun on the beach.

We like to use insulated stainless steel water bottles at the beach because they are well insulated and great for the environment. A favorite water bottle of ours is the Camelbak Chute .

Read more 9 Best Travel Water Bottles for Any Traveler

23. Dry Bag

We always travel with a dry bag whether or no matter where we are traveling.

They pack up easily and are lightweight so there really is no reason not to have one. They are great for protecting your belongings from the water and sand.

If you like to bring camera gear on vacation, this is one of those beach essentials that you won’t be able to live without.

Read more Best Dry Bag For your Next Adventure

24. Beach Blanket

Another great option is to pack a beach blanket. A great multi-use blanket is the Wellax Sand Free Beach Blanket .

At 9’ x 10’ your whole family or friends can take advantage and chill on this amazingly soft and HUGE blanket!

The best part: it collapses to 4” x 8”. The integrated storage sack makes it so EASY to store and carry around!

25. Beach Hammock

Travel hammocks are an awesome addition to your packing list for a beach vacation. They offer the perfect way to relax in the shade under two palm trees. We love this ENO portable Hammock for two .

This design is versatile, durable, and compact, making it perfect for camping, hiking, or lounging around with a friend.

Weighing in at only 19 ounces, this hammock stuffs easily into the attached storage bag taking up very little room in your luggage.

26. Insulated Tote

For any day trip to the beach, you’re going to want some cold drinks. After we throw our bathing suits on it’s the first thing we pack up.

Traditional coolers are heavy and a pain on the beach so we use a portable travel cooler .

Not only does it make the list of beach essentials, but if you like spending time in the outdoors it can be reused on other trips.

A portable cooler is an especially great investment if you like to go camping, canoeing, or just lounging at the park. Make sure to buy one that is durable, waterproof, and comfortable to carry. 

27. Reusable Plastic Bags

It may seem like an obscure item, but reusable plastic bags come in handy on the beach. If you are changing at the beach they make for great storage of a wet swimsuit.

They are also a cheap way to protect items you don’t want getting full of sand and water.

Note: Please make sure you pack out what you pack in, reuse your plastic bags for feature adventures.

Beach Items for Family Vacation

28. beach tent.

Beach tents are great for those that want to enjoy the beach, yet stay out of the sun at the same time! It’s also very important to protect young children and babies from sun damage.

The added layer of protection from the wind and sand is also nice on those windy days. Plus if you need to change your kid’s clothes at the beach it provides an added layer of privacy.

29. Sun Protective Bathing Suits

I swear by rash guards because they protect backs and shoulders—prime real estate for sunburns—without having to reapply sunscreen all day, which is a definite plus when you are worried about little ones.

Swim shorts help, too, for boys of course, and for girls as long as they’ll wear them. UVSkinz is a great kids brand because they have built-in UV protection and offer several different styles of boys and girls suits.

Tuga swimwear is also great for the tiny travelers since they offer an abundance of colorful prints to choose from. Sure to please any kiddo your buying for.

Packing snacks is a smart thing to do for any beach vacation. Snacks and meals can be quite expensive, especially when located right on the water. Bring non-perishable type items for easy storage in your day bag. 

31. First Aid Kit

When traveling with littles it is always a good idea to bring a small first aid kit . Just pack the essentials for minor cuts and scrapes and a basic medicine kit in case they get sick while you’re on vacation.

But who’s kidding who here? Even if you’re not traveling with kids, a first aid kit is one of those beach essentials you should pack regardless.

32. Beach Toys

If you’re heading to the beach with some little ones then bringing along a few beach toys and beach balls never hurt. You can never go wrong with a set to build some sandcastles.

Sometimes it’s worth considering if you want pails and shovels that are cheap enough to leave behind when vacation is over. But some sand toys, the ones that nest for easy packing or a few toys in one, are worth hanging on to.

A great option is Eduplay nesting soft buckets. Pair them with the Triplet digging tool and you’re set, with plenty of room in your tote for a book, snacks, and water.

33. Floaties

Floaties are great items for ensuring some safety and entertainment for your littles while playing the water. There are several different kinds depending on the age and weight of your child. 

This is a really great floatie/swim trainer for any young kids that need some extra support. It wraps around the waist and has attached arm floaties.

34. Games (Deck of Cards)

Depending on the age of your children, it may be a great idea to have some games to play during the downtime when they need a little entertaining.

I have been on countless trips and never leave without my UNO cards . They make my beach essentials packing list every single time.

35. Disposable Wipes

Always a great item to have on you for a beach trip. Odds are you will be eating some snacks while out on the beach and this way you can wipe your hands down before eating.

Another plus to packing disposable wipes they can double as toilet paper if those beach toilets run out.

36. Baby Powder

Baby powder is a beach essential because it’s brilliant for getting sand out of all those areas where kids inevitably get sand.

A great refillable baby powder-like Powder Pouch , lets you de-sand hands before lunch and de-sand feet at the end of the day, without baby powder going all over.

The best part, it’s small enough that you don’t mind one more thing in your tote bag.

37. Tote Bag

The kind of your beach essentials list is the beach bag. Besides, you’re going to need somewhere to put all this stuff you’re bringing!

The ideal beach bag is mesh so that you’re more likely to leave water and sand behind. Make sure it’s sturdy, roomy, has lots of handy pockets, and folds up nicely in your suitcase.

38. Family Size Beach blanket 

A great child-friendly beach blanket is a necessity for any family vacation. This JJ Cole outdoor blanket takes up a little bit of room in the suitcase, but it’s water-resistant, easy to clean and folds up pretty compactly (for a blanket). Plus, the fun patterns will keep non-walkers entertained.

We hope you have found everything you were looking for and maybe even some new ideas to help make your beach vacation stress free and fun!

More on Tropical Travel:

• Ultimate Cruise Packing List (Cruise Essentials for Any Destination!)
• 16 Exotic Islands That Are Worth Adding to Your Bucket List
• 20 Best Beaches in Maui: Ultimate Maui Beach Guide
• 7 Exotic Places to Travel Without a Passport
• 13 Stunning Cheap Islands to Visit
• Ultimate Trip to Maldives Planning Tips
• 16 Bucket List Things to do in Fiji
• Epic Miami to Key West Road Trip Guide

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Beach gear we love: everything you need for a perfect day in the sand

Aug 5, 2019 • 5 min read

Coleman's Shoreline Instant Shade shelter goes up quick for maximum beach comfort © Image courtesy of the Coleman Company

There are plenty of summer days left on the horizon, and whether you’re traipsing to South Beach or lounging in Ibiza , our beach gear picks will help you make the most of them. From an ingenious blanket to a self-sifting bag to a cooler you can strap on your back, these nine items will have you beach-bound in no time.

A pop-up shelter that offers a shady retreat

There’s such a thing as too much of a good time. When you need a break, a little shade goes a long way, and this Coleman shelter protects you from the elements. The poles are pre-attached so it’ll go up in a jiffy, and the tough polyguard fabric ensures 50+ UPF protection, so you can relax without fear of a sunburn. The floor zips up to create a changing room, and the window rolls up or down for privacy or ventilation, whichever need is most pressing. It comes with stakes and sandbags to anchor it down, and a handled bag to get it from the parking lot to the beach with ease.

Coleman Shoreline Instant Shade shelter , $50 . 

A packable blanket that stays in place

A blanket is an obvious essential, and this brightly colored number from Grand Trunk earned rave reviews from our tester. Made of quick-drying parachute nylon, it has corner pockets that fill with sand to weigh it down, so it stays put on a windy day, and the material is element proof, so sand and water shake right off when you’re done. Plus, it unfurls to a generous 7 by 7 feet – plenty of room for a family of four – but packs down to practically nothing, fitting nicely into the 7.5 by 4.5-inch stuff sack that’s attached to the edge.

Grand Trunk Parasheet beach blanket , $30 . 

A bag that keeps the sand where it belongs

A sturdy canvas tote is a summer standard, but it can also be heavy and awkward to carry for long distances. This zip-top tote from CGear Sand-Free is made from water- and mold-resistant nylon, with a dual-layer mesh-like weave at the bottom that sifts sand out when you leave the beach. Between the spacious interior and the outer pockets, it holds just as much as a traditional tote while weighing just under a pound and a half – so even if you cram in a full load of towels, books, and snacks, you shouldn’t walk away with sore shoulders.

CGear Tote III Sand-Free Bag , $36.

Lightweight seating that travels well

Juggling everything you need for a full day of fun can be an exercise in frustration, especially when unwieldy beach chairs are in the mix. Though this version from Cascade Mountain Tech was designed for camping, it works equally well in the sand. The high-backed seat holds up to 250 pounds, with a breathable mesh back that keeps you cool and an adjustable headrest that’s ideal for post-swim naps. Its aluminum shock-cord frame collapses to fit into a small carrying case you can sling over your arm, and at less than four pounds, it won’t be a pain to do so.

Cascade Mountain Tech Ultralight Packable High-back Camp Chair , $48 . 

An easy-carry cooler that leaves your hands free

Hard-sided coolers are great if you don’t have far to go, but when you’re trekking through ever-shifting sand, they can be tough to manage. LifeProof’s backpack cooler holds 24 cans and keeps them cold for up to two days, and its well-padded shoulder straps make it a cinch to haul around. The chest strap provides extra support, and the built-in bottle opener means you’ll never have to remember where you left it. Two exterior pockets offer easy access to essentials, and a water bottle holder keeps you hydrated without conceding space in the main compartment.

LifeProof backpack cooler , $56 (regularly $70, on sale through August 5, 2019) . 

A stout cup that maintains cold temps

For those who prefer to consume their frosty beverages from something other than a can, Proof’s vacuum utility cups feature double-walled insulation with a medical-grade stainless steel liner, plus a sliding lid that prevents against spillage. Those high-quality, BPA-free materials resist corrosion and chloride more effectively than your average drinkware for a longer-lasting, tougher take on an old standby.

Proof Vega and Venus utility cups , $20.

Unsinkable eyewear that rolls with the tide

Spending a day at the beach without a pair of shades is technically doable, but we certainly wouldn’t advise it. These floating sunglasses from Rheos Gear are some of our favorites , with eight styles and 35 colors for adults and kid sizes in a trio of primary colors, plus a basic black option for the young  fashionista in training. One note of caution: They may float, but they can still get carried away in the currents, so hang on tight if you brave the waves.

Rheos Gear floating sunglasses , $50 .

An underwater essential that makes it fun

Why opt for a boring pair of elastic googles when you could go with a star-studded neoprene set instead? These eye-catching numbers from DaphDaph are a super-cute way to break the mold, with fog-free lenses, a textured rubber lining, and more than 30 designs to choose from. Each has a slot in the back for a ponytail and a bungee band on the side that eliminates the need for adjustments. If our guinea pigs are any indication, they play best with the under-five crowd, but they do come in two sizes that can accommodate ages six months to 10 years.

DaphDaph Giggly Goggles , $25 . 

Sun protection that truly shines

If you’ve ever wanted to sparkle in the sun like a Twilight vampire, now’s your chance. Sunshine & Glitter’s American-made sunscreen gets its shine from biodegradable wood-cellulose glitter—and it’s a formula that’ll give you a serious glow. The PABA and paraben-free formula provides broad-spectrum protection, with SPF 30+ guarding against UVA/UVB rays and an ingredient list that includes aloe, green tea extract, and argan oil, among others. It’s water-resistant for 80 minutes, which allows plenty of time for frolicking before you’ll need to reapply.

Boho Beach Mineral Shimmer Sunscreen , $25 .

Explore related stories

Oct 25, 2023 • 7 min read

Escape the worst of the cold this winter by heading to Europe’s southern reaches, where the wam sun shines year round.

Jul 25, 2023 • 5 min read

Jul 13, 2023 • 5 min read

Jun 24, 2022 • 6 min read

Apr 21, 2022 • 7 min read

Mar 20, 2022 • 8 min read

Feb 10, 2021 • 4 min read

Aug 11, 2019 • 7 min read

Jul 3, 2019 • 6 min read

Jun 5, 2019 • 5 min read

• My Cart (0) Your cart is empty

15% off your 1st order, use promo code 1stOrder!

"It's great to find a company that still believes in the customer and the importance of giving them the best support you can. Your team has essentially recruited a "new" salesperson."

BeachNecessities.com forges the online shopping experience for the $15B+ US beach goods market with a focus on sustainability, both in the products we carry as well as protecting the health of the ocean, lakes, rivers and streams, as well as the human race , given the adverse impacts from climate change , overfishing and plastic pollution .  It's what we like to refer to as effective altruism .

