Hot Girl Summer calls for going to the beach as many times as you can squeeze in before school starts again, so you'll need to stock up on some essential supplies to enjoy your favorite stretch of sand as much as possible. What you'll want to activate Hot Girl Summer Mode: eco-friendly beach gear, *actually* cute period-proof swimwear, and heavy UV protection to keep your skin glowing and healthy for years to come.
All those things and more (insulated beach bag, SPF eyeshadow, etc.) are right up ahead on the ultimate list of beach bag essentials. These are all the things you need for a guaranteed fun-as-hell day in the sand, because rolling up with nothing but a towel just isn't it.
Sol Coastal Portable Outdoor Beach Table with No-Slip Surface
Sol Coastal Portable Outdoor Beach Table with No-Slip Surface
There's literally no beach experience worse than realizing someone kicked sand into your drink after you've already taken a sip. *Shudders.* Keep your bevs safe from harm on this mini beach table – just stick it right in the sand.
Bluboon Mesh Beach Tote Bag with Detachable Cooler
Bluboon Mesh Beach Tote Bag with Detachable Cooler
Maxi dresses are the perfect swimsuit cover-up, and also the ideal way to go straight from the beach to dinner with minimal getting-ready time in between.
FYI: your period doesn't actually stop when you get in the water (sorry). Ruby Love makes period-proof suits that will keep you from any accidental leakage, even without a tampon. They're designed for water sports, with an absorbent built-in liner that won't swell up in the water.
On your way to the beach, pack this leak-proof pouch with sunscreen, snacks – all your essentials. On your way home, throw in your wet swimsuit to keep the rest of your stuff dry.
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Editor's Pick
Lands' End Medium Natural 5 Pocket Open Top Canvas Tote Bag
Editor's Pick
Lands' End Medium Natural 5 Pocket Open Top Canvas Tote Bag
Ahhh, the infamous Lands' End tote. It's preppy, it's spacious, and according to the website, it can (technically) hold up to 500 lbs. You can have them embroider your initials on the front, or add a custom word that's meaningful to you.
Native reigns supreme when it comes to aluminum-free deodorant, so you should totally toss it in your bag when you're headed to the beach this summer. You'll be able to relax on the sand and dive into the ocean without any worries about a greasy application and yucky residue.
IGK x Chamberlain Coffee Direct Flight Dry Shampoo
IGK x Chamberlain Coffee Direct Flight Dry Shampoo
After a long day of salt water and wind, you'll be glad you packed some dry shampoo for a pre-dinner hair refresh. Voila! Instant heatless volume, courtesy of Emma Chamberlain & IGK.
Supergoop's sunscreen is so silky smooth, you'll actually get excited to put it on. Before you hit the beach, shop this kit, which comes with their cult-favorite Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, an SPF 40 setting spray, and their everyday SPF 50 moisturizer.
The ocean breeze is great for your ~beach waves~ but not so great when it ends up leaving a salty taste in your mouth. A stick of chewing gum will do the trick.
Say it with me: END 👏 SINGLE-USE 👏PLASTIC 👏. This reusable cutlery set will go back into its carrying case once you're done, instead of into an overflowing trash can.
These outdoor-ready sandals were specifically made for active days. Yes, they're cute enough for a grid pic, but they also have a quick-dry fabric and an easy-wash rubber sole.
As someone who burns *literally* every time they leave their house, let me tell you: PROTECT YOUR PART. Spritz on this SPF-packed scalp and hair mist to protect your part.
pbteen The Emily & Meritt Cabana Stripe Beach Towel
pbteen The Emily & Meritt Cabana Stripe Beach Towel
If you have "save the turtles" in your IG bio, you are legally obligated to pick up trash when you go to the beach. (I don't make the rules.) Place items in this washable, reusable tote made from 40% recycled nylon.
Kelsey is Seventeen.com's fashion expert and resident Harry Potter nerd. At the office, she spends her day writing about style, beauty, and literally every move Kylie Jenner makes. On the weekends, you can find her sifting through vintage shops and hunting for the perfect burger. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.
Hannah is the assistant shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things from cute apartment decor to trendy fashion finds, TikTok products that are actually worth your $$$, and the perfect gift to buy for your boyfriend's mom. She previously wrote for Seventeen and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram for hot takes on red carpet fashion and unhinged updates on the books she’s reading on the train.