Depending on the beach, you might have quite a trek from the car to the beach, so don't over-pack. Obviously, you'll need towels and sunscreen, and you might want to take a packed lunch and a flask full of cold juice as well. Sometimes, there is nothing better than having a barbeque on the beach, but check that you are allowed to have them on the beach you intend to visit before bringing one. If you are using a disposable barbeque, don't bury it when you are done as not only does this litter the beach, it also poses a burning risk to anyone that walks over it.

Stay safe in the sun

While many people go to the beach purely to enjoy the sunshine, and it can lead to some glorious days, it is wise to avoid direct exposure to the sun, particularly around mid-day. Sunburn can ruin your holiday, and increases your risk of contracting skin cancer, so wear loose clothing and the strongest sunscreen you can lay your hands on if you want to minimise your risk. Remember the old slogan:

SLIP on a T-shirt
SLAP on a hat
SLOP on some sunscreen

Inflatable safety

Inflatables such as air-filled sun loungers are meant to be used on dry land, or in a swimming pool, not the sea, as the tide can easily sweep them out ? along with the person using it. If you insist on bringing them to the beach, then at least be sure to stay safe by adhering to the following safety rules:

Follow the advice of the lifeguard to the letter - Stay close to any children in your care, and supervise them at all times - Don't take them out in big waves, or when the orange windsock is flying, as they will be impossible to control, and dangerous as a result - Don't go beyond the area between the red and yellow flags

How to pick the right beach for you

The things that the majority of people are looking for in a beach include cleanliness, easy transport and parking, showering and fresh water facilities and the availability of tempting refreshments. However, when you're planning a beach trip, it's vital that you bear in mind a few less obvious, but no less important considerations, such as the other water users ? for example powerboaters and the type of marine life that comes close to shore, for example piranhas or weeverfish. But the most important thing to remember is that if you're planning to mess about in the water, make sure that the beach you are visiting has a lifeguard present. The website www.goodbeachguide.co.uk is a great resource for helping you to find out these things in advance.

For great deals on multi trip travel insurance visit Go Travel Insurance.