If you’re like many of us, then you haven’t had the opportunity to get out and see much of the world as of late. As such, you might be antsy to get out and enjoy the summer by hitting up your local beach. But forget these key tips before you go strutting your stuff by the seaside.
Forgetting the sunscreen
The number one mistake and the one that we should all keep in mind to avoid as best as possible: do not neglect to bring your sunscreen. Make sure you’re bringing protection that offers both UV-A and UV-B coverage (also known as broad-spectrum) with a decently high SPF. Since you’re likely to spend at least a little time in the water, make sure that you bring a sunscreen that is water-resistant, or at least enough to apply again after you get out of the sea.
Be ready for the wind
Beaches tend to be pretty windy places and it can start to become something of a hassle if you let it go unchallenged. To that end, make sure that you and your family are covered, especially if the wind starts to pick up a little. To that end, look at some of the best beach umbrellas. Aside from dealing with the wind, these handy accessories can also add some additional protection from the sun.
Stay hydrated
You’re more likely to be hitting the beach when the weather is nice and hot, and you and your family might even enjoy running, playing beach sports, swimming, and the like. All that can result in sweat which, if you’re not careful, can lead to dehydration. Make sure you bring a decent drink cooler with you, full of bottles of water to replenish your fluids. You don’t want anyone’s fun getting cut short by nasty headaches or other dehydration symptoms.
Don’t give yourself food prep at the beach
Plenty of people love bringing a snack or even having something of a picnic at the beach. However, don’t give yourself the chore of having to prepare foods at the beach. The longer you spend prepping, the more likely it is that things are going to get covered in sand. Instead, wrap up some quick and easy treats. Even better if they have high-water content like cucumber slices or carrot sticks.
Not getting a move on
If you wait too long to claim your spot on the beach, then it’s all too likely that all those good spots are going to be gone by the time that you get there. If you want a good view of the water and to not be stuck too far away from all the fun, make sure that you set off early enough to reach the beach as the sun is getting high in the sky.
With the tips above, make sure you don’t get caught out at the beach. Bring everything that you need to enjoy a lovely day outdoors with no discomforts and no disasters. You don’t want a beautiful day marred by a simple mistake or two, right?
*Post contributed by peer travel writer, Pam Naish, who is spending this summer in New England.*