Baja Hoodie / Baja Jacket / Drug Rug Beach Outerwear

Ocean bottle big ocean water bottle, life is good women's solid crusher flex shorts, ilse jacobsen women's cheerful 01 flip flops, cabo san lucas hat, souls australian comfort massage barrier reef blue thongs, what's new, earth day oceanwise beach tote, old maid card game, it's 5 o'clock somewhere parrot cap, latest blog posts.

The (New) Blue Economy

World Environment, 6/5, & Ocean, 6/8, Days

Welcome to the Start of Summer 2023!

Spring Break 2023

Hurricanes, Coastal Erosion and Beach Nourishment

Hi, and Welcome

We are Jess and Jeanette, two sisters with an insatiable love for exploring the stunning coastlines of the United States.

Helping inspire your beach wanderlust, as well as fostering a commitment to protect our precious oceans , is at the heart of everything we do.

Take me to…

Discover the latest and greatest beaches in the United States with us.

From the sun-kissed shores of Hawaii to the rugged coastline of California , we’ve got you covered with the best beaches to add to your travel bucket list.

Looking to plan the perfect beach vacation?

Get the latest information on how to plan, pack, and prepare for your next beach getaway.

Click here to find out more and start planning your dream vacation today!

Check out the latest beach gear & products with companies that are combining  innovation with sustainability.

From swimwear made from 100% recycled materials, like ETE Swimwear, to advanced sun protection options that shield skin without harming marine life.

Dive into our conservation page to uncover the dedicated efforts and organizations passionately working towards the protection of our beaches and the rich marine life that calls them home.

Embark on a journey of discovery to find practical and impactful ways you can contribute to making a difference, even while traveling.

Join us in turning awareness into action for the health of our oceans and the future of our planet.

About Unseen Beaches

Unseen Beaches , founded by sisters Jess and Jeanette , is a tribute to their lifelong passion for uncovering the U.S.’s most captivating beaches.

Drawing inspiration from cherished childhood memories made on sandy shores, they’ve created a platform dedicated to sharing these coastal treasures.

Their mission?

To ignite your urge for beach adventures, equip you with essential insights for unforgettable vacations, and advocate for the preservation of these magnificent natural landscapes.

The site is a treasure trove of guides, gear recommendations , and insider tips , showcasing everything from hidden coves to vibrant beach towns across the U.S.

Whether it’s uncovering family-friendly spots in San Diego or exploring Florida’s Gulf Coast, Unseen Beaches offers a plethora of choices for ocean lovers.

Highlighted by popular articles like ‘ 11 Must-See Family Beaches in San Diego This Summer ‘ and ‘ 10 Best Family-Friendly Beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast ,’ the site is continuously updated with fresh discoveries.

From the serene La Jolla Beach in California to the lively Cocoa Beach in Florida, Jess and Jeanette are committed to broadening your beach horizons.

Unseen Beaches invites you to find your perfect beach day, whether it involves lounging on white sands or surfing the waves. We encourage you to reach out and share your beach stories with us.

Thanks for visiting, and here’s to many happy beach travels!

– Jess and Jeanette

What I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore, along the California coast, offers rugged cliffs, rolling hills,...

How to Pack for a Tropical Vacation the Right Way

How to pack for a tropical vacation requires proper packing for a stress-free travel and enjoyable...

Before You Visit El Matador Beach: Essential Tips and Insights

El Matador Beach in Malibu, California, is a popular sought-after destination amongst tourists and...

24 genius accessories that will make your beach days even more chill

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Summer is officially here and it's slated to be a scorcher. That means one thing: it's time to hit the beach! 

As relaxing as the beach sounds, it's not without its fair share of annoyances. Sand gets in the car, the blanket always blows away, and it's challenging to change out of wet clothes.

But this summer will be different: you'll be armed and ready with all the gear to make your beach adventures a breeze. Get ready for endlessly cold drinks, easy-to-apply sunscreen, the comfiest beach setup, and the quickest clean-up you've ever experienced. 

24 genius beach products to buy in 2022:

An umbrella that won't blow away.

Sport-Brella Premiere XL UPF 50+, available at Amazon, $63.50

Get ready for even longer beach days with more comfort and shade during your day. An upgrade from their previous Sport-Brella XL, the Sport-Brella Premiere is built to withstand the harshest weather conditions. With an extra large 9-foot umbrella, heavy-duty center pole, side panel for extra privacy, and zippered windows to allow for airflow, the Sport-Brella is the ultimate beach umbrella.

Check out our full list of best beach umbrellas here .

A weighted beach blanket that holds up against the wind

California Voyager Weighted Beach Blanket, available at The California Beach Co., $46.95

Those days of fighting the blanket to stay down are over. Coming with weighted corners (and stakes for those extra windy days), the Voyager blanket is made to withstand windy climates. Made from soft and breathable organic bamboo that stays cool in the sun, the Voyager blanket is complete with a waterproof finish.

A sunscreen stick that makes reapplying a breeze

Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+, available at Ulta, $29

Say goodbye to goopy, white-casting, takes-five-minutes-to-fully-rub-in liquid sunscreen, and hello to the easiest application yet. Shiseido's Clear Sunscreen Stick is an award-winning sunscreen stick with a broad spectrum SPF 50+ that's reef-friendly and infused with naturally derived skincare ingredients. So easy to apply, you'll have it on and running back to the waves in no time.

A waterproof speaker built for the beach

Ultimate Ears Boom 3 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker, available at Amazon, $117.99

Our top choice for the best waterproof Bluetooth speaker , the UE Boom 3 is the most practical speaker for the beach. I mean, have you ever heard of a speaker that can float? With good sound quality and a sleek design, the UE Boom 3's battery can last up to 15 hours off one charge. Also, it's waterproof. And did I mention it can float?

Check out Insider's full review here .

A secret carrier for all your valuables

The Bunchie - Hidden Key and Valuable Carrier, available at Bandits, from $16

A scrunchie that doubles as a hidden key and valuable carrier that's also wearable? Ring Bandit's Bunchie is the all-in-one disguise — cute, functional, and practical. With a small velcro pocket that allows access to the inner pouch of the scrunchie, The Bunchie hides your items seamlessly. If you've forgotten to take your rings off before hitting the beach or need a place to hide small items or keys, the Bunchie is a great option for you.

A brush that'll keep your car sand-free

The Original Surf Brush, available at Amazon, $22.50

The Original Surf Brush can't be beat. Available in two sizes and two colors, the Surf Brush will keep the sand off your feet and out of your car. The bristles are soft but durable, ensuring that it's gentle on your skin but tough when needed, making it a beach kit staple.

A portable shower

POMO High Pressure 5L Outdoor Portable Shower, available at Amazon, $49.99

If you're a major stickler against sand, the POMO portable shower is the perfect thing for you. Forget about walking to the showers at the beach (which still means that sand tracks on your feet on the way back to the car). Fill up the 5-liter tank with water at home and leave it in your car for easy access when you, your fam, or your pooch are done with the beach. 

A changing poncho

Slowtide The Digs Changing Poncho, available at Slowtide, $80

The inevitable always comes — changing out of your wet water gear. Sometimes, bathrooms are minimal on beaches and even when they're there, they might not always be the most comfortable. With Slowtide's The Digs Changing Poncho, changing has never been easier. Made from sustainably sourced terry cotton and available in four different sizes, The Digs allows you to have privacy while you change and also provides warmth as you finish up your beach day.

A changing mat that transforms into a dry bag

Ho Stevie! Durable Wetsuit Changing Mat/Waterproof Dry-Bag, available at Amazon, $19.97 

To round off your changing gear, consider a changing mat that doubles as a waterproof dry bag. Ho Stevie!'s Changing Mat is affordable and practical, protecting your water gear from touching the hot asphalt (if you're changing near your car) and keeping your gear organized while also protecting your car from unwanted water and sand. Simple, neat, and useful!

A waterproof version of a classic sandal

Birkenstock Women's Arizona Essentials EVA Sandal, available at Dick's Sporting Goods, $49.95

The iconic Brikenstock Arizonas have been given a summer upgrade: the Arizona EVA Sandal. Made out of ultra-lightweight and flexible EVA, the Arizona Sandals are the perfect waterproof counterpart to their classic leather and suede models. Hit the beach then head out for a stroll around town while staying cute and, most importantly, comfy.

A portable chair that provides comfort on any terrain

Crazy Creek Original Chair, available at Amazon, $59.95

If you're not partial to sitting on the ground, the Crazy Creek Original Chair was made for you. Made with 420D coated ripstop nylon and carbon-fiber support-stays, this portable chair is built tough. Adjustable in a wide array of sitting positions, the Crazy Creek Original Chair allows you to sit on any terrain with the utmost comfort.

A portable table that completes the setup

Sport-Brella SunSoul Portable Folding Table, available at Amazon, $39.47

Complete your beach setup with the Sport-Brella SunSoul Portable table. There's something about having an elevated platform to eat from and place your drinks on that changes the entire experience. With two cup holders built into the table and an attached utility bag and bottle opener chain, this table is lightweight and ultra-practical. Finally, the days of sandy food and drinks are over!  

A waterproof deck of cards

Hoyle Waterproof Clear Playing Cards, available at Amazon, $5.97

One of the coolest decks ever, Hoyle's Waterproof Playing Cards are printed on premium plastic card stock and are 100% waterproof. Easy to shuffle and clean, these cards are great for any water-side adventure.

A cooler that you'll never worry about

AO Coolers Carbon Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation, available at Amazon, $111.95

Portable, durable, and convenient — the AO Carbon Soft Cooler hits all three marks. Slide it onto your shoulder, head down to the shore, and trust that your food and bevs stay safe (and cold!). The AO Carbon Soft Cooler's interior and exterior are built tough, so there's no need to worry about durability. Coming in four different sizes, the AO Cooler is our pick for the best budget soft cooler.

An ice pack even colder than ice

Cooler Shock Reusable Ice Pack (4-pack), available at Amazon, $26.99

Forget about melted ice, leaking coolers, or waterlogged food. The Cooler Shock Reusable Ice Pack is even colder than ice itself, with its melting point at 18°F (compared to ice's 32°F), and is able to stay frozen longer, keeping your food and drinks cold for up to 48 hours. It's all about beating the heat at the beach and the Cooler Shock Ice Packs do just that. Also, they're reusable! 

A surf hat that won't get blown off by the waves

Patagonia Surf Brim Hat, available at Backcountry, $49

WHAM! A huge wave hits you out of nowhere and all of a sudden, your baseball cap is nowhere to be found. Thankfully, the Patagonia Surf Brim Hat makes sure that your hat stays on your head in any water condition. With quick-drying nylon, the surf hat also has a buckle to tighten or loosen to most head sizes. The under-chin buckle is the champion here, allowing you to duck dive waves as they come without having to clutch onto your hat the whole time.

A sunburn gel that calms, soothes, and hydrates

Vertra After Sun Care Gel, available at Evo, $19.95

Oops! Did you miss a spot? Not to worry, Vertra's After Sun Care Gel has you covered. The official suncare provider for the Hawaiian Lifeguard Association, Vertra is a tried and true brand. Using the power of plankton extract (which helps repair skin that's been damaged from UV radiation), aloe vera, coconut extract, and macadamia nut oil, Vertra's After Sun Care Gel soothes and hydrates sunburned skin, accelerating your skin's healing rate and calming the burn.

A mesh tote bag to keep sand out

Shade & Shore Mesh Tote Handbag, available at Target, $10

A fully mesh tote bag with two side pockets, the Shade & Shore Mesh Tote Bag is a great addition to your beach day. With the mesh helping limit the amount of sand that gets trapped in the bag, this tote bag can carry a significant amount of items and comes in several vibrant colors (and also black, if that's more your style). 

A personal drink cooler

Yeti Rambler ​​12oz Colster Can Insulator, available at Yeti, $25

Are you a slow drinker, preferring to mingle with friends as you sip? The Yeti Rambler Can Insulator is the perfect companion for you, allowing your drink to stay fresh and cold as you go. With a double-wall vacuum, your drink stays really cold, and there's no worry about trying to slam your drink before it gets warm. Coming in a huge variety of colors, the Yeti Rambler also comes in three different sizes, 12oz, 12oz slim, and 16oz.

A way to protect your tech from the elements

YUMQUA Clear Waterproof Bags (3-pack), available at Amazon, $9.98

There's nothing worse than coming back from the waves to see your phone covered in sand while you fight to keep your water drips from landing near your tech. Keeping sand and water out of your phone and valuables, the YUMQUA bag still allows you to use your phone through its frosted PVC and ensures that your goods are protected all day long.

