With the summer sun shining bright and school out for a few months, it's officially beach vacay season! If you're anything like me, the thought of packing for a family beach adventure can be both exciting and mildly terrifying – especially when you're responsible for not only your own stuff but the endless list of "essentials" for your little ones. But worry not! I have done the heavy lifting for you.
After scouring the internet, trying, and testing a plethora of products, I’ve compiled the ultimate list of must-haves to make your beach trip both fun and stress-free.
Ready to dive in? Listen to today's episode HERE and keep scrolling for more info about every item on my family beach vacay must-have list...
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1. Mesh Beach Bag: Sandproof & Stylish 🏖️
Gone are the days of sandy belongings! This foldable tote is your beach bestie – it’s durable, sandproof, and has ample room for towels, sunscreen, toys, and more. With its effortless portability, say goodbye to sandy, waterlogged bags. Rated 4.9 stars on Amazon. Grab one HERE!
2. Simple Modern Rubber Bag: All-in-One Marvel 👜
Why stop at one bag? This spacious, waterproof rubber bag can carry everything from towels and snacks to those little trinkets your kids will undoubtedly collect. It’s perfect for pool days, soccer practice, and of course, the beach. Featuring a cozy shoulder strap and a 4.8-star rating! Add to cart HERE!
3. Oversized Sunnies from The Fresh: Glam & Protective 🕶️
Ladies, shield those precious eyes! These oversized sunglasses block almost 100% of UVA and UVB rays, keeping you chic and protected. Plus, with a 4.5-star rating, these durable, stylish shades promise endless seaside glamour. Get your own sunnies HERE!
4. WeeFarers Sunglasses for Kids: Adorable & Durable 🌟
Our little ones deserve top-notch eye protection too. These kids' sunglasses blend style, comfort, and durability with shatterproof lenses and UV protection. They’ve got a stellar 4.8-star rating on Amazon! Check out HERE!
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5. Sun Hats: For Both Moms & Minis 🌞
Keep your skin safe with a lightweight, breathable, and packable sun hat. They offer substantial shade and adjust for any hairstyle. Kids’ versions feature UPF 50+ protection, ensuring they stay covered from harmful rays. Mom’s hat is rated 4.5 stars, while the kiddo’s version boasts a 4.7-star rating.
6. Ultra-Absorbent Towels: Thin Yet Mighty 🛁
Say hello to your new favorite beach towels! They’re thin but super absorbent, oversized for ample coverage, and lightweight for easy packing. These towels have a solid 4.5-star rating and are perfect for every family adventure. Check 'em out HERE.
7. Crocs: Comfort Meets Practicality 🦶
Love them or hate them, Crocs are a beach essential. Whether it’s the trendy platform strappy sandals for moms or the classic design for kids, these slip-resistant, water-friendly shoes are a hit. Both pack a punch with high ratings – 4.5 and 4.8 stars respectively! Get Crocs for mom HERE and kids HERE.
Listen to this podcast episode on Spotify.
8. Cover-Ups: Chic & Sun Safe 👘
Every mom needs a versatile cover-up. This kimono-style beauty is lightweight, breathable, and perfect for throwing over your swimsuit. Similarly, the ruffle butt seersucker cover-up for kiddos is a game-changer. These have been family favorites, rated highly at 4.6 and 4.8 stars. Grab yours HERE and your kiddo's HERE.
9. Big Joe Noodle Sling Float: Relax in Style 🛶
Who needs a pool float you have to inflate and reinflate? This beanbag-style noodle float, perfect for mom, offers the ultimate relaxation. Meanwhile, the kids can pick from super-fun options like a narwhal or unicorn float. Both are highly rated and perfect for a lazy beach day. Get mom's float HERE and the kiddo's noodle float HERE.
10. Portable Beach Cabana: Shade & Relaxation ⛺
Transform your beach day with this easy-to-setup canopy. Offering adjustable height and angle for customized shade, this cabana ensures you stay cool and comfortable. It’s rated 4.7 stars and is a must-have for those long beach outings. Get your own HERE.
11. Water Buffalo Beach Chair: Sit in Comfort 🪑
Forget uncomfortable beach seating. These chairs are lightweight, easy to carry, and come with a built-in cup holder. With 4.5 stars and a feature in Men’s Journal, they promise ultimate comfort. For kids, the Home Vaidive folding beach chair is a hit, with backpack straps and vibrant colors. Get the Water Buffalo Beach Chair HERE and/or the Homevative Kids Folding Chair HERE.
12. HydraPeak Adventure Insulated Water Bottle: Stay Hydrated 🚰
This half-gallon insulated bottle keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours. Its durable construction and leak-proof design make it beach-perfect. Rated 4.7 stars, it’s the ultimate hydration companion for hot summer days. Get it HERE!
☀️ Are you headed to the beach? I'd love to hear about your fave destination and whether you'll be packing along any of these must-haves!
Favorite resources for listeners:
- Instacart for grocery delivery - use code KFARMER39312D to get $10 off your first order.
- Qube for managing your family spending plan - use code SECRETMOMHACKS to get two months free.
- Herbaly wellness tea for my daily cuppa.
- HOKA for moms on the run.
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Listen to these episodes next:
- Planning your international family vacation with Wanderlust Mama & Co's Debora Dielingen | Ep. 57
- How to travel with kids and set self care boundaries with mompreneur Kia Jarmon | Ep. 6
- Swim safety: How to keep your kids safe with Coach Dana + finding the best swim vest for kids | Ep. 24
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Stay refreshed, inspired, and hopeful, friend. You’ve got this!
Warmly,
-Krista-
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