With summer fully in swing, it's the perfect season to plan a trip for the whole family out to the beach. Whether you're planning a getaway to another state or are going to road trip out to the coast, we've got you covered on all of the things you'll need to bring with you to the water. Outside of your favorite swimsuit of course!
Here are 12 things that should be on your beach packing list.
1. Beach Towels
Obviously having a good quality towel is a beach essential. Whether you're using it to dry off after taking a dip in the water or simply to layout to catch some sun, it should be at the top of your packing list. It's definitely worth investing in a pack of towels like this to last you multiple days on your trip!
2. Sunscreen
While it's helpful to have various toiletries on hand in your beach bag along with your change of clothes and water shoes, having SPF is a must for sun protection. If you're going to be at the beach and in and out of the water, it's worth getting the sport sunscreen to protect against sweat and water.
3. Beach Chairs
The perfect way to get situated on the beach is with some collapsible beach chairs. These are ideal for lounging back in the sand and water proof so they will dry quickly after you come back from a swim.
4. Beach Umbrella
Getting an easy to assemble umbrella is perfect for lounging out of the sun on a beach blanket or towel. Put the sun hat to the side and enjoy the shade this 7 ft umbrella will provide.
5. Sun Shelter
If this is a getaway where babies or small children are joining, a sun shelter is a great way to make sure they get some solid cover up protection from the sun that captures a bit more area than just an umbrella. Plus even adults can climb inside and take a nap without having to worry about waking up with a huge sunburn.
6. Cooler
The best beach trips are when you can bring your own food and drinks and just unwind all day in the sun. Pack some sandwiches in plastic bags, load up on water bottles and your favorite cold beer, and you are good to go with a quality cooler like this one. We recommend something with wheels since you'll already be hauling a bunch of other gear out on the beach.
7. Portable Charger
You don't want your cell phone to die before you're able to capture some fun family moments on the beach! Come prepared with a portable charger so you don't even have to worry about it.
8. Snorkel Gear
Is it even a beach day if you aren't getting into that saltwater looking for fish? This set comes with everything you'll need for some snorkeling out in the water.
9. Inner Tube
Cute inner tubes are a must for floating around in the ocean waves. Plus you can get some extra use out of them at the pool.
10. Boogie Board
The good news is, if you need this to fit in a carry-on because your beach vacation is a plane ride away, this boogie board is inflatable! It will also take up minimal space if you're taking a road trip...super convenient either way.
11. Pail and Shovel Toy Set
Making sandcastles has to be on your list of activities once you reach your beach destination. It's the perfect way to keep the kids occupied and even a fun and nostalgic afternoon experience for adults.
12. First Aid Kit
Whenever you pack for a trip you need the necessities — toothbrush, deodorant, toiletries, maybe even hand sanitizer. But if you're going to be outside at the beach you need to consider bringing a fully stocked first aid kit with everything you could need — band-aids, sunscreen lotion, lip balm, aloe vera in case of sunburn, and more.
