Beach treats and essentials for an Aussie summer
The weather is warming up in Australia. As coastal Aussies get ready for more swims and splashes, it is a great time to consider the sustainable supplies that are convenient for trips to the beach.
For the face and body
Gentle, sustainable sunscreen
I am realising how many forms of sunscreen there are. Sunbutter has sunscreen in a tin, either original or tinted. You can get some SPF in your lip balm, such as the one from Hurraw.
Bar of soap and tin holder
You will need a soap tin. Many beaches and parks have a bathroom that does not provide handwash. I wish I had found this solution years earlier. Biome has a large tin from Green Essentials. They also have a small size. However, I find that the larger tins are better for normal bars of hand soap.
For food and drinks
Reusable plastic-free water bottle
Everyone knows to bring a reusable water bottle for activities like a beach trip. But it needs a mention. And this is a chance to celebrate some of the beautiful styles.
Kids might prefer the “Speedy Rockets” stainless steel water bottle by EcoCocoon, or their “Dinoland” bottle.
Bento box and thermos container of snacks
Bring a container of healthy, packaging-free snacks. The Green Essentials bento box has five compartments, perfect for extra variety. The Klean Kanteen TKCanister insulated food container should keep food hot for 11 hours or cool for 45 hours. The Frank Green insulated ceramic food container is a stylish, fully plastic-free option.
Reusable coffee cup
This is one of the most common eco-friendly reusables. But have you seen the great options?
On a hot day at the beach, you might want a cup that holds plenty of iced coffee or cold brew to cool you down. The stainless steel Let’s Go Nature’al insulated smoothie cup has a straw for sipping treats.
I prefer insulated coffee cups because I have successfully kept them upright in a bag without leaking. I don’t know if those brands recommend it, but I had a successful experience.
For entertainment and inspiration
Books to raise consciousness and health
Relax on the sand with an interesting book. Read about types of fungi and their importance in Fungarium!
Clothing and footwear
Cruelty-free sandals
Get comfortable in the Ahimsa Christina Vegan Sandals.
Eco-friendly swimsuits and clothes
Wear slow fashion at the beach for an ethical style. Layer the white Seaside Tones max shirt dress over a swimsuit. Relax and casually go from the beach to the bar in the black Seaside Tones Linen Tunic Dress.
For carrying things
Reusable shopping bag
There are plenty of types of reusable shopping bags. You can wrap your bread in an Onya bag. Pack a string bag or a foldable sort. Get the produce into a cotton alternative to plastic.
Basket or tote bag
Biome has a variety of baskets, jute and mesh bags. I also feel impressed by the totes, such as the Terra Thread Organic Cotton Executive Work Tote Bag (especially perfect if you want to go straight from work to the beach) and the “Love Rainbow” foldable bag from Kind Bag for making a statement.
Bring sustainable supplies to the beach. Image: Unsplash
