If you're planning a beach vacation, here are plenty of sandcastles, water games and hops in front of you for a family moment. Our best beach trips are the ones where we pack all the important tools and toys.
Tips for packing for a beach vacation with kids
When packing for a trip to the beach with kids, you want to find the best place for you where you can have everything you need without overpacking. Knowing your destination and the types of beach facilities available there can help you plan. If you're visiting a beachfront resort that offers lounge chairs, umbrellas, towels and even toys, you'll only need the essentials. When driving to find your own public beach, you'll want to bring more items from home.
Pack the necessary sun protection
Wherever you go, you'll need to add these items to your list when packing for a beach vacation with kids: hats/masks, sunglasses, kids rashguard, UV protection shirts or UV protection sets, reef-safe sunscreen, lip balm with sunscreen, these are so important!
You can pack these items or add them to your shopping list of items to purchase when you arrive. Sometimes it's easier to buy full-size liquid sunscreen at your destination during your flight. Some beach destinations in Hawaii and Florida have banned the sale of chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate to protect coral reefs and marine life.
At the beach and in the water, each of us wears a wide-brimmed hat with a hat band to protect our heads and faces. Although the sand and water reflect the sun's rays, taking these steps definitely helps minimize sun damage and keeps everyone from burning and feeling excited.