Of all the products you stash in your beach bag, it's most important that you love, love, love the sunscreen you're going to be slathering on your body. Because if not, chances are you won't use it properly, and reapply regularly. When that's a sheer pleasure, you'll reach for the tube or bottle often - and be optimally protected. Of the dozens we trialled this spring, these are the ones we'd be happy to have with us beachside or poolside – and we think you will, too.

M&S Sun Smart SPF30 Sensitive Moisture Protect Sun Lotion/£9.50 for 200 ml – great price for a generous size of this easily applied lotion - so no excuse for skimping. Good for sensitive skins, too. (NB At time of going to press this was out of stock, but check back if you're looking for a brilliant, budget beach buy.)

Dior Bronze Beautifying Protective Milky Mist Sublime Glow SPF30/£31 for 125ml spray – designed for face and body (which we prefer it for), this light fluid veils skin in a pretty pearly glow, featuring a Tan Beautifier Complex to enhance your tan.

Green People Scent-Free Sun Lotion SPF30/£21 for 200 ml – tried and trusted favourit which does well year after year with us, and is suitable for all skin types including sensitive and people prone to prickly heat; water repellent but won’t clog pores.

Sisley Milky Body Mist/£74.70 for 150 ml – at the 'luxe' end of the spectrum, for sure, but an absolute dream to spritz on and apply.

Vita Liberata SPF50 Neroli & Argan Milk/£28 for 100 ml – we were incredibly impressed with so many of Vita Liberata's products, but this is divine: the neroli gives a wonderful bright scent, while the argan ensures it's terrifically moisturising.

Eucerin Sun Lotion Extra Light SPF30/£18.50 for 150 ml – great for touchy skins, and truly light-as-air texture-wise. If you hate the feel of sunscreen, you'll barely know this is there.

Bioderma Dry Oil Very High Protection SPF50+/£18.50 for 150 ml – by contrast, if you want skin nourishment on the beach (and a glistening finsih), this is for you, from a French pharmacy brand that's also good for touchy skins.

Shiseido 50+ Expert Sun Protection Lotion/£32 for 100 ml – most sunscreens lose their power in water, but Shiseido's is a truly innovative formula which is further 'activated' when in contact with water for 15 minutes or more, via something they call 'WetForce Technology'. Mermaids, this is the one for you...