Summer has arrived, which means it’s time to pack up the car and head down to the beach. Growing up near Malibu, California I’ve had years of practice perfecting the ideal beach trip down to which umbrella is the best.
The one thing that will make or break your trip is the food. Packing the perfect amount of protein and trying to avoid sandy sandwiches proves to be quite a challenge, but I’m here to make it easy for you. Follow this foolproof guide to pack the ultimate beach bag.
1. Flavored Water
Photo by Dorothy Ballowe
No one likes the taste that lingers in your mouth after splashing around in the ocean. Flavored water is a great way to stay hydrated and not feel like you’re drinking salt. Lemons, oranges, apples—the options are endless. Pro tip: freeze the fruit beforehand to keep your drink cool.
2. An Apple
Photo by Dorothy Ballowe
Eating an apple will fill you up without leaving you tired. They are also an extremely hydrating fruit for those all-day beach trips. And hey, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” right?
3. A Protein Bar or Trail Mix
Photo by Dorothy Ballowe
Protein, protein, protein. Stay energized by snacking on a trail mix filled with nuts, raisins, and chocolate (as if you needed an excuse to eat chocolate) or grab your favorite protein bar. No one needs to be hangry at the beach.
4. Frozen Grapes
Photo by Dorothy Ballowe
Freezing grapes keeps them cold throughout the day and acts as an edible ice pack for your other food. Pro tip: try freezing other fruit like blueberries or orange slices.
Time to pack a bag filed with delicious food and hit the road. The beach is calling you.