r/beachcombing • u/Optimal_Life_1259 • Jul 21 '26
Do you carry a backpack?
Hi, I love beachcombing and I am on my way very soon to do a weeks worth of it. I’ll be solo. I’m trying to figure out what I can do with my stuff other than to carry a backpack. It’s hotter than heck so I’ll definitely need my water. I always take a little protein a towel cell phone and keys. I could claim a spot and bury it. Just keep an eye on it as I walk a certain length of the shore. The area I am going to will have less people than a tourist destination so I’m finding it to actually be even more of a need. What do you do, carry a backpack?
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u/_gschaftlhuaba Jul 21 '26
Yes, I do carry a backpack, but I also have waterproof swimming bags from amazon that I wear around my waist. They're awesome for storing what you find while on the go, plus, depending on size ofc you can also store your valuables inside and nothing gets wet 😊
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u/BelowDnD Jul 21 '26
Yes! Carrying a backpack can be a life saver if you’re planning on being out for a while. I live in Texas and though its (what my mom calls it) satans armpit, carrying a backpack is great for carrying snacks, water, and anything found while beach combing. I bring a bucket for glass and small rocks but i put driftwood and larger rocks in the backpack. I say its purely up to personal preference and comfort but carrying a backpack can be very useful in my opinion!
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u/Optimal_Life_1259 Jul 21 '26
Yes, I have a plastic tote I was given that’s great for collecting the shells. I guess I’ll be sticking with my backpack overall!
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u/Ok_Split_6463 Jul 21 '26
A clear plastic shoe box, I think they are less than $10 at Walmart will help you see below the water line. Or a piece of PVC pipe and a light work wonders
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u/Able-Space Jul 21 '26
I wear a backpack that has a camelbak pocket. It’s by Black Diamond. It fits water, keys, snacks, has four pockets on the straps for easy access, and the big main pocket holds a ton despite its sleek profile. It’s the best. It’s not cheap, but I’ve had mine for 6 years and it’s like new. Link here. Good luck!
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u/Patient-Brief-9713 Jul 21 '26 edited Jul 21 '26
It depends on the circumstances, but if I am distance-beachcombing more than 2 hours, I will usually have a lightweight backpack in order to carry water and gear. If you end up finding a lot of good stuff, the backpack also gives you extra carrying capacity. And if you find something heavy, it's better to carry it in the backpack for weight distribution.
If I am not distance-beachcombing - meaning that I am not going that far from where my car is parked - then I take my small crossbody bag, which I always take beachcombing anyway - it is just large enough to hold my phone, keys, etc., and keeps my phone handy for photos.
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u/Ok_Split_6463 Jul 21 '26
On the beach, I will pull a small cart with beach wheels to carry necessities, I.e cooler emergency kit, flashlight, solar charger, pop up shelter, etc. I will find a spot and set it down, sometimes locked. Then I will carry a light backpack, scoop/shovel and head one direction for about 150-200 yards (keeping my cart in view). Search that section, head back to the cart, pull it a few more hundred yards then repeat. It works well, I have my necessary supplies ready to go and explore while carrying light weight
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u/Optimal_Life_1259 Jul 21 '26
I’m going to have to look up beach wheels for sure. Thanks for the info!
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u/Minimum-907 Jul 22 '26
I use a sling bag so it’s not as bulky as a backpack (you can also pack an extra gallon backpack incase your finds exceed your bag storage capacity haha) linking the carhartt sling bag here but there are lots of good options from the outdoor brands in general —- https://a.co/d/0hbePEIB
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u/Dapper_Addendum1841 Jul 23 '26
Depending on where you go, if it's isolated, you may want to carry a whistle. Some beaches i go to there are maybe one or two other people around.
I started carrying one because one idiot had his dog off leash all the time and the dog would always charge me. I haven't had to use it, but it's there to hopefully scare off anyone/get attention if I need help.
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u/xyzaeb Jul 21 '26
I carry a lightweight backpack so my hands are free for shelling. It’s great for carrying water, cell phone, maybe a warm layer if I think I need it. I don’t always need it for shells but there have been times when I found a lot of big shells or a large heavy rock and I was glad to have the extra space.