Do you love reading on the beach on a sunny summer day? Even if going to the beach isn’t an option right now, maybe you’re dreaming about a warm sunny day when you can go. As you think and plan for a trip to the beach in the future, keep this list of 5 must-haves in mind from T.I. Lowe author of Beach Haven , the first book in the Carolina Coast series.
Reading is my number-one hobby, but give me a book and a lounge chair on the beach and I’m in heaven! The backdrop music of the ocean and keeping things simple make beach reading such a luxury. Our Creator handles the tranquil setting, but I’d like to share some of my tips on achieving a simple approach to an afternoon of beach reading.
1.) Don’t overpack.
A day at the beach with a great book can lose its fun fast when you lug half the house out with you. If you can’t carry it in one hand, then you don’t need it. You’ll need a bag big enough to hold a towel, books, sunblock, a bottle of water, snacks, and other essentials such as car keys and cell phone. A folding lounge chair with strap for easy carrying is a must. I’ve recently seen a new design for a chair that folds up and has wheels so you can pull it. I’m adding that to my summer shopping list! And if you want to make things even more simple, nix the chair and stretch out on your towel instead.
2.) Sunshades and sun hats.
Take it from a beach reading professional, you need both. The sun is a lovely element of a beach day, but it can get in the way of your reading. Sunshades won’t block the sun from the top, and gazing down to read will cause you to have to squint to see the words. Squinting can lead to a headache, and that’s a no-go for beach reading, so don’t forget the hat.
3.) Sand-free snacking.
Nothing’s worse than taking a bite of a snack and having it crunch when it isn’t supposed to. Anything that you don’t have to keep cold is a good choice for snacks, but select ones in wrappers so you don’t have to handle the food. I use the wrapper to protect the food from sand and sunblock, both of which will be on your hands no matter how much you try to avoid it. Canned beverages are never a good idea for the beach, because there’s no way to close a can once it’s open. It will only take one nice breeze to sprinkle sand into your open can. Stick to bottles with lids. I recommend freezing a bottle of water or Gatorade prior to your beach day. That way it will stay cold. Trust me, it will thaw much quicker than you think but slow enough to keep your thirst quenched.
4.) More than one book.
Lightweight paperbacks are best for the beach, unless you have a glare shield on your reading device. I like at least two options for my beach reading. That way, if one doesn’t catch my attention, then hopefully the other choice will. For a fun challenge, choose a new-to-you author or genre for one of your books. You may just discover a new favorite this way.
5.) Sunblock reapplication.
Once you’re swept away in a story, hours can easily sneak by, especially on a warm, tranquil beach, so set a timer on your phone to remind you to reapply sunblock. Experts recommend reapplying every thirty minutes. Seriously, don’t forget! There’s nothing worse than heading home after a day at the beach resembling a lobster. Worse than the bright-red appearance will be the pain. Take it from someone with more experience than I care to admit: avoid sunburn at all costs.
Do you like afternoons of beach reading or do you have another unique place you like to go to read? What tips do you have for making a reading day enjoyable and stress-free?
