What's In My Beach Bag

Even though summer doesn't officially start until June 21st, Memorial Day Weekend always marks the beginning of pool days and beach vacations for me! Since I spent most of yesterday lounging by the pool, I thought it would be the perfect time to share what I always carry in my beach bag!

1.) Beach Bag

You'll need something fairly large to carry all of your essentials in. I bought this canvas tote from a small boutique when I was visiting Tennessee and I already know it will be my favorite bag this summer! What makes it so perfect for the beach/pool is the canvas exterior (doesn't matter if it gets wet), inside lining (easy to clean out sand, sunscreen, or wet swimsuits), and zipper (to keep out the sand!).




2.) Swimsuit
 

 Obviously if you're going to the beach or pool you're going to need a swimsuit! While I love the figure-flattering style of this suit from Torrid, the most important aspect of choosing a suit is how YOU feel in it. The right swimsuit should make you feel comfortable and confident in your own skin. Nothing is worse than feeling self-conscious while trying to relax by the pool.




3.) Accessories

I pinned an almost identical pair of sandals on Pinterest MONTHS ago, but couldn't convince myself to spend $60 on sandals that I knew would be worn in the sand, ocean, and dirt. So imagine my surprise when I found this pair at Walmart for $12! Not only are they adorable, but they're comfortable and versatile enough for almost any summer occasion. The heart shaped sunglasses were an impulse buy from Hot Topic when they were on clearance for $2 and they are so fun for the beach!



4.) Makeup for Touch-Ups
 

 I try not to worry too much about my makeup when I'm at the pool or beach, but occasionally I like to touch it up just a tad. For touch-ups I bring mascara, eyeliner, lipstick, lip gloss, an eos lip balm, my favorite storm trooper mirror, a perfume roll-on, and a few brushes (powder brush, beauty blender sponge, and flat top buffer brush). I definitely don't use every one of these products while I'm at the beach, but these are all the things I like to have handy just in case.



5.) Hair Detanglers
 

I don't know about you, but I have super thick, curly hair that gets tangled the moment it touches salt water or pool water. Therefore, a detangling spray is absolutely vital for a successful beach day in my book. The one above is the "ion Anti-Frizz Solutions lightweight moisture and detangling leave-in conditioner." I bought it at Sally's Beauty Supply for around $4. I just spritz a little on my hair once I'm out of the water and use a "wet" brush to comb through it. This brush is a lifesaver for me! Ever since I started using it I can't imagine ever going back to a regular paddle brush. It takes out every single knot without pulling or ripping your hair out. I got this one from Walmart for around $3.




6.) Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a necessity for any pool or beach day. Sunburns are not fun! I use this Equate Sport sunscreen with SPF 50 to make sure I don't burn.

7.) Reading Material

 There's nothing more relaxing for me than to lose myself in a good book while listening to the ocean or dipping my toes in the pool. Right now I'm reading the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon and so far it's amazing! I usually take a few magazines too in case I'm in the mood to veg out on celebrity gossip.



8.) Lightweight sweater

 I don't know about you guys, but on the drive home after swimming I always freeze! Every time, without fail. So I always pack a lightweight, knit sweater to wear when I get out of the water and on the drive home. This one is from Tilly's and is perfect for those summer nights when you're just a bit chilly.



I'm so excited that the weather is finally starting to warm up so I can spend more weekends by the pool and take more roadtrips to the beach! Hopefully you enjoyed this list! Let me know if you have any beach bag essentials I didn't mention.
 


Xoxo,
Ashley