A comb that easily detangles wet hair

Wet Brush Comb Pro Detangler, available at Amazon, $5.26

After a day at the beach, it's typical to come home with tangled and knotted hair. Enjoy pain-free combing with Wet Brush's Pro Detangler, which works on any hair texture and combs through all the salt, sand, and debris from the beach.

A packable visor

Women's Packable Roll-Up Visor, available at San Diego Hat Company, $35

Packable and breathable, San Diego Hat Company's Roll-Up Visor is lovely for beach days. The open top allows for much more breathability as well as different styling options. Toss your wet hair in a bun and plop the Roll-Up Visor on and call it a day. Or, let your high pony sway in the breeze while still being protected from the sun. There's also a huge array of color options. 

A leave-in hair conditioner that nourishes your hair

Sun Bum 3-in-1 Leave In Treatment, available at Ulta, $14.99

If you're looking for extra nourishment (or if your hair is really tangled and you're afraid to tackle it with only a comb), use Sun Bum's 3-in-1 Leave-In Conditioner for guaranteed smoothening and pain-free styling. Made from coconut oil, banana leaf, quinoa protein, and sunflower seed oil, this leave-in conditioner smells delicious and works brilliantly. It also helps reduce frizz and restores your hair's natural body, no matter your hair type.

A pair of sunglasses that can float

Rheos Nautical Floating Eyewear - Wyecreeks, available at Rheos Gear, $65

So remember how your sunglasses flew off during that last big wave? Well actually, there they are, floating with the tide! The polarized Wyecreeks sunglasses by Rheos Nautical Floating Eyewear ensures that your sunnies are never truly lost in the water, just floating somewhere nearby. A portion of every sale is also donated to nonprofit organizations committed to defending our coastlines and waterways.

• Main content

Protect Your Trip »

The 12 best beach hats of 2024, according to reviews.

From classic wide-brimmed hats to water-repellent trucker hats, find your ideal style.

The Best Beach Hats

Getty Images

As wonderful as it is to get outside for your dose of vitamin D – especially on a day at the beach – protecting your skin from the sun is extremely important. While sunscreen and sunglasses seem to get all the attention, another key component of summer sun safety is a beach hat.

U.S. News editors researched dozens of review sites, including Amazon, online retailers, travel industry pages and more, to come up with this selection of the best beach hats. Even if you don't typically wear beach hats or have previously struggled to buy one you like, you're guaranteed to find the perfect fit.

Best Overall: Lanzom Women Wide Brim Straw Fedora Sun Hat

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓
• Best Beach Hat for Women: San Diego Hat Company Women's One Size Ultrabraid Visor

Best for Men: Quiksilver Men's Pierside Lifeguard Beach Straw Hat

Best straw: furtalk women's beach straw hat, best floppy: coolibar upf 50+ women's compact shapeable poolside hat, best oversized: dechisy oversized beach straw hat, best packable: getaway hats pack light hat 2.0 ultrasuede, best bucket hat: solbari bondi bucket hat upf50+, best for kids: sunday afternoons kids' play hat, best for babies: green sprouts baby flap sun protection swim hat, best cowboy hat: wallaroo hat company catalina cowboy, best trucker hat: dalix two tone trucker hat.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

What sets this hat apart:  Features like UPF 50+ sun protection, a wide brim and packability make this beach hat our top overall pick. You can wear it casually to the beach or use it to accessorize a dressy outfit to meet your friends for lunch. The straw and polyester material make it comfortable, breathable and soft. What's more, this hat is available in around 20 color combinations, ranging from classic khaki to light pink, as well as two different sizes.

Travelers appreciate: This hat is a hit with beachgoers because of its trendy, flattering look and affordable price.

Price: $35.99 or less

Best for Women: San Diego Hat Company Women's One Size Ultrabraid Visor

Courtesy of San Diego Hat Company

What sets this hat apart:  For a packable style with plenty of color options, the classic One Size Ultrabraid Visor from San Diego Hat Company checks all the boxes. The visor rolls up easily for packing and can be worn when your hair is up or down, making this hat perfect for beach vacations. The 4-inch brim and UPF 50+ protection ensure your face is safe from the sun's rays. Given nearly 20 color options, including bright styles like hot pink and orange or aqua lime, you'll be able to match this summer hat to your cover-up.

Travelers appreciate: Users love the extra protection your face gets, as well as the hat's ability to easily roll up.

Price: $30 or less

Courtesy of Quiksilver

What sets this hat apart:  Made with straw, this sun hat from Quiksilver is a must-have at the beach, in the garden or whenever you venture outside. This classic style has a wide brim to ensure full protection, and the chin strap provides security in windy weather. This lifeguard hat is available in three sizes including XXL, which is perfect for anyone with a hard-to-fit larger head. It also comes in three neutral colors.

Travelers appreciate:  Recent beachgoers love the extensive coverage they get from the wide brim, but as it is a real straw hat, they caution not to smash it into your bag or suitcase.

Courtesy of FURTALK

What sets this hat apart:  This quintessential straw hat is always a good idea for a day at the beach. The foldable and packable UPF 50 sun hat has an adjustable interior band, a removable chin strap and a moisture-wicking sweat band so you won't have to worry about sweat dripping into your eyes on the hottest of days. It is made of 90% paper straw and 10% polyester. Available in several neutral colors and two sizes, the large hat can fit over a head of thick curly hair.

Travelers appreciate: Several wearers of the style say they love having finally found a hat that fits their bigger heads.

Price: $25.99 or less

Courtesy of Coolibar

What sets this hat apart:  This oversized floppy hat will be the talk of the beach this summer. Made with a lightweight, breathable polyester weave that will keep your head cool under the hot sun, it also has a chin strap to keep it from flying off your head on windier days. The 7-inch brim offers maximum UV protection, and the wire rim makes adjusting easy so you can create shade no matter where the sun is coming from. This hat comes in black or tan.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers love how this floppy beach hat rolls up for simpler packing, making it an ideal choice for a seaside vacation.

Price: $65 or less

What sets this hat apart:  Look fashionable while keeping the sun off your face, neck and shoulders with this oversized beach hat that features a nearly 10-inch brim. Made from 100% raffia straw, this hat is breathable, keeping your head cool on hot summer days at the beach. The wire rim allows you to style it the way you want and helps it keep its shape.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers love the ample shade this hat provides, not to mention the dramatic flair it adds to any beach outfit.

Price: $19.99 or less

Courtesy of Getaway Hats

What sets this hat apart:  The new and improved version of this hat features an interior headband that is not only comfortable but also resistant to odors and stains. When you unpack this hat, you'll be happy to see that it retains its look and shape, due to a crushable, pliable brim and wrinkle-resistant fabric. Better yet, it only weighs 2 ounces. Not only will this hat protect you from the sun, but its durable water-repellent coating will also keep your head dry in the rain.

Travelers appreciate: Many customers praised the comfort of the hat and liked that it was lightweight.

Price: $35 or less

What sets this hat apart:  This cute and comfortable bucket hat is made of a lightweight, quick-drying fabric with UPF 50+ sun protection built in. It is adjustable via a toggle on the back. Keep this hat in your beach bag to protect your face from the sun's harmful rays. It comes in two sizes and several colors, including blue and yellow.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers on Amazon and the retailer's website loved that this hat is lightweight and easy to pack.

Price: $45 or less

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Courtesy of Dick's Sporting Goods

What sets this hat apart:  The Sunday Afternoon Kids' Play Hat keeps toddlers and young kids safe from the sun while they play outside, whether it's at the beach or in front of their water table in the backyard. The UPF 50+ hat provides total protection from the sun, and its breakaway chin strap releases under tension, preventing choking and injury. The hat is also resistant to water and stains, and it can be wiped clean or thrown in the laundry.

Not only is this Sunday Afternoons hat available in multiple sizes for ages 1 to 12, but its adjustable fit ensures your child can wear it for a long time. This hat comes in more than 30 solid colors and fun prints, such as butterflies or dinosaurs.

Travelers appreciate: Parents love the durability of this hat, noting it lasts more than one summer and for multiple family beach vacations . "I love that this hat can grow with my son, and I appreciate that it's machine-washable," says Amanda Norcross , a mom and senior content strategist at U.S. News. "It's also just plain adorable!"

Price: $32 or less

Courtesy of Green Sprouts

What sets this hat apart:  Infants aren't typically supposed to wear sunscreen until they are 6 months old, and many babies don't have much (if any) hair, so protecting their little heads and faces is extremely important. This hat from green sprouts is lightweight, extends down the neck for added coverage, and has an adjustable toggle so it can grow along with your baby. A chin strap adds extra security, and a wicking liner keeps your child cool. This sun hat is available in three sizes and several colors, including white, pink and aqua.

Travelers appreciate: Parents appreciate that it's adjustable, so babies can continue wearing it even as they rapidly grow bigger.

Price: $16.99 or less

Courtesy of Wallaroo Hat Company

What sets this hat apart:  This Wallaroo cowboy hat, constructed from 100% natural raffia, is breathable and lightweight, keeping your head cool in the sun. The 3-inch wire-edge brim keeps the sun off your face and can be styled to your liking. The hat features an internal drawstring for adjustability and is available in three colors. Packing this hat may affect its shape, so you may want to wear it on your journey instead of squeezing it into your bag.

Travelers appreciate: Traveler-favorite features include the adjustable drawstring and the ability to shape the hat to fit your style.

Price: $59 or less

Courtesy of Dalix

What sets this hat apart: If you're looking for a basic trucker hat to keep cool (and look cool) while soaking up some rays at the beach, this Dalix trucker hat is just what you need. Its poly-foam front, mesh sides and snap closure on the back make it comfortable to wear. This cap comes in more than a dozen color combinations, such as blue and white or red and black.

Travelers appreciate: Many reviewers said that the hat was good quality at a great price. Some commented that the white front on most of the color options makes it perfect for DIY projects or customization.

Price: $9.95 or less

How to Pack a Beach Hat

Whether you plan to bring your hat for a day at the beach or a weeklong tropical vacation , you'll want to know how to pack it so that it keeps its shape. Depending on the hat's material and durability, if you pack it properly, it should come out of any bag with little maintenance needed to make it look wearable. Here are the best tips for a crush-free hat in different styles:

• For straw hats: If the hat is fragile, pack it upside down in your suitcase and fill the crown of the hat with clothes. Then, pack clothing around the hat to cushion it.
• For "packable" hats: Typically, hats that are made with polyester can be rolled and securely stored to prevent creasing.
• For canvas hats: A canvas hat can usually be folded – unless it has a stiff brim. If creases appear, use a steamer to remove them. For baseball caps or trucker hats, fill the hat with clothing and lay it flat in a suitcase.
• Hang your hat:  Another alternative is to purchase a magnetic hat clip that can be attached to a purse for hands-free carrying.
• Wear your hat: If you don't want to take the chance of your hat getting crushed in your bag, wear it on the plane.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor. Having lived in Hawaii, Southern California and Australia, she has spent countless days trying to keep the sun off her face at the beach. Kolberg has extensive experience testing beach hats at the beach, at the pool and in her garden, as well as packing them in her suitcase for tropical vacations. To curate this list of top beach hats, she used her own experience with hat options such as the FURTALK Women's Straw Foldable Hat as well as her research skills.

You might also be interested in:

• Beach Packing List
• The Top Beach Tents
• The Top Beach Wagons
• The Top Beach Chairs
• The Top Beach Resorts

Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear , Beach Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Flight canceled or delayed what to do.

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Luggage Brands

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

The Best Hard-sided Luggage Picks

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 17, 2024

• Email Newsletters
• Florida Spotlight
• Food and Drink
• Where to Stay
• Theme Parks

Beach Gear Essentials

Your guide to beach games, beach chairs, fashion, and other accessories for sand and surf.

Our Favorite Beach Games for Adults

Make your next afternoon at the beach a super memorable one with these extremely fun beach games for the whole family

Four Favorite Bodyboards

Whether you call them boogie boards or bodyboards, we have the model for you

Heading to the beach often requires a long trek from your parked car across steamy pavement before walking across hot sand. If you’re going to make the effort to haul all of your belongings for a day of fun and relaxation, make it count. 

Nothing beats a day at the beach, but if you aren’t fully prepared, things can get a bit frustrating. 

From swimsuits to bluetooth speakers—here is everything you could possibly need to enjoy a day at the beach.

