Your 'Must-Have' Pool and Beach Bag Essentials Checklist
Temperatures are rising, which can only mean one thing – summer is just around the corner! And, We. Are. Here. For. It. As two moms who live near the beach with preschool-aged kids, we're no strangers to packing beach bag essentials. Whether we're heading out for those quick trips to kill an hour at the shore or an in-it-for-the-long-haul beach day, our beach bag essentials checklist has you covered.
Swimsuit or Rash Guard
We realize this one seems obvious, but not all suits are created equal! When headed to the beach with your little one, yes, you want them to look cute, but more importantly, you're going to want to protect their delicate skin. Finding a swimsuit or rash guard that offers a UPF (a standard to measure sun-protective fabrics) of 50+ will provide both UVA and UVB protection, which sunscreen alone does not. This Carter's Long Sleeve Rash Guard and Swim Trunks ($24.99) and 2pc Strawberry Long Sleeve Rash Guard ($16.99) are just a few of our favorites that are cute, easy to get on and off, and affordable.
Personal Flotation Device
We know it can be tough to get your kid to wear one, but with drowning as the leading accidental cause of death for kids ages 1 – 4, it's worth it! A Personal Flotation Device (PDF) is not the same as a life jacket. It is meant for longer, more comfortable wear (think kids who are learning to swim), but it does not offer the same level of protection as a traditional life jacket would. Tested and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, the Stearns Infant Puddle Jumper ($37.48) is best for children 30 lbs. and under, while the Stearns Original Puddle Jumper ($29.99) and Body Glove Paddle Pals Life Jackets ($25.41) are both great options for children 30 – 50 lbs.
Sunscreen
If there's one non-negotiable at the pool and beach, it's going to be sunscreen. When selecting sunscreen marketing about the "safest" or "best" options can be confusing. The primary components you're going to want to look for in a safe kid's sunscreen include; a mineral based lotion (we know the sprays are easier, but the safest bet for full coverage is a lotion) with broad-spectrum coverage, water resistance, and an SPF 30 or higher. An additional bonus would be a reef-friendly/safe option, like Earth Mama Kids ($14.99). Thinkbaby ($12.99) is the fan-favorite sunscreen in our homes, covering all of these bases, and they have a stick option ($8.99) for those hard to apply spots like the face and ears. Did we mention it smells great, too?! *Sunscreen is NOT advised for babies under 6-months old. Always seek guidance from your pediatrician if you feel sun exposure is unavoidable for a younger baby.
Sunglasses and Goggles
Keep them looking cool in a pair of cute sunglasses like these Aviators ($6.00) or Heart Shaped ($6.00) sunglasses by Cat & Jack. And if you're headed to the pool, you may want to consider a pair of polarized sunglasses ($12.99) for underwater exploration or learning to swim.
Water Shoes and Sun Hats
Tombik Water Shoes ($21.99) have been one of our tried-and-true purchases this summer. Their breathable design with rubber soles for traction and velcro straps to stay put on tiny feet make them a perfect option for the beach or the pool. Similarly, finding a hat your child will actually wear is a game-changer. This is why we love Exemaba Baby and Toddler Sun Hat ($8.98 - $12.98). Its wide brim, adjustable chin strap, and removable neck flap make this one of the most versatile and comfortable options we've come across. We're also digging Zutano's Comfy Cotton Sun Hats ($10.47 - $24.99) that come in gender-neutral patterns to mix and match with any suite or style!
Beach Towels
Nothing beats wrapping the kids in a cozy towel after a long afternoon at the pool or beach. If you're looking to get the most bang for your buck, we love the Utopia Cabana Striped Beach Towel 4-pack ($44.99)! These towels are absorbent, light-weight, and come in four bright-beachy colors, along with a 4.5 star Amazon rating. Don't need four towels? No problem! We're also loving the L.L. Bean Beach Towel ($29.95) with its fade-resistant material and reversible style options. And if you're looking for something that just "gets the job done," – look no further than Target's Sun Squad Beach Towels ($6.00 - $25.00). With hundreds of fun and stylish patterns to choose from, the whole family will have a towel they love.
