Hello fellow beach lovers! If you’re anything like me, the thought of packing for a family beach vacation is enough to make you consider just staying home and setting up a sandbox in the backyard. Packing usually takes me a week because I hate the stress of doing last minute and potentially forgetting something. That’s why this post for what to pack for the family for the beach is filled with a few simple hacks and some tried-and-true tips that can make packing for the beach a breeze, even with kids in tow.
Tips for What to Pack for the Family for the Beach
1. The Power of the List: Don’t rely on your sleep-deprived brain to remember everything. Start a master packing list and add things as you remember. Then use it while you’re packing and check it off. Break it down by person (mom, boy, girl) and by category (swimwear, clothes, toiletries, etc.). I’ve got you covered with a free downloadable packing list at the end of this post!
2. Cube It Up: Packing cubes, like these, are a game-changer for family trips. They compress your clothes to save space, keep everything organized, and make it easy to find what you need at a glance. Plus, you can separate the kids’ clothes by category (PJs, socks, swimsuits) for stress-free mornings.
3. Snacks are Key: Goldfish, granola bars, fruit – whatever your kiddos love, pack it. A hangry child (or mom) is no fun at the beach. I like to keep them in these waterproof bags, along with a change of clothes.
4. Beach Bag, Ready: Pack your beach bag separately from your other luggage. That way, if your room isn’t ready yet when you arrive, you can still hit the beach or pool right away. Don’t forget a change of clothes, sunscreen, water bottles, and those all-important snacks!
5. Don’t Overdo It: If you’re staying in a timeshare or place with a washer/dryer, take advantage! You can pack lighter, especially for the kids who won’t mind wearing the same favorite shirt every day. You can dry their bathing suits at the end of each day so they are ready for the next. Or even do full loads of laundry to lighten the load.
My Favorite Items and Must-Haves for a Trip to the Beach
Now that you’ve got some tips for how to make packing easy (maybe even fun!) here are a few of my favorite items for what to pack for the family to have a great time at the beach.
Beach Blanket: A big sand-repellent blanket is a must for comfortable lounging. I like to keep part of the blanket in the shade and part in the sun so those of us who want to get a little sun can tan. Look for ones with the corner pockets you can fill with sand so they don’t blow away, like this one. And it comes with a convenient carrying case.
Solar Buddies: Applying sunscreen to a squirming kid is basically impossible. Solar Buddies make it easy—just roll it on. They can even do it themselves!
Corkcicle Cooler Backpack: An easy to carry cooler, that looks stylish too, is a must. We don’t leave the house without our Corkcicle cooler backpack. Pack sandwiches, fruit, cheese and drinks to make the perfect beach picnic.
My Favorite Items and Must-Haves for a Trip to the Beach, Continued
Beach Umbrella: Or two! Because even moms need a little break from the sun. Having a place to retreat from the sun always makes a day at the beach more enjoyable. Especially if you plan to eat there, eating in the shade is a must.
Frost Buddy: There’s a Solar Buddy for the kids, but this one is for the adults. Frost Buddy makes the best universal drink koozie that keeps your beverage cold for hours. And you can switch it up! If you want a regular can first and then a slim can, or even bottle, it fits them all.
Bogg Bag: A waterproof bag at the beach like the Bogg Bag, that you don’t have to worry about is the best. This genius bag is fully washable and carries a lot. And if you get the dividers for it, which are game changers for me, you can keep all your beach gear organized. No more digging for lost sunscreen!
Favorite Hat: A week in the sun can definitely bring the heat, so packing a good hat is key for keeping your face protected. A traditional baseball cap is a great option for playing catch on the beach. I also absolutely love this Wide Brim Straw Panama Hat that adds a stylish touch. It’s great to travel with as it’s flexible and will not lose its shape, and I’ve gotten it completely wet before and it’s still perfect. I highly recommend.
The Downloadable Packing List:
If you are as ready to start packing as I am, download the packing list below with lists for Mom, Boy, Girl and Shared items.
A Week At The Beach: What To Pack For The Family For Stress Free Travel
There you have it! With a little prep, some smart packing, and a whole lot of sunscreen, you’re ready for a stress-free (okay, stress-reduced) beach vacation with the kiddos. Don’t forget to pour yourself a cocktail, sit back, and enjoy those toes in the sand. You’ve earned it!
If you’re looking for more packing help, check out this post for you What to Pack for a Week at the Beach that includes outfit ideas.
