If you love the beach, it’s exciting to take your baby to the beach for the first time. Your baby may love the beach, but may be scared of it at first. You will experience the sand, the waves and the general beach atmosphere together. Some babies don’t like these new textures and may find the ocean scary, but it really depends on your child’s personality. Rosebud had no fear and was eager to explore. Our first trip to the beach was fun, but the packing was daunting because when you’re bringing kids to the beach, it may feel like you are packing for a week long vacation. That’s why I’ve created this guide to simplify packing for you. Here is a list of the essential items for your baby’s beach bag.
Beach Bag
A good beach bag is a must. I use a clear jelly beach bag that is quite large and can hold most of what we need. I couldn’t find the exact one, but here are some similar bags.
Sunscreen
You definitely will need sun screen if your baby is over six months of age. I chose to use Blue Lizard because it is natural and not too sticky or oily when you put it on. The options for sun screen are endless, so it’s worth doing some research. Here is EWG’s list of best scoring sunscreens for kids to get you started.
Don’t forget sunscreen for yourself as well.
If your baby is under six months, it is recommended that you do not use sunscreen. You’ll want to use a seat or stroller with a canopy.
Check out this list of 6 best strollers for rocky or sandy beaches.
Life Jacket
If your baby goes in the water with you, you’ll definitely want to keep them safe. Rosebud used one of these. She was around 18 months and was walking when I took her for the first time. I put her life jacket on her and we held hands the whole time we were in the water. I just wanted her to experience the waves and getting her feet wet. We did not go out very far. Although, she kept trying to walk out further where some bigger kids where playing. She had no fear.
If your baby is not walking yet or you feel more comfortable baby wearing, you’ll definitely want to check out this list of the best baby carriers to use in water.
Sunglasses
I always have sunglasses with me, so Rosebud brings hers with her most of the time as well, whether she needs them or not, but they are helpful on bright sunny days.
Hat
A hat is essential to keep your baby’s head safe from the sun.
Food and Drink
Water Bottle
Hydration is so important. Especially in extremely hot weather. Be sure to bring water bottles for everyone. It’s recommended that baby’s not be given water until they are at least six months of age.
Bottle Holder
If you are breast-feeding, you won’t need this, but if you are using formula or pumped milk, you’ll want something to keep those bottles cold. I like this bottle holder because it’s big enough for two bottles and comes with an ice pack.
Lunch and or Snacks
Depending on how long you are at the beach, you’ll want something to eat.
You could bring a cooler for drinks, a picnic basket with sandwhiches or a variety of snacks that are easy to eat on the go.
What to Wear
Bathing Suitt
Diapers or Little Swimmers
Water Shoes
Be sure not to forget changes of clothes.
Beach Towels
Blanket
Totally optional, but a blanket is a good choice if you don’t want the extra bother of bringing chairs.
Comfortable chairs
Toys for Sand Play
Phone or Camera to Take Picturess
You’ll want to document your baby’s first trip to the beach or pool. This works best if there are extra sets of hands to capture all the fun. The whole point of these trips for me are to unplug and get away from the phone, but I had to take some pictures.
If you can get a break from supervision duties, bring a book and relax. If you need some book suggestions, check out this list of top beach bag reads for moms by the Confused Housewife.
I know trips to the pool or to the beach may be limited this summer depending on your loacation and restrictions due to covid, but if you are going to the beach this summer, I hope you find this list helpful. Most of all, enjoy this time with your baby or toddler. Are there any essential beach items I missed? Tell me in the comments.