Four Sun Protection Accessories You Need to Carry in Your Summer Tote
Sun protection is something we should all be thinking about year-round, but this is particularly true about the summer months. From backyard BBQs by the pool to beach days in the sand, summer is all about soaking up the sun and enjoying the outdoors. Given that this is season should truly feel carefree, we shouldn't waste any of it worrying about sun damage.
Thankfully, a ton of sun protection accessories can help protect us against harmful rays and maximize that easy-going summer feeling we all know and love. Whether you're packing a beach bag for a long weekend by the water or a day bag for an afternoon trip to the lake or a backyard soirée, below is a list of four essential sun protection accessories you should carry in your tote this summer.
Beach Cover-Up
If you're looking for an item that won't take up too much room in your tote while also adding a layer of comfort and style, then look no further than a beach cover-up. Beach cover-ups come in a variety of styles and materials, so you'll be able to find one that complements all your favorite swimwear looks. Try a mid-thigh-length terrycloth cover-up or a cotton jersey sleeveless cover-up for options that are as stylish as they are practical. This added layer is a great way to have increased coverage and sun protection for a beach day, tropical trip, backyard pool event, lake day, or any other scenario in which you'll be rocking a swimsuit. Cover-ups are breezy, cute, packable, and practical, making them a summer must-have.
Extra Sunscreen
Obvious as it seems, sunscreen is worth mentioning because it's so essential. Even if you're wearing sun-protective swimwear with modest coverage and UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) sun protection properties, a tube of sunscreen is still important to keep on hand.
Sunscreen should be reapplied regularly to any exposed parts of your body and face, including the tops of your feet and your ears. Look for a sunscreen that works both for your body and face so you're only carrying one tube in your tote; however, if you have more sensitive skin, you may want to find a smaller tube of sunscreen that's meant just for your face. Most brands also make face sunscreen in stick form (like deodorant), which is a great item to throw in your bag because it won't be as heavy and you won't run the risk of any sunscreen spilling in your bag.
Packable Sunhat
If you don't already own a packable sunhat, you are in for a treat. A packable hat looks like any other sunhat, but it can be folded or rolled up without damaging it. Packable (sometimes called "foldable") sunhats come in a wide variety of styles and materials, like classic woven straw or trendy canvas. With so many options, you can choose the exact look you're going for.
Just be sure to look for one with a wide brim if you want this item to be effective. A wide brim will protect your face as well as protect your neck and even the sensitive skin on your chest. Because it's packable, even a wide brim option should fit great into a standard size canvas tote bag. Plus, a sunhat is a great accessory when it comes to pulling together any summer-ready or swimwear look!
Sunglasses
Sunglasses aren't just there to make you look cool (although this is a huge perk). They also offer essential sun protection for your eyes. When you’re selecting your perfect pair, opt for sunglasses that provide full UV protection (not all of them do. Once you have the lenses squared away, simply choose whatever style looks best with your go-to summer looks. It can be uncomfortable or risky to keep sunnies on your head when you're not using them, you'll want to put them back in your tote. With this in mind, make sure you also choose sunglasses that come with a sturdy case or purchase a reliable case separately so they don't get damaged in your bag.
Packing these four sun protection accessories will help you have your most carefree summer yet. Rather than worrying about potentially harmful sun rays, enjoy as much fun as possible in the sun knowing that you have an added cute cover-up later, extra sunscreen, a stylish packable sunhat, and a pair of sunglasses all easily accessible in your go-to summer tote.