Beach season is upon us. With dwindling crowds and open parking spaces (finally!), locals are ready to play in the sand and surf. And whether you’re gearing up for hours in the sun or a quick trip to dip a toe, Gulfside snacks are essential.

But what ingredients make the ideal beach cooler?

First, you need a cooler. Some folks go hard with premium coolers that offer days of chilly temperatures, and others are satisfied with a utilitarian Igloo cooler. There are no wrong answers here so long as there is a lid, a handle, and good insulation. Bonus points for fun colors.

For beachside bites, consider a well-balanced approach. Fruits and veggies will keep you full without sloshing around in your stomach when you’re jumping over waves, but don't forget to sneak some Cheetos into your tote, too. And when you’re ready for some downtime under the umbrella, reach for the obligatory Pub sub. I tried the Subsafe container you may have seen in the deli section at Publix to see if it limits the soggy factor. While it did prevent the outside of the sub from becoming mushy, I douse my sandwich in so much sub sauce that, for me, sogginess is inevitable. Ultimately, I think it’s gimmicky and will be regifting it to a friend who appreciates sandwich protection more than I.

@sarasotamagazine Happy Summer! Here's how to pack the perfect beach cooler, complete with all the snacks you want for a day in the sun, salt and sand. #summerbeachdays #packyourcooler #sarasotaflorida #happysummer #perfectbeachday ♬ original sound - sarasotamagazine

While you’re packing up your cooler, don’t forget to include fun drinks. Hydration is key in the summer sun, but a few boozy seltzers in between water breaks won’t hurt.

Finally, the pièce de résistance is sunscreen. Yes, sunscreen in the cooler. Nothing feels better than icy-cold sunscreen on a hot day. Trust me.