The products featured in this article are from brands that are available in the NBCUniversal Checkout Marketplace. If you purchase something through our links, we get a commission. Nothing screams summer quite like a beach day with your besties.

There's just something about the sun, sand, and salt water that helps instantly elevate your mood . If you're planning on crossing the summer activity off your to-do list, then check this out! Our team of shopping experts has put together a comprehensive list of beach day essentials, including everything from SPF to coolers, beach umbrellas, lounge chairs, and more. A beach towel is an obvious must-have (bonus points if it has a cute print), but our list includes beach day essentials you've probably never thought to bring.

Once you have them though, you'll wonder how you ever lived without them. For instance, a beach chair can be the key to comfort! It offers back support and helps keep your bum off the sand. We've found many options too, like one with a built-in sun visor, and another that reclines for optimal lounging.

For maximum comfort while catching some rays, an inflatable beach pillow (like the one we found below) can be a game-changer! And while it might seem cumbersome to carry, a large beach umbrella or even a beach cabana can really make your whole outdoor game feel luxurious. Not only can an umbrella or cabana provide sun protection (we recommend a few ultra stylish ones from Sunnylife), it can also help keep you cool. Pl.