How many times have you hauled a too-heavy bag on vacation and still felt like you didn't have anything you needed? Sure, you ordered your new swimsuit weeks ago and your outfits are ready for mix-n-match all weekend, but what about the real essentials—the beach-specific stuff that helps you dodge sunburn and nurse tired skin back to health? here are a few essentials for your vacation that will keep you beach-ready all weekend long.
Stock up on samples
From subscription sites like BIRCHBOX to seasonal freebies at Sephora, sample sizes of luxury products are often more accessible than the real thing. Keep a small basket or gallon-sized ZipLoc on hand to stow samples and small items you accumulate throughout the year—they'll come in handy when it's time to pack. For last-minute options, check the travel aisle at your local drugstore or look at luxe skincare stores, like Aveda and Origins, for affordable priced to-go sizes of their more expensive shower essentials.
Don't skimp on SPF
Whether you're going for the day or for the week, the one thing you definitely don't need in a travel size is you sunblock. High-end brands like Supergoop and COOLA have you covered if you're looking to indulge, but cheap stuff often serves its purpose just as well. If you're traveling by plane and need to conserve space, put that Amazon Prime membership to use and ship larger bottles of SPF to your hotel or rental unit—most hotels will hold onto packages for you, and you'll skip over-paying for sun protection at beach side convenience stores.
Find a new lid
Protect your face and eyes from the non-stop rays and make sure to bring a hat, whether it's a floppy straw number of a baseball cap for your favorite team. We're partial to the Braves ourselves, but there's no accounting for taste.
Go waterproof
If you're one of those folks who can't leave the house without mascara, opt for the waterproof edition of your favorite brand. Most regular mascaras have a water-resistant counterpart, but if you're looking for something new, try the budget-friendly standard: Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof Mascara, ringing in at under $5.
Show your lips some love
Even if your makeup routine takes time off when you do,protect and accentuate your lips with a lip balm that has SPF. Classic cherry Chapstick will pack a sweet, subtle tint without breaking the bank, but for a ritzier version try Sugar Rosé Tinted Lip Treatment.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize
Whether you're tending to sunburned skin or trying to get the most mileage out of your new found bronze glow, using an aloe-based moisturizer after showering will keep your skin healthy flake-free. Try a cooling formula, like Avon Sun+ Cooling After Sun Aloe Gel, for added relief after a day at the beach.
Take your trainer with you
Yeah, yeah—vacations are supposed to be a break from your usual responsibilities. But starting the day with a good sweat can make the rest of the day feel even more luxurious, especially if your running route includes ocean views or your post-workout soak is a dip in the pool. Pack tennis shoes for a run or download the Nike Training App, which generates workouts you can complete on the go.
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