The thought of taking a beach vacation excites almost all of us, giving us a break from the hassle of our daily lives. Nothing soothes the soul like a cool breeze and the crashing sound of the waves.

However, packing for a beach vacation can be stressful, as many people will have a long list of things to pack even as they hope for minimal packing. The good news is that it can be the easiest task if done smartly. 

From swimwear, beach bags, and flip flops to the latest beach accessories, here are some of the essentials that can take your sunny escape to the next level. 

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Swimwear:

One of the most important things to take is a flattering swimsuit. Trends come and go, but not all of them are suitable for everyone. Choose one that looks stylish for you.

Cover-ups:

This is another addition to make you look chic on the beach. If you’re uncomfortable walking around in swimwear, then opt for a cover-up that can be made of sheer fabric, lightweight linen, or crochet.

A big sun hat:

No beach vacation would be complete without a big straw hat. It not only adds elegance to your look, but also protects your skin from the sun.

Sunglasses:

A pair of shades is the ultimate accessory that adds character to your look and makes you look more stylish. Sunglasses shield your eyes from harmful UV rays and minimise the glare of the sun.

Flip-flops:

Hit the sand in a pair of flip-flops. It is always better to slip them on when on the beach as they can make walking uncomfortable when wet. But they take very little time to dry out, making them better than other footwear. 

A beach bag:

This is an essential accessory for sunny days at the beach. A tote bag is spacious and allows you to carry all your essentials. It’s stylish, water resistant, and easily cleanable as well.

Sunscreen:

There are many brands available that suit different skin types so there’s no excuse not to apply sunscreen regularly and generously. Wrap the bottle separately in a sealable plastic bag in case it leaks.

Summer dresses:

Floral dresses of all lengths are the perfect wear when you’re on the beach. They’re comfortable, stylish, and also keep the beach vibe alive while walking on the beach or at an evening party.

Lip balm:

Chilling on the beach all day can leave your lips feeling, and looking, chapped. A quick rub of balm every hour or so will keep them fresh. 

Beach towel:

This sits pretty high up on the summer essentials list. Beyond the basics, consider the size of the towel and the material it’s made from. Most towels are made from cotton, but microfibre is a great alternative. It’s lightweight, highly absorbent, and can be conveniently squeezed into a small carry-on bag. 

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*A version of this article appears in print in the 18 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.