If you’ve ever had to plan a beach picnic, you know that it can be overwhelming – especially if you happen to forget an essential item on deck or in your car parked far away. However, it doesn’t always have to be a hassle to set up.

Luckily for you, we have compiled a list of must-have items to bring on your beach picnic. There is no better time to start prepping than the middle of summer!

It could take a while to get to your desired location on the beach, so it’s best to have a cooler (especially an insulated one) to keep your food and beverages nice and cold. You can find them in a variety of sizes and colors, and some are even on wheels. To maintain the chilly temperature, you can add an ice pack or two!

I call the three S’s of the beach sandwiches, sandcastles, and sunshine. It can be quite difficult to enjoy the first two components when the last one is overpowering you. To prevent this, be sure to pack an umbrella. It will keep the rays away and make your picnic last longer.

Now that you know to pack an insulated cooler, you can save some space in it for your favorite alcoholic beverage. There is nothing better than relaxing on the beach with a refreshing glass of champagne. Don’t forget the wine openers and champagne stoppers!

To avoid getting sand on your food and in unwanted places, it’s wise to bring some tables and chairs. Having your food elevated means that there’s a better chance your food will stay sand-free.

With firmer support, utilizing chairs will also allow for more comfort while you enjoy your meal. If you’re feeling really fancy, check out reclining beach chairs.

Even if you only plan on eating finger foods, you may need to spread or cut one of your favorite foods at some point. Extra silverware comes in handy for this, especially if one of your knives or forks happens to fall in dirty sand or gets carried away by a local beach creature. You never know!

Easy to clean and unbreakable, these plates are extremely essential when it comes to enjoying an outdoor meal. Many melamine dishes come in a variety of shapes and colors, so you’re sure to find a pattern that is well-suited for your occasion. They tend to be durable and inexpensive as well!

Because we love our beautiful planet so much, we should be mindful of where our trash goes. Instead of leaving your garbage on the gorgeous beach, take some extra trash bags to properly dispose of your waste. It’s a small price to pay to keep the planet safe!

To protect yourself against sunburn and skin cancer, it’s vital that you pack some sunscreen. They can come in the form of lotions, roll-on tubes, sprays, and more. The higher the SPF, the better!

Not only do these help wipe off sand and debris, but they can also be relaxing to lay on to get a nice tan or cover yourself with after taking a plunge in the water. There are even picnic blankets that zip up and become a tote, a nice bonus that make them easier to carry.

Last, but not least, nothing can ruin a charcuterie like some pesky little uninvited guests. With Bugs Off, created by our very own Hannah Ferrier, you can enjoy your picnic or outdoor dining experience without having to worry about battling bugs. As opposed to noisy bug zappers or insect repellents with overwhelming odors, this fan is the perfect bug deterrent. All you have to do is set it on the table, turn it on, and *air* kiss the bugs goodbye.