We’re finally heading back to the beach and if you’re like me, you’re out of practice. What do you pack for the beach with a baby or toddler? What do I ACTUALLY need? How do I avoid bringing EVERYTHING?!
Don’t worry- I’ve got you. Here is your packing list for heading to the beach with baby:
DIAPER BAG
- Reusable swim diaper x 2
- My favourite are Apple Cheek Swim diaper. I’ve used them for all three kids and love them! I always bring an extra in case of poo-mergencies.
- Dry clothes x 2
- They will need something to keep warm after they come out of the water. Then those clothes will get wet and sandy and you will need the second pair.
- Dry Diapers x 6
- For when they aren’t in the water. (Huggies all the way!)
- Towel x 2
- See ‘Dry Clothes’
- Sun Hat
- Your little one needs sun-protection. I like Jan & Jul Gro-With-Me Floppy Sun hats because they have a large brim, and the adjustable head and chin drawstrings make these hats really hard to get off
- Baby Sunscreen
- This feels obvious. My favourites: BabyBum, ThinkBaby, Neutrogena Pure & Simple Baby, Beautycounter (comes in travel size!)
- Baby Wipes
- Wipes for EVERYTHING! Wiping faces, bums, hands, arms, feet, fruit, water bottles, etc….
ON THE SAND
- Sand Toys (Bucket/ Shovel/ Rake)
- Don’t waste the money on a fancy one – Head to the dollar store.
- Beach Blanket
- So many great options for beach blankets. My favourites are ones that fold up easily (preferably with a strap), and are both water and sand resistant. Some great brands: Indigo, Camco, Happy Picnic, Merisny (this one has anchors for each corner too!)
- Beach Umbrella or Tent
- The best beach tents will have UV protection, anchors to the ground, has some form of ventilation and will fit a few kids inside. Here are some great brands: Sport-Brella, Babymoov, Monobeach (This one has a built in pool too), Coleman
- Puddle Jumper/ Life Jacket/ Floatie
- When near water, my children MUST wear a flotation device. This is non-negotiable. As babies, my kids were never fans of inflatable floaties at the beach but your child may be different. If your little one cooperates, these are great for spending time in the water. I also feel like life jackets push my kiddos forward and face down into the water which is scary. When we are at the beach, they wear puddle jumpers. Kids must be a certain height and weight to wear a puddle jumper so double check specifics before you snap your little on in. My top brands: Body Glove, Sterns by Coleman
COOLER
- Snacks
- The best beach snacks are the cleanest, easiest ones to eat: Squeeze packs, Goldfish, Grapes, Berries, Granola Bars
- Water Bottle
- Both you and baby will need to stay hydrated!
- Ice Packs
- Keep it all cool, baby!
Check out where to buy and my other ‘Beach Day’ tips on CHCH Morning Live: A Day At The Beach.