Whether you’re heading abroad or planning a staycation this year, what you pack in your beach bag is highly important. The last thing you want to do is forget key items – or even overpack.

The first thing you must do is find the perfect beach bag. Ideally, you should find a roomy bag that you can fit everything-but-the-kitchen-sink inside – safely and securely – whilst simultaneously looking stylish. An on-trend option is a straw bag, which can come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, and at varying prices that can suit everyone’s budget; from high-street to high end. 

If you’re packing up for a day at the beach, don't forget to take these must-haves items with you:

Even though I'm quite the metal girl, I love my swimwear colorful! Except the coverup. That must be black with skulls.

● A cover-up/kaftan 

When heading to the beach, it is a good idea to wear a comfortable and breathable outfit, such as a flowy kaftan. These can come in several different colours and styles, and are a versatile wardrobe staple, as they can be worn as a cover-up at the beach, or as a chic look when heading to the bar for those all-important cocktails at sunset. 

● Swimming attire

Wherever you are headed, it’s always worth having a spare bikini in your beach bag for those spontaneous sea excursions whilst sight-seeing. Why don’t you make the most of the current summer sales and pick out a bargain swimsuit or bikini? You can never have too many. 

● A large beach towel

It’s not just your outfit that can be a beach staple – so can your towel. There are so many variations out there this year, from bright slogan-embellished towels, to statement stripes, and even options in watermelon and avocado shape. 

A straw hat to protect the hair, and books to feed the mind. Some of my favorite books after Harry Potter series are these two. I love the story of Mark Webber!

● Summer book

Having a book to read whilst laying on a sun lounger or towel can help pass the time whilst trying to catch a tan. If you’re struggling for inspiration, here is Cosmopolitan’s 'must read' list for 2018. 

● Haircare 

When heading to the beach, it is vital that you take care of your hair. The sea salt, sand and sun can spell disaster for your hair if you don’t look after it properly. Remember to brush through your hair carefully every so often to ensure there are no knots, and run a sun-protector through your hair, such as the ever-popular Philip Kingsley ‘Swimcap’.

In addition, it is sensible to take a hat with you to keep the sun directly off your head, to help prevent burning your scalp and getting heat stroke – the last thing anyone wants. 

I love the shimmer Hawaiian Tropic products give to my skin, so they're an SPF go-to still. Also the VS perfume is one of my all time favorites although I do need to find an alternative from cruelty-free company. Also aviators are a summer must.

● Skincare

There’s one thing you can’t go to the beach without, and that’s sun cream. Skin is precious, and we must take care of it. That means lathering on the sun cream, which blocks UVA and UVB rays, at least 30 minutes before sun exposure, according to the NHS. Reapplication of sunscreen is just as important is putting it on in the first place, so reapply the same amount every two hours. 

In addition, too much sun exposure can strip your skin of moisture and its essential oils; it’s definitely worth taking a powerful moisturiser that keeps your skin hydrated after a long day at the beach or pool. 

● Sunglasses

From the 50s-style cat eye glasses in a chic tortoiseshell frame, to the Matrix-esque thin-framed glasses as sported by the likes of Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner this year – whatever your style, there is something for you. The choices are endless. Pick shades with a high UV and high durability, to avoid them breaking under the heat of the summer sun. 

● A fragrance

Let’s face it – a long day at the beach under the beaming sun can make even the most ladylike of women perspire. Therefore, it is worth packing some deodorant and your signature perfume, such as the ever-popular classic Coco Mademoiselle or the more modern Marc Jacobs Decadence 50ml.

What are your beach bag essentials? Let me know in the comments below!