What’s In Your Beach Bag?

When it comes to packing for the beach, I have the same motto as the Boy Scouts: Always be prepared. This means I’ve been known to pack every type of snack, beach game (wiffle ball, anyone?), and beauty product I can squeeze into my tote bag. Once, I even brought my hair straightener, even though I’m aware beaches have limited electrical outlets. But, after years of practice, I think I’ve finally mastered The Perfect Beach Bag. So what beach goodies make the cut? I’ll let you in on the contents of my blue J.Crew beach tote:

• Neutrogena Sunblock Spray SPF 55



• Supergoop Sunscreen Face Wipes



• Kiehl’s Lip Balm SPF 15



• Colorful Emi-Jay hair ties



• Wide-brimmed straw hat



• Ray-Ban shades



• Pink Havaianas



• Benefit Bad Gal Waterproof Mascara



• A hilarious book (currently: “Girl Walks Into a Bar” by Rachel Dratch)

Click here to see how real girls pack for the beach.

Did you enjoy that sneak peek? You have to admit, there’s something so fun (and a tad voyeuristic?) about snooping into someone else’s closet, purse, or beach bag. But can you really just waltz up to strangers lounging on the beach and ask, “Hey, what’s in your beach bag?” Well, I did. (All for the sake of research, of course.) My fellow Beauty Riot editors and I hit the beaches of Santa Monica, Calif. to find out what stuff girls really bring with them. The findings? Some packed light, others put me to shame with their over-preparedness, but everyone had their own personal beach survival kit.

Keep clicking to see how these real girls pack for the beach.