This summer is going to be a weird one for everyone.  Some are saying the pandemic is over and acting like it.  Others are being more cautious.  But with travel on the brain for many of us, let’s talk about what you need to get out to the beach, the lake, or the pool this summer.

The Perfect Beach Bag. We’ve discussed this Dagne Dover Canvas Tote bag before (available at Nordstrom and on the DD website), but it is worth mentioning again.  And again.  And again.  This bag is light, organized, washable, and perfect for the gym, the pool, or the beach.  It’s the ‘cool Mom’ bag, as one a friend with 4 kids put it.  You so rarely find this kind of utility in the market (which chooses fashion over everything) that when you find it, embrace it.

The bag comes in black, cream, and a bright orange.  It also comes in small and large sizes.  So you can get the bag you need for summer, for under-$175.

A Pair of Relaxed Sandals.  Teva’s are back.  14-year-old Abra is very surprised, but happy to have the option of wearing comfortable, supportive footwear this summer.  The classic nylon sandal in Dune is selling out everywhere, so if that’s what you want, you may need to hunt a little (try Backcountry for 10s/11s).  I also recommend the leather option in the same style and shade.

Tevas are the Birkenstocks of summer 2022, but if you still want Birks, they have a new style, which I will be wearing.  The new Big Buckle Arizona is selling quick, so snap up your pair now.  I like the gold buckle on black patent and the gold buckle on tan Nubuck leather.

A Cool Pair of Sunglasses.  You know me, always hocking the Ray-Bans, but they make it so easy.  You can get a stylish pair of sunnies for $200 or less, and they wear like iron.  I love this black and gold pair I bought last summer, and this tortoise and gold pair with a cool detail on the bridge that I bought this summer.  Need something cheaper?  A lot of influencers are pushing Sojos this summer, but I am still on Team ZeroUV.

A Reading Tablet. I’m tired of trying to read Apple devices in the sunshine.  I give up.  I’m buying myself a Paperwhite.  (Sure, I haven’t read a book since 2021, but let’s pretend that I’ll find time this summer.)  If you prefer a non-Amazon made product, the Google search I ran recommends this Kobo Libra.

A Short Sarong. When I go to the pool, sometimes I want a little more coverage without putting on the dress or caftan I use as a cover-up.  Enter the short, cotton sarong from J.Crew.  This item offers a little bit more coverage in a very sexy, beachy way.  I also like this option from Aqua, and I love that J.Crew Factory made sarongs to match some of its bikinis.  Need a plus-size option?  I like this floral option and this one in black or white.

A Brush for Applying Sunscreen.  This is a game changer.  Trust me.  Especially if you’re applying sunscreen to children, one of these large, flat top foundation brushes makes sure it gets everywhere, evenly, while keeping your hands grease free.  You can also grab one with a long handle to reach places your arms might not.  Never smear grease on your beach towel again.

As for which facial sunscreen I like, I am all about the Suntegrity brand.  This sunscreen is my go-to all summer.

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