Seasonal Living: Summer Beach or Bum Around Bag – My Favorite Summer Essentials
Living in Central Texas means I don’t make it to the beach very often, but I do spend plenty of time outdoors. Whether I’m relaxing by the pool, exploring the Texas Hill Country, or taking a walk along one of my favorite trails, Purgatory Creek in San Marcos, I always make sure I have a few essentials with me.
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned that enjoying the outdoors isn’t just about having fun. It’s about taking care of yourself, protecting your skin, staying hydrated, and being prepared for whatever the day brings.
Below are a few of my favorite summer essentials. These are products I personally use and enjoy, and I hope they give you a few ideas for your own summer adventures.
☀️Sunscreen
Coppertone Glow SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray (5 oz)
One product I never leave home without is sunscreen. Protecting your skin isn’t just about preventing sunburn—it’s one of the best investments you can make in your skin’s long-term health. I like Coppertone Glow because it goes on easily, doesn’t feel heavy, and leaves my skin with a subtle glow instead of a sticky finish.
💋 Lip Balm
Hawaiian Tropic Lip Balm SPF 30 – Coconutt
Our lips need sun protection too, and this is one item that’s easy to forget. I love the coconut scent, and it keeps my lips moisturized while protecting them from the Texas sun.
😎 Sunglasses
Quay High Key Twist 60mm Gradient Aviator Sunglassesr Sunglasses (Gold/Blue Rose)
A good pair of sunglasses is both stylish and practical. Protecting your eyes from UV rays is just as important as protecting your skin, and these have become one of my favorite pairs.
💧 Water Bottle
Lululemon Back to Life Sport Bottle – 32 oz (Pink Pearl)
Hydration is non-negotiable during a Texas summer. I love this bottle because it holds plenty of water, keeps it cold, and comes in a beautiful color that always makes me smile.
🏖️ Beach Towel
Slowtide Tahiti Sunburst Beach Towel
Whether you’re at the pool or the beach, a quality towel makes all the difference. I love the vibrant design, and it’s large enough to stretch out and relax.
📖 A Good Book
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
One of my favorite ways to unwind is spending time outside with a great book. Right now, I’m reading The Nightingale, and I’m already captivated by the story.
👗 Cover-Up
Becca Radiance Metallic Stripe Cover-Up
A lightweight cover-up is perfect for transitioning from the pool to lunch or running errands without feeling underdressed. This one is comfortable, flattering, and easy to throw on.
🍎 Healthy Snacks
For me, simple is best.
My go-to snack is an apple with string cheese, which are simple, refreshing, and easy to pack, making them my favorite combination for a hot Texas afternoon.
👛 Small Wallet
I don’t like carrying a large purse when I’m out enjoying the day. This wristlet is perfect for holding my driver’s license, one credit card, a little cash, and my keys.
🎧 Ear Pods
Whether I’m walking a Hill Country trail or relaxing by the pool, I almost always have my Ear Pods with me. Sometimes I’m listening to music, other times it’s a podcast or an audiobook. They turn a walk into quiet time for learning, reflection, or simply unwinding.
🧢 A Baseball Cap or Wide-Brim Hat
Living in Texas, protecting yourself from the sun is essential. Depending on where I’m headed, I’ll pack either a baseball cap for hiking or a wide-brim hat if I’m planning to spend the day by the pool. Besides protecting my face and scalp from the sun, they make being outdoors much more comfortable.
🧴 Pink Peach Blossom Sanitizer – Bath & Body Works
When you are out enjoying the sunshine, it is a good idea to have sanitizer on hand to minimize picking up germs and using to clean your hands if needed.
It’s a small thing, but I’ve learned it’s always worth keeping a few Band-Aids in my bag. Whether it’s a shoe rubbing the wrong way, a small scrape on a trail, or helping someone else who’s gotten a blister, they’re one of those items you’re always glad you packed.
📝 My Journal
One item that might surprise people is my journal.
I’ve discovered that ideas have a funny way of showing up when I’m outside. Sometimes it’s a blog idea, a photography location, a quote, or simply a thought I don’t want to forget. Spending time in nature helps me slow down, and my journal helps me capture those moments before they disappear.
♻️ A Small Plastic Bag
This is probably the least glamorous item in my bag, but one of the most practical.
I always carry a small plastic bag for wrappers, tissues, or any other trash until I can find a proper trash can. It’s a simple habit that helps keep our parks, trails, and outdoor spaces beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Looking over this list, I realized something. My summer bag isn’t about carrying the newest or most expensive products. It’s about being intentional so we can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying everything summer has to offer.
Each item serves a purpose. They help me stay healthy, comfortable, prepared, and present so I can spend less time worrying about what I forgot and more time enjoying the moment.
To me, wellness has never been about perfection or luxury. Simply making thoughtful choices that help us live healthier, happier, and more meaningful lives.
I’d love to hear from you. What’s one item you never leave home without during the summer?
Wild Seasonal Living | Wellness, Beauty & Seasonal Living for Women 50+ 
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