Essentials for Your Eco-Friendly Beach Day

Summer is in full swing and whether you've spent your days basking at the beach all summer long or are planning a special trip to soak up the sun soon, being mindful of what you bring along on your next beach day is important.

Although summer can be one of the most beautiful seasons, it can also come with more than it's fair share of waste, as beach-goers toss water bottles, wrappers, drinks and more, leaving them littered across the sand instead of in recycling bins where they belong. 

Luckily, reducing your footprint for your next day on the water doesn't have to be difficult. Although it feels contrary to what most beach-goers will do, thinking ahead and minimizing your waste is easier than you might think. 

Be sure to bring these simple items along with you next time you're packing your beach bag and both your wallet and the planet will thank you for it. 

Your Reusable Water Bottle

According to EcoWatch, Americans throw away 35 billion plastic water bottles every year. Most of those are never recycled and end up in our waterways and in the ocean. Bringing your own water bottle is a simple, one-time investment that save you money and waste in the long run.   

Organic & Biodegradable Sunscreen

Although sunscreen is crucial for the health of our skin, studies have shown that most sunscreens are made with chemicalsthat, when put into the water, are extremely harmful for coral reefs worldwide and ultimately, the livelihoods of the animals that live there. 

Instead, opt for a sunscreen made without these chemicals. Check out this helpful list from Travel + Leisure for sunscreens that are both skin and ocean safe. 

Pre-made Snacks

Other than saving you money, packing your snacks in reusable containers before you leave the house can prevent the use of single-use plastics from ziplock bags or other packaging. Packing a few sandwiches, fruits, and drinks in reusable containers and jars from home is a simple step that makes a huge difference. 

A Reusable Bag to Pack Out Any Waste

Since having a 100% waste-free beach day is nearly impossible, bring along a small washable tote bag or lunch bag to pack out any recyclables or trash so you don't feel the temptation to leave it. 

A Beach Bag to Carry It All

And of course, the final step to bring it all together is to find the perfect versatile beach bag to carry it all in, so you're not dragging around more than you need to be. We happen to think our Carryall Totes are perfect for, well, carrying it all. 

What are your beach day essentials?