11 Things to Pack For a Beach Vacation with Kids

Travelling is stressful — there’s no doubt about it.

But, traveling with kids is on an entirely different, much more anxiety-ridden, wildly chaotic level.

Do you agree?

Especially when you’re headed to the beach where there’s waves, water, sand, people, elements and more — you want to make sure you’re 100 percent prepared.

So, next time you’re taking the little ones to the ocean shore, take a look at this helpful list for a fun, easy and (mostly) stress-free beach experience.

You’re welcome.

11 Things to Pack For a Beach Vacation with Kids:

1. Pop-Up Tent or Shelter

I know this seems like a total splurge — but, it’s totally worth it.

If your kids are still little, it’s wise to invest in a small tent that folds flat and stores in a zip-up carrying case. This allows you and your babies to have a shady, protected place to take an ocean-side nap.

2. Shopping Bags

We all have a few (read: thousands) of these lying around. So, when you’re headed to the beach, grab a few for used diapers, snack wrappers, etc.

3. Beach Blanket

The perfect beach blanket can make all the difference

With kids running back and forth from the beach to the ocean, you’re going to want a comfy, clean place for everyone to rest and eat.

4. Baby Powder

Even though sandy kiddos are obviously inevitable, baby powder is your friend if you want to avoid giving your little ones an “exfoliating scrub”.

A liberal sprinkling of baby powder on sandy bodies will make getting clean a breeze.

5. Sunglasses

Even your little ones need a little eye protection at the beach.

6. Sunscreen

This is obvious — but you’d better not forget it.

7. Games

A game or two won’t only enhance your kids’ beach experience, but it’ll give you a little break from entertaining.

8. Ziploc Baggies

This is a no-brainer, but I just thought I’d remind you.

9. Umbrella Hooks

How can you have fun with your kids if all you can worry about is someone stepping on your sunglasses or losing your keys?

Umbrella hooks don’t seem essential, but they really are — if only for peace of mind.

10. Snacks

So. Many. Snacks.

Be sure to pack a variety of snacks — healthy, salty, sweet. This way, you’ll have options when prompting good behavior, congratulating your kids when they win a game, nourishing their rumbling tummies and more.

11. Sand-Off Mitt

Leave the sand at the beach with this ~incredible~ gadget that makes cleaning up super easy.