Our first beach vacation as a family of four (a couple of years ago) included a not-quite-3 year old and a newborn in tow. We spent a few days on Cape Cod with family, with full days on the beach. I have never been one to spend tons of time in the sun (hi, pale skin). At the time the baby wasn’t even two months old (I think he was maybe five weeks?). I was a little nervous about the trip, but it went so well that this year we actually planned a beach vacation for when our third baby will be just 6 weeks old. Keep reading to find out what you need to pack for a family beach vacation with a baby!
What to pack for a family beach vacation with a baby
I was so happy that I decided last minute to buy this beach pop up baby dome infant tent, because it came in handy. I wasn’t sure where I’d put the baby down to change him or while he was asleep, and the bubble was exactly what we needed. (It folds down flat for easy transport.)
We brought a clip on fan for some added breeze, though our beach days were breezy and lovely anyway. The one thing I forgot to bring to the beach was a blanket. I ended up having to wrap him in my sweatshirt because it got a bit too breezy at one point! Next time I’ll bring a muslin blanket in the beach bag.
Our beach tent of choice is this one. It has enough shade for 3 of us at a time, and I even moved the bubble in there so I could nap close to the baby. I will warn you that in heavy wind the tent is not easy to set up by yourself. (There was one day a few years ago when my sister and I tried to set it up ourselves on a very windy beach day, and it didn’t go so well…) BUT other than that, it’s a great tent.
Family beach vacation must haves
Beach hat and UPF50 swim suit with long sleeves
SPF50 sunscreen | Beach tent and beach bubble
Hooded towels for the kids | Cute whale towel
Mesh beach bag lets all the sand fall out! (Plus zipper mesh bags for the kids to keep their shells and other treasures that they want to take back with them.) Pack an extra set of clothes for each child, plus diapers and wipes. You’ll also want to pack baby powder or cornstarch to take off sand. And don’t forget a wet bag to contain the wet swimsuits!
And then add a wagon to carry everything!
On our next beach trip, I’m going to try the fitted sheet trick (to keep out sand). I will share how that goes!
Now, some FAQs about a beach trip with kids:
Can I take an infant to the beach?
Yes, of course! Our pediatrician told us not to use sunscreen before 6 months. That’s why I wanted to make sure we had the right beach gear to keep the baby out of the sun and comfortable on the beach. If you do bring an infant to the beach, make sure you have plans for shade the entire time you’re there.
What should I bring to the beach for a 1 year old?
You don’t need a ton of stuff! A beach pail and shovel, a big sun hat, some extra clothes to change into, beach towels, a tent or beach umbrella, swim diaper(s). If you’re feeling adventurous, a small pop up pool would be fun.
What are the best snacks to take to the beach?
Some of my favorites are chips (Cape Cod chips, to be exact), pretzels, juice boxes, pre-cut apples with peanut butter, fruit snacks, and pouches for the little ones. Stay away from anything that can easily melt!
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