This blog post is about beach day essentials, a complete packing list for your next beach day or beach vacation, kid friendly.
Headed to the beach? Take the stress out of packing for the day and save this packing guide for later! Whether you are just going to relax and lounge, or you are going for an adventure packed day with the family, this list is for you!
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Clothing and Accessories
- Swimsuit: Wear it under your clothes for the day, so you don’t have to change when you get there!
- Beach Towel (big and small): A large sand towel is great for groups! But don’t forget to bring a normal size towel for when you need to dry off after a dip in the water.
- Sun Hat and Sunglasses: A baseball cap is sometimes better than a sun hat because if it is a windy day, it might keep flying off your head! If you are looking for a large hat, the panama style hats with a drawstring is good because the string helps to keep you from losing it. Don’t forget to add your favorite sunnies! If you plan on being in the water all day, it will be bright!
- Beach Bag: Something large, light weight, and see through is a good idea to pack all of your essentials.
- Flip-flops/ Sandals: Ditch the sneakers! All you need is a good pair of flip flops.
- Cover-up or Beach Dress: Something you can easily throw over your suit is great to have, especially if you are making runs up to the bathroom, bar or restaurant. Check out our boutique for great cover up options!
Food and Drinks
- Paper towels: Especially if you have a lot of food and drinks.
- Small trash bag: Especially if you have little ones. Make it easy on yourself and collect all the trash in one bag and dump it in the trash can on the way out to the car.
- Water Bottle: Bring something reusable so you can refill it if there are any water fountains around!
- Snacks: Pack light with pre-made sandwiches and snacks like granola bars, fruit, and/or chips.
- Drinks: Water, soda, or drink of choice!
- Reusable Snack Containers: Reduce waste by using reusable containers for snacks.
- Cooler with ice
- Zip loc bags: Keep things organized on the way and when you are leaving! These are great because you can see what’s inside. You can also store leftover food in them for when you are packing up to leave. If you don’t have a wet bag with you, you can use one of these for kids wet bathings suits as well.
- Liquid IV: Stay hydrated with water but adding electrolytes is a great idea if you are spending hours at the beach!
Baby Items
- Baby Powder: This is a beach goers secret! Rub baby powder on your feet and legs to get the sand off! This is perfect for kids! Less mess in the car
- Change of Clothes: Don’t forget a change of clothes in case you are going out to a restaurant after! or you just want to be comfy on the ride home.
- Diapers and Wipes
- Breast Milk, Formula, Kids Juice
- Toddler Sippy Cup or Bottles
Gear and Toys
- Beach Wagon: Great idea if you are lugging a bunch of stuff down to the beach! This is also great if you have toddlers! They can hitch a ride!
- Beach Tent: It’s always nice to have a beach tent or umbrella, especially if you have a group of people out at the beach for the day! It’s nice to be able to get into the shade for a little bit. You can also keep your drinks and snacks in the shade!
- Baby Tent: Pop up baby tents are perfect for little ones who cannot be out in the sun as much as adults.
- Floaties for Kids: Whether its arm floaties or inner tubes! Floaties make the day more fun!
- Sand Toys: Keep the kids entertained with games and fun toys for the sand!
- Water Shoes: closed toe water shoes are a smart item to bring just in case there are rocks or slimy seaweed.
- Beach chair: If you prefer to not be directly in the sand!
- Frisbee or Beach Games: Bring along some beach-friendly games for group fun.
- Portable Speaker: Bring a compact speaker for creating a beach vibe with your favorite tunes.
- Portable fan or misting fan: Everyone will love you for it.
- Headphones: If you prefer a more personal music experience, bring your headphones.
- Portable Charger:Just in case!
- Waterproof Phone Pouch: Protect your phone from sand and water with a waterproof pouch.
Toiletries and Miscellaneous Items
- Sunscreen: This is a MUST. Reapply all day (as the bottle suggests), to prevent getting a sunburn. You don’t want to ruin your vacation on the first day. This is the best facial sunscreen.
- Lip Balm with SPF: Can’t live without my Sunscreen lip balm.
- Hair Brush
- Leave in conditioner: The beach can leave your hair messy and tangled! I love to bring a hair brush with leave in conditioner to feel refreshed when leaving the beach. Here is my go to- miracle in a bottle.
- Body lotion: The salty air can definitely leave you feeling dry. Keep some lotion in the car for the drive home!
- Camera: You may just use your phone but if you are into photography, take your shot!
- Water Wipes: Whether is in your diaper bag or not, wet wipes are good for the whole family.
- Wet bag: Store your kids wet bathing suits in a wet bag for the way home.
- Book or E-reader: Enjoy some downtime with a good book or your e-reader.
With this packing list, you’re ready for a fun day at the beach with the family and you can be sure you have all the essentials for a memorable time!
Where are you headed for your next beach vacation?! Leave a comment below!
Headed to the Space Coast? Check out the post on The Best Beaches in Brevard County!
