For us, the beach is where the magic happens. But for as much as we love the ocean, the aftermath of a solid day on the water can be a real pain. Sand, salt, and wet gear seem to infiltrate every crevice of your car, leaving behind a mess that can quickly become overwhelming. The trick is to tackle the aftermath with the same enthusiasm as you do the session itself. With a few simple tools and habits, you can keep your ride clean and organized, so the fun doesn’t end when you pack up.

Speaking from experience, many road trips and LOTS of sand in the old wagon, here are three essentials that have kept our cars organized and sand-free, allowing us to focus on the next adventure instead of the aftermath.

Wetsuit Bag - For Wet Wetsuits, Booties and Accessories

After a day on the water, it’s common for your wetsuit, booties, harnesses, and bars to be wet and sandy.

Prolimit offers smart storage solutions that make changing and transporting your gear easier. The Wrapper Wetsuit Bag is made from waterproof-coated 600D polyester and unfolds to 148 x 100 cm—plenty of space to change without getting wet or dirty. It features an adjustable shoulder strap and an internal pocket for keys and small items.

For more coverage, the Wetsuit Bag with Zipper has a water-resistant lining, mesh ventilation for faster drying, and a larger surface area for changing. Need something simple? The Tote Bag is a lightweight option to carry your wetsuit, harness, towel, or pump—by hand or over the shoulder. Made of 600D polyester with a waterproof coating. 

Keep a Dry Brush Handy

A dry brush is an essential tool for keeping sand at bay. After each session, brush off your gear, feet, and even the car mats to get rid of any loose sand. This prevents it from embedding into fabrics and surfaces, making it easier to clean up later. Keeping a brush in your car or gear bag will ensure you're always ready to tackle the sand before it spreads.

Cover Your Seats

Keep your car clean after a session with the Prolimit Carseat Cover. Made from water- and sand-resistant polyester, it protects your seats from wet wetsuits, salt, and sand. No need for old towels or makeshift covers. It’s quick to install, easy to clean, and a must-have for anyone regularly transporting wet gear.

Quick Tips to Maintain a Clean Car

  1. Shake it out: Before you even get in your car, take a moment to shake out your gear—towels, mats, wetsuits—anything that’s picked up sand. A quick shake can remove most of the debris before it gets inside.
  2. Regular maintenance: Make it a habit to vacuum and wipe down your car after each trip. It’s easier to clean up a little bit each time than to let the sand build up and become a bigger problem later.
  3. Gear bag in the trunk: Keep your gear bag in the trunk or boot, away from the seats (if it fits). Not only does this keep sand out of your car’s upholstery, but it also keeps everything organized and easy to access.
  4. Don’t worry too much: Let’s be honest, cars with the most sand are a clear indicator of how much fun you’ve been having. Don’t stress the mess too much; just be sure to clean up regularly so it doesn’t get out of hand.

Keeping your car clean after a day on the water doesn’t have to be a chore. With a few simple tools and habits, you can ensure that sand and saltwater don’t ruin your ride. Whether it’s using a wetsuit bag for your gear, keeping a dry brush on hand, or covering your seats, these tips will help you maintain an organized, sand-free car. And remember, a little sand is just a sign of a great day out on the water… just make sure you’ve got the tools to deal with it!