Spring Break is here! And if you're like me, you know that means it is time for a good time. Last year was my first spring break trip, and if I'm being totally honest with you, I think I may have been a little over prepared. I bought six swimsuits because I thought I would need one for every day of the trip (update: I was wrong because it rained the whole time anyway). I had no beach coverup, but I bought multiple "going out" outfits because I thought we'd be going out every night to clubs or to eat (again: WRONG! Like we had the money for that?). So this year, to help everyone else make it through this hectic, crazy, fun, memorable week and maybe help keep you from overpacking your car, I've compiled a list of Spring Break Essentials for every srat girl.
2 to 3 Swimsuits:
I promise you won't wear more than that (and if you do, can you do less please?).
Let your swimsuit shine as bright as your personality with this metallic bikini from Target! It comes in pink and in blue. Actually basically any swimsuit from Target works. They're stylish and affordable.
Part of the one piece revival? Or maybe you just aren't comfortable with your Spring Break Bod? (I'm right there with you sister friend) Try out one of these stylish monokinis from Forever21. It features the oh-so-popular right now palm leaves that really say "Yes, this is my basic Spring Break trip".
1 Pool Float
No, not every girl traveling in your car needs her own float. You can all take pictures with the same one, Becky, no one is going to care that much about your Insta pic (even though I had the same fear last year). Besides, do you know how hard it is to get those things back home?
Channel your inner basic white girl with this pool float. It's wine themed. Honestly, how much better could this get? Available at Target
Feeling more of a mermaid vibe? This seashell float makes the perfect accessory for that Insta pic we were discussing earlier. You could make the "Mermaid hair, don't care" caption that everyone else is probably going to put, too. Available at Urban Outfitters
2 Beach Towels
One can be drying while you're using the other one. You don't need one for every day of the week, because honestly that is a lot of space and a lot of laundry to do when you get back from your vacay.
I'm all about saving money and cutting costs on spring break. So these cactus, watermelon, and lemon beach towels from Old Navy are perfectly cute and affordable. You can take a cute Snap of yourself tanning on them, and feel no shame because you know you saved big time.
One Pair of Flip Flops
I almost cracked myself up when I originally typed "one flip flop", and in my mind I saw a gaggle of sorority girls hopping down the beach on one foot in their one flip flop. Okay, well at least I think I'm funny.
You could splurge on these Kate Spade "sandals" (Kate, they're totally just flip flops). They're cute and come in a variety of patterns.
OR you could save $30 and spend that money on something more important like food or drinks or bar covers, and get a pair of flops from Old Navy. Less than $5 and they also come in cute patterns featuring flamingos, watermelons, and pineapples.
1 Cooler
You're going to need something to keep your turkey and avocado sandwiches and bottles of water filled with crystal light (and probably something else *wink, wink*) cold. Again, only one girl needs to bring this, and you can all store your stuff in it together. Say it with me now ladies - "Sharing is caring"!
This pink yeti is absolutely adorable (but it also comes in a mint color if you're more into that). But if you're not into that hauling heavy coolers - or that heavy price tag - check out the next cooler. Available at Dick's!
Two things every sorority girl loves - monograms and Lilly. And that is exactly what this bag cooler is offering. It has a small price tag and it's customizable. If you want to really up the antics, get your letters put on it instead of your initials. Then you can gift it to your little later. You can get this on Etsy!
1 Beach Bag (per girl)
You're definitely going to need one. So is your friend, Sally. This is something everyone needs. I say don't share this because we tried to share mine last year, and I never knew whose stuff was whose, and someone always had their hand in my bag, which I found aggravating.
This orange pom pom straw bag is on sale and is big enough to carry your book, sunnies, and sunglasses. If you aren't a big fan of bright colors and happiness, there is also a black pom pom option (which is actually the one I'll end up ordering). Available at Forever 21!
There are a few other things I suggest getting for your beach trip:
- Obviously stop for food and snacks (you're not going to go out to eat as much as you think you will).
- Get a pair of sunglasses. They don't have to be fancy, just something to shield your eyes. Maybe grab a floppy hat for the same reason.
- Grab a book. Reading on the beach is the best, need I say more?
- SUNSCREEN! Look, I know being tan is in. But you know what isn't? Red peeling skin and skin cancer. Oh, do I sound like your mom now, Becky? Good. Now, go get some SPF 30 before you come home looking like an oompa loompa.
Have fun, be safe, watch your surroundings! Make Spring Break '18 the best yet.