1. Sunscreen
If you’re like me and your skin is a nice shade of pasty white thanks to not having seen the sun in months, SPF is a necessity. Particularly if you’re going somewhere tropical do not be fooled by potential 80 degree weather, Philly is much further from the equator than wherever you are going. If you have room, you should bring one for your face, one for body, and maybe some tanning oil for the end of the week. I really like Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion for my face. It’s not oily, so you won’t break out!
We want to know! Where are you going for Spring Break?
2. Swimsuit and Cover Up
Every year before spring break my roommates and I make the typical shopping spree to find a cute new suit to wear on the beach. I recommend bringing at least two suits and two coverups because no one likes wearing a damp suit! Check out Target for cheap suits and Victoria’s Secret for their selection of flowy cover ups.
3. Water bottle
A must-have if you’re going to be laying on the beach all day. Keep yourself hydrated so that you don’t get any sort of sun poisoning and so that you’re ready to go out at night! The Contigo brand leak-proof water bottle is my favorite. I have like 10 of them and my roommates steal them all the time! You can get them online or in packs of three at Costco.
4. Beach read
Everyone needs at least one good beach read for Spring Break. Mine this year is The Hunger Games, so that I can finish it before the films come out. In fact, I need to go pick it up at the bookstore before copies run out! Here is a list of suggested beach reads if you need more ideas.
5. A disposable camera
A disposable, you’re thinking, really? However, a disposable camera is a great spring break essential. You can take it out at night without worrying that you might lose it AND you can take it onto the beach without fearing that you’ll get sand in the lens and ruin it! An even cooler alternative to the disposable camera is the Kodak underwater disposable camera.
6. A bottle opener
Always useful and always difficult to find when you need it most. Stuff one in your checked luggage because you can’t carry it on the plane! Grab one at the Penn Bookstore before you leave.
7. Advil and Pepto
For the hangovers you can’t sleep off on the beach and the food you didn’t realize would make you sick!
8. A beach towel
Sure you can buy a beach towel when you get to your hotel and realize they haven’t provided you with one, but why waste your money on something you can roll up and shove into your suitcase?!
Have fun!