Depending on what side of the world you live on, summer is either really far away or it’s coming really soon, but it always pays to be prepared by the time summer rolls around. You should have a checklist of things so you don’t end up forgetting something and realizing when it’s too late. Let’s go over some essentials.

• The Right Bag That Is Cool, Stylish and Practical

This is the first thing you need obviously. You need a bag big enough to fit everything and remember that things can get messy or wet so you want one made of a material you can wipe clean or at least wash. Do not choose some expensive bag that stains easily, you will end up regretting your decision later. Pick something with a fun, bright pattern, after all it is for the pool!

• Towels

Now this is a no brainer. Roll your towels (takes up less space) and place them vertically in one corner of your bag so they can easily be taken out. It is after all, the first thing you’ll reach out to once you get to the pool. Make sure you throw in a couple more as well; you always end up needing more than one either for your hair, or to wipe something down, or even to sit on in the car.

• Summer Hat and Sunglasses

Now this is probably the best part of summer, getting to accessories with a new summer hat and sunglasses. Not only are they stylish but sunglasses provide your eyes with protection from the sun and a hat will always look good and provide your face with a little shade. After all, we all know about premature aging and skin cancer (1/3 of skin cancer is on the face). So the No.1 thing is to keep your face sun-safe, and the best summer hat would be a wide-brim one. Trust me, it is sophisticated and it will get so much mileage in your wardrobe, from sun-protection and keeping your ‘bad hair day’ secret to making your outfit even more stylish.

• Sunscreen

Sunscreen is super important. It should be the first thing on your skin even before makeup, and always try to purchase products with some kind of SPF factor in them to help protect your skin in other ways. Sun not only makes your skin age faster, it damages skin before you can even see it all the way underneath the first layers, not to mention the increasing risk of skin cancer. Protect yourself and your family and make sure that you layer on the sunscreen, regular use is proven to prevent melanoma.

• Small Bag

Don’t you just get super frustrated when you open a big bag and can’t find that one thing you really need like your keys, wallet, phone, etc. Well this is where having a small little purse inside comes in handy, plus it provides extra protection from any liquids or sprays you might have floating around inside your bag.

• Plastic Bag

Now you’re probably wondering why on earth you should have a plastic bag with you, now keep in mind I mean 1 plastic bag that you can re-use so we can still be doing our part for the environment. You need a plastic bag for all your wet clothes of course! This is one of the most common things people forget to take with them and end up with wet clothes everywhere.

• Diapers and Wet Wipes

Now this obviously applies to all you mums out there, I realize not all of you are, but this is a great tip – if you have previously purchased swim diapers keep them stored in this bag and you will never forget them. Throw in a few regular ones too for before and after.

• Water

Make sure you invest in a good quality water bottle and keep it in this bag. Your skin and body get super dehydrated while out in the sun and it can get quite dangerous if you don’t hydrate properly.

• Hair Care

Now no one wants to be one of those people who go to the beach and fret about what their hair or makeup will look like but there are a few products you can bring along with you to make it easier to keep that mess under control. Try throwing in a wet brush, hair ties, and some beach spray.

• A Good Book

Now if you’ve managed to get some alone time why not invest in a good read while you’re soaking up some rays. It is definitely one of the best ways to get your mind off everyday worries and just enjoy the fresh air and relax.