Are you planning a family beach vacation? If you’re like most people, packing for the trip may not be your favorite part. You’re probably wondering what to pack. Here is a list of the best things to pack for family beach vacations for safe fun in the sun. Pack these items and you’ll be sure to be prepared so you can have a great time!
Related: Best Places to Travel If You Love the Beach
1. Essentials for keeping your skin protected
When traveling to tropical beach destinations, you should take extra precautions to protect your body from the harsh UV rays and from getting bitten by mosquitos. Remember to pack those sunscreen and bug spray essentials! Cross-referencing sunscreen recommendations can go a long way in helping you choose products that are both effective and safe for bleaching corals and marine life. We recommend both reef-safe sunscreen and Black Girl Sunscreen for maximum protection against the sun’s powerful rays, and it’s melanin friendly. It won’t leave a white cast and I love the beautiful glow it gives my skin. Have fun and feel confident on your tropical vacation knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps in protecting yourself from the environment!
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2. Swimsuits are a must
Getting swimsuits ready is a must before any tropical beach vacation! Not only should there be enough swimsuits so that everyone in the family can swim and play without worrying, but swimsuits with UV protection offer an added layer of protection against sunburn. They are especially great for little ones who have more delicate skin! Spend some time selecting the right swimsuits for your chosen destination because having breathable and sun-protective swimwear takes away the hassle of constantly reapplying sunscreen while letting you enjoy quality family time at the beach.
Related: The 10 Best Swimsuits for Moms Found on Amazon
3. Beach towels and cover-ups
If you’re planning a beach vacation, beach towels are essential. While hotels may offer beach towels, sometimes it’s best to bring your own. Not only will they be more comfortable, but if you’re renting a beach house they may not be available at all! Cover-ups are also important for beach vacations, since wearing them will prevent sand from getting on your skin and provide sun protection when you’re out of the water. Cover-ups are perfect for transitioning between the beach and wherever it is you came from! For beach trips, beach towels and cover-ups should always be high on your list of must-haves.
4. Water shoes to protect your feet
Remember to bring beach gear that will have you ready for every beach activity. Water shoes offer your feet protection from beaches with coarse sand or shells from sea creatures that otherwise might be uncomfortable for your feet! Flip-flops on the other hand are perfect for protecting your feet from hot sand surfaces, so if you plan on taking lots of walks along the beach or beach-hopping, packing a pair of flip-flops could be just as important as throwing in a beach towel and sunscreen. Both water shoes and flip-flops are essential when packing for beach vacations in order to ensure an enjoyable experience by the beach.
5. Waterproof everything!
Waterproof cameras are a must for beach vacations! These can easily capture your family’s beach fun in all kinds of weather, from beach trips to swimming excursions. And because they’re waterproof, you don’t have to worry about your loved ones dropping them by accident into the waves. Check out this one from Polaroid for under $60! But remember to also get yourself a waterproof fanny pack. Not only can you keep important items such as money and ID in it, but they will stay dry on whatever beach adventures you embark upon. With the right beach gear, you can make sure all those priceless beach memories are preserved perfectly—rain or shine!
6. Entertainment
An essential item for beach vacation entertainment is a Bluetooth speaker! With the ability to play music and podcasts out loud, you can liven up any beach day. Just make sure you don’t forget to include one in your beach vacation packing list—especially when traveling with family. With a Bluetooth speaker, you can easily create ambiance for all of your beach outings, beach lunches, and beach bonfires! No more relying on headphones and devices with limited sound output. Plus, when you purchase a good-quality Bluetooth speaker, its battery life is sure to last all season long. That way you’re always ready for some beach vacation entertainment!
7. Keep hydrated
Make sure you pack hydration powders like Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier and Ultima brands. They are an efficient way to keep yourself hydrated since sun exposure, salt water, and water activity can all leave you feeling dried out. Plus they’re super convenient – all it takes is one scoop and some water and you’ll have your own homemade electrolyte drink that can fit right into your carry-on or beach tote. Bonus points for being cost-effective too! So keep in mind keeping hydrated on your beach trip with the help of powdered hydration for a more enjoyable experience.
8. First-aid Kit
Any type of travel requires being prepared for the unexpected. Beach vacations can often lull us into a false sense of security, but accidents occur everywhere. Make sure you are prepared with a first-aid kit so you can address any problem quickly and correctly. For beach trips in particular, items such as Jellyfish Sting Relief Pads, aloe vera, first aid cream, and anti-itch cream can make all the difference if someone experiences sunburn or jellyfish stings. Of course, include the basics such as bandages, adhesive tape, and antiseptic wipes to ensure that cuts and scrapes are tended to properly as well!
9. Beach accessories
With family beach vacations, you need the right beach accessories. Sure, sunscreen and towels are a must but don’t forget one of my favorite vacation items – a beach tote with a wet bag! The wet bag helps me keep all our dry clothes protected as we make our way to the sandy shores. I make sure to choose a beach tote made with woven fabric so no sand gets retained and stays trapped inside. Bonus points for totes with pockets so I can easily store items like sun hats and toys away from wet clothes and other things we may need for a family outing. Packing your family vacation with the right accessories is essential for a successful family beach trip!
9. Packable Sun Shade
A packable/travel sun shade is an essential accessory to pack for a family beach vacation. It’s a great way to avoid the expensive cabana rentals at the beach and provides more convenience than trying to beat the crowds for available umbrellas. The packable beach shade from Shibumi can offer the perfect solution, without taking up much space in your suitcase and it’s quick and easy to set up when you get to your destination. Plus, these portable beach shades offers added protection with UPF 50+ sun protection so everyone in the family can stay safe, and cool on their excursion. So don’t forget that packable travel sun shade as you pack up for your next family beach getaway!
To ensure that this family beach vacation is perfect and every family member is safe, these essentials should be double-checked before heading out the door. From sunscreen and hats to water shoes, to waterproof cameras and tow bags – each item will provide a unique layer of protection in order to get the most out of being outdoors all day. With items like Bluetooth speakers and natural sun shades also added, you’ll be equipping your family with everything they need to make lifelong treasured moments of fun, relaxation, and exploration that are all protected by the smartest planning possible! So grab your flip-flops, sunglasses, and first aid kit on your way out the door – because all that stands between you and a perfect family beach vacation is what you decide to pack!