The Very Best Beach Essentials We've Tested and Evaluated - Consumer Reports
A cooler packed to the brim with refreshments. Shareable snacks on deck. A tote crammed with towels. Come summer, it’s a familiar sight—and all signs point to a trip to the beach.
This year, prioritize comfort and efficiency. Sure, covering yourself head to toe with a towel is one way to ward off the sun’s rays, but a beach umbrella (and good sunscreen) will work a lot better. Vacationing with a group? Spring for that beach canopy you’ve been eyeing, and you may never look back.
Better yet, stock up on the staples now, and you’ll avoid the near-impossible task of finding beach chairs for the family midseason. Read on for the very best beach essentials, according to our tests and evaluations.
Shop
Still undecided?
CR's expert guidance and unbiased reviews can help you purchase with confidence.
Become a Member Sign In
Anna Kocharian is a shopping editor at Consumer Reports who focuses on home, organization, and the consumer marketplace. She previously covered interior design, product reviews, and market trends as the digital editor of Domino. Anna has over a decade of experience in lifestyle journalism and has written extensively on the subject matter for publications including Apartment Therapy, Food52, and more. She currently resides in New York City.
