Going to the Beach? Not Without These 11 Essentials

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Going to the beach should be a fun Summer activity, but when the whole family gets involved, it can turn into a nightmare if you're not properly prepared. Now, to clarify, we don't mean bringing an entire convenience store for an afternoon in the sun. There are, however, a few essentials that will allow you to enjoy your time by the water and not feel like a professional bag lady.

This year, you're going to have a beach bag that looks like it was professionally packed, with a hat that folds up, a card case on your phone, and of course extra sunscreen. Plus, there's a mitt you can buy that will wipe off errant sand like a pro. Now that you've packed your bag, all that's left to do is hit the beach! Happy Summer indeed.

Lanzom Women Wide Brim Straw Panama Roll Up Hat
amazon.com

Lanzom Women Wide Brim Straw Panama Roll Up Hat

This Lanzom Women Wide Brim Straw Panama Roll Up Hat ($16) will keep the sun out of your face, but most importantly, it rolls up, making it so easy to pack.

PopSockets
PopWallet White Marble
popsockets.com

PopWallet White Marble

This PopWallet White Marble ($20) is genius. It keeps your wallet right where you can see it: on your phone. The grip will also help prevent it from slipping into the sand.

Water Sports Sand-Off Beach Sand Cleaner Wipe Off Mitt
amazon.com

Water Sports Sand-Off Beach Sand Cleaner Wipe Off Mitt

This Water Sports Sand-Off Beach Sand Cleaner Wipe Off Mitt ($12) is genius! No more finding mounds of sand in the car.

Hydro Flask 40 oz Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle
amazon.com

Hydro Flask 40 oz Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle

When you're in the sun, water is critical. You want the biggest bottle possible, because your kids will inevitably want some, too. We like this Hydro Flask 40 oz Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle ($43).

Ban.do All Around Giant Circle Towel
bando.com

Ban.do All Around Giant Circle Towel

You can have a full-on picnic at the beach thanks to this Ban.do All Around Giant Circle Towel ($68).

Think Royln Tie Dye Wingman Bag
freepeople.com

Think Royln Tie Dye Wingman Bag

When you're going to the beach, you need the biggest bag imaginable. We like this Think Royln Tie Dye Wingman Bag ($188) because it's cool, huge, and easily spotted.

Neutrogena Wet Skin Kids Sunscreen Spray
amazon.com

Neutrogena Wet Skin Kids Sunscreen Spray

Putting sunscreen on children is no easy feat, but with this Neutrogena Wet Skin Kids Sunscreen Spray ($15, originally $18), you don't have to wait until they're dry to reapply. Plus, adults can use it, too.

Kindle Paperwhite
amazon.com

Kindle Paperwhite

The whole family can read any book they like on the Kindle Paperwhite ($150) that's now waterproof!

Pro Kadima Paddleball Beach Set
amazon.com

Pro Kadima Paddleball Beach Set

Make sure you bring this Pro Kadima Paddleball Beach Set ($12); it'll keep everyone entertained for hours.

Apple AirPods
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Apple AirPods

If you need a moment of sanity, discreetly pop in your Apple AirPods ($199) and listen to your favorite podcast or playlist.