Our Picks for Best Volleyball Sets

Have a ball with these outdoor nets and balls

Our Favorite Beach Games for Kids

Make some memories at the shore with these beach toys

5 Fun Beach Activities for Every Interest

Pass your hours at the beach with something fun. Whether you’re a reader that enjoys peace and quiet or more of an active type hoping

Beach Accessories

Feel Grand in the Sand with these Beach Blankets

These beach blankets are a great defense against the sand when spending a day at the beach

Our Picks for Best Picnic Baskets

Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors with a picnic

Grab Some Shade with a Beach Tent

Save yourself from sunburn and the elements with a great beach tent

Get Your Hands on these Beach Bags

A day at the beach is no picnic without the right beach bags to carry all the necessities with style

Best Beach Umbrellas For Sunny Days at the Shore

Take a break from the sun, wind or rain with the right umbrella

Organize Your Patio with these Pool Storage Boxes

They’re stylish and functional and built to secure your outdoor belongings

Our Picks for Best Beach Wagons

Haul all your gear in one trip with the right beach cart

Carry the Coolness with a Cooler Bag

Lightweight and easy to carry, store, and travel with, these cooler bags are great ways to bring refrigerated items with you

Hit the Coast with a Beach Cruiser

Enjoy a ride along the sand on these easy-going cycles

Our Favorite Beach Chairs

Settle down for a day in the sun with one of these beach chairs

Stay Safe in the Sun with these Great Sunscreens

Whether you’re at the beach, pool or golf course, take the sun seriously and use sunscreen

Love Your Music More with these Wireless Earbuds

For great sound and safe fits, we recommend these models of earbuds

Best One-Piece Swimsuits for Women

From a day at the beach to an action packed kayaking adventure

Our Picks for Best Swimsuits for Men

We found a swimsuit model for your style of swimming

Our Favorite Beach Cover-Up

The perfect beach cover-up for women is more than just something to wear by the water, it’s a fashion statement for your day in the sun

Best Flip Flops for the Beach

These are the best shoes for your next trip to the shore

Swimming Goggles for Every Age

No matter your skill level, there’s a perfect set of swim goggles for you

Essential Sun Hats

These stylish beach hats will help keep the harsh sun at bay

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. Florida Travel + Life may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site.

The Best Beach Wagons of 2024

Getting all of your gear to the beach can be a challenge, but a quality beach wagon can make it so much easier. We tested eight beach wagons to help you find the right model to suit your needs and meet your budget.

Is it just us, or does it feel like every time you go to the beach, you must run a mini-marathon, transferring all of your gear from the car to the sand? Getting your umbrellas, towels, beach toys, kids, snacks, drinks, and body boards down to the beach typically requires multiple trips, leaving you exhausted by the time you finally are ready to “relax.” 

Adding a quality beach wagon to your routine can help you streamline your gear-hauling while reducing trips to the car and the exhaustion that ensues. They’re a game changer. Seriously. The best beach wagons fit easily in your vehicle, are quick to set up, fit all your beach gear, and roll over varying surfaces like boardwalks, dirt paths, grass, rocks, and most importantly, sand.

With so many beach wagon options to choose from, finding the best one for your needs can be a challenge. To help, our resident beach bum and gear expert, Rebecca Parsons, tested eight of the best beach wagons out there on daily trips to the beach near her home on the island of Oahu, Hawaii.

Rebecca used these wagons for weeks while considering important factors like cargo and weight capacity, wheel size and rolling performance, steering, how well they pack away for storage and transport, materials and durability, and what each is best suited for.

Our top beach wagon recommendations are listed below. If you have general questions or want to learn more about what makes a good beach cart, check out our buyer’s guide and FAQs at the end of this article. To see the models we tested and their specs at a glance, head to our comparison table . 

• Best Overall Beach Wagon: Timber Ridge Double Decker Wagon
• Best Budget Beach Wagon: Beau Jardin Folding Beach Wagon
• Best All-Terrain Beach Wagon: Mac Sports Heavy Duty All-Terrain Beach Wagon
• Best Beach Wagon for Easy Storage and Transport: Sekey 220L Collapsible Folding Wagon
• Best Beach Wagon for Kids: Veer All-Terrain Cruiser
• Best Budget Beach Wagon for Kids: Radio Flyer Beach & Boardwalk Wagon

Timber Ridge Double Decker Wagon

• Weight 27.3 lbs.

• Weight Capacity 450 lbs.

• Open Dimensions 54" L x 18.5" W x 34.5" H

• Folded Dimensions 15" L x 7" W x 35.5" H
• Assembly Required No

• Two levels for storage

• 450 lbs. weight capacity

• Extra-long lower level for large items
• Surprisingly light for its carrying capacity
• No place for children to sit
• Might be bigger than some people need
• Can get a little top heavy

The Timber Ridge Double Decker Wagon ($220) is a beast of a beach wagon. As the name suggests, the Timber Ridge has a double-decker design, meaning it has a top compartment for storing gear as well as a large bottom shelf. Translation? Lots of storage space for gear and an easy solution to keeping it more organized than more standard wagons offer. 

The Double Decker Wagon requires no assembly, so it’s ready to hit the beach as soon as you receive it. The all-terrain 7.5” diameter wheels are wide and capable of handling sand, rocks, dirt, and chunky broken-down coral (we’re speaking from experience on this one). The wheels also have a locking feature, which was helpful once we reached our destination to ensure the cart didn’t roll away on uneven surfaces. 

Since the Timber Ridge wagon has two storage levels, it’s nice that it can support more weight than most of the other wagons we tested. Each level is claimed to be able to hold up to 225 pounds for a total of 450 pounds. Will anyone ever meet that weight capacity? Probably not, but that also means that it’s burly enough to handle it.

The lower level is ideal for bulkier items, and should you be transporting something extra-long like an umbrella, shade canopy, or chairs — which we often are — the lower level folds open so your gear has room to stick out. This makes it much easier to haul chairs or shade structures that are otherwise tough to fit in more traditional wagons.

There are also two bottle/drink holders on the outside of the main compartment, as well as a large mesh pocket on one side to organize smaller items. An added benefit of the double-decker design is that it has a taller loading height, which means you don’t have to bend over as far when transferring your gear from the trunk to the wagon, and vice versa.

The stainless-steel frame is strong yet light, and our female tester had no trouble lifting the wagon once it was folded up for transport. Despite its impressive carrying capacity, the Double Decker folds down small and includes a strap that wraps around it, as well as a bag to store it in.

Our first time using this beach wagon was for an Easter beach day with friends. Our tester and her husband had their two dogs, a camping stove, a cooler, chairs, umbrellas, towels, beach games, and even a hammock stand. Everything fit nicely into the wagon, cutting down what would have been multiple trips into one. Unfortunately, there’s no place specifically created for children to sit, but our small dog enjoyed going for a ride. 

It’s worth mentioning that the Timber Ridge Wagon might be bigger than some people need. That said, having more carrying capacity is always better than having too little. If you’re looking for a serious gear hauler to simplify your life at the beach or anywhere else, the Double Decker is our top recommendation. And, although the $220 retail price is a little more than most, it seems like it almost always sells for a bit less than that.

Beau Jardin Folding Beach Wagon

• Weight 29.9 lbs. 

• Weight Capacity 350 lbs. 

• Open Dimensions 35.4" L x 23.8" W x 31.5" H

• Folded Dimensions 7" L x 23.8" W x 31" H

• Rotating wheels

• Tough, tear-resistant and waterproof fabric

• Can support 350 lbs.
• Single compartment

• Learning curve to setting it up

The Beau Jardin Folding Beach Wagon ($110) was created with large loads in mind. The wagon has a large, deep compartment that can support up to 350 pounds. There are no dividers or extra compartments, except for a small mesh organization pocket, which could be a bummer for some, but we found it was easier to pile in a lot of gear that way.

The wheels on the Beau Jardin are something to write home about. They are 7″ in diameter and 4″ wide with the rear wheels spread out, and the front two are closer together. We found the wheel size and configuration made getting through sand, mud, dirt, and rocks easier. Additionally, the front wheels and handle rotate, which we found especially helpful when steering through trickier terrain.

It is worth mentioning that the wheels are advertised as rotating 360 degrees, but we found they only turned about 180 degrees — which is plenty anyway. The front wheels also have reliable brakes to keep the wagon steady when parked on an incline. 

The Beau Jardin is easy to set up and fold down, but our tester had some troubles before she figured it out. When you go to pull the wagon open, nothing happens. There’s a red latch on the side that you must open first and then it unfolds easily. It didn’t take too long to figure this out, but it was a bit frustrating before we did.

We were really impressed with the 600D Oxford Fabric. Not only is the fabric portion removable for easy cleaning, but it’s also tear-resistant and waterproof. Quality fabric is essential as your beach cart will regularly be exposed to harsh sand and salt water. Likewise, the powder-coated steel frame has a sturdy, durable feel for transporting heavy loads while standing up well to corrosion.

At $110, the Beau Jardin Folding Beach Wagon isn’t the least expensive model we tested, but we feel it is the best value. This tough wagon is well made, easy to handle, and ready to haul your gear whether you’re at the beach or not.

Mac Sports Heavy Duty All-Terrain Beach Wagon

• Weight 23.1 lbs. 

• Weight Capacity 150 lbs. 

• Open Dimensions 37” L x 21” W x 25” H
• Folded Dimensions 
10" L x 21" W x 31" H

• Simple, easy to use design

• Large, heavy-duty wheels

• Adjustable handle
• 150 lbs. weight capacity

• Wheels don’t lock 

• Not designed to transport children

If you’re looking for a no-frills beach wagon with big wheels that can roll over just about everything, look no further than the Mac Sports All-Terrain Beach Wagon ($140). This wagon features a big, wide-open center compartment for stashing and hauling your gear, without any dividers or extra stuff to get in the way. Just drop your gear in and go.

The standout feature of the All-Terrain Beach Wagon is the wheels. The wide, 10-inch-diameter plastic wheels performed incredibly well on rough terrain. Not only did we test out this beach wagon at the beach, but we hauled it over rocks and broken-down coral covering the sand, and it performed like a beast.

It makes sense given that bigger wheels can more easily roll over obstacles, and the difference was very apparent. The back two wheels are spread out, but the front two are close together, which makes it easy to navigate tricky terrain while also allowing them to nest between each other when the wagon is folded for transport. 

We found that the All-Terrain wagon was great for hauling heavy coolers as they easily fit in the large, open storage compartment. We also appreciated the two front cup holders and an exterior mesh pouch for storing drinks and small essentials.

For being a seemingly heavy-duty beach wagon, the 150-pound weight capacity seems a bit on the low side. We’re not often hauling more than 100 pounds of gear around, but if you have a big YETI cooler filled with ice, drinks, and food, it can get heavy quickly. On the plus side, the powder-coated steel frame feels rugged and plenty durable, and the polyester fabric is mildew and UV-resistant to help it stay in tip-top shape.

At the end of the day, the wagon packs down small and includes a bag for organized storage in your vehicle or at home. If your beach adventures involve transporting gear down less-than-perfect paths to the beach, the Mac Sports All-Terrain Beach Wagon might be your new best friend.

Sekey 220L Collapsible Folding Wagon

• Weight 24 lbs. 

• Weight Capacity 330 lbs.

• Open Dimensions 37" L x 23" W x 40" H
• Folded Dimensions 13” L x 9.5" W x 24" H


• 330 lbs. weight capacity

• Coaxial steering

• Fabric is double layer, fade resistant, and has a waterproof coating
• Reasonable price
• No small storage compartments

• Difficult to put the bag back on for storing

The Sekey 220L Collapsible Folding Wagon ($130) is a heavy-duty beach wagon available at a reasonable price. The wagon comes fully assembled, and the quality is immediately apparent. The Sekey features an alloy steel frame, and the 600D Oxford fabric is double-layer, fade-resistant, and has a PVC waterproof coating.

Thanks to its hefty construction, the Sekey can hold up to 330 pounds, so you don’t have to skimp on packing. The wide, open compartment makes it easy to pack in lots of gear, and the taller sides help keep things from falling out while you’re rolling everything down to the beach. There aren’t any extra compartments for storing small items, however, except for two drink holders in the front. 

The Sekey has four wide 7-inch diameter all-terrain plastic wheels. They aren’t as large as some of the other wagons we tested, but they get the job done on a wide range of surfaces and are easier to steer. The coaxial steering made the front wheels easily rotate, which we greatly appreciated for quick turns around rocks and other obstacles. Once you’ve reached your destination, the wheels have brakes, so you can rest easy knowing your wagon isn’t going anywhere.

