Swimwear Accessories

Swimsuits are the epitome of the summer outfit. Whether you are a man wearing board shorts or a woman wearing a bikini, swimsuits are a necessity at the beach, at the pool, and in the sun. Swimsuits, however, are sometimes not enough. You may need a little more protection from the sun or surf, or maybe you want to bring some other items along in case your fun turns into an all-day affair. The following are swimwear accessories you may want to consider bringing:

• Towel: A towel is nice to have to dry off with, cover up with, or lay on when you are trying to get a tan.
• Board shorts: Some women choose to wear swim shorts over their swimsuit to give them more coverage. These may be nice for activities such as beach volleyball.
• Swim skirts: Swim skirts serve the same purpose as board shorts—a little more coverage over a swimsuit.
• Cover-up: If you don't want to be fully exposed in your swimsuit all day, you may want to wear a cover-up. Cover-ups are dresses made especially to go over swimsuits. Men can just bring a t-shirt along to serve the same purpose.
• Rash guard: Surfers or those spending time in colder water (men and women) may like wearing a rash guard. It is a spandex-based shirt that offers more protection.
• Goggles: If you want to open your eyes underwater, whether in the salty ocean or in a chlorine-filled pool, you may want goggles. Goggles are especially helpful for water sports like snorkeling and swimming laps.
• Sunglasses: If you are going to be in the sun all day, bring sunglasses to protect your eyes.
• Beach bag: Even if you're just going to the pool, it is nice to have a bag with you. In your bag you can keep your towel (while it's dry), your sunglasses, your cover-up, your sunscreen, your keys, and anything else you might need to have with you. If you're in a public place, however, make sure to keep an eye on your bag—you don't want the rest of your swim accessories to get stolen!
• Sunscreen: Although you may be working on your tan, don't forget to bring sunscreen! Harmful UV rays from the sun can damage your skin and ultimately give you skin cancer, so lather up. It's better to be safe than sorry.