Packing Tips for Beach Trips

Taking a trip to beaches on the hot summer days is a great way to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

1. Protection issues

Sunshine is a double-edged sword: enjoyable while harmful. Thus, do not forget to protect yourself while get tanned.

Sunscreen: The sun sprays out its pleasant rays together with harmful ultraviolet radiations, so we need to apply enough sunscreen to avoid sunburn and skin cancer. Make sure each part of your exposed skin is daubed with sunscreen, including your nose, ears, cheeks, lips and forehead. Avoid exposure to the sun between 10:00am and 4:00pm since the sun's rays are the strongest during this period. Choose the sunscreen with at least 15 SPF and apply 30 SPF or more if the sunshine appear to be stronger.

Clothing: Different from land travels, a beach trip takes you closer to water and sunshine, so the clothing is different. Clothes are strongly recommended as a protection for kids, especially those under six months.

Here is a list of clothing you may need:

• Sandals
• Flip-flop
• Shorts
• T-shirts
• Slacks
• Dresses
• Hats
• Swimsuits
• Bathrobe
• Wind-breaker
• Light jackets
• Underwear
• Pajamas

Life jackets: they are often offered by beaches for free or for a nominal fee. Young swimmers may need their support in swimming and for safety's sake.

2. Extra towels

Towels are used to dry yourself after swimming and before dressing you clothes. And each member of a family will need one. If it allows, an extra towel for each one is good: one for water play and the other for towel off.

3. Waterproof bags

Waterproof bags will keep your belongings dry. If you take with you dry clothes and electronic appliances or gadgets, it is wise to store them in waterproof bags.

4. Floatation devices

It shall be an exciting experience surfing on waves and floating on the water. You may bring your own floatation devices or rent them from a rental shop, if there is one. However, most public beaches do not allow items such as floating rafts or noodles as they are not approved by coast guard. Consult the beach lifeguard or local officials for what is or isn't permitted.

5. Camera

You may need a camera to help you memorize precious moments with your family or friends; or you may use it just for taking photos of sea views. Be cautious if your camera is not waterproof; you can fit your camera into a water proof case while using it by the water.

A wide brim hat will protect your face from strong sunshine and a beach umbrella provides you with the protective shade.

A pair of sunglasses gives your eyes good protection from ultraviolet rays.

Chairs for the beach are low and you will have a quite comfortable body position.

Blankets are very comfortable to sit or lie on and meanwhile keep your body away from hot sand.

Entertainment toys for kids will spice up their stay at the beach.