Summer is all about making the most of warmer weather and sunny skies—and a beach day is just the ticket. But before you stick your toes in the sand, there are a few things you can prep and plan ahead that will make for smooth sailing once you arrive. Check out Intown Suites’ best beach day tips and you’ll have more time to relax and soak up the sun.
KEEP YOUR VALUABLES SAFE
It’s easier to fully relax when you know your valuables are taken care of. Keep anything that’s not absolutely essential for the beach locked in your vehicle out of sight, or at home. Slip some cash in your shoe or a zippered pocket to avoid taking your entire wallet. Most drug stores carry containers that look like bottles of sunscreen but have hidden compartments for car keys, rings, and other small items. For cell phones, e-readers, and other electronics, throw them in a re-sealable plastic bag to limit exposure to sand and surf.
PROTECT YOURSELF
Everyone is different, but it can take as little as 15 minutes to get a sunburn, so don’t forget yourself once you’ve applied sunscreen to younger ones. It can seem like a hassle, but reapplying after you’ve taken a dip will help keep your skin protected. SPF lip balm, hats, sunglasses and light cover-ups also come in handy, plus a can of bug spray can be useful to keep pests at bay.
STAY ENTERTAINED
Pure relaxation can be the perfect beach day itinerary, but keeping yourself and young ones entertained with toys, games, and activities is key to a successful day in the sun. Bring some sand toys (even plastic containers can do in a pinch), a Frisbee, a beach ball and some inflatable floats for fun on the water. For adults, bring a magazine or a short paperback novel that you can finish quickly. Need a fun game? Try playing a round of beach bingo with common sights you’ll see along the shore.
BRINGS SNACKS AND STAY HYDRATED
Once you’ve settled in for the day, you won’t want to pack up again just to grab something to eat. Grab an inexpensive Styrofoam cooler and a bag of ice at a gas station, and load up on some healthy snacks. Fresh fruit and salads will keep well on ice, or make some sandwiches or wraps ahead of time. Be sure to load up on lots of water. It’s easy to get dehydrated under direct sun, even if you’re only lounging around.
BE PREPARED FOR THE TRIP HOME
Sitting in a wet bathing suit is no fun, so be sure to pack a change of clothes for your return trip from the beach. Bring some plastic grocery bags for wet and sandy items, and try to brush off as much sand as possible before getting into your car or boarding a bus. Don’t forget an extra layer, even if it’s a very warm day. Air conditioning can bring on chills if your hair is damp, and it always cools off when the sun goes down.
With a few essentials, you’ll be all set for a fun day at the beach. Whether you’re traveling for work or staying a little while longer, our accommodations are the perfect base to plan a beach adventure from Chicago to Tampa to Virginia Beach. InTown Suites offers affordable, convenient accommodations at our extended stay accommodations across the country.
