Beach Vacation Hacks
The beach can be the perfect place for a vacation, staycation or just to spend a few hours relaxing in the sun and the sand. However, it can also be stressful to pack for the beach and realize that you forgot something or have your phone get sandy or even lose your keys when you're ready to leave at the end of the day. Luckily, we have all the best beach vacation hacks to make your trip to the shore peaceful, relaxing, and just what you need.
- Don't use a beach towel to set your stuff on. While towels can be great, they can also be sand magnets, and you may find that your stuff winds up with a thin coating of sand even while sitting safely on the towel. Instead, you'll want to use an older fitted sheet. I know, this one seems odd, but hear us out. Put the fitted sheet upside down, and have four objects that act as anchors, with one in each corner. For example, you can use your cooler and even beach bags as anchors to help hold the sheet. This will allow you to keep blowing sand from invading your zone and your items. Of course, if you track it in yourself, we can't help you there, but this should minimize the sand that gets in.
- Hide your valuables. This is a big one on the beach, especially since you may leave your area to play in the water and that means leaving your car keys, cash, and even your phone behind. While we'd like to think that no one would touch your stuff, it's better safe than sorry, which is why it's important to hide your valuables in something no one will think to take or look in. There are several good options for this. One, you could put everything in a plastic bag and put it in the cooler under the ice. Make sure it's fully sealed if you go this route with your phone, as you don't want melting ice to ruin it. Another option is to put everything in an old or fake sunscreen bottle. You can DIY this or purchase one online, and you can easily put everything you need in there, and then just set it in your beach bag. Odds are if someone is searching for something quick to grab, they won't think to check your sunscreen.
- If you aren't certain about hiding your valuables, there's another option to keep your phone and cash safe with you without getting wet. There are inexpensive carriers designed to keep your phone and other items dry and safe, while easily hanging around your neck like a lanyard. You won't have to worry about anything other than an awkward tan line or potentially losing it in the waves when you go this route. Again, just make sure it's fully sealed, otherwise water in your phone will ruin your day.
- Don't bring expensive jewelry or items to the beach. This is a no-brainer, since you're going to be out and about in the water and you could lose valuable jewelry in the waves or even in the sand. If you have an engagement ring or wedding band, consider leaving it at home or at the hotel for the beach day, that way you know it's safe and sound and won't get damaged or lost when you are out at the shore. Same with your expensive sunglasses. It may be a good idea to have a pair of cheap sunglasses for your beach days. This way, if they get broken, lost or sandy, it won't be upsetting to lose them, whereas if an expensive pair get broken or lost, you'll need quite a bit of money to replace them.
- Pack plenty of water. One thing that most people don't realize is just how much water they'll need at a beach day. There's nothing wrong with having leftover water at the end of the day, but the last thing you want is to have to pack up and leave in search for water. Save yourself the hassle and headache and keep yourself hydrated with plenty of water.
- Opt for a rash guard if you're planning on being out in the sun for a while. A couple hours of sun should be fine if you're diligent about applying sunscreen and having some shade for breaks, but if you plan on being out all day, a rashguard is better for protection from the sun. The sun is most dangerous between 11 and 4, which is prime time to be out at the beach, so make sure you have a shade area set up, either a tent or a sunshade, as well as keeping your skin covered with more than just sunscreen.
All of these tips will keep you and your family happy and safe during your next beach trip. They may also save you some hassle and money! Try them out and see how much better your beach trip is.