15 smart tips to keep your stuff safe during a solo beach day!

Enjoying sun, sea and sand is wonderful, but what do you do with your belongings when you're alone and want to go for a swim or take a relaxing walk along the beach? With these 15 practical tips, you can enjoy your time without worrying about theft.

If you’re travelling solo and love taking a dip in the sea or pool, you might wonder: what should I do with my things? Here are 15 useful tips to keep your belongings safe while you enjoy the water worry-free.

1. Bring as little as possible. Leave valuables like your passport, bank cards, and large amounts of cash in your hotel or Airbnb. Only take what you truly need.

2. Use a waterproof pouch or waist bag under your swimwear. There are special waterproof pouches you can wear around your neck, waist or under your swimsuit. This way, you can bring your phone, money and key into the water without worry.

3. Place your items close to other beach visitors. Choose a spot next to people who look trustworthy, such as a family with kids or an older couple. Kindly ask if they can keep an eye on your things.

4. Bury your stuff in the sand. Put your valuables in a plastic bag and bury them under your towel or bag. Do this unnoticed so no one sees where you’re hiding them.

5. Use a fake container as a secret hiding spot. Hide your keys or money inside an empty sunscreen bottle or a clean packet of wet wipes. Thieves won’t usually check everyday items.

6. Bring an anti-theft beach safe. There are small safes available that you can attach to your beach chair or umbrella with a lock. It’s extra protection against quick theft.

7. Use a dry bag that floats. Some waterproof bags float on water, so you can take them with you while swimming.

8. Swim near beach bars or clubs with lockers. Some beaches have bars where you can rent a locker - ideal if you want to swim longer without worry.

9. Take turns swimming if you meet new people. Met a fun group at the beach? Take turns going for a swim and watching each other’s belongings.

10. Use a small, discreet bag. A simple, worn-out bag draws less attention than a flashy backpack or beach bag. The less eye-catching, the better.

11. Leave valuables with the lifeguard. Some beaches have a lifeguard station where you can safely leave your things. Ask if that’s an option.

12. Place your items in the middle of a cluster of beach chairs. Instead of sitting at the edge of the beach, pick a spot in the middle of a busy area. This makes it harder for thieves to strike unnoticed.

13. Bring an inflatable pillow with a hidden compartment. Some inflatable beach pillows have a hidden zip pocket where you can discreetly store your items.

14. Use a sports armband for small valuables. A sports armband with a pocket is handy for carrying a key or some cash safely while you swim.

15. Stay active. If you're alone on the beach, check on your belongings from time to time or take a quick walk. An alert, active presence can deter potential thieves.

With these smart tips, you can enjoy a worry-free beach day knowing your stuff is safe. So dive in, soak up the sun, and leave your worries behind.

The beach is waiting for you!

Want even more practical tips for staying safe while travelling solo?
Discover my e-book ‘Solo Travel – Safety Guide’.
Your essential travel companion, packed with concrete tips and insights to help you explore the world with more confidence and fewer worries.

👉 Download the e-book here and set off fully prepared.

Photo: West Beach – Esperance – Western Australia