A great beach day starts long before your toes hit the sand.

Whether you're heading to Horseshoe Bay, spending the afternoon at Clearwater or planning a full day on a boat, what you pack can make the difference between a good day and a great one.

According to Tori Simons, of Gibbons Company, this summer's beach bag essentials are all about comfort, convenience and adding a little extra luxury to the experience.

For Ms Simons, there are a few items that never leave her beach bag.

“Definitely sunscreen, definitely lipstick, sunglasses, SPF for my face and suntan lotion. I also love a spritz and glow shimmer for the body, a hat and a nice tall beautiful drinking glass, something fun and festive.”

One product she continues to reach for is Sol de Janeiro's popular body collection, which has become one of the standout beauty trends of the season.

“It takes you from the beach to the barbecue. The spray, the body butter and the oil all work really well together.”

That effortless transition from beach day to evening plans seems to be influencing what many shoppers are looking for this summer.

Ms Simons says Sol de Janeiro products continue to be among the most popular beauty purchases, particularly the shimmer body products that deliver both fragrance and glow.

“People love the shimmer that it gives. If you want that glow and smell good at the same time, it's perfect.”

Beach-day entertainment is also high on many shopping lists.

“Lots of music. People are buying the Beats Pill and JBL speakers so they can bring their playlists with them.”

While sunscreen and towels remain obvious essentials, she believes some of the most useful beach items are often the ones people forget. Hydration tops that list.

“I think having your cocktails, some fruit and plenty of liquids is always important,” she says.

She also recommends reusable tumblers and cups, which have become increasingly popular for beach outings, boat days and summer entertaining.

“We have these lovely everyday cups with reusable plastic straws that are good for the environment,” she said.

Another underrated item? Cooling towels.

“We have cooling towels at the Home Store that you can keep cold and use to help stay cool in the sun.”

When it comes to accessories, wide-brim hats remain a summer favourite, alongside classic straw styles that offer both shade and style.

As for Ms Simons’s own beach bag, the formula is simple.

“I have to have my suntan lotion, water for hydration, a little cloth to dust off the sand and a cover-up in case I need to go to the bar. I also like to take my lipstick and things to refresh my face.”

Because while every beach day is different, the best ones tend to have one thing in common: being prepared enough to relax.

And if a little shimmer, a great playlist and a cold drink happen to be part of the plan, even better.