How to change clothes at the beach? Tips and practical accessories

Introduction

Changing clothes at the beach can quickly become a headache, especially when you want to maintain your privacy. Between slipping towels, unpredictable winds, and prying eyes, the process can feel perilous. Fortunately, there are ingenious solutions for changing in peace and quiet. In this article, we'll explore various methods and accessories to help you change at the beach without any worries.

The best solutions for changing clothes at the beach

1. The traditional method: the rolled-up towel

The most common technique is to use a towel wrapped around oneself to change clothes. However, this method requires a certain amount of dexterity and can quickly become a balancing act. Between the towel threatening to fall and the sand getting everywhere, the experience can be frustrating.

Benefits :

• Easy to carry.

• No additional expenses.

Disadvantages:

• High risk of revealing more than intended.
• Requires good coordination.
• Not very practical in windy conditions.

2. The beach poncho: the versatile ally

The beach poncho is a modern and practical alternative to the traditional towel. Made from absorbent material, it offers complete coverage and allows for discreet clothing changes.

Benefits :

• Freedom of movement: Its loose fit allows for easy changing without fear of accidents.
• Privacy preserved: It covers the entire body, thus avoiding prying eyes.
• Versatility: In addition to making changing easier, it serves as a towel for drying off and can even provide warmth in cool winds.

Disadvantages:

• Bulkiness: Although lightweight, it takes up more space than a regular towel. However, there are microfiber alternatives that solve this problem!

Where to buy a surf poncho? Many brands offer ponchos specifically designed for beachgoers and surfers. Among the most reputable are All-In Company , Decathlon , Wave Hawaii , and KIMA Rolls , which stands out for its more stylish and fashionable ponchos .

3. The pareo: lightness and style

The sarong is a large, lightweight, and colorful piece of fabric, prized for its versatility. Tied around the waist or neck, it can serve as an impromptu fitting room.

Benefits :

• Lightweight: Easy to carry and tie.
• Versatility: Can be worn in multiple ways, offering varied uses.

Disadvantages:

• Limited practicality: Requires some skill to tie correctly and provide sufficient coverage.
• Limited drying: Less absorbent than a towel or poncho.

4. The portable beach cabin: absolute privacy

For those seeking a solution offering complete privacy, the portable beach cabin is ideal. It's a small, lightweight, foldable tent that unfolds in seconds, providing a private space for changing.

Benefits :

• Complete protection: You are entirely hidden from view.
• Versatility: Can also be used as a portable shower or temporary toilet.

Disadvantages:

• Bulky item: Requires carrying an additional accessory.
• Installation: Although quick, assembly and disassembly can be cumbersome.

Innovative companies have developed eco-friendly changing cabins for French beaches, offering a practical and environmentally responsible solution. If you're interested, we've also compiled a list of the best beaches in France .

Innovative accessories: Tub'z, the portable privacy booth

For those seeking an all-in-one solution, innovative accessories like Tub'z offer a portable cabin that unfolds in seconds. Practical for changing clothes, showering, or even as a temporary toilet, this cabin ensures complete privacy wherever you are. And if you think you might be the only modest person on the beach, read this article —it should put your mind at ease!

DIY tips for changing without accessories

Make your own beach poncho

For those who enjoy DIY projects, it's possible to make your own surf poncho by recycling old towels. This economical and eco-friendly solution allows you to customize the poncho to your tastes and needs.

Benefits :

• Customization: You choose the materials, colors, and dimensions.
• Ecology: Gives a second life to unused towels.

Disadvantages:

• Time and skills: Requires a minimum level of sewing skills and time to complete.

Detailed tutorials are available online to guide beginners in making their own surf poncho. Here is an example .

The "double jersey" technique

A simple solution is to layer two swimsuits. Simply remove the old one once the new one is in place.

What accessories are best for changing clothes discreetly? (Comparison)

Accessory	Benefits	Disadvantages
Beach poncho	Comfort, absorbency, privacy	May be bulky
Napkin with closure	Easy to use, portable	Risk of slipping
Portable booth	Total protection	Takes up space

Conclusion

Changing clothes at the beach without compromising your privacy is perfectly achievable thanks to the various solutions available. Whether you opt for the simplicity of a towel, the comfort of a poncho, the elegance of a sarong, or the privacy of a portable changing cabin, the key is to choose the method that best suits your needs and comfort. Don't hesitate to try different options to find the one that's right for you and fully enjoy your days at the beach with complete peace of mind.