Essential items to take with you if you are going to the seaside

Are you heading off to relax on the sand in the sun? All you want to do is sunbathe on the beach, take a nap under the palm trees or splash around in the water to see the fish? Then here are a few essentials to pack in your luggage:

• 2 swimsuits (always bring a spare, you'll be so disappointed if you have a problem with the first one and can't go swimming because you didn't bring a spare! And here's a tip for the girls: if you don't want tan lines, bring 2 with different straps!)

• 2 sarongs (if you can, match them to your swimsuit for a stylish look!)

• 1 beach towel

• Sunglasses

• Sun cream

• Diving mask and snorkel (and flippers if you have them)

• Soothing after-sun cream

• Mosquito repellent (for the evening)

• 1 small waterproof pouch (to keep your keys or mobile phone with you if necessary)

• Beach bag (lightweight, think about the weight in your suitcase)

• 1 hat or cap

• If you have skin that cannot tolerate the sun, or for children: T-shirt or lightweight sun protection suit to wear in the water

• 1 pair of flip-flops (or beach shoes that can go in the water if you are going to places with sea urchins or coral or rivers)