With summer here, and record heat in some areas, the beach is becoming more appealing. If you’re taking your kids to the beach for the weekend you can definitely anticipate fun and sun – if you remember to take some essentials with you. Here is what you can’t be without when taking a family vacation to the beach.
Sunscreen
Well, you had to know this would be first. Most of us get tired of the preaching about sun exposure. We also get conflicting information concerning sun exposure, considering that the only natural way to get vitamin D is through sunshine.
However, you can still protect yourself from excessive sun with SPF 30, and still get some of the vitamin D benefits from sunshine. The main thing to remember is that it takes about 10 or 15 minutes for sunscreen to start working. If you wait until you get to the beach to apply the sunscreen, you’ll get some vitamin D while you’re waiting for it to start working. Beware, though – little children should be protected well beforehand so that their tender skin won’t blister. Just a few minutes of direct sun on a little one’s skin can cause severe damage.
Beverages
And, no – not beer. You need to stay hydrated when you’re at the beach. This means that you drink water, Gatorade, PowerAde, or some other sports drink the whole time. Don’t wait until you get thirsty, because by then, you’re already dehydrated! And, if you get a headache, it’s a sure sign of dehydration. Make sure your family stays hydrated, too, or you’ll end up spending your time in an ER instead of on the beach.
Shade
Ok, you’re going to the beach for fun and sun – why do you need shade? Because too much of a good thing is just that – too much. A straw hat can keep the sun from beating down directly on your head, lowering the temperature on your brain-pan by up to 15 degrees! A parasol is also a great idea. A sunny beach with a light breeze is great, but you need to help your body to regulate and not overheat. If you have a large beach umbrella, you’ll find that the shade can be up to 20 degrees cooler if there is a light breeze.
A Blanket
Yes, you need a blanket at the beach. The water is often cold and can chill you, and besides that, you’ll need a place to stretch out and pretend to suntan (since you’re actually coated in sunscreen).
Yoga Mat
The Beach is the perfect place to get out your yoga mat, there’s nothing quite like a picturesque view when stretching or meditating. If your going to the beach alone, why not take your salads and homemade specialities. This trip to the beach could be your own little detox retreat holiday.
With the right preparation, you can have great fun at the beach. Don’t forget the sunscreen and water, and take advantage of shade, and you can spend all day.
