There are few experiences that inspire a sense of nostalgia quite like a trip to the seaside – and packing a picnic and some beach games ensures you can make a day of it with friends. I like to keep it simple and effective by keeping these things in mind before headed on a beach trip. The simpler the better!

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Food

Remember that when you are outside, people are more likely to opt for something salty and savoury to snack on. This is becauase when you are outside on a hot day, you sweat. Sweating makes you lose salt, and your body wants to replenish your body’s resources.

There is no need for lavish preparations when it comes to beach picnics: choose foods that will travel well, survive in heat, and that’s simple to eat with the hands and share. This can be sandwiches, hot dogs, fresh bread with butter, jam, and cheese.

Here are some quick and easy ideas to throw together:

• Bread rolls with a variety of fillings
• Savoury tarts of quiches
• Scotch eggs or falafels
• Pork pies
• Salad with separate dressing
• Cornish pasties or empanadas
• Lemon drizzle or fruit cake
• Soft fruit, such as cherries, strawberries, plums or raspberries – these specifically are in season around this time of year.

If you’re picnicking on a quiet, remote beach, you could take a disposable barbecue and serve hot dogs or burgers. If the beach is busy, however, a barbecue won’t make you popular with your neighbours, so opt for cold food that won’t melt, leak or attract too much sand if it’s windy.

Drinks

Plenty of water, squash or fruit juice is essential on a hot day. Plastic or glass bottles of drinks can be frozen beforehand to keep the contents as cold as possible as they melt. Sometimes glass is not permitted at the beach depending on the local legislation. I like using this indestructible YETI tumbler that keeps my drink ice cold and locked from sand. In addition, I have one for each member of the family. This makes a great gift idea!

The perfect beach kit

• A picnic rug
• Plates and cups
• Cutlery
• Napkins
• A cool box or bag
• Sun cream
• Spare sun hats
• Towels
• Wet wipes
• Rubbish bags
• Inflatable toys
• Bucket and spade
• Fishing net
• Bat and ball
• Volleyball or frescobolo 

If you are someone who loves games, floaties, and other sorts of entertainment to make the most out of your beach day, I highly suggest – once again – keeping it simple. You do not need to bring a net to play volleyball, badminton, or sand tennis. I like to simply bring a volleyball that doubles as a football, rugby prolate spheroid, or American pigskin. 

You can simply bring badminton rackets and a shuttlecock, or ping pong paddles or squash rackets. You are in charge of using your imagination, having fun, and simply making due with what you already have.

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