Can you believe today kicks off Memorial Day weekend? That means school is almost out, the warm weather becomes a constant and beach days are plentiful!

Whether you’re a beach family like us, a regular pool-goer or have a tropical beach vacation planned; an organized bag is a must have to contain the summer time essentials. So long are the days where I could just toss in sunglasses, sunscreen, and a good magazine, hop on my bike and see where the day took me (usually to shellbacks IYKYK).

However, now being a parent our beach bags have not only become larger, but full of so much more. While I can’t necessarily lighten your load, I can share how to best organize your beach bag and the beach essentials i always have on hand.

Pro tip: keep your bag fully stocked and hanging in an easy to grab place so whenever the beach or pool calls…you’ll be ready!

HOW TO ORGANIZE A POOL OR BEACH BAG FOR SUMMER

You CAN choose comfort and style. When I’m carrying essentials for four people for the day, it’s inevitable that the bag will get heavy. Most people don’t associate comfort with style, but it is possible. I have found some great lightweight options like this one from Mark & Graham x Steel that has been the perfect solution for the beach and pool, fits everything and can be personalized!

Keep categories contained. The key to staying organized is to create categories that are easy to keep up with. I love using waterproof pouches or even ziplock bags for each of my categories. That way you know where everything is, and where to find those goggles your kids needs ASAP!!

Accessibility (always). Just like you would in any area of your home, create zones in your bag whenever possible. Reserve built-in bag pockets for categories that you reach for most often, like your cell phone and chapstick. Then tuck your least accessed items in the bottom of the bag so that you aren’t constantly moving them to get to what you really need (snacks anyone).

Prepare for the “what ifs”. I’ve learned the hard way that there are too many unknowns that can happen when you set out for a day at the beach. I always stash way more snacks than necessary, baby wipes (no matter how old your kids are), first aid supplies, and some cash on hand at all times to prepare for wherever the day takes us.

WHAT TO KEEP IN YOUR BEACH OR POOL BAG

Bag - Like I said before, a lightweight, sturdy bag is a must-have and this one from Mark & Graham x Steel has been perfect for holding all the essentials. Plus, it has a few small holes on the bottom so loose sand doesn’t get trapped.
Towels - Since I carry four in one bag, I love turkish towels or these thin beach towels that can easily be packed and come in super fun prints.
Sunscreen - Besides snacks, sunscreen is a must in my beach bag. I love this Supergoop pump for the entire family and these Sun Bum face sticks for the kiddos, since they can apply it themselves.
Hat and sunglasses - I’m all about being kind to my skin and the best way to protect it from a full day in the sun, besides sunscreen is a big hat and shades.
Snacks - Because it’s inevitable that I will hear “can I have a snack” the moment we step foot on the beach.
Water bottles - We’re big water drinkers in our family, especially bubble water. And it’s always important to drink lots of water when in the sun all day. I suggest packing each family member a water bottle plus some extra bubbles waters to spice it up. (and rehydrate after the rosé)
First aid kit - I like to have a couple of supplies on hand just in case scrapes or cuts come up. Either pull from your existing medicine cabinet stash and store in a small bag, or pick up a small case of the essentials to toss into your bag.
Cash - To have on hand when the ice cream guy comes by and your kids have been especially well-behaved.
A book - This is wishful thinking, but maybe one day HAHA!