Beach Essentials: What To Take When Hitting The Surf!

We can all feel it - the sun is brighter, the days are longer and the air smells crisper. What does that mean? It means that beach season is almost upon us, and that also means we'll have to start the usual dance that comes with heading out to catch some rays - how much and what should you take with you?

1) Sunnies - This is the one thing you'd kick yourself for forgetting! It's incredibly important to have proper shields for when you're out and about, but I'm guessing most of you already have a pair stashed away in your everyday bag.

2) Beach towel - Something to lie on, dry off with and sit on while gabbing with friends! There are some really cute designs out there, and I've been tempted to get a new towel, but I'm trying hard to save at the moment, so my old reliable will be travelling to the beach with me this season!

3) Le Tan SPF 50+ Coconut Spray - Slip, slap, slop! This is absolutely necessary for being on the beach! Prevent the leathering of your skin while being out and about. This formula is silky smooth and gets soaked up by the skin really nicely. Plus, this comes as a spray, so you can spritz, slip, slap, slop!

4a) La Roche Posay Anthelios XL Ultra Light SPF 50+ - While you're busy protecting your body, don't forget to also get your face! This super light face lotion will melt right into your skin, where you don't even notice it doing it's thing.

4b) Ego SunSense Anti-Ageing Matte Finish Lotion SPF 50+ * - Alternatively, if you're self-conscious about being shiny out and about without your makeup on, this might be better for you. See full review here.  

5) Viraprox SPF 30 Broad Spectrum Lip Balm * - Don't let the name put you off! While designed to help protect those who suffer from cold sores, and relieve the clinical signs associated, what this baby also does is keep your lips from getting burned while you enjoy your time in the sun. The thick balm texture also makes your lips feel all soft and moisturised - a definite must with that much exposure to the elements.

6) Trashy novel - In between getting into the water and drying off, have a good trashy read with you, whether it's a magazine or a book. Plus, it makes it easier to check out what's going on around you with something to hide behind!

7) Hydration - Make sure that you always, always have water with you to prevent dehydration from occurring! It's easy to forget, so pack some with you before you leave the house.

8) Avene Thermal Spring Water - Water, water everywhere... If the skin starts to feel a little gritty and sticky, but you can't get to the showers, this is a real life saver! 

9) Money - When you're at the beach, you don't want to be worrying about your belongings, so make sure you leave anything major at home and just take what you need. Having just enough money means that you can also carry it in a cute little purse, like the one I have pictured from Smiggle!

Would you pack anything else? What would you leave out?

* These products were provided for my consideration, but my opinions, as always, are my own