Crashing waves, roaring campfires, hot dogs sizzling on the grill — who doesn’t love the sweet sounds of summer? This year, before diving into the pool or packing up the car for the beach, make sure you’ve stocked up on all the summer essentials. And we’re not talking graham crackers and marshmallows.

As you head outdoors, keep in mind that the sun can cause serious damage. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer in the US, and one in five Americans will develop some type of skin cancer by age 70. Sun exposure — and exposure to UV rays — is a major risk factor for skin cancer. In fact, having five or more sunburns actually doubles your risk for melanoma.

Fortunately, skin cancer is largely preventable. When you protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays, you’re lowering your risk for potentially serious health issues (and wrinkles!) down the line. Do yourself a favor and gather all of the sun protective items you’ll need so you’ll be ready for any outdoor activity, anytime.

To help you prepare, here are four essential items for your sun protection summer survival kit.

1. Sunscreen. But not just any sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends using broad-spectrum sun protection (which protects against UVA and UVB rays) that’s water resistant and SPF 30 or higher. Apply it 15 minutes before you go outside (even when it’s cloudy) and slather it on any skin that’s not covered by clothing — don’t forget to put it on your feet, neck, ears, the top of your head and use a lip balm or lipstick with sunscreen on your lips. Aim to use at least an ounce, which is the amount that would fill a shot glass. If you’re spending a lot of time outside, reapply it every two hours, or after your swim or sweat (read the label for more specific details). 

2. Sun protective clothing. While sunscreen is important, clothing can offer an even stronger barrier that protects your skin from UV rays. The AAD recommends wearing lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, and says dark colors are more protective than light. For extra protection, purchase clothes that have an ultraviolet protection factor number, which you can find on the label of the clothes.

3. Sunglasses. Did you know that sun exposure could raise your risk for eye cancer? Protecting your eyes from UV rays is as important as protecting your skin. The Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC) recommends that individuals wear sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays, and the bigger the glasses the better: wrap-around sunglasses can help block the sun’s damaging rays from shining in through the side.

4. A broad brimmed hat. The AAD recommends wearing a hat with a wide brim to shade your face, ears and neck from the sun. Avoid straw hats and baseball hats because they don’t offer as much protection.

Gathering what you need for your summer sun survival kit is the first step. Now, it’s up to you to put them to use and “Practice Safe Sun,” as the AAD likes to say—  and have fun doing it!