Best beach bags to buy in Australia for summer
Shoppers are obsessed with this updated summer take on the classic Longchamp Le Pliage — here’s our roundup of the best beach bags.
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Heading to the beach should be a relaxing time – but it’s easy to forget something crucial if you don’t have the right bag.
Finding the perfect beach bag can be quite the task – it has to be the right size, made from a durable material and (of course) look cute enough that you won’t want to cover it up with a towel.
Here’s our pick of some great beach bags out there.
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In this article
- What materials are ideal for beach bags?
- What’s the best size for a beach bag?
- How do you get sand out of a beach bag?
BEST BEACH BAGS TO SHOP RIGHT NOW
Longchamp Le Pliage Filet Top Handle Tote Bag – Large, $230 at THE ICONIC
What You Should Know
This string bag from the iconic French brand is made for a day at the beach but will still look stylish away from the sand.
The cotton mesh shell paired with leather-look detailing creates a super chic take on the classic Longchamp Le Pliage range.
It’s also beloved on TikTok. The #longchampfilet has over 1.4 million views with videos calling the bag, “the real star of the summer” and the “cutest little beach bag”.
Prene The Bec Bag Rebecca Judd x Prene – Medium Tote, $159.20 (down from $169.95) at THE ICONIC
What You Should Know
Make like Bec Judd with the bag that does it all. It features 10 internal pockets, four external pockets, a top zip closure and a removable baseboard ensuring that all your belongings are kept safe and sound while you’re enjoying a day on the sand. Plus, despite its big size the design is still sleek enough to not look too over the top.
Shylero Beach Bag XXL, $72.68 at Amazon Australia
What You Should Know
With more than 2200 five-star reviews, this beach tote from Amazon is a bestseller in the canvas and beach tote category and has plenty of features to write home about.
Shoppers who left five-star reviews have said it “fits everything for a family” and is both “good quality and pleasing to the eye”.
The nautical-themed bag comes in a chic blue stripe and features rope handles, as well as two outside pockets big enough to carry drink bottles and an inside compartment.
Made from waterproof canvas-like fabric, the bag has a water-repellent inside lining making it perfect for storing wet swimmers or snorkelling equipment.
It’s sturdy enough to carry up to 10 kilos, with shoppers saying it can easily fit “four extra large towels” as well as your other beach gear.
It also comes with a built-in bottle opener and a clear plastic bum bag that’s both sand and waterproof – ideal for storing valuables.
Morgan and Taylor Sorrento Beach Bag, $39.95 at THE ICONIC
What You Should Know
Sticking with the nautical theme is this option from Melbourne-based company Morgan and Taylor.
We like the timeless design and that the bag is fully lined and can be zipped up so you don’t need to worry about anything falling out on your way across the sand.
Miz Casa and Co Lauren French Basket Bag, $59.25 (down from $79) at THE ICONIC
What You Should Know
It would be impossible to do a round up of the best beach totes without including woven straw bags.
This Miz Casa and Co bag is a perfect size for fitting in all your beach essentials.
Hand crafted in Morocco, this bag works just as well for the beach as it does for the shops and brunch too.
rubi Dakota Oversized Tote, $49.99 at Cotton On
What You Should Know
Tie-dye is having its moment in the sun again and we are definitely here for it. This light blue pick is the perfect blend between form and function.
It is super oversized so you can fit everything you need while the light blue tie-dye adds just enough fun too.
Plus, it doubles as a great gift.
WHAT MATERIALS ARE IDEAL FOR BEACH BAGS?
Anything that is quick drying is a massive plus – think fabrics like neoprene, canvas or towelling as well as sturdier materials like straw.
Woven-style bags can be great too as you’re less likely to take the beach home with you at the end of the day – simply give the bag a shake as you’re leaving.
WHAT’S THE BEST SIZE FOR A BEACH BAG?
Well, that’s going to depend on you! But think about what you like to normally bring to the beach.
A beach bag that’s roomy enough to fit a towel, water bottle, sunscreen, hat and some snacks is ideal.
If you’re packing for kids or more than one person it pays to get out a measuring tape and check the bag you’re eyeing up will fit everything you need to bring with you to have a good time.
HOW DO YOU GET SAND OUT OF A BEACH BAG?
The first step is making sure you keep as much sand out of your bag to begin with, so give your towel and other beach gear a good shake before you put them inside the bag.
When you get home empty the bag and give it a good shake – ideally somewhere that’s not going to make another mess you will have to clean up, like in the garden or over a bin.
If there’s wet sand stuck to the bag, turn it inside out and wipe the area down with a damp cloth (no soap needed).
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