How to Pack for a Day on the Beach on Memorial Day

If you don't want to spend Memorial Day at home or picnicking in a park, you may want to head to the beach. Between the water, beach sports, the sun, the vendors and the opportunity to relax, there is something for everyone. Be sure to pack in advance for a day at the beach, however, so that you and your family have fun and stay safe.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Beach towels
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Bags to carry items

1. Pack items that will let you relax on the beach on Memorial Day. If you intend to sunbathe or read a book while at the beach, you may want to do so without rolling around in the sand. Bring large towels or beach chairs.

2. Bring items that will protect your health while you are at the beach for Memorial Day. Essential items that you should pack for the day include sunscreen and sunglasses. If you are going to the beach with friends, you may want to discuss who will be bringing which items as you do not need a separate bottle of sunscreen for each person.

3. Decide which sports, if any, you and your friends will play while at the beach. You may want to throw around a ball or disc. You may also want to head into the water to swim, in which case you will need to pack a swimsuit.

4. Bring snacks and beverages to the beach with you. There may be food stands or restaurants on and along the beach, but they will be expensive compared to purchasing food before leaving from home.

5. Load the items that you want to bring to the beach into bags you can carry easily. You may want to use duffel bags, tote bags or backpacks. It will be easier to carry the items that you are bringing to the beach in these bags instead of carrying them separately.

6. Roll up a couple of large plastic garbage bags and pack them in your beach bag. When you have wet or sandy gear, towels and clothing after your day at the beach, you can keep the sand out of your nice bags by bringing your things home in a plastic bag to wash them.

Tips & Warnings

• If you forget beach chairs or towels at home, you may be able to rent them or purchase them from stores near the beach. You can expect to pay a premium, however, for the convenience.
• If you intend to go into the water once you arrive at the beach, it may be easier to wear a swimsuit. Be sure to pack a set of dry clothing into which you can change after spending the day at the beach.
• The UV rays from the sun can be harmful even when clouds obscure the sun. You should use sunscreen regardless of how intense the sun appears.