7 Ways to Protect Your Tech at the Beach

Huge disclaimer: IP ratings have zero bearing when it comes to saltwater.

While on the topic of waterproofing, don't ignore beach etiquette: If you’re using a weatherproof Bluetooth speaker, say, to enjoy tunes with your friends, avoid blasting the volume on high so as not to spoil the environment for fellow beachcombers looking to chill.

2. If the device isn’t waterproof, look for a case or accessory that is.

If you don’t see an IP rating for a product, assume it is not waterproof. Most popular tablets, including Apple's iPads and Google’s Pixel Tablet, are not waterproof.

As far as well-known brands go, Samsung’s IP68-rated Galaxy Tab S10s are among the few tablets carrying a waterproof designation.

All hope isn’t lost if your tablet or other tech devices don’t adhere to waterproof standards. You can often purchase third-party waterproof cases that promise some degree of protection. Again, look for those IP designations and read reviews to get a sense of their effectiveness.

Consumer Reports recommends that no matter which waterproof case or pouch you buy, test it out first in the sink or tub with a paper towel to make sure you’re not putting pricey electronics at risk.

3. Waterproofing isn’t permanent or perfect.

For its part, Samsung still cautions people to be careful with waterproof phones and tablets. Rinse any residue, and dry devices with a clean, soft towel. And yes, avoid saltwater since salt can accumulate and block the microphone, earpiece or external speaker.

Be mindful of sand as well: It can scratch the screen or contaminate device internals.

What’s more, Samsung says water resistance can diminish over time due to normal wear and tear, so even strong protection isn’t necessarily permanent.

If you dare bring your phone, camera or other devices into the water or even keep them with you on the sand, seal them in an airtight plastic bag or pouch for added protection.

One other cautionary note: If you have a sealed waterproof action camera, such as a cased GoPro, that you may bring into the ocean, hang on tight, or use a secure strap or mount, lest it potentially get swept away in the waves.

4. Can you see the screen?

This may seem like an obvious question to ask yourself before schlepping tech gear to the beach, but can you read the screen in bright sunshine? If possible, test devices ahead of time on a sunny day.

If you’re a bookworm, keep in mind that nonglare displays on dedicated e-readers are far easier to make out in direct sun compared with backlit screens on phones, tablets and computers. A major reason is the E Ink display technology that does a superb job of replicating paper.

Added bonus: E-readers won’t sap the battery like those other devices, and several models, including some Amazon Kindles, Barnes & Noble Nooks and Rakuten Kobos, are waterproof.

5. Powering up by the shore.

Speaking of the battery, it may seem obvious, but don’t forget to charge your devices before heading to the beach.

It’s a good idea to bring portable chargers or power banks with you as well, but as with your other devices, protect them from the sun and sand. Consider placing them in a pouch or wrapping in a towel.

That said, you can also purchase waterproof, dustproof and, in some instances, fireproof portable solar power banks, though such chargers tend to be more expensive than more conventional alternatives.

6. Clean your hands.

Yes, you should apply sunscreen. But dry your hands before getting sunscreen all over your devices, since this can also damage the electronics.

7.  Stick to the shade.

Your phone and other devices can overheat in the burning sun and shut themselves off to avoid damage. Smartphones and other tech gear are not generally designed to withstand Fahrenheit temperatures above the mid 90s. Seek shade, if at all possible, whether under a beach umbrella or wrapped up in a towel. Shade in this case does not mean leaving your devices in a blistering hot car.

Bottom line: When it’s time to cool yourself after the beach, remember that your tech gear should also be cooled off.