A Better Beach Day: 6 Items to Pack for Style, Shade, and SPF

BrandsWalk Creative |
There’s a certain kind of magic to a beach day when you get the details right. Not just the view or the weather, but the feeling of being prepared — covered in SPF, cool drink in hand, your essentials tucked away in a bag that feels just right. It’s not about packing more. It’s about packing better.  

Whether you’re headed to a local coast or planning a weekend road trip, here are six pieces we actually use — each one combining utility and understated design. Here’s how to build your beach bag with a little more ease, and a little more you.

The Cloud-Like Carryall

Baggu Cloud Bag

Think of this as the just-right tote. Lightweight, machine washable, and big enough for your towel, snacks, a change of clothes, and the odd beach read — without feeling bulky. The padded straps make it surprisingly comfortable, even when it’s full. When you’re done? It folds into its own pocket.

The Towel You’ll Want to Show Off

Baggu Bath Towel

Beach towels tend to be either too loud or too plain. This one’s different. Made from organic cotton terry, Baggu’s oversized towel brings color, softness, and design-forward patterns to your sun lounging. It’s the kind of towel that doubles as a picnic blanket or poolside wrap.

Cover-Up, Upgraded

Lualoha Breeze Short Cover-Up

This breathable cotton cover-up is one of those pieces that makes you feel put-together without trying. Easy to throw on over your swimsuit, stylish enough to stop for a cold drink on the way home. The cinched waist and short silhouette make it flattering and functional for breezy beach days.

Hydration You’ll Actually Remember to Bring

S’well Explorer with Flip Straw Lid – 40oz

Big enough to keep you hydrated through hours in the sun. Durable enough to survive sand and sunscreen spills. And with a flip straw lid that makes sipping easy when your hands are sandy or full. The double-walled insulation means your water (or iced matcha) stays cold for hours.

Lip Care That Feels Like a Treat

MIXIK Plumping Lip Ampoule

Wind, sun, and salt can do a number on your lips. This lip ampoule gives you hydration, soft sheen, and subtle plumping — without the sticky finish of most glosses. Bonus: the glass applicator and sleek design make it feel more like a summer ritual than a touch-up.

Sun Protection in Style

Fjällräven 1960 Logo Långtradarkeps Hat

A mesh-backed cap that keeps your head cool while keeping the sun off your face. With Fjällräven’s signature logo patch and rugged durability, this hat is made for more than just the beach. It’s the kind of piece that lives by the door all season long.

Sunscreen That Feels Like Skincare

CU SKIN Vitamin U Sun Serum

Sunscreen should be the easiest part of your beach day, not the stickiest. This Korean-made serum formula absorbs like a lightweight moisturizer while delivering broad-spectrum protection (SPF 50+ PA+++). Bonus: it’s packed with Vitamin U — known for calming redness and helping your skin bounce back from sun stress. No white cast. No greasy finish. Just a smooth, invisible layer that plays well under makeup or on its own.

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