It’s a scorching summer day on the beach. The beaming sun is reflecting in the shimmering waves and you can feel the velvety sand underneath your feet as you walk towards the ocean. Ah, that summer feeling! It makes you feel alive. A day spent on the beach can instantly brighten up your mood. But as fun as it sounds, sitting under the burning sun for hours can be exhausting and you risk sunburns.
That’s why having a shelter is crucial as it not only serves to protect you from the UV rays, but also provides a space where you can cool off and store your essentials. However, before you buy a beach sun shelter, there are several important factors to consider to help you find one that suits your needs.
How to Choose a Beach Shelter for Your Needs?
Size and capacity
When selecting a sun shelter, the first thing to do is decide how many people you plan to accommodate. Are you a couple, do you have children, or maybe you’re going to the beach with a group of friends? Besides assessing the number of people that are going to use the shelter, take into account all the beach essentials you plan to carry.
By evaluating these factors, you’ll be able to decide what size of beach sun shelter will you need. For instance, a gazebo shelter might offer larger shade for accommodating several people at once and also storing your essentials. On the other hand, a tent may be more suitable for two or three people.
However, there are different designs of beach shelters interned to accommodate different numbers of people. Therefore, you always need to first determine how many of you will be sharing the cover before proceeding with the selection.
UV Protection
The primary function of sun shelters for beach is to protect you from the strong UV rays. It goes without saying that when on the beach, you need strong UV protection of 50 or more. This is especially important for people who live in super hot climates. Although people in some countries can still get away with a lower SPF, that’s not the case with Australia.
It is known as the country with one of the highest percentages of people who have developed melanoma due to exposure to strong UV rays. Therefore, this factor is essential when choosing your shield. The higher the UV protection, the better. Search for shelters that have internal silver coating since it’s able to block more than 98% of the UV rays.
But not only that. These shelters also serve to shield your essentials, or any beach snacks and drinks, you might have with you. It keeps them cool and prevents them from going bad.
Material and Durability
The next thing to look for is the material the shelter is made from. When it comes to spending time on the beach, always prioritise sun shelters made from robust materials. They should be able to withstand the sun, wind, and water exposure.
For example, most shelters are made from strong polyester which is considered a tough fabric. Polyester can withstand most weather elements, ensuring a secure shield and enjoyable lounging. It‘s also resistant to wear and tear, so you’ll be able to use it for a long time. Having a reliable shade that will not let you down when you most need it is paramount for a safe stay on the beach.
Stability and Wind Resistance
Such features can be sandbag anchor systems, sand pockets, or a metal frame. For example, a strong metal frame can withstand wind as strong as 65km/ph. Another way to secure your beach tent is with tent pegs made from polycarbonate. They are easy to place into the sand and they provide a secure grip to the ground.
Ventilation
Search for sun shields that have a ventilation system. Ventilation in beach shelters is typically provided through mesh panels, tent windows, or vents that promote better air circulation. Enhancing comfort during extreme heat is essential. Appropriate ventilation prevents you and your loved ones from overheating and provides a cool and refreshing retreat from the sun when you feel the sun becomes too strong.
Ease of Set Up
Whether you’re a frequent visitor, or just vacating there for a few weeks, having to set up and take down the shelter every day can be a bit stressful. Shelters come with various set-up designs.
Look for those that have intuitive setup mechanisms such as pop-up or collapsible designs for a stress-free assembly process. You can also opt for pole-based systems such as gazebos, which are also easy to set up and do not require many steps.
Also, make sure to choose one that best suits your skill level. If you’re inexperienced with setting up sun shelters, search for a simple design that you can unfold quickly and easily.
Overall, are beach shelters worth it? Absolutely. They offer strong UV protection of 50 and above, help you stay cool and refreshed during scorching temperatures, protect your essentials from the strong sun, and provide a secure shield during breezy times. A beach shelter is an essential that is designed to help you have a pleasant time at the beach with your loved ones.
