How to Pack the Perfect Swim Bag

A good swim bag is a small piece of planning that makes the whole day easier. Here is what we would put in it.

The essentials

• Your swimwear, plus a spare. A dry second set is the small luxury you will be glad of after the first swim.
• Sun protection. Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Reapply after swimming.
• A large, quick-drying towel — big enough to lie on, light enough to carry.
• A reusable water bottle. Salt and sun are thirsty work.

For the walk home

• A light cover-up or loose shirt.
• Flat sandals that are easy to slip on and off.
• A small tote or wet bag for damp swimwear, so nothing else in your bag gets wet.

The finishing touches

A tube of lip balm with SPF, a hair tie, a paperback you have been meaning to finish, and a little cash for the beach bar. If you are heading straight from the water to dinner, add a change of clothes and a small bottle of perfume.

Pack it once, keep it by the door, and every summer day starts with the bag already ready.