10 Must-Have Items For A Beach Vacation With Your Baby

Everyone loves a good beach holiday, but no one is more deserving of a relaxing vacation than a new parent. Once your little one is at least 6 months old and you’ve fully emerged from the bleary-eyed haze that is the newborn stage, enjoying a vacation together is absolutely in the cards. While an international trip that involves a long plane ride might be better saved for when your little one is at least a few years old, a beach vacation to somewhere within reasonable driving distance is a perfect way to relax and enjoy some sun and surf with your baby. Here’s our roundup of 10 must-have items if you’re planning a beach getaway with your family:

1. Toki Mats Picnic Blanket in Epic Size

Made from soft, quilted organic cotton that’s been treated with a water-repellent coating, this picnic blanket covers a 60 x 84” area for your family to lounge on the sand. Say goodbye to sand-covered towels that flap every which way in the ocean breeze, and enjoy the sound of the waves on this comfortable blanket that’s perfect for laying, eating, and soaking up the sunshine.

2. Beach Puddle

Even the gentlest of waves can be overwhelming for a baby, especially if yours isn’t yet steady on their feet. This clever product creates a little puddle in the sand for your little one to enjoy playing in the water in an undisturbed area that’s away from the actual ocean. Once you’re done using the Beach Puddle, simply rinse it clean and hