Memorial Day is the unofficial kickoff to summer, which means that it's finally beach (or lake or pool or swimming hole) season. A well-stocked beach bag will help you and your family enjoy a comfortable and safe day on the water.
Start with a good beach bag, wagon, or storage bin. Look for a bag that's lightweight and durable on its own, resists dirt and water, and can be wiped down easily. A plastic storage bin with a sealing lid is also a good choice if you're keeping multiple people supplied for the day. Collapsible folding wagons can also come in handy, especially if you're bringing beach chairs and other larger items.
*Swimsuits.
*Appropriate footwear. Basic sandals may suffice, or you may need quick-drying water shoes or athletic-style sandals to protect you from sharp rocks and slippery surfaces.
* Sun protection. Discard any expired sunscreen and restock. Bring plenty — you should plan to reapply about every 80 minutes, and the average adult needs the equivalent of a shot glass full of sunscreen lotion to cover their entire body. UV-blocking hats and sunglasses provide additional protection.
* Beach towels and blankets.
* Waterproof phone pouch.
* Drinks and snacks. Fill large reusable water bottles.
* Beach cupholders. Beach cupholders can be inserted with a stake into the ground or hooked onto a chair.
* Swimsuit cover-ups and a change of clothing.
Rick Good spent ten years in the newspaper business, including with The News & Observer (Raleigh, NC) and The Greenville News (Greenville, SC). He co-wrote, with Melinda Coleman, Rutledge to Riley: Governors of South Carolina, 1776–Present (Published by The Greenville News), and is the author of Mind Games Trivia #1 (Amazon). He has recently spent 15 years creating original trivia content through Sounds Good Mobile Entertainment and continues that with his new company, SGME Software. He edits The Smart Reader’s money, real estate, and business coverage.