What I Pack in My Beach Bag

Beach Backpack Essentials: What You Need for a great beach day with the kids.

Planning ahead for your next beach day with the kids? Packing the right items in your beach backpack can make all the difference. Whether you’re a seasoned beachgoer or a first-timer, here’s a list of must-have items to ensure you’re fully prepare.

1. Beach Bag:
A spacious and durable beach bag is essential for carrying all your family’s beach essentials. Look for a bag with multiple compartments or pockets to keep items organized and easily accessible. Choose a water-resistant or mesh material that’s easy to clean and shake off sand. A beach bag with sturdy handles or straps makes it convenient to transport your belongings to and from the beach. Ensure it’s large enough to accommodate towels, snacks, toys, sunscreen, and other items for the whole family.
I personally love using cooler backpacks as my beach bags. Sometimes a mini cooler in the bottom helps keep food and drinks cool and protects other items from the hot sun.

2. Sunscreen:
Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is essential for a day at the beach. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF rating (at least 30+) and remember to reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating. Sunscreen helps prevent sunburns, premature aging, and reduces the risk of skin cancer.
We love ThinkBaby! (Even my husband prefers it for surfing)

Helpful Tip: At the start of every beach season, I write the expiration date clearly on the top in marker! Also, apply at home naked and then reapply at the beach.

3. Water Bottle:
Staying hydrated is key, especially when spending time in the sun. Bring a reusable water bottle filled with cold water to keep you refreshed throughout the day. Opt for an insulated bottle to keep your drink cool even in the heat.

4. Beach Towels:
A soft and absorbent beach towel is a beach bag essential. Whether you’re lounging on the sand or drying off after a swim, a quality beach towel provides comfort and convenience. Look for quick-drying towels made from lightweight and sand-resistant materials for easy packing and cleaning.
We love these Turkish Towels!

5. Hat, Rash Guard and Sunglasses:
Shield your eyes and face from the sun’s glare with a wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses. Not only do these accessories provide added protection against sunburn and eye damage, but they also help you stay comfortable and stylish while soaking up the sunshine.

6. Snacks and Drinks:
Pack a variety of snacks and beverages to keep hunger and thirst at bay while you’re at the beach. It never fails that my girls act like they haven’t eaten in days when we are on the beach. Opt for portable and non-perishable options like fresh fruit, nuts, granola bars, and pre-made sandwiches. Don’t forget to bring along plenty of water or electrolyte-rich drinks to stay hydrated.

7. Waterproof Phone Case:
Keep your phone protected from sand, water, and sun exposure with a waterproof phone case. Capture memorable moments, listen to music, or stay connected with friends and family without worrying about damaging your device. A waterproof case allows you to enjoy all the features of your phone while at the beach safely.

8. Swim Diapers, Diapers and Wipes:
For younger children who are not yet potty-trained, pack swim diapers to prevent accidents in the water. Bring some backups, just in case you get into a poopy situation. We like these disposable swim diapers and these reusable swim diapers and we love Water Wipes.

Tip: I like to put the wipes in a ziplock bag to keep them from drying out and bring an extra grocery bag or two to put stinky diapers.

9. Beach Toys:
Keep your little ones entertained with beach toys such as buckets, shovels, sand molds, and beach balls. These toys provide hours of fun and creative play in the sand and water, allowing your kids to build sandcastles and splash in the water.

Tip: I love to get a mesh laundry bag from the Dollar Tree to keep toys in.

10. Jelly Fish First Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries or accidents by packing a few bandaids Include items such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and pain relievers to address common ailments quickly.

• Vinegar helps neutralize the venom from certain types of jellyfish, such as box jellyfish or Portuguese man o’ war. Apply vinegar to the affected area as soon as possible after a sting to prevent further release of venom.
• Use tweezers or credit card and wear gloves to remove any tentacles or stingers that may still be attached to the skin. Avoid touching the affected area with bare hands to prevent further exposure to venom.

11. Rechargable Stroller Fan with Clip (Optional)
A portable rechargeable fan can help keep you and your family cool and comfortable, even on the hottest days at the beach. Look for a fan with multiple speed settings and a long-lasting battery life. Charge it up before heading out! We always have this in the bag to help with naps on the beach.

12. Bluetooth Speaker: (Optional)
Bring along a waterproof or water-resistant Bluetooth speaker to enjoy your favorite music, podcasts, or audiobooks while at the beach. Look for a speaker with long battery life, durable construction, and easy connectivity to your devices. Create a beach playlist or stream your favorite tunes for the whole family to enjoy, adding to the beach day ambiance.
I like this solar bluetooth speaker and always have my phone charger that I can charge on the device! I love an item that serves multiple purposes.

Outside the Beach Bag

11. Beach Tent or Umbrella:
Provide shade and shelter for your family by bringing along a beach tent or umbrella. This offers a break from the sun’s rays and creates a designated area for relaxation. Look for lightweight and easy-to-assemble options for convenience like the locally made Solbello or Shibumi. We have both of these and love them both for different reasons.

Tip: If you don’t want to bring some sort of shade, try to sit under the pier for a little sun relief.

If you have a baby or young children, I also highly recommend infesting in The California Beach Co. Pop N Go.

12. Beach Chair: (Optional)
So I rarely carry a beach chair to the beach since changes are I’ll be at the waters edge with my girls. If I am bringing my stroller or wagon, I will throw in a beach chair, but chances are unless I’m with my husband or family, I won’t be sitting much and if I do, I use my towel.
I have been eyeing these super compact beach chairs for a while, but haven’t purchased them.

13. Baby Carrier (If baby in tow)
If you are toting a baby to the beach, I highly recommend a sturdy and breathable baby carrier like the Ergobaby 360, Cool Air Mesh. This will free up your hands to carry other items and help other children!

14. Life Jackets or Boogie Boards: (Optional)
Ensure your children’s safety in the water by bringing along appropriate floatation devices or life jackets. Even if your kids are proficient swimmers, having these extra safety measures can provide peace of mind, especially in rough or unfamiliar waters.

13. Beach Wagon or Stroller (Optional)
We have a wagon, but unless my husband is there to pull it, we never use it. I’ve determined you don’t need to overpack when you go to the beach.

Things to Keep in the Car:

When you make it back to the car, chances are everyone is hot and tired. Here are things I like to always have in the car.

1. Towels to wipe off sand or after the shower
2. Spare change of clothes
3. Ice cold water & a snack to enjoy on the car ride home (for mom and dad too)

With these essential items packed in your beach backpack (and in your car), you’re ready for a perfect beach day. From sun protection and hydration to comfort and convenience, these beach bag essentials ensure you’re fully prepared to enjoy every moment of your beach adventure with the kids. So grab your backpack, hit the shore, and get ready to make unforgettable memories under the sun!