Nobody loves the beach more than a toddler! Sand to throw? Check. Water to splash in? Check. Snacks, sun and room to run? Check and check.
But there is nothing worse than getting to the beach and realizing that you forgot to pack something essential. It can ruin the entire day!
Here is the ultimate beach bag checklist for toddlers.
Sun protection
Sun safety is SO IMPORTANT. No body wants a burnt baby.
Baby/toddler sunscreen (mineral, SPF 50)
Opt for a mineral sunscreen if you are worried about the chemicals in a regular sunscreen. Thinkbaby has our favourite mineral sunscreen for kids, it's 50SPF and smells amazing.
UPF swim shirt or rash guard
Hate reapplying sunscreen all day? Grab a sun-proof shirt or suit to keep them safe all day long. And if you're still in diapers, get a sun-proof swimsuit that has snaps along the bottom for easy changing.
Wide-brim sun hat with chin strap
Protect their face and scalp with a UPF hat. Opt for a sun hat with a neck flap to protect their face and the back of their neck.
Pop-up beach tent or UPF beach shade
Creating shade with a pop-up tent not only protects them from the sun but it also helps them to stay cool.
Water & swim
Swim diaper
DO NOT use regular diapers when swimming. They will saturate with water, become heavy and a safely hazard. Always use a swim diaper when playing in or around water.
Water shoes (for hot sand and sharp shells)
I don't know about oyu but i swear my toddler feels no pain on his shoes. He stomps through absolutely anything. That doesn't mean he doesn't get cuts, scraps sliver and burns though! A solid pair of baby water shoes protects his feet even if he doesn't actually care (I care.)
Comfort & sand control
Beach blanket that repels sand (sand-proof mat)
Stop taking so much sand home with you after the beach! Grab a sand-proof beach blanket that's big enough for the entire family to share.
Sand toys set (bucket, shovel, molds)
Keep them busy with a great set of beach toys.
Beach wagon or cart for hauling gear
Save your back and stop hauling everything by hand. A beach wagon with balloon wheels makes the trip from your car to the beach much easier, especially if you are the only adult.
Practical extras
Insulated cooler bag
Keep your sandwiches and and beverages cool during even the hottest days. Hot tip! Pack some damp clothes in your insulated cooler for a quick and cool way to refresh yourselves.
Reusable water bottle with straw
Stay hydrated mamas! I already know you'll pack water bottles for your babies, but don't forget to pack one for yourself too.
Large Ziplock bags (wet swimsuits, shells, trash)
This is one of those beach hacks that changes the game. Use one for garbage, and one for wet swimsuits at the end of the day.
Snack & feeding
Snack cups with lids (spill-proof)
A day at the beach isn't the same without a ample amount of snacks, preferably in a spill-proof snack spinner.
