How to Pack for the beach

Ah, yes the sun is out, and it is once again that time of year to pack the kids, the cooler and grandma into the car and head to the beach. But as many of us often do, we get to our spot on the beach, unfold our towels, and quickly realize we forgot something back at the house. Don’t fret, it happens to the best of us, but rest assured that this list will help you remember to bring those extra vital things (and maybe some things you didn’t know) to the beach.

Lots of Water- The average adult requires 8 full glasses of water each day as recommended by doctors everywhere. This number increases when lying out in the sun. A good tip is to bring a gallon of water and a couple water bottles. That way you can keep one water bottle in the cooler and not have to waste valuable cooler space.

Good Sunscreen- While many of us remember to bring the sunscreen, often is the case of when we return home that evening, we are surprised that we somehow still have a bit of a sunburn. Make sure you know which SPF suits you.

Umbrella- An umbrella is a perfect way to keep the kids from having to endure all that sunlight.

Whistle- With a record number of people expected to be in Myrtle Beach this year, you can expect a bunch of unattended kids roaming the beaches. A good way to keep track of your children is to bring a whistle. Teach your family the “family whistle” and you’ll be sure to have them back by your side in no time.

Extra Blanket- It is always a good idea I find, to bring a large blanket with you to the beach. That way the beach towels can be used for drying off and you won’t have to worry about wet, sticky sand. Blankets are usually heavier than towels and it will be easier to keep the blanket on the ground rather than blowing down the Grand Strand.

Jug of water for sandy feet -Do you ever find yourself returning from a long day at the beach just to get into the car with half the beach with you? Keep a jug of water in the trunk so you can wash off those sandy feet before you enter the car. There are parking lots that have feet wash stations, but guess what, those parking lots usually have sand in them! So it does no good.

Change of clothes- How many times have you returned to your car only to have 5 semi-wet people climbing in? With a quick change of clothes kept in the trunk, nothing more than some athletic shorts

Chairs- For those who prefer to be on the beach just not ON the beach, a beach chair is a great companion.

Radio- A good way to drown out those annoying beach neighbors of yours, is the helpful little companion known as the radio. Whether it’s an ipod stereo or just a classic little boom box, the radio lightens the mood of the whole party.

Lost of Entertainment- Bring footballs, bocce balls, Frisbees and any other game activities the whole family can enjoy. A family that plays together, stays together.

Book or Magazine- Maybe a reference guide on what kind of shells there are? Or if you just want to relax, bring some light reading material.

First Aid Kit- It’s always best to keep a little first aid kit either in your car or with you at the beach. You’ll be surprised at how handy that will be.

Binoculars- Often there are times where you are on the beach looking out toward the ocean and someone asks you “what is that?” pointing to a small blip in the distance. How nice would it be to be able to tell them? Well with a cheap pair of binoculars, you could tell them.

Flip-flops- Flip-flops are vital for that transition from the hot sand to the not as hot sand as you trek towards that watery abyss. Bring them and you won’t regret it. It’s never fun to remove shoes and then try to put them back on with sandy wet feet.

Sunglasses- Now this may seem like a no-brainer, but to those who don’t wear sunglasses regularly, you may forget this handy little item.

So the next time you go to the beach, make a list check it twice, and live beach day like it’s your last!

Written by Dan SeverWritten by Dan Sever