We’re smack in the middle of this summer (can you believe it?!) and as someone who lives by the shore, I spend a lot of time at the beach. But how many times have you gotten to the beach, sat down, and realized you forgot something you can’t live without? It’s easy to roll out of bed and throw yourself together for a day at the beach but forgetting your favorite things really sucks. So, we created a must-have check list! 

Here’s 5 Essentials That Should Be In Your Beach Tote.

BEACH TOWEL

Our number one essential is- of course- the beach towel. You can’t go to the beach without a towel! I prefer to bring two; one to lay on and another to use as a pillow. They also have extra long towels! I don’t particularly need that kind but I’m sure it’s an essential for people that are tall.

Vera Bradley Cobalt Aztec Towel  //  Palm & Peach Banana Leaf Round Towel

SOMETHING REFRESHING

Sitting around in the sun is really exhausting! It sounds like ‘woe is me’ but the hot sun is truly an energy sucker. The best way to beat the heat is by bringing something refreshing! If I’m planning to spend the day at the beach, I usually bring a cold water bottle for now and a frozen water bottle for later in the day. You can also bring fruit, infused water, or your favorite Starbucks drink!

Bobble ‘Infuse’ Filter Bottle  //  Sunnylife Water Bottle

PROTECTIVE ACCESSORIES

This sounds kind of silly but a day at the beach can be dangerous. And trust me, your future self will thank you for this! Be sure to protect yourself by bringing accessories like a floppy hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm with SPF.

Gap Straw Fedora  //  Lolita Sunglasses  //  Sun Bum Lip Balm with SPF 30 *BOGO

ENTERTAINMENT

Unless you’re going with a group of friends or plan to swim or meditate, bringing some form of entertainment is essential! I live ten minutes from a waterfront, so I often go to the beach by myself for a few hours in the morning. I’m good with my iPhone and ear buds but magazines and books are nice to have, too.

Kate Spade That’s Bananas iPhone Case  //  Fossil Happy Plugs Earbuds 

FLIP-FLOPS

I rarely wear flip-flops but I do have a ‘beach’ pair because these are another essential. You need footwear that you can easily slip on and off! It’s also best to wear a rubber pair of flip-flops because the fabric kind tend to get dirty.

Aeropostale Bow Flip Flop  //  Haivaianas Slim Candy Flip Flop  //   Kate Spade Nassau Sandals  //  Charlotte Russe Crochet Sandals

What’s in your beach tote? Show me your style! Post your favorite beach essentials on Instagram and tag me (@theclosetbychristie) for a chance to be featured.

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Linking up with these fabulous ladies!

The Fashionista Momma //  Lizzie In Lace  //  More Pieces of Me // Claire Justine  //  Pink Sole //  Style Nudge  

Still Being Molly //  Fizz and Frosting  //    I do deClaire

Garay Treasures  //  The Blush Blonde  //  Cute & Little  //  Sandy a la Mode  

Walking in Memphis in High Heels   //  Style Elixir // Pumps and Pushups  //  The Pleated Poppy

My Girlish Whims // Doused in Pink  //  Color and Grace  //  Sydney Fashion Hunter  //  Classy Yet Trendy 

Jersey Girl, Texan Heart //  Two Peas In A Pod // Shopping My Closet