Beach Blanket
Can you use beach towels instead of a blanket? Sure. Is it worth it to spend a little more for when you want to spread out and enjoy lounging, lunch, and a little more personal space – absolutely! We just bought a Little Unicorn Outdoor Blanket ($59.99) in the Tropical Leaf pattern, and we're obsessed! Clocking in at 5x7 and made from a water-resistant material, you'll have plenty of space and a no-hassle clean-up for the inevitable spills that come with kids. It's also compact, foldable, and has a convenient carrying strap for those treks from the car to the water.
Change of Clothes and a Wet/Dry Bag
Not even kids want to sit in wet clothes on the way home, so packing a dry, sand-free change of clothes is a must. You don't have to get fancy here - a T-shirt and shorts will do the trick. But we do recommend getting your hands on a wet/dry bag like Bumkins ($16.99) to toss that wet suite or used diaper into post-water-play. With two zippered compartments and a snap handle for easy carrying, you can keep your dry stuff dry and your wet stuff securely packed away!
Snacks and Water
Even for those quick trips to the beach, you're going to want to pack snacks and water to keep everyone hydrated and happy. We've found the THERMOS FUNTAINER ($11.99 - $16.99) to be one of the best spill-proof options for keeping drinks cold (12 hours) on a hot summer day. As for snacks, we tend to fall back on a PB&J, chips, and pre-cut veggies and fruit, packed in a Bentgo ($24.99) and stored in a cooler bag.
Sanitizer and Wipes
Whether right before lunch or right after that trip to the public bathroom, wipes and sanitizer will always come in handy at the pool or beach. For our preschool-aged kids, who have their hands on EVERYTHING, we like to use Wet Ones Hand Sanitizing Wipes ($16.74/5pk) with 70% alcohol for killing 99.99% of germs. If you're looking for something alcohol-free or safe for sensitive skin, we also love the ease of Babyganics Foaming Hand Sanitizer ($17.97/6pk).
Swim Diapers and Extra Diapers
If your kiddo is still in diapers, you're definitely going to want to invest in a swim diaper for the pool or beach. Reusable diapers like i play. by green sprouts snap ($9.99 - $13.84) are an excellent option for the environment, leak-proof, and have the additional benefit of the UPF protection we mentioned earlier. Be sure to purchase the snap design (not the pull-up) - in the event of a poop diaper, you're going to want it! You can also find disposable swim diapers in most major brands like Pampers Splashers ($9.99) and Huggies Little Swimmers ($8.99).
Pool and Sand Toys
Beach toys are great, but another thing you don't need to invest a ton of money into for your kids to enjoy. Half of them will get lost at some point, and the other half will probably end up in some other kid's beach bag by the end of the day. So, our advice here is to buy for convenience (comes in its own bag), low-cost ($15.00 and under), and general entertainment factor (will this buy you 20 minutes of peace?). Some of our favorites this year have been the Treasure Hunter Dive Set ($10.00), 25-Piece Sand Toy Set for Kids ($14.99 – on sale), and 23-Piece Sand Toy Set with Water Wheel ($14.99).
Beach Bag and Wagon
If you're committing for the day, we highly recommend a comfortable beach bag or wagon for all of your gear. This Mesh Beach Bag ($27.99) manages to pull off being a tote and cooler all-in-one! And while the price is a little steep, we cannot say enough good things about the Radio Flyer Beach & Boardwalk Wagon ($201.95). Transforming from wagon to lunch or snack bench, it also folds for easy storage and transporting and can hold up to two beach chairs, two drinks, two kids, and some additional gear! A must for the beach, pool, or even just a day outdoors.
Optional Items
Some optional but convenient items we've also been known to have on hand are a good beach umbrella and relaxing beach chairs for adults and kids.
Most importantly, despite labeling them as 'must-haves,' remember that this is only a guide! So, use what works for you on this list, ditch what doesn't, and leave us a comment if you think we missed anything!
