Planning a day at the beach with your kids? Ensure a fun-filled and stress-free experience by packing the right essentials! From sun protection to beach toys, I’ve got you covered. In this article, I’ll highlight the top 10 must-have items for a successful day at the beach with your little ones. So grab your beach bag and get ready to make some memories in the sun!
I’ve included links to some of our favorite items to venture to the beach with and a few extra suggestions as well. The links in this post may contain affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and then purchase an item, I may earn a small commission from it at no extra cost to you!
1.Sunscreen and UV Protection:
Protecting your kids from harmful UV rays is crucial. Nothing ruins a trip to the beach like an awful sunburn! Pack your favorite broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF and apply it generously. Remember to bring along wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and rash guards for added protection.
Personally, I like to wear a little makeup or cover-up no matter where I go, even to the beach. I incorporate mineral sunscreen in my daily skincare routine (I’m a big fan of ATTITUDE Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Stick), but on days when I’ll be out in the sun for extended periods, I always reapply. For a quick touch-up, I use the COOLA Organic Sunscreen Face Mist (SPF 50). Even my husband has started using it as he burns easily.
Tip: Speaking from experience, aloe vera gel is a great thing to have on hand! Keep it in the fridge at home or your hotel room just in case an unfortunate sun burn does occur. The gel is soothing and will help will irritation from painful burns.
2. Beach Towels and Beach Blankets:
Pack a few large beach towels or beach blankets for lounging, drying off, and creating a comfortable space for the whole family. Look for quick-drying options to avoid carrying wet towels throughout the day. Wet bags are also great for storing the wet items and preventing everything else in your bag from getting damp.
3. Beach Toys:
Keep your kids entertained with a variety of beach toys. Bring sand buckets, shovels, molds, and let their creativity soar as they build sandcastles and dig moats. Inflatable beach balls, footballs, kites, and frisbees are also great for active play on the shore.
We love this collapsible set of buckets with shovels. It saves a ton of room in our beach bags! Also, make sure you purchase your beach toys before you get to the beach, I can’t stress this enough! Our kids saw all of the beautiful kites being flown and wanted one of their own, the ones sold at the stores at the beach cost a fortune! We decided to pass and made a mental note to bring one for our next trip.
4. Snacks and Hydration:
Beach activities can work up an appetite. Pack a cooler with a selection of snacks like fruits, sandwiches, and granola bars. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and other refreshing beverages to keep everyone hydrated.
Our kid’s personal favorite and special treat at the beach are pizza Lunchables. We then discovered that we can pack some English Muffins, a small container of pizza sauce, and some shredded cheese for our own make shift Lunchables. They enjoyed them just as much and it was much more cost effective. Pack your families favorites and have a delightful picnic lunch when everyone gets hungry.
5. Shade Shelter or Umbrella:
Creating a shaded area is essential for kids to rest and seek respite from the sun. Invest in a portable beach shelter or umbrella to provide a cool and comfortable spot for relaxation. Ensure it’s easy to set up and offers sufficient shade for the whole family.
We have a family of five and this cabana has been wonderful at the beach and has sufficient space for us all to enjoy the shade. It also has a pouch at each corner that is used for filling with sand. It weighs down the cabana in case the wind picks up and we don’t have to worry about it flying away.
6. Beach Bags:
A sturdy and spacious beach bag is essential for carrying all your beach gear. Look for a bag with multiple compartments to keep items organized. Opt for a waterproof or sand-resistant bag to protect your belongings. We’re loving our bag with a cooler in the bottom! Shell bags are also great for kids to keep their collection in without taking home half the sand from the beach!
7. Beach Wagons or Carts:
A beach wagon or cart is an essential tool for a successful beach day with kids. These sturdy and portable carriers effortlessly transport all your beach essentials, from chairs and umbrellas to toys and coolers, making your journey across the sand a breeze. With their convenience and functionality, beach wagons or carts are a must-have item for a stress-free and enjoyable beach adventure with your little ones. When it’s not beach season, the wagons are also great at the sport’s fields and we’ve found the cup holders also super handy!
8. Waterproof Phone Pouch or Case:
If you plan on taking your phone to the beach, protect it from water, sand, and potential damage with a waterproof phone pouch or case. This way, you can capture and share those precious beach moments worry-free. I wore this pouch in the ocean, in the waves, still took some fun pictures of the kids, and my phone stayed completely dry!
9. Extra Layers or Cover-ups:
Sometimes, the beach breeze can become chilly, especially towards the end of the day. Pack lightweight sweaters, hoodies, or cover-ups to keep the kids warm and cozy.
10. Entertainment:
Bring along some additional entertainment options for downtime at the beach. Consider packing a deck of cards, a favorite book, a journal, or a portable speaker to enjoy music and keep everyone entertained. Try bringing a watercolor set to paint shells!
With these 10 essential items in your beach bag, you’re well-prepared for a successful and enjoyable day at the beach with your kids. From sun protection and snacks to beach toys and shade, these essentials will ensure a fun-filled and memorable experience. So, grab your beach essentials, slather on sunscreen, and get ready for an amazing day of sun, sand, and laughter with your little ones!
Looking for fun beach trip ideas? Check out my blog articles “The Ultimate Family Bucket List for Assateague Island National Seashore” and “Discover the Best Family Activities in Ocean City, MD“
