Summer will be here before you know it, which means planning fantastic beach trips with your favorite people. To make the excursion easier, you’ll only want to pack what you need. Let’s discuss some beach day essentials you’ll want for a family day out.
1. Personalized Beach Towels
When you have personalized beach towels, there’s no mistaking what towel belongs to which person, especially if they look alike. It’s a great way to ensure each family member has their own towel to lie on when they claim their spot in the sand. If you prefer a larger, softer option, consider also bringing personalized blankets. Alternatively, leave the blanket in the car for your family to sit on while going home or to your hotel so the seats don’t get damp from wet bathing suits.
2. Tote Bags
Bringing a couple of tote bags to the beach is a must. It makes it much easier to carry smaller items instead of holding them all in your hands. The tote bags can make great summer gifts to surprise a family member with before they start packing. Consider getting the bags personalized so—just like with the towels—everyone knows without question which one is theirs.
3. Insulated Tumbler With Lid
It’s incredibly important to stay hydrated at the beach. Bring an insulated tumbler with you so anything you’re drinking can stay at a cool, refreshing temperature. The lid is useful for keeping bugs and sand out of your drink.
4. Snacks
Snacks are crucial for your family day out to the beach. While you can grab food if there’s a boardwalk with concession stands, it’s likely to be expensive if you plan to buy meals and snacks for each family member. Make sure all snacks are properly packed so they won’t go bad or get smooshed by the time you get around to eating them.
5. Cooler
For drinks and some snacks, a cooler is necessary to put them in. Reusable ice packs can keep drinks and snacks cool and keep everything organized. High-quality coolers can also serve as a seat or a spot to put plates of food or drinks while you’re eating.
6. Personal Items
Sunscreen is a must to bring to the beach. Put it in a toiletry bag, so any accidental leakage from the tube or bottle won’t get all over your other items. You’ll also want to bring a small first aid kit, just in case. It’s easy to get an accidental cut on your feet or hands, especially while walking on or digging in sand that has a lot of shells. Be sure to go through the first aid kit before you leave. Check that all the items are in there (and restock if necessary) and that no ointments are expired.
7. Sun Protection Accessories
Every child and adult should wear sun protection accessories while at the beach. Two of the most popular and beneficial options are hats and sunglasses. The wider the brim is on the hat, the better, so it can provide more shade to the eyes, face and neck. Consider bringing an extra hat for each child in case. If they accidentally misplace one or it blows away, you won’t have to spend money on a new one.
8. Entertainment Items
Bring one or more entertainment items for each member of your family. For example, you can buy beach sand packs for the kids. The packs typically have a variety of engaging toys that help kids stay busy while building sandcastles, mounds and moats. Adults that don’t feel like playing with the sand toys can bring books or magazines to read while relaxing.
9. Waterproof Pouches
Anyone bringing their phone to the beach should get a waterproof pouch to put it in. They’re great for keeping the gadgets safe from water and preventing sand from getting in the nooks and crannies of the phone and potentially damaging it. If you take everyone’s phones and put them in one large bag, it may inspire each person to focus on enjoying nature without getting tempted to be on their phone.
10. Beach Chairs
On days when the weather is really hot, sitting on a towel on the sand might not cut it. Bring a beach chair for each person to have alternative seating options. Chairs are especially helpful while eating, so there’s less chance of sand getting in the food.
11. Child Beach Tent
Chances are you’re not going to want to lug a huge beach tent with you for your family day out, but a child beach tent can keep the littlest family members protected from the sun. The tents have coverage on three sides plus the ceiling, so ample, easily-accessible shade exists. Some have an optional floor. This can also be a great option for kids who need to take a nap while they’re at the beach. The parents can keep an eye on them while they sleep, and the child has privacy and is out of the sun’s rays.
Pack Everything in Advance
One of the worst things you can do when planning a family day out to the beach is to pack everything that day. Give yourself at least a full day to think about if you have everything you need and prep any snacks you’re taking. Make the packing process even easier by making a list you can check off as you go along. Don’t forget to make a special checklist for the morning of, so you don’t forget items you can’t put out ahead of time, like snacks that need to stay refrigerated until you leave. With these tips, you’re all set to have a great time.