A standout feature of the Sekey is the handle. It’s collapsible, and it pops back up into an upright position when you aren’t holding it, so it doesn’t lay down in the sand. This wagon also has a little handle in the middle of the storage compartment that you simply pull up on to fold it up.

It packs down relatively small and comes with a storage bag to put over the top. The bag is nice for tidiness, but it’s a little bit of a squeeze to fit it over the wagon. Once you do, however, the wagon is free-standing, making it easy to store. 

If you’re like us and appreciate a well-organized garage space, the Sekey 220L Collapsible Folding Wagon is a great option that’s easy to store and ready in moments when you need it. With a 330-pound weight capacity and all-terrain wheels, it’s ready to haul all of your gear wherever your adventures take you.

Veer All-Terrain Cruiser

• Weight 32.6 lbs. 

• Weight Capacity Passengers: 110 lbs. (55 lbs. per seat), Cargo or pets: 250 lbs. 

• Dimensions ‎37” L x 20” W x 23” H
• Folded Dimensions 
37" L x 20" W x 14" H

• Seats with seatbelts 

• Rugged, heavy-duty wheels

• Lots of compatible accessories
• Can carry kids or cargo/pets
• Plenty useful non-beach activities
• Must remove cup holders and snack tray to fold
• Folded size is larger than others

If you have young children, you’ll love the Veer All-Terrain Cruiser ($699). If a top-of-the-line stroller and a beach wagon had a baby, it would probably look something like this quality model from Veer. It’s the highest-quality kid-specific beach-capable wagon we’ve seen, and it’s equally useful outside of the beach environment and can just as easily carry your pets or cargo, too.

Where most beach wagons have a compartment made from fabric, the All-Terrain Cruiser incorporates a mix of thick plastic and heavy-duty fabric. The wagon has two seats facing each other, each with a plastic seat and plastic mesh seat back.

Each seat has a three-point harness-style seatbelt to secure children while in transit. It’s rated to carry 55 pounds per seat — 110 pounds of kid cargo — or up to 250 pounds if you’re carrying pets or beach gear.

With the All-Terrain Cruiser, Veer thought of everything. Between the seats is a removable plastic tray for snacks and drinks. Next to each seat are two small plastic holders for small items or snacks. There are also two drink holders in the front for the adults — the cup holders can be moved to the handle if you want even easier access to your beverage. 

The entire wagon is well-made, and the wheels are rugged and heavy-duty. They’re large and the front wheels rotate to make turns easier. When you want to stay in one place, the wheels lock to ensure your wagon and cargo don’t roll away without you.

The adjustable height handle is large and secure, and the grip is lined with rubber so you can comfortably pull it behind you. The handle can be used to pull the wagon behind you, or it can be locked in an upright position so you can push the wagon like a stroller.

The All-Terrain Cruiser does pack down, but you must remove the snack tray and the front cup holders in order to do so. It’s not a huge thing, but it is a little bit of a pain if you’re frequently loading it in and out of the car.

Unlike many wagons that fold like an accordion, the Veer folds down to a slimmer size but stays the same width and length as when it’s open. The wheels can also be removed to make it smaller. And, when you need to clean up after a long day of family fun, the wagon can be hosed off easily.

The All-Terrain Cruiser doesn’t come with any shade for the kiddos, but Veer offers lots of compatible accessories that you can purchase. Accessories include a retractable shade canopy, comfort seats, a car seat adapter, a bug shield, a cargo net, and more. If you’re looking for a high-quality kids’ wagon for the beach, neighborhood, or any other adventure, the Veer All-Terrain Cruiser doesn’t come cheap, but we feel it’s the best around.

Radio Flyer Beach & Boardwalk Wagon

• Weight 32 lbs.

• Weight Capacity 150 lbs.

• Open Dimensions 47.6" L x 24.4" W x 38.4" H

• Folded Dimensions 7" L x 18.5" W x 32.7" H
• Assembly Required Yes

• Kid-friendly design

• Detachable shade canopy

• Rear storage bar for chairs
• Can kids or cargo -also converts to bench seating
• Wheels don’t work well in thick sand

• Doesn't feel super durable or heavy duty

The Radio Flyer Beach & Boardwalk Wagon ($170) was designed with kids in mind. Made with 100% recycled fabric, it has high seat backs, a thick padded seat with seatbelts, and a detachable shade structure so your children can comfortably ride in the wagon en route to the beach. Once you arrive, the side of the wagon comes undone so your kids can relax in the shade with their feet dangling over the side. 

If you plan on having kids ride in the wagon, that doesn’t leave a lot of room for gear. Luckily, this wagon has a back storage bar that can hold two to three beach chairs. You can also pack small, soft items like beach towels and blankets between your kids. There are even cup holders so you can easily stash sippy cups or water bottles. 

Our tester and her husband have had a Radio Flyer since their son was young. When he was little, he loved riding and playing inside, but now that he’s a preteen, the Radio Flyer has evolved into a cargo wagon to haul their gear. Whether hauling kids or not, it has a 150-pound weight limit. And that is a limit we’d definitely recommend staying below, given the less robust feel of the materials used in its construction.

Radio Flyer advertises its wheels as all-terrain, but we found that they’re better suited to smooth, even surfaces. They work well on the road, boardwalk, dirt, and hard-packed sand, but pulling it through thick, loose sand proved to be somewhat challenging.

Still, if you have kids, the Radio Flyer Beach & Boardwalk Wagon is a more affordable family-friendly option that can make your beach days more fun. Just be sure to treat it with a little care and don’t overload it to keep in good working order.

Best of the Rest

Rio brands wonder wheeler beach cart.

• Weight 13.5 lbs. 

• Weight Capacity 100 lbs. 

• Open Dimensions 34.25" L x 26" W x 41.5" H

• Folded Dimensions 34.25" L x 26" W x 10" H

• Exterior umbrella holder

• Tote attaches to handles for extra storage

• Vertical carry compartment is good for long or bulky items
• Great option for beach volleyball and other sports
• Vertical design makes it easy to lose track of items

• Umbrella holder doesn’t work with all umbrellas

• 100 lbs. weight capacity

The Rio Brands Wonder Wheeler Beach Cart ($99) is unlike any of the other beach wagons on our list. The Wonder Wheeler is more of a cart than a wagon, so its usefulness may vary depending on how you plan to use it. 

The Wonder Wheeler has a vertical design with a large mesh storage compartment and a 100 lbs. weight capacity. This makes it super easy to toss camp-style chairs, balls, and other bulky items into it. But, depending on what you’re carrying we found that some items can get somewhat lost in the abyss.

However, we found that this cart was perfect for sports, especially beach volleyball. We found that the main compartment in the cart was perfect for piling in balls. The cart also has a side attachment for an umbrella and a front tote by the handle for smaller items like books, phones, snacks, etc. 

The umbrella holder is clever and was an easy way to attach an umbrella without taking up extra room in the cart. It works for most umbrellas but if your umbrella is on the wider side, it might not fit. The large all-terrain back wheels are wide and heavy-duty, so they cut well through the sand. The front wheels are small and slim like those found on a stroller — they work fine on even surfaces, but you’ll want to push or pull the cart on its back wheels when you’re going through softer sand. 

Although you can carry beach chairs, towels, and the usuals for a beach day, we felt the Wonder Wheeler was best suited to sports. The steel frame feels durable, the mesh bag is perfectly suited for holding balls, and the tote allows you to pack along any extra items you may have. When you’re finished, it packs up for easy storage and transport, and this lightweight cart is easy to toss in the back of your vehicle.

iHomey Collapsible Folding Utility Wagon

• Weight 21 lbs. 

• Weight Capacity 300 lbs. 

• Open Dimensions 35" L x 20" W x 23" H

• Folded Dimensions 6" L x 19" W x 26" H

• Can support up to 300 pounds

• Adjustable handle

• Packs down small
• Wheels are slim

• Assembly required

• Our handle holder was broken upon arrival

The iHomey Collapsible Folding Utility Wagon ($79) is a very affordable, simple, and effective wagon for the beach or use around the house. Weighing 21 pounds, it is relatively light, and its small collapsed size makes it easy to load in and out of the car.

Right out of the box, the iHomey Wagon does lose some points as assembly is required. Getting the wheels attached wasn’t terribly difficult, but it was a bit of a pain compared to other models that arrived completely assembled. On the plus side, the wheels are removable if you’re in a situation where you wish to take them off for storing or transporting.

The wide, open storage compartment makes it easy to pack all your gear, and with a claimed weight limit of up to 300 pounds, you don’t have to skimp on what you’re packing. The only downside is that there are no smaller compartments except for two water bottle holders, so it can be tricky to stay organized.

The Utility Wagon’s handle is adjustable and has a clip to keep it upright when not in use. However, our clip was broken upon arrival, so we weren’t able to use this feature. Since the iHomey wagon isn’t specifically designed for the beach, the wheels are slimmer than most of the others we tested, but they do have an all-terrain design. They fared well on most surfaces but didn’t work quite as well in thick, soft sand as wider wheels.

Regardless, the iHomey Collapsible Utility Wagon is a very budget-friendly option for anyone seeking a functional wagon for use at the beach, around the house, or in the garden. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done without breaking the bank.

Comparison Chart

Why you should trust us.

The team at GearJunkie loves all things outdoors and that includes spending time at the beach. Whether we’re spending time at the coast, a nearby lake, heading to an outdoor concert, or doing chores around the house, we learned a long time ago that having a wagon to carry our gear can be a huge help.

For our beach wagons buyer’s guide, we recruited self-proclaimed beach bum Rebecca Parsons to test and review all of the models included here. Rebecca lives on Oahu, Hawaii, and ventures to the beach daily. Sometimes she hits the beach for a quick surf, but most of the time, beach days involve the three F’s — food, friends, and family.

For long beach days with lots of toys, chairs , towels, coolers, and more, Rebecca regularly uses a beach wagon to make getting her gear from the car to the beach much easier. She’s also a full-time gear reviewer and has been writing about beach gear and equipment for a decade. 

How We Tested Beach Wagons

After researching the best and most popular beach wagons on the market, we rounded up a diverse selection of 8 models to test and compare. Some are designed to carry young children, others have heavy-duty wheels designed to tackle mounds of sand, and others are double-deckers so you can more easily store and organize your gear. While many of them share a similar design and functionality, we found that not all beach wagons are created equally.

During testing, we considered how easy each cart was to set up and break down, how much cargo space and weight capacity each provided, how well the wheels fared on the sand and other surfaces, special features, and how small each packs down to fit in your vehicle or storage space.

We packed these carts in the car and took them to the beach and oceanside parks where we wheeled them across grass, dirt, and sand. We packed them to the brim with stuff, cruised around with minimal gear, and even had the dogs ride in them. When testing concluded, we zeroed in on our favorites, and those that excel in specific ways compared to the rest.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Beach Wagon

Beach wagons all serve the same basic function, but there are quite a few things to consider when deciding which one is right for you. By assessing what you’ll be hauling and the surfaces you’ll be pulling it over, you should be able to determine the size, weight capacity, wheels, and beach wagon type that’s best suited to make your trips to the beach easier and more enjoyable. And, to make your trips to the beach even better, you might also be interested in our reviews of the best women’s sandals , hard-sided coolers , and soft coolers , too.

Intended Use

When you’re in the market for a beach wagon, the first thing you should consider is how you plan on using your wagon. Do you want to use it to help transport your children? Will it be strictly for gear? Or is your hope that your toddler and your gear will all fit into the cart? Along with that, considering the size, shape, amount, and weight of the gear you intend to haul is very important.

It’s also helpful to think about the type of terrain you’ll be pulling your cart across. Most likely, you’ll be pulling it through sand at some point, so you’ll want heavy-duty, wide, large-diameter, all-terrain wheels. But, if your beach has a smooth path leading to it, then skinnier wheels may be just as effective.

Carrying Capacity

Capacity accounts for how much gear you can fit in your beach wagon and how much weight it can handle. Before purchasing, consider what you plan on carrying in your wagon. Kids? Dogs? Chairs ? Coolers ? All of the above? After thinking about how you plan to use your wagon, look at the storage space, if there are seats or separate areas for kids, and the weight capacity of the wagon. 

By considering the size, shape, and weight of the items you’re hoping to move in the wagon, you can also narrow down the choices further. If you intend on using your wagon mainly for beach towels, chairs, and a few beach games, you won’t need a high-weight capacity, and a wagon like the RIO Wonder Wheeler Beach Cart could do the trick.

But, if you plan on hauling a heavy YETI cooler packed to the brim with drinks and food for a beach BBQ, large chairs, a sun shade, and cooking gear, then you’ll probably do better with a wagon that can support a heavy load like the Sekey Foldable Wagon or the Timber Ridge Double Decker .

Portability

Unless you’re lucky enough to live within walking distance of the beach, you’ll likely have to transport your beach wagon in the car. For this reason, you’ll want to make sure the wagon is light enough for you to lift and load it into your trunk comfortably and that it will fit in your vehicle, too. Fortunately, most beach wagons are reasonably lightweight and collapsible so they can be folded down to a much smaller size to fit in the back of most vehicles.

Lighter-weight wagons may be easier to lift but tend to be less durable and typically have lower weight capacities. Heavier beach wagons may be slightly more cumbersome to lift into your trunk, but they tend to be made from beefier and more durable materials. Again, consider how you plan to use your wagon to determine if you want to prioritize a lighter, more manageable beach wagon or a heavier, more durable wagon.

The lightest wagon on our list was the RIO Wonder Wheeler Beach Cart , which weighed just 13.5 pounds, whereas the Veer All-Terrain Cruiser was the heaviest at 32.5 pounds. Every other model fell somewhere in between and all of them were light enough to be relatively easy to deal with.

Beach wagons are inherently somewhat big and bulky — if you don’t have a garage, finding a place to store them can be challenging. Luckily, almost all the wagons we tested were collapsible, making them small enough to store in a closet or under a bed. If you’re tight on space, make sure the wagon you are interested in is collapsible.

Additionally, once collapsed, most of the wagons could be stored upright as they were able to stand on their own. However, a few couldn’t stand on their own, which was annoying if you plan to store it leaned against a wall. 

When it comes to beach wagons, the wheels are an important factor to consider that dictact how well they roll over varied surfaces and sand. In our opinion, larger wheels — both in width and diameter — are what you’re after. The larger the wheel diameter, the easier it can roll over obstacles like rocks and roots.

The wider the wheel, the more “flotation” it has, and the easier it will be to roll over soft sand. Narrower wheels, on the other hand, can more easily sink into soft sand, but if you plan on mostly using your wagon on firm, even surfaces such as the boardwalk or your local park, then you should be fine with smaller wheels. 

Beach wagons spend a lot of time exposed to sun, sand, and salt water, so their construction is especially important. The ideal beach wagon is made from durable yet lightweight materials. This includes the fabrics used in their construction, as they tend to take a lot of abuse, as heavy and sand-covered objects are often placed inside. Thin materials can wear out quickly, whereas thicker, UV—and water-resistant fabrics can stand up to more abuse from both your gear and the elements.

The same goes for the frames. While we appreciate lightweight construction, we appreciate things that don’t break even more. Thin and fragile frame tubes and other parts can be much more prone to bending, buckling, and failing prematurely than slightly heavier and more durable options. Even then, the weight difference is marginal and worth a few extra pounds for added peace of mind and longevity.

Extra Pockets

While extra pockets aren’t necessary, they are nice to have. Most of the beach wagons we tested came with a cup holder or two, which was great for storing a water bottle or coffee to free up your hands.

Some carts come with mesh pockets on the interior or exterior for storing smaller items such as a phone, book, or wallet. Again, while we don’t think they are necessary, smaller pockets can be very helpful for organization and keeping track of smaller items that can often get lost in the shuffle of a larger cargo area.

Surprisingly, the handle design for beach wagons has a fair amount of variation among the models we tested. Some wagons have fixed-length handles, others have adjustable handles, and some are equipped with springs that help them stay upright even when you’re not holding them.

We were fans of wagons with collapsible handles for storing and transporting and really enjoyed when the handle could stay upright so it wasn’t just laying in the sand. The most unique handle of all, however, was on the Veer All-Terrain Cruiser . This handle can be used to pull the wagon behind you, or it can be locked in position to push it like a stroller. We found this added versatility to an excellent kid-friendly wagon, as the user could choose to use it as a stroller or wagon depending on the situation.

There is a bit of price variation among the beach wagon models we tested. Our selection of wagons ranges in price from around $80 up to $220, with one high-end outlier at $699. Most of the beach wagons we tested are relatively affordable, and all of them will help make your beach days a little easier. In our testing, we found that quality and price seem to go hand in hand.

For example, the least expensive model we tested, the iHomey Utility Wagon ($79), uses materials that don’t seem quite as durable as models like the Sekey or Beau Jardin Wagons, which cost only about $30 to $40 more. Still, the iHomey Wagon will get the job done for less frequent users, but we’d recommend spending a little bit more for the sturdier model if you’ll be using it a lot and want it to last a long time.

The Veer All-Terrain Cruiser ($699) is by far the most expensive model we tested, but it also stands in a class of its own in terms of build quality and performance. This wagon’s materials, construction, and kid-carrying capability are miles ahead of the other models we tested. For active parents with a more flexible budget, this is a seriously top-shelf way to move your kids around the beach, neighborhood, parks, etc., and it’s also versatile for carrying cargo, pets, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

In short, a beach wagon is a wagon that is specifically designed for the sand. They should be able to store your gear, be durable enough to withstand sand and saltwater, and have wheels capable of rolling over varied surfaces including soft sand. 

Beach wagons absolutely should work on sand! If they don’t, they’re simply a wagon. In general, wagons with larger, wider wheels tend to perform better in the sand, mud, rocks, and more. 

Realistically, even the wagons that perform best in the sand can still be somewhat tricky to pull through the softest sand, especially if they are loaded with lots of weight. Skinnier and smaller diameter wheels tend to sink into the sand more, making it more difficult to roll the wagon in the soft stuff.

The main function of a beach wagon is to haul items from your vehicle to the beach. Think beach towels, beach chairs, umbrellas, beach toys, coolers, and more. Many can also be used to transport children and/or dogs — the Veer All-Terrain Cruiser and Radio Flyer Beach & Boardwalk Wagon are specifically designed with hauling kids in mind.

Just because “beach” is in the name doesn’t mean you need to restrict your usage to the sand. Beach wagons can also be helpful for camping, going to the park, seeing some outdoor music, having a picnic, or doing tasks around the house like transporting groceries, yard work, or moving anything that fits and is under the weight capacity.

Beach wagons come in various sizes and with different weight capacities, so the amount of gear that will fit in your wagon is dependent on those factors. Most wagons list their dimensions and weight capacity, so you don’t have to guess. Outside of that, it comes down to the size and weight of the items and how well you can organize them in the loading process. 

If you plan to haul lots of gear, or you at least want the option to do so, then the Timber Ridge Double Decker is our recommendation. Not only can it support up to 450 pounds of gear, but it has two levels so you can keep your long and bulky items on the bottom shelf with the rest in the large cargo compartment above.

Some beach wagons come fully assembled whereas others require some assembly. Assembly is usually quick and easy, but if you don’t want to bother, then make sure the wagon is fully assembled. 

Some beach wagons are specifically designed for children and have seats and/or seatbelts. If you plan on mainly using your beach wagon for your kids, make sure it has seating options for children. The Veer All-Terrain Cruiser is a high-end wagon that can carry up to two children (55 pounds each) and is a great option for active parents. Similarly, the Radio Flyer Beach & Boardwalk Wagon is a much more budget-oriented kid-friendly wagon. Otherwise, check the wagon’s weight capacity and transport your children at your own risk.

Most beach wagons are collapsible, making them easy to transport in your vehicle and store when not in use. However, not all are collapsible, so double-check if it’s important to you.  

Related Content

The Best Coolers of 2024

We tested the best hard coolers of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include RTIC, YETI, and more!

The Best Soft Coolers of 2024

We tested the best soft coolers of 2024 with styles for every budget and adventure. Top picks include Yeti, RTIC, Hydro Flask, and more!

Rebecca was born and raised in Orange County, and she has spent countless hours exploring the California coastline. She loves surfing and standup paddling and recently relocated to Oahu, Hawaii to chase her childhood dream of being a professional beach bum. When she’s not in the ocean, you can find her running the local trails or sleeping under the stars alongside her adventure pup, Koa.

Follow Us On

Subscribe Now

Get adventure news and gear reviews in your inbox!

Join Our GearJunkie Newsletter

Gear Top Stories Deals

Advertisement

The Best Packable Travel Towels

By Ebony Roberts

We love a plush, thirsty bath towel , but a campsite or suitcase just isn’t the place for one—there, we want a quick-drying, packable travel towel.

After putting 20 such towels through 60 hours of testing—including an intense day of sand and surf at the beach—we’ve concluded the PackTowl Personal offers the best balance of drying time, packability, and odor resistance without compromising comfort and design.

A good option for nearly every towel-related scenario, it’s lightweight, extra-large, and supersoft, making it usable for both car camping and travel into the backcountry.

Everything we recommend

PackTowl Personal

The best packable camp towel.

Whether used for camping, hiking, traveling, or general outdoor adventuring, this towel is durable enough to handle extended abuse while remaining soft and comfortable.

Buying Options

With store pickup or REI membership (limited patterns)

(limited patterns)

Budget pick

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

An inexpensive towel that gets the job done.

Good-enough absorbency and drying time for those on a budget.

PackTowl Luxe

A plush, comfortable towel.

Good for car camping, day trips, and hanging at the beach, this towel is made of an incredibly soft fabric that also repels dirt.

Scoring well in nearly every performance category, the PackTowl Personal towel consistently surprised us with its ability to handle the elements. It has an antibacterial treatment to help prevent odor, the “body” size (25 by 54 inches) is large enough to wrap around most folks, and it feels soft against the skin. It’s made of a tear-resistant fabric and was the best towel we tested at absorbing water and repelling dirt. Better still, sand from the beach remained on the towel’s surface so it was easy to shake off, leaving the towel clean after multiple uses. Its drying time was faster than most of the towels we tested and it packs down to a small size in a zippered breathable pouch, making it convenient for travel or camping.

The Rainleaf Microfiber Towel was nearly identical in design to many of the pricier models and scored just as well in our field tests. The only downsides are that its size large is smaller than most other large towels we tested, and it has lighter-feeling fabric. It didn’t handle our day at the beach quite as well and took a little longer to dry, but otherwise it’s comparable in comfort and packability. And, because it’s treated with an antibacterial coating—something not standard on budget (or even some pricey) towels—it passed our smell test with a perfect score. At just a fraction of the price of our top choice, it’s a good pick if you’re the kind of person who goes camping a few times a year and needs something affordable that works well.

If packing your towel down into a tiny space isn’t a concern for you, the PackTowl Luxe is about as comfortable as a towel can get. Although it does take up a bit more room and takes significantly longer to dry, its “body” size has the same dimensions as our top pick but has a plusher feel against the skin. Unlike similar big and luxurious camp towels, it didn’t smell after being put away wet. It absorbed water off the skin without trapping in the dirt and sand, which left it surprisingly clean for a towel with such a high pile. As it was easy to shake off, we enjoyed having it as a wrap and beach blanket, too.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: packtowl personal, how the packtowl has held up, flaws but not dealbreakers, an inexpensive towel that works fine: rainleaf microfiber towel, a plush, comfortable towel: packtowl luxe, microfibers and the environment, the competition, care and maintenance.

We spoke with three experts to get their takes on what we should look for in a good towel. Mark Knight, a product designer currently with Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) , has designed a number of outdoor products, including packable towels, and gave us a breakdown on what he considers to be important when creating products like these.

We spoke via email with Georgia Newsome, owner and operator of Coastal Bliss Adventures , who has worked as a backpacking, camping, and canoeing guide for the past 15 years.

And we spoke with Craig Oliver, product manager for health and safety at MEC. He was able to tell us what’s important from a consumer perspective. In addition to these interviews, we read a number of online reviews, pored over camping and backpacking forums, researched microfiber fabrics, and then selected and tested the towels we think cover most activities to determine which one was best overall.

Why doesn’t a regular, everyday cotton towel cut it for most outdoor activities? Knight offered us five reasons your cotton towel isn’t ideal: it’s too big, too heavy, might get damaged or stained, doesn’t get washed at the same frequency it would at home, therefore causing it to smell, and lastly, it’s not always used in the same manner as it would be at home. He added, “As a travel towel, there is also the added functional requirement of being quick-dry. When traveling, you can move around a lot, and a packed wet towel generally means a stinky towel.”

Packable towels are usually made from microfiber , although a few of the ones we tested are made from other materials (which didn’t end up performing as well). These materials are typically a blend of polyester and polyamide, aka nylon, and depending on the blend will produce a towel that feels more suede-like and slick to one that feels more plush like your average cotton towel. There are also packable towels made of nanofabric, which is composed of tiny nanoscopic fibers woven together—think the width of a human hair (or even smaller)—to create a fabric that is incredibly lightweight and small. Though they do the trick, nanofiber towels tend to have a slicker surface, which means they don’t feel much like the towel you’re used to.

