7 Beach Must Haves

The beach is my happy place.  It's where I relax the fastest and it always renews my creativity... so it's no surprise that I go as often as I can.  Over the years, I've  really narrowed down my "beach must haves", so I thought I would share.  We do sell these products in our store, but the reason we sell them is because I love them so much!  Next time you're headed to the beach, try picking up one or all of these items.

Barque Beach Faves

1.  Favorite Beach Blanket

If you've been following for any number of years, then you've already heard about how much we love this blanket.  It's very roomy (6 feet x 7 feet) and sand (even wet sand) doesn't stick to it.  It's lightweight too, so you can use it as a blanket on the airplane too.

2.  Stasher Bags

I travel with a variety of Stasher bags (more about that here), but their newest "Go" size with a carabiner is perfect for the beach!  It easily fits a pair of sunglasses or a cell phone and car key and will keep them from getting wet or sandy.  The sandwich and snack sized Stasher bags are also great for packing your beach lunch.

3.  Utility Tote

I own a variety of beach bags, but lately I've really enjoyed packing this flat-folding tote.  It's large but lightweight, and will lay completely flat in a suitcase.  It's great for packing bulky items to walk to the beach like towels, mini coolers, etc.  The handle straps are also reinforced, so the Utility Tote is sturdy too.  

4.  Clearscreen Sunscreen

This coral reef-safe sunscreen is awesome!  It goes on white but turns to clear almost immediately.  It's non-greasy but enhanced with antioxidant-rich oils.  You want to put it on before you get in the sun, but at least you won't have white spots all over.

5.  Scalp Spray

When it comes to sun protection, I LOVE the Coola Scalp Spray.  It smells great, and it feels very refreshing to use.  It also doesn't make your hairline greasy - it just does what it's supposed to do - keep the skin around your hairline and hair part from getting sunburned.  When I'm at the beach, I like to braid my hair to keep it out of my face for snorkeling, etc. - so this spray is a lifesaver!

6.  Dry Spell Phone Case

The Dry Spell phone bag is great because it will create a watertight seal on your phone, while still letting you use it.  When you place it in the bag, just put the phone in with the top at the bottom (by the clear part so your camera is still visible).  Then Snap in place and use the lanyard to wear around your neck or hold onto.  You can totally use the phone through the plastic, but you don't have to worry about it getting wet.

7.  Corkcicle Canteen

Traveling with a Corkcicle canteen is a MUST for me!  It saves me money when I can fill it up at the airport water fountain instead of buying a $5 bottled water, and it's handy to have on hand at the beach, on a hike or just driving around.  It keeps drinks cold up to 24 hours, so just a few cubes of ice and some water will be refreshing all day.  Of course you can personalize them too - which is always a bonus.

Safe travels, friends!

- Kandice