As we head into the last month of true summer, I plan on spending every free moment lounging by the water. Whether you’re packing up for your family beach vacation or soaking up the sun at a nearby lake, make sure you’re equipped with all of these outdoor essentials. Be it a sunscreen that is kind to your skin or a handy bottle chiller to keep your wine cold for hours, these items are timeless and will be your go-to’s for years to come. Here, my 8 must-have gadgets and accessories for your next trip to the beach.
Best-Ever Beach Blanket
This massive beach blanket is lightweight, so it’s easy to carry with you, and it has a plush terrycloth feel that is comfortable to lounge on. The light blue stripes are timeless, so you won’t tire of it. Also, the blanket can be thrown in your washer and dryer making it is a cinch to clean. If you love the look, there are also coordinating beach towels. $135, finelinens.com
The Ultimate Beach Bag
The iconic L.L. Bean “Boat and Tote” bag is a classic for a reason. These sturdy canvas bags last for decades, come in a mix of fun colors and have a zip top so all of your stuff stays inside. Bonus: you can also have the bag personalized with an affordable $8 monogram. From $34.95, llbean.com
Good-For-You Sunscreen
The Coola Sport Stick is an SPF 50 organic sunscreen that is easy to rub on your face when you’re on the go. It consists of vitamin E, coconut oil, beeswax and shea butter and is great for sensitive skin. Also, the water-resistant formula will stay put when you’re sweating in the sun and won’t drip into your eyes. Even though this magical moisturizer stays put, just like with other sunscreens, you will need to reapply every few hours. $26 for 1-ounce stick, dermstore.com (Hot tip: they offer 20% off for new customers!)
Wine Bottle Chiller
I am obsessing over this Vinglacé wine bottle chiller; it has become my favorite gadget of the summer. Pop a chilled bottle of rosé, bubbles, or a crisp white into this stainless steel, double-walled, vacuum insulated cooler and it will keep your bottle cold for up to 4 hours (if it even takes you that long to drink it!). It also protects the glass, so it’s safer to drink poolside. $90, food52.com
Reusable Plates
How chic are these faux-terrazzo plates? These 8.5-inch melamine plates are dishwasher safe, durable and very light, making them perfect for beach snacking. From $1.61, target.com
Stylish Beach Towels
Available in stripes or adorable polka dots, these 100% Turkish cotton towels are both absorbent and quick-drying. From $27, overstock.com
Organize Your Snacks
Bento boxes are perfect for packing up your beach snacks and keeping everything separate while they’re bumping around in your beach bag. I love this reusable stainless steel one with a moveable plastic divider – it gives me the flexibility to use it with all different kinds of foods. $16.95, thrivemarket.com
The All-in-One Beach Chair
This miraculous beach chair has it all: 5 comfortable reclining positions, a pillow for your head, backpack straps for easy transportation, a cup holder, a small cooler bag attached to the back and it’s incredibly affordable. $39.99, bedbathandbeyond.com
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