I was once lying on the beach, realizing that I didn’t have the most important thing — water. I had everything: a towel, a book, cream. But no water. Then I realized that the perfect beach day doesn’t start by the water, but at home — with getting ready.

Now I always have a list. And if you’ve ever sat on hot sand with dry lips, you’ll understand me.

A large, lightweight towel. Not a terry one. Turkish or muslin — they’re lightweight, dry quickly, and take up little space.

Water. Not juice, not cola. Regular water. I pour it into a glass bottle, put it in my bag chilled — and it becomes a salvation.

SPF cream. A must. Even if “just for an hour.” Especially on the nose, shoulders and chest.

Glasses and a wide-brimmed hat. This is style + protection + photogenic.

A book. But only a light one. A novel where you can read between the lines. No business literature, let your brain breathe.

A fragrant body spray. It refreshes, cools and gives a feeling of freshness even after several hours.

An elastic band and a small mirror. Well, you get the idea. Sometimes the wind does something to your hair that doesn’t look like a vacation anymore.

Snacks. Almonds, apple chips, cheese. Beach hunger is insidious.

Headphones. Music on the beach is a separate magic.

A small trash bag. Simply because it’s beautiful when it’s beautiful after you leave.

When I pack my beach bag, I feel like I’m already starting to relax. The preparation itself gives off a sense of sun and the rustle of waves.