7 Things to Pack in Your Beach Bag

Whether it’s Locarno or White Pine, it’s easy to enjoy Vancouver’s sweet sandy shores in style

There’s nothing more relaxing than a day at the beach, but if you’re not properly prepared it’s easy to lose your cool. Luckily, BCLiving has you covered with our list of the best beach essentials. So click through and start packing.

A Fab Beach Bag

Before you start packing, you’re going to need a bag (duh). Stop by Kitsilano’s Gravitypope to pick up a vibrant Yarnz Collapsable Tote Bag which features a unique geometric/floral pattern and an adjustable handle for added comfort.

Another great option is Vancouver-based Herschel Supply Company‘s Market Tote. Inspired by the beaches of Malibu, this bag is a colourful addition to any outfit.

(L-R) Yarnz Collapsable Tote Bag – $350, Herschel Market Tote – $59.99

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Forget those sickly sweet sodas and pack a cool alternative. SIP is a craft soda based in Vancouver that combines fruits, herbs and sparkling spring water to create wholesome, natural pop. SIP comes in three different flavours: lavender lemon peel, coriander orange and rosemary lime.

If you want to ditch the soda altogether, show some city pride with We Love Van water. We Love Van water is a local label that donates 10 per cent of their profits to aid The Lookout Society in their support of Vancouver’s homeless. 

Sunglasses

You won’t have to worry about squinting in the sun with some stylish shades from Vancouver’s Vincent Park. You can pick up some of Sunday Somewhere’s Yetti (top) sunglasses and strike the perfect balance of retro chic and modern. If you want something a little more versatile, try out the unisex Super People Black Matte (bottom) for a simple, sophisticated look that’ll go with anything.

(l-r) Super People – $180, Sunday Somewhere Yetti – $217

Parasol

An umbrella is part of the standard uniform for Vancouverites, but in the summer months a parasol could prove just as handy. When protection from the sun is hard to find, sometimes you need to bring your own. The Umbrella Shop carries a line of pretty parasols that are UV resistant. No matter what your style is they’re sure to have something to fit your preferences.

(l-r) Translucent sky blue – $84.95, Iridescent fuchsia – $64.95

Beach Towel

A beach towel may be one of the more practical accessories you can pack this summer, but practical doesn’t have to mean boring. You can add some flair to your beach set up with one of these patterned towels from Bed, Bath and Beyond. Their bright, fun designs are a great way to make a statement this summer. For something a little more sustainable, you can try out an eco-friendly, hand-woven bamboo beach towel from local outdoor living experts, Gallant and Jones.

Gallant and Jones Beach Towel – $56
(L-R) Blue Whale Beach Towel – $10.99, Lobster-Printed Velour Beach Towel- $13.99, Palm Frond Beach Towel in Green – $19.99

Beach Cosmetics

To stop sun damage before it happens, try out Shiseido Extra Smooth Sun Protection for nourishing sunscreen that won’t leave you feeling oily. No matter how much protection you have, sun, surf, and sand all take their toll on skin, so repair with The Dew by Belmondo. Belmondo products are all made in Vancouver and contain organic, ethically sourced products.  If you’re showing off your toes in a pair of sandals this summer, throw on some of Vancouver based La Couleur Couture’s pretty summer colours.

(l-r) La Couleur Couture #1969, #1992, #1997- $12.99
Belmondo The Dew – $45.95 USD
Shiseido Sunscreen (from Sephora) – $40

Hat

Keep the sun out of your eyes and look effortlessly elegant with a hat by Claudia Schulz. Working in both Berlin and Vancouver, Schulz bases her designs on 1920s and 1930s European fashion. This Ella hat comes in a sandy beige with a velour brim and a leather band. Chic, sophisticated, and classy, it’s the perfect way to top off any outfit. 

Claudia Schulz Ella- $220

Beach Chairs

Okay, so you might not be able to fit one in your bag, but these Gallant and Jones chairs are light and foldable, so make sure to bring one along on your beach excursion. Comfort and style collide with these local eco-friendly deck chairs. Their interchangeable fabric slings come in a range of exciting patterns and the white oak frame is made to be durable.

Tahiti deck chair – $299