Sometimes the seasons play games with us- 85 degrees one day, 45 the next. Do you put away your winter sweaters or do you take out your sandals? It’s very confusing, and I never feel like I’m wearing the right thing. At this point, though, I think it’s safe to say that summer is here. While I can skip the heat waves and extreme humidity that hit every year, I’ll take summer over winter any day, so I’m happy when it comes. I like to think I’ll get to the beach, so I’ve been thinking about beach bags.

I love beach bags and use them as regular hand bags in the summer. You need something to tote your stuff around in anyway, so why not have some fun and make a fashion statement at the same time? There are many styles of beach bags to suit everyone’s tastes and needs. Sometimes I like the look of a terry cloth beach bag to go with the whole towel/water theme, plus it can easily be washed, which is so convenient. There is probably no better way to get rid of the sand you bring home with you, not to mention the sticky spills that seem to happen every time! Canvas looks beachy, too, and can also be easily washed. Do you like a straw bag? A straw bag does somehow seem to make a statement about summer, especially when it is brightly colored with playful handles or straps. I also love wide-brimmed floppy straw beach hats, which I wear out on the street too. You can’t protect your skin too much, and hats are so much fun.

There is a great variety of bags to meet every budget. If you feel like splurging and your wallet allows for it, go for it! Celebrate summer and get something you love, and enjoy using it. If you need or want to reign it in this year, that’s not a problem at all. A great beach bag doesn’t have to break the bank in any way. It’s good to know that there are options. At this time of year there are so many gift  promotions- like makeup or shoes- that come with free beach bags. Be in the right place at the right time and you can even score a fabulous bag for free!  You also need to figure out what you will need to take on your beach outing, so you can decide what size bag will work best for you. You definitely need to be able to fit in the essentials, such as sunblock, sunglasses, some snacks, a great book or magazine, tissues, a towel, and of course water or sports drinks. If you are with your kids, you might want some sand toys and extra snacks and drinks. Beach bags can be fun and functional. However you like to spend your summer days, you can always do it in style!