This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at McGill chapter.

Now that reading week has unfortunately come to a close, the next big milestone we have to look forward to is summer vacation. And where there’s summer, there’s beaches.

I’m sure every single one of us wants to know the best ways to get ready for the beach this summer, so here’s a list of ways to do it:

1. Find the best beach reads.

From older classics to the latest talked-about books, there’s a never-ending list of books to take to the beach. Expanding your mind while working on your tan is most definitely a win-win situation. And although it may be a little unconventional, maybe even give non-fiction a try. Non-fiction does not necessarily mean “deep, boring, and makes your brain hurt.” Books like “Bossypants” by Tina Fey and “Me Talk Pretty One Day” by David Sedaris are sure to keep the mood light and keep your good vibes going. No matter what kind of genre appeals to you, indulging in a good book is a classic, no-fail, beach time activity.

2. Stock up on SPF.

While working on your tan is always fun, remember to stay covered in sunscreen, as the sun can pose many dangers to your unprotected skin, including speeding up the aging process and increasing your risk of skin cancer. While sunscreens so come in all sizes, shapes, and SPFs, there’s no reason to get sunscreen in SPF 100. In fact, higher SPF sunscreens may be worse for you, as they can give you a false sense of security to stay out longer without reapplying. Your regular SPF 15-30 will offer good protection. Just remember to reapply, especially after a swim!

3. Invest in a pair of cute sunglasses.

Your eyes need protection too! Sunglasses aren’t just for style – UV exposure can harm your eyes just as much as they can harm your skin. While sunscreens don’t come in a variety of colours and style , sunglasses thankfully do. Use this to your advantage and find a pair of sunglasses that you will look #fierce in. There are even guides to help find the right style of sunglasses to suit your face shape, such as this one here.

4. Get that perfect bikini.

Buy a cute bikini. Wear it. Have a perfect bikini body because every body looks perfect in a bikini. There are tons of colours and styles to choose from so you’ll be sure to find the perfect one.

If you remember to stock up on all the essentials, protect yourself from the sun, and most importantly, stay #bodypositive, you can ensure that you’ll be prepared for Beach Season 2015.

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/beauty/sun/sun-exposure-skin-cancer

http://www.ewg.org/2014sunscreen/whats-wrong-with-high-spf/

http://www.webmd.com/eye-health/news/20120517/more-people-even-kids-need…

Images obtained from:

https://innovativemedicine.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Summer-Reads.jpg

http://media.giphy.com/media/WWYSFIZo4fsLC/giphy.gif

http://24.media.tumblr.com/5f351bb305af9e760253722f3253381a/tumblr_mu99m…

http://media3.giphy.com/media/62PP2yEIAZF6g/giphy.gif

http://www.skincancer.org/Media/Default/Page/prevention/sun-protection/s…

Cover Image contributed by writer