With summer just around the corner, professors are beginning to realize that they may not have budgeted their time so well, and now all students are left with an enormous pile of upcoming tests to study for, papers to write, and group projects to work on, while simultaneously preparing for finals. Overwhelming, I know. But keep your head up because we all know what the end of the spring semester means -- beach week! Spending your days partying on the beach with hundreds of your closest friends, getting tan (or, more likely, burnt), or maybe even taking a chance skim boarding (because why not?) is a pretty great light at the end of the tunnel, but you need to make sure you're prepared with all you could possibly need.
1. Sunscreen
I cannot stress this one enough. We get it -- you want to get a great tan to kick off the summer with a hot bod, but trust me, nothing is more embarrassing than looking like a lobster all week. The first sun of the season can be brutal, and it never hurts to spray a little on. Plus, it gives you a little glimmer so you can stand out to the cutie you've had your eyes on all year.
2. Aloe
For those of you who will not be taking my advice on the first one, you're going to want this. Sunburns are no fun, and they can limit your wardrobe options considerably. So, don't try to be Mr. Tough Guy; bring some backup to make your vacation more enjoyable and less painful.
3. Food
While eating is not the first thing that comes to mind when students think of beach week, it is an essential part of the week. Whether this means snacking on some easy mac before heading back out to the party scene, or a group of friends pitching in to make a home-cooked meal, don't forget to include your dining plans in your preparation.
4. Cup for the beach
For all the water you'll be drinking, right? Whatever you choose to fill your cup with, make sure you have one! Find something that's manageable and you won't mind carrying around all day, but also can contain a sufficient amount to last you the for your time out on the beach. Bonus points if it's stylish!
5. Bathing suits
Notice how that is plural? You don’t want to be caught wearing the same one each day, and also need backups in case of emergency. Just make sure to bring sturdy ones that won’t fall off the in the waves or any of the days’ festivities…
6. Towel
I know, I know it's an obvious one. Just make sure to do a double check through your stuff before you head to the beach. You wouldn't want to be stuck without one.
7. Hat
Whether it’s purpose is style or sun protection, everyone needs their favorite floppy hat or baseball cap. The more colorful it is, the easier it will be for your friends to find you – where’s Waldo beach week edition.
8. Lifeproof
You need to have the safety of a waterproof case so you can have your phone on the beach without having to worry about it -- for all the cute, ~beachy~ pics you'll take. Can’t afford one? A ziplock bag will still do the trick!
9. Speaker
What’s a day at the beach without some tunes? And while you’re at it, start putting all your favorites into a beach week playlist.
10. A great group to go with
Beach week just wouldn’t be the same without those who you spend it with. So get a group together, rent a house or some hotel rooms, organize shuttles down, and off you go. Take pictures, make memories, and have a blast!
