What to Bring to Make Your Day at the Beach More Enjoyable

You've got the day off, and you're heading to the beach. Whether your destination is salt water or fresh water, a few beach essentials will make your visit more pleasurable.

Sunscreen. First and foremost, always bring sunscreen, even if clouds cover the sky. You can get a serious sunburn even during an overcast day. Check with your doctor on the strength you'll need, as some people need a high spf (sun protection factor). The ancient Greeks used olive oil as a sunscreen, but you can head down to your grocery or drug store to find protection.

Apply liberal doses on your children's skin, even if they don't enjoy the process at all. (Special lotions are made for kids, including lotions that turn from purple to clear (like Coppertone's Colorblock for Kids), and sun screen sticks (like Banana Boat's Sunscreen Stick.) Reapply according to the package directions, especially after water activities.

Bring your Own. If the beach allows it, bring in food and beverages. Snacks normally cost a fortune at beach-side concession stands, and you could run up quite a bill during even a short visit. Pack lots of water, especially if the temperature is high, to avoid dehydration.

An inexpensive cooler will hold fresh fruit, sandwiches, and veggies. (Although you might concede to an icy-cold snack from a vendor if you've got a good meal packed along.

Toys. Bring age-appropriate toys for your entire party. Stop at a dollar store for inexpensive pails and shovels for the little ones, have your older kids bring a Frisbee and boogie board, and a great novel for yourself. Expect to use everything, or nothing at all. Remember to be flexible, and that beach time is fun, and lower your mental "to do" checklist. Leave sensitive electronics at home, like Game-boys or Palm Pilots, as they are not sand-friendly devices.

Plastic Bags. Bring several plastic shopping or garbage bags for wet suits and shoes. Your vehicle's upholstery will thank you. Nylon mesh bags are great for drying wet clothing, if you've got time to hang the bag in a breezy spot before you leave.

Cash. Bring a little cash with you to the beach area, especially if you have to park far away. There's nothing more discouraging than having to run to a distant car for a dollar to buy an ice cream. Sports and department stores (like REI and Target) sell waterproof pouches you can either hang from your neck or attach to your swimming suit. This is a great idea if you want to keep your small valuables with you while you take a walk, swim, or wander away from your towel area.