By Mom Index

 

A day at the beach with young children can be quite an adventure.  From planning and packing to playing and cleaning, the day is filled with chaos and excitement.  Packing essential items and avoiding over packing are fundamental to an enjoyable and relaxing trip to the beach.  To make the most of your beach visit, consider packing the following items:

 

Sunscreen, clothing and accessories for sun protection are the most important items to take to the beach.  Continuous spray sunscreens are an excellent option for young children because you can apply sunscreen even as your little one is wiggling around and playing.   Pack a hat for each child.  You can find fashionable and functional beach hats at Old Navy and Target or online retailers such as GottaHaveAHat or Surfer Baby/Better Surf. 

 

A beach bag is also an important item.  When you arrive at the beach, collect your children’s shoes and place them in the bag so they do not get lost in the sand or water.   Your children can change into water shoes so they can walk safely near the shore.  Find a bag that has a zipper pouch for keys and valuables.   Check out some trendy and fun bags from Parrott Canvas Company or Lands End.

 

Swim diapers, wipes and hand sanitizers are useful items to have available.  Pack a few zip lock bags to store wet clothes or soiled diapers so you can dispose of items when you leave the beach.

 

Beach toys are excellent for keeping young children entertained.  Purchase large items such as shovels and pails rather than a lot of small items that can get lost in the sand.  If you limit the number of sand toys you take to the beach, you will lighten your load and encourage your children to explore items that exist naturally at the beach such as seaweed, hermit crabs and small snails and sea shells.  Sit and supervise your children at play and educate them about sea life.

 

If you are unable to find a shady area, create a shaded area with a large umbrella or tent.  The Kids’ Sun Dome by KEL-GAR, Inc. requires no assembly and offers 50+ UPF and a convenient carry case.   

 

Towels, blankets or beach chairs are also essential at the beach.  Visit Pottery Barn Kids or Garnet Hill for colorful and large beach wraps and towels and Target for lightweight, adult and child size beach chairs.

 

Pack a small soft cooler and fill with drinks so your children stay hydrated throughout the day. 100% juice boxes and bottled water are great beach options as well as Sippy cups because the liquid stays clean even in the sand.  Pack fruit or dry snacks such as whole grain crackers or pretzels that will not melt or go bad in the heat.

 

Purchase a disposable camera and tuck it into your beach bag so you are prepared for impromptu photographs. 

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