According to Oliver, the most popular camp towel size is roughly equivalent to a standard household bath towel—about 26 by 52 inches after washing. Some towels were slightly smaller or larger, but we tried to stay within what would seem like regulation size for most people.

All the experts we talked to shared the opinion that the type of towel you’ll want to purchase depends on the activity you’re using it for. For backpacking or kayaking trips, Newsome told us that “lightweight, small packability and quick drying are the most important factors.” For car camping or other adventures, where weight isn’t an issue, she opts for a larger microfiber towel, and one with an antimicrobial coating, “which means for those longer road trips and tours this towel stays fresh smelling.” Knight’s opinion aligned with Newsome’s: “Some of the lightest towels don’t feel that great against your skin, but the weight means you will actually bring it in your backpack when on a long hike. If you are traveling around the world, weight might not be your primary concern, but comfort will factor highly, as you will be using the towel each day—unless you are a soap dodger ! So, a softer, slightly heavier towel may be the way to go.”

Just as important as how much water a towel can absorb—in other words, how well it dries you—is how well the towel dries after you’re dry. “Nobody wants to put a wet towel into their backpack,” Oliver said.

After surveying online reviews, forums, and user ratings, and asking people what type of towel they preferred for their own outdoor activities, we narrowed our field to 19 packable towels, then threw in a standard cotton towel as a plush baseline. We then tested the towels using seven criteria: price, comfort, design, wicking, drying time, odor resistance, and packability.

We washed and dried all of the towels, giving them all an equal starting point, then we scored them in each category. We didn’t score weight or size, but we did make note of whether these features made a difference when comparing similar options.

Comfort: This was a tough one because of the people we asked, some preferred a more textured fabric and others liked the smooth feel of the microsuede towels. We asked individuals to feel each towel against their skin, asked for their comments, and then asked what their overall top picks were.

Design: Here, we looked at how well the towel is made, and whether there were any particular features—good or bad—that made drying off more or less of a pleasure. Key among them was fabric quality, stitching, and what kind of hanging loop—essential!—the towel came with. We also looked at texture, an important attribute for both water absorption and grabbing dirt and grime, rather than just pushing it around. A too-slick towel won’t do much of anything except leave your skin feeling yucky and wet.

Wicking: One of the most important tests we conducted was how well the towel could wick away water and leave the skin feeling dry. When we took our test towels to the beach, we wanted to see how they performed against sandy salt water and whether they were able to clean the skin in addition to drying it.

Drying time: To determine which towel dried the fastest, we applied the same amount of water to each towel and then timed how long it took for them to dry. But how much water to use, and how dry is dry, exactly? We used 4 ounces of water, a quantity we settled on after having multiple testers shower and weigh their towels before and after use. Once the person was dry enough to feel comfortable putting their clothes on, we called that “dry.” We did this a couple of times with each person and used a couple types of cotton towels to get a base number. The average amount of water people removed from their bodies after showering was a ½ cup, or about 225 milliliters. We hung our entire assortment of high-tech, portable towels on the same line and recorded the time it took to leave each one dry to the touch.

Odor resistance: Another important criterion is how the towel smells after multiple uses. “An antimicrobial finish helps with odor management and decreases the frequency you need to wash the towel,” Knight told us. A towel may be used a dozen times before it gets properly washed, and if a towel smells musty or dirty after a couple of uses, it probably is. Many of the towels advertise a protective antibacterial coating and we wanted to see if these coatings actually made a difference.

Our test involved taking the towels to the beach, soaking them in 16 ounces of ocean water, wringing out the excess water as best as we could, and then placing each towel in a sealed plastic bag for 48 hours. After that, we opened the bags and took a whiff. Though most remained odor-free (especially those coated with an antimicrobial treatment), we were taken aback by how seriously a few of them reeked.

Packability: As important as drying you—and drying out—are, the other key thing a camp towel has to do is pack small for travel. Some towels came with cases, some didn’t. Our focus was simply how tiny a towel could get.

Price: More expensive doesn’t really seem like a good thing when it comes to something like a packable travel towel, given that there’s such a variance in price and that most towels pretty much claim to do the same thing.

The PackTowl Personal is our top choice because it handled every test we put it through. It’s the perfect option for nearly any outdoor activity that requires a towel. It’s large and durable while still being comfortable and comes with an antimicrobial treatment, which means it won’t smell after multiple uses. Its snap loop for hanging was one of the easiest to use, and the towel packs down to a small size, making it easy to travel with. Its drying time was comparable with that of the fastest-drying towels we tested, and it didn’t absorb dirt or sand into its fabric, an essential feature if you’re taking a towel into the backcountry.

Made of a soft microsuede, this towel was consistently chosen as a top pick by those we asked to rate its comfort. It is soft and light, but still has a bit of texture, so it doesn’t feel slick against your skin the way a nanofiber towel like the Matador NanoDry Shower Towel does. The PackTowl seems built to last, with a nicely seamed edge that should hold up over time. On top of feeling soft, it dried our skin much more readily than the non-microfiber towels we tested, like the Coleman or Outlier. It even dried a bit more quickly than other microfiber products in our test group. We were impressed by how well it repelled sand and dirt from being absorbed into its fabric. The sand that did stick to the towel was easy to shake off—which wasn’t the case of some of the other models we tested that looked like dirty rags after just a short time at the beach.

In our drying-time test, the PackTowl dried much faster than most, with the exception of the linen towel and the Biospired Footprint, which beat the PackTowl’s dry time by 30 minutes. (The towels we tested dried in a range from 1 hour, 45 minutes to nearly 4 hours.) We noticed that the towels with an additional antimicrobial coating took a little longer to dry. We think the extra odor protection is worth the few extra minutes of drying time. As the PackTowl dried, some water initially beaded on the surface, but was then absorbed, compared with towels that still had visible water beads after almost an hour of drying. (Beads of water were a good indication of extended drying times.) Water also dispersed evenly through the towel rather than leaving wet spots, which likely contributed to its fast drying time. We dried the towels in overcast conditions, and noticed that at just over 1 hour, 30 minutes the PackTowl was only minimally damp, and could be packed back into its carrying case if you were in a rush to pack up and go.

We tested the PackTowl’s “body” size, which weighed 6.7 ounces, fairly average compared with the other suede-type towels, and measured 25 by 54 inches, just shy of being the same size as our standard bath towel, and larger than many of the towels in our testing pool.

Wirecutter staffers have owned this towel for multiple seasons and it continues to hold up, with no loose threads or unraveled seams after use.

We didn’t love the PackTowl’s pouch: it doesn’t attach easily to a backpack, and the zipper seemed flimsy. But the pouch is made of breathable fabric, so it won’t trap moisture the way a plastic bag or pouch might. Although the PackTowl is antimicrobial, it did have the slightest ocean water odor to it after our 48-hour smell test, which is not something we noticed in previous tests.

Costing about half the price of our top pick, the Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is a great choice for those that don’t want to shell out almost $30 for a towel. A major bonus is that unlike most of the inexpensive towels we considered, this one actually comes with an antimicrobial treatment and passed the smell test after being sealed up wet for two days. It’s also comfortable, easy to dry off with, and just as packable as the PackTowl.

It didn’t dry quite as fast as our top pick and that may be due to the fact that some of the water beaded off and remained on the surface before being absorbed directly into the towel. The size we tested (L) is also slightly smaller than some of the pricier options but still big enough to wrap around the average person’s body.

Because it is so inexpensive, there’s the option of upgrading to the XL or XXL sizes for just a few bucks more and still have it come in well below price of most other towels. On top of that, it has a functional carrying pouch that is both breathable and easy to fasten onto a backpack so you can pack the towel damp and hang it to dry when it’s time to hit the road.

That said, though it did well drying our testers at the beach, it didn’t handle sand as well as our top pick, leaving a good amount behind on both their skin and the towel itself. If you’re a serious outdoor adventurer who’s going to be putting it to work against the elements, we recommend a towel that can handle gritty, sticky stuff a bit better.

If size and volume aren’t issues and you’re looking for something more soft and comfortable, the PackTowl Luxe performed the best of the plush cotton-like microfiber towels. Not only did it dry the quickest of these towels, it was good at removing sand from the skin and didn’t absorb dirt and mud into the fabric. It also didn’t have any odor after the smell test. A few of the other thicker towels we tested simply reeked—testers used the term “rotten fish”—after a couple days crunched into a ball, but not the Luxe.

If comfort is a primary concern, this towel feels much closer to cotton, avoiding the slick skin-feel common to many microsuedes and nanofibers. As we did with our pick, the PackTowl Personal, we tested the extra-large “Body” size. Also like our pick, at this size the Luxe is a few inches larger than the others we tested of the same type, measuring 25 by 54 inches, offering that extra little bit of coverage.

It does come with a carrying pouch, and though not as stylish or durable as the Sea to Summit Pocket Towel ’s silicone carrying case, it’s adequate for what it needs to do. We consider this towel a solid option for car camping and day trips, when taking up a little extra space won’t matter.

Although durable and light, there’s an environmental downside to microsynthetic fibers: Every time you wash that gear, small quantities of its fibers are shed, ending up in our waterways and oceans. (Here’s a study from the Bren School of Environmental Science & Management on the issue.) For more about the problem and some advice on combating it, see our article Your Laundry Sheds Harmful Microfibers. Here’s What You Can Do About It.

We tested a standard white bath towel—the Fieldcrest Luxury Solid Towel, which has since been discontinued—that was the same size as the majority of the towels we tested. It performed as expected: It was great at drying skin and was comfortable, but it didn’t pack down and had a bit of a funky smell after our odor test. Surprisingly, it didn’t take that much longer to dry than some of the plusher microfiber models we tested and actually outperformed a few of the towels that are marketed specifically for camping.

Biospired Footprint Towel: This had been our runner-up pick, but the size we tested has cycled in and out of stock. If you do happen to run across one, it’s still a good towel, though. We had also tested, and dismissed, the Biospired Endurance Camping & Fitness Towel and the Biospired Trek Pack Towel; for what it’s worth, those towels also tend to have stock problems.

Matador NanoDry Shower Towel : For backcountry campers and hikers that are concerned about weight, this is by far the lightest towel we tested (2.4 ounces). It performed well, but it is very thin and not as comfortable as the others. We decided it was too specialized to be best for most people.

Outlier Grid Linen Towel : Made of a natural linen fabric, this towel was the fastest-drying towel, and it performed well at the beach. But it doesn’t pack down very small, doesn’t come with a carrying case but rather a thick elastic band, and had a faint smell after our odor test. Those drawbacks made it hard to justify its high price.

Sunland Microfiber Towel  (currently unavailable): One of the least expensive microfiber towels, but no antimicrobial treatment and very average performance.

Sea to Summit DryLite Towel : One of the slowest to dry. Another note of caution, many online reviews have reported a problem with the cobalt blue dye running. We didn’t run into this problem, but we tested an orange towel, so it’s likely the issue is with only the darker-colored towels. Another drawback is that the carrying case comes with a Velcro closure, making it possible to snag the fabric when maneuvering the towel into and out of the case.

Shandali Yoga Travel Towel  (currently unavailable): Average performance, no carrying case, and though it does have a little loop for hanging to dry, most of the towels we tested had a loop with a snap, making them more versatile.

YogaRat SportLite Sport + Bath Towel  (currently unavailable): Though this towel did dry quite quickly and was resistant to odor during our 48-hour test, the lack of an antibacterial treatment gave us odor concerns for people taking it on longer trips. And with no carrying case and a snapless loop, this towel was a few steps below our top choices in convenience.

Sea to Summit Tek Towel : Sand stuck to the towel, leaving it quite dirty. Drying time was slow.

REI Co-op Multi Towel  (currently unavailable, but we're looking into a possible new version): Everything stuck to this towel: dryer lint, grass, sand, and dirt, and even though we tested a darker color, it looked dirty after our day at the beach. It also didn’t smell great after our odor test, and it took over four hours to dry.

Lightload Towel : Not really built to be used multiple times, this towel is made of an almost paperlike viscose material, and although very small, once unpackaged it can’t be squished down to its original size (although it does fit in a smaller Ziploc bag). It is incredibly large though, dried quickly, and would probably perform as an ad-hoc firestarter or outdoor survival tool (non-cleanliness-oriented usage scenarios suggested by the manufacturer). Whether being able to set the world on fire is a worthwhile trade-off with this towel’s lack of odor resistance—it was the worst performer in our stink trial—is something we hope we’ll never have to decide.

Coghlan’s Deluxe Camp Towel (currently unavailable): This is the classic outdoor towel that’s been around campsites for years. Some backcountry campers still prefer these towels because they’re small, lightweight, and cheap, but they didn’t perform as well as the microfiber towels that we tested. They dry very slowly, stink up easily, and don’t feel good against the skin.

Coleman Camp Towel  (currently unavailable): Similar in nearly every aspect to the Coghlan’s towel, just with slightly different dimensions—neither is big enough to really function as a full-body wrap—this model also had the drawbacks of rough fabric, odor retention, and delayed drying. (It appears to have been discontinued.)

Most packable towels are designed to repel dirt and bacteria, so they don’t need to be cleaned after every use. Excessive washing can also break down the fabric and any additional antimicrobial technology the towel might be treated with. So, wash only when dirty and don’t dry your towel on high heat unless absolutely necessary; way better to hang it when you can and let the air take care of it.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Nicholas J. Bruce, Niko L. Hartline, Stephanie N. Karba, Elizabeth O. Ruff, Shreya U. Sonar, and Patricia A. Holden, Microfiber Pollution and the Apparel Industry , Bren School of Environmental Science and Management , September 30, 2016

Mark Knight, product designer for Mountain Equipment Co-opand member of the Outdoor Industry Association , email interview , April 21, 2017

Georgia Newsome, owner and operator of Coastal Bliss Adventure and Kilimanjaro Bliss , email interview , March 31, 2017

Craig Oliver, product manager for health and safety at Mountain Equipment Co-op , phone interview , March 29, 2017

What Are The Coolest New Small Gear Companies? , Outside , January 15, 2016

Anne Trafton, Tiny particles may pose big risk , MIT News , April 8, 2014

Meet your guide

Ebony Roberts

Further reading

The Best Gear for Travel

by Wirecutter Staff

We put in another year and tens of thousands more miles of travel to test the best travel gear—and we stand by last year’s choices alongside a few new picks.

Essential Gear for Traveling Solo

by Ria Misra

Traveling solo is freeing but poses some unique challenges. Wirecutter’s picks help you travel comfortably and securely—and bring home great pictures too.

The Best Beach and Surf Gear: Towels, Totes, Coolers, and More

by Kit Dillon

After six years of relaxing in the sand and playing in the surf, we’ve chosen the best picks to help you enjoy a perfect beach day.

The Best Duffle Bags

After lugging 34 duffles through airports, to beaches, and on weekend trips, we chose seven bags that’ll carry what you need carried in a range of scenarios.

Travel Essentials: The Best Travel Gear and Travel Accessories for 2024

T ravel can be stressful, but having the right gear can make all the difference. Plus, packing for a trip can be overwhelming, especially if you're not sure what to bring. That's where I come in! I have been traveling for a LONG time and tried out a lot of gear so I've rounded up the best travel essentials, travel gear, and the best accessories for travelers that will make your trip more comfortable and efficient.

Whether you're doing short trips, going on a long flight, an international trip, or just need essentials for a road trip, a beach trip, or a weekend getaway I've got you covered. Get these items on your travel essentials list!

Travel Essentials for Long Flights

Long flights can be uncomfortable, especially if you have a connecting flight or a long layover. To make the journey more bearable, pack items such as a neck pillow, noise-canceling headphones, an eye mask, and a good book.

A neck pillow will support your neck and head, making it easier to sleep on the plane. Noise-canceling headphones will block out the sounds of the plane and other passengers, allowing you to enjoy some peace and quiet. An eye mask will block out any light, creating a dark environment that will make it easier for you to sleep or relax. Lastly, bring a good book, magazine, or tablet to keep you entertained during the flight.

Here are my tried and true picks:

Cabeau Air Evolution Inflatable Travel Pillow

I prefer an inflatable neck pillow as I don't want my travel gear to take up a lot of space. I have had my Cabeau for years and love it because it is washable. Cabeau has another pillow that is not inflatable, the Cabeau Evolution Memory Foam Travel Pillow which is well-regarded as well.

Sony Noise Canceling Headphones

I avoided these for years! I preferred something more compact but in reality, the quality sucked. Mr. Misadventures had these and finally convinced me to invest in them and of course, getting them in navy blue was a huge bonus. I do not know why I waited so long to get them!

Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Eye Mask

I love  my Lunya silk sleep mask  for home (and hotels) but it is a little too bulky for my taste when it comes to the plane. My choice for my carry-on bag is still silk. I have the Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Eyemask. It feels super soft and is also machine washable which is a big bonus in my book.

Bucky Comfort Travel Blanket Scarf

I love to travel with scarves. On a plane, I want something soft and compact. This jersey blanket scarf does the job and comes in its own bag for transport and packing in my carry-on bag. They also have a  matching neck pillow  you can buy too although it is not inflatable.

More flight essentials

• Bombas Compression socks
• J&L Naturals Sustainable Lip Balm
• Tech Organizer
• Hydro Flask Reusable Water Bottle
• Nuun Sport: Electrolyte Drink Tablets
• EO Organic Hand Sanitizer Spray

I carry this all in my MZ Wallace Medium Tote Bag

The Best Travel Gear: Tech

When it comes to traveling, having the right tech accessories can make all the difference in making your trip a smooth and enjoyable one. There are a variety of travel items to choose from to enhance your traveling experiences.

Power banks are one of the most important travel essentials to keep your devices charged while on the go. A smaller portable power bank is perfect for ensuring battery life during a day out.

Additionally, accessories with built-in tracking capabilities can provide added peace of mind when navigating unfamiliar airports and train stations. With so many travel necessities and accessories available, it's easy to customize your travel kit to fit your specific needs and preferences.

These should definitely be on your tech travel checklist:

Anker USB C Outlet Extender

A lifesaver when you have a lot of items to charge! It's a single wall outlet with 2 USB ports, 1 USB-C port, and 3 AC outlets to power up to 6 devices.

Anker USB C Charger (Nano)

A portable charger that has the power to quickly charge your phone, tablet, and USB-C notebook. Perfect when you need your device ASAP!

Apple AirTag 4 Pack + Case Holders

This has freed my mind of worry when it comes to the stress of knowing where the heck my suitcases are! I also use them for bags, purses, and my hubby!

SAMSUNG T7 1TB, Portable SSD

If you take a lot of photos while traveling or you want to carry some documents with you this slim but mighty external hard disk should be in your tech kit!

I carry all of these items in my CALPAK Tech Organizer

FEATURED PRODUCT

Wander and perch wander wet bag.

Eileen, the founder and creator of Wander & Perch shares her philosophy on carrying around a bag for your summer suits: “Life is too short for ugly plastic bags. Travel life beautifully.”

I could not agree with her more! I love my  Wander Wet Bag Nomad in Indigo  blue! I only wish I had it when I was visiting all the thermal spas in the Azores last year, much prettier than my plastic shopping bags! The water resistant interior is awesome!

Bonus: these bags are designed in Encinitas, California and proudly Made in the USA.

International Travel

International travel requires some additional preparation. Also, consider bringing a  universal power adapter , which will allow you to charge your devices in any country. These are really the key international travel essentials.

A travel-friendly travel backpack or tote bag will also come in handy for carrying all your essentials while exploring a new city. And if you are going to be in Europe or any other region where the money is predominantly coins, do not forget  a dual-sided coin purse it is a lifesaver!

International Power Adapter

The Anker European Power Adapter has 2 USB ports besides the outlet plug. I am fond of the whole Anker line, they are lightweight and compact.

Orange SIM Card for Europe

If you own your phone and want an internet connection when you can't access free WiFi, then think about buying a sim card for Europe.

Conair Travel Hair Dryer

This dryer has a folding handle for compact packing in a suitcase or carry-on bag. Dual voltage, it's perfect for worldwide travel.

Portable Digital Luggage Scale

International airports are pickier about the size, weight, and shape of your luggage and in particular your carry-on. Don't risk it, carry this scale!

LEVEL8 Luggage

I put all my gear, shoes, and clothes into my LEVEL8 cases. I have the Road Runner carry-on and the Voyageur Check-in and love them!

More travel products to pack

I do not leave home without these travel essentials!

Travel Pillbox

Say goodbye to the inconvenience of carrying multiple pill bottles. MyPillyPal offers the comfort of having all your pills in one place, making medication management hassle-free and convenient. Upgrade your daily routine with MyPillyPal today!

Mr. Misadventures loves bar soap and this case has been a savior. It is waterproof and leakproof so it goes inside your toiletry kit without fear! Plus with their Dry-Through Technology, you no longer have to deal with mushy bars!

Matador Refillable Toothpaste Tubes

Also from Matador, don't pay for expensive travel-sized toothpaste, buy your favorite full-sized version and squeeze it into Matador's refillable toothpaste tubes. Clean in the dishwasher, it's safe! Two tubes are included, for 1 week or 2.

Quince Leather Jewelry Travel Case

Elegant and practical, this travel case is ideal for transporting your cherished jewelry pieces with ease, ensuring they remain free from tangles. For your weekend getaway or when you only wish to bring along your most adored items.

TRAVEL ACCESSORY

Flipbelt running belt.

This accessory is marketed to athletes and fitness buffs, BUT I think it is AWESOME for travel! A more modern version of the old money belt that our parents or grandparents used when they traveled, the FlipBelt is light and moisture-wicking. You can wash it too! Fit money and credit cards, your cell phone or passport, your important docs on a USB key, or just your room key and some spare taxi money. It comes in multiple sizes so you can get one that really fits you! Love this thing!

Travalo Classic HD Perfume Atomizer

I have been using these for years. I have tried other brands and always come back to Travalo. It is easy to use and durable, I still have my first one and it is more than 10 years old! I take 2 for a month away.

Kitsch 11pc Travel Size Bottles

I like this set because I often buy beauty products in France (and Portugal) when I visit and these travel bottles are lighter than the original bottles which are often glass and heavy!

Nori Press Iron and Steamer

I don't know about you but I often have to eliminate some of my wardrobe items because they wrinkle when I travel. This is revolutionary! Now I can bring my favorite white shirt!

Stasher TSA-Friendly Travel Bags

These bags come in all shapes and sizes. I use them for everything. From daily vitamins and powders to snacks! They are reusable and eco-friendly made with food-grade silicone.

LEVEL8 Packing Cubes

I am a packing cube believer! I have been using them for decades and can't imagine packing for a trip without them. But not all packing cubes are equal and quality matters! I just tried the packing cubes from LEVEL8 (the suitcase brand I recommend) for the first time and they are perfectly sized for multiple needs, whether clothing or accessories!

Comfortable Walking Shoes

If you aren't sick of me writing about Jambu yet, I will remind you again that I think that  Jambu shoes  are the best travel shoes around! Plus they also come with their own shoe bags!

The Right Travel Bag

Finding the right bag is like finding that perfect shade of lipstick. It is a lifelong search and through my many years of traveling, I have decided there isn't just one! It depends on the trip. Short trip, long trip, business trip, the bag you will need will differ.

And in my case, within a single trip, I will bring many of all different sizes. It starts with the plane or car with a carry-on backpack or small suitcase and moves into the trip with maybe a tote bag, fanny pack, or crossbody bag.

I have dedicated an entire article about what I think the best travel bags are and why.

Taking the time to plan your travel gear can make your trip more comfortable and efficient. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, having the right travel gear can make all the difference.

By packing the right, you can avoid overpacking and save space in your luggage. Additionally, having the necessary gear and the best travel accessories will reduce stress and help you feel more prepared for your trip. I hope my gear choices and list of travel essentials help you for your next trip!

CLICK to find all of these products in my Amazon store!

How about you? Do you have a favorite brand or product you always have on your packing list that would like to share? Do tell!

Author Bio: Andi Fisher

I grew up a military brat and then a young adult with a gypsy spirit. I settled into my career in marketing at many international companies where I traveled a lot. When I was not traveling for work, I was doing it for fun…so I have tested A LOT of gear!

Don't forget to pin this for later!

The post Travel Essentials: The Best Travel Gear and Travel Accessories for 2024 appeared first on Misadventures with Andi .

Best Resorts Near Viki Cinema, Elektrostal, Russia

Resorts near viki cinema, property types, distance from, traveller rating, hotel class.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveller ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveller Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveller reviews.
• Distance from Viki Cinema See properties located closest to the place of interest first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners.

Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Please go to the Instagram Feed settings page to create a feed.