The Bag
Skip the branded beach tote that falls apart after one season. Look for canvas or cotton canvas with reinforced stitching — bonus points for a waterproof lining. A simple, wide-strap design that fits a book, sunscreen, and a towel without stuffing.
Sun Protection
A good UPF rash guard does more than sunscreen alone, especially for kids or anyone spending full days. Look for 50+ UPF, quick-dry fabric, and flatlock seams that don't chafe. Reima and Coolibar are reliable; Lands End has solid options on a budget.
The Chair Question
Low beach chairs win over high-back folding chairs for comfort and packing. Helinox makes ultralight ones that fold down to the size of a water bottle — spendy but they last forever. For budget, Rio Beach makes acceptable chairs under $30.
What to Skip
Inflatable rafts leak. Beach umbrellas without a sand anchor topple in a breeze. Anything that requires inflating, deflating, or pumping before and after gets left behind for us.