What Should I Take to The Beach with My Kids?

Heading to the beach with kids is both fun and exhausting. However, the joy can outweigh the stress if a parent is prepared for potential beach trip problems like diaper disasters, tantrums by the shore, and sunscreen mishaps. 

What should you take to the beach with kids? I have a list below.

• Things to Take to the Beach with My Kids

• 1. Sunscreen

This item should always be at the top of your list of things to bring to the beach. Apply it 30 minutes before you leave the house to give it time to take effect and reapply as stay longer on the beach (every 2 hours). Choose a sunscreen product based on the standards presented by The Skin Cancer Foundation:

• Broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen 
• SPF of 30 or higher

Bringing sunglasses, rash guards, and broad-brimmed hats isn’t a bad idea either as they will help protect you and your kids from sun exposure.

• 2. Towel

Make sure to bring one towel for each person, so everyone can dry themselves before getting inside the car. This will save you an unnecessary trip to and spending on car cleaning. 

• 3. Tote Bag

A tote bag comes handy when going to the beach with or without kids. It can carry all your belongings and pretty much whatever you take with you and protect them from the sand. 

• 4. Swimming Diapers

If you’re still potty training your babies, it’s best to have them wear swimming diapers. It will keep you from worrying about having to rush to the toilet when the need arises.

• 5. Finger Snacks

Sliced fruits, cereal bars, chips, and cut sandwiches make good choices. Whatever you bring, make sure to clean up after and throw garbage in the trash can. 

• 6. Water

Bring a jug of water with you if you can. Tumblers make suitable liquid containers as well.  

It’s best to bring water instead of sugary juices as those can make kids thirsty, and they’re already exposed to the sun and saltwater. 

• 7. Beach Mat

Or a sarong or light blanket, your choice. Bringing this will keep you from being all sandy when you rest or eat.

• 8. First-Aid Kit

It’s best to have one for minor injuries or scratches. Have the basics like pain meds, alcohol, activated charcoal pills, and Band-aids in it. 

• 9. Toiletries

If the beach you’re visiting with your kids is far from home, it’s best to have the essentials. Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo are nice to have during long trips.

• 10. Lotion or Moisturizer

Skin gets dry after prolonged sun exposure and a soak in beach water. Prevent flaking by applying skin oil, lotion, or moisturizer after washing up. Don’t forget to apply some on your kids’ faces.

• 11. Extra Clothes

Changing to clean clothes after swimming and rolling in the sand keeps saltwater and sand from dirtying and soaking your car seats. It’s also advisable for kids with sensitive and dry skin. 

• 12. Milk and Bottles

If you have kids who are still feeding on milk, don’t forget to bring some scoops of it, bottles, and clean water. Baby food should also be in your pack of things for the beach if your kids like them.

• 13. Reusable Wet Bags

Don’t put your wet and sandy beach clothes directly in your tote or beach bag. Keep them from soaking your clean belongings and your car by placing them inside reusable wet bags after use.

• 14. Dry Bag or Ziplock Bags

A dry bag is where you will keep your smartphone and wallet. A Ziplock bag is a good alternative if you don’t have one. Both will protect your belongings from getting wet. 

• 15. Inflatables

Not all kids know how to swim, and some want to maximize their enjoyment. Having toys to hang on to and play with while they’re in water will keep their worries away.

• 16. Baby Wipes or Tissue Paper

These beach necessities can be used for different purposes anytime: runny nose, diaper change, sandy fingers, sauce stains, and many others.

• 17. Umbrella with Sand Anchor

It’s not easy to find or create shade by the beach. A huge umbrella will do the trick. Make sure to tie it to a heavy object, such as a cooler or a chair, if you don’t have an anchor. This way, it won’t end up flying around and hurting people resting on the beach.

• 18. Sand Toys

Not all kids fancy the waters. Some kids would end up opting to stay by the shore or on the mat. Avoid stressing yourself out from their tantrums by bringing with you sand toys, like a plastic pail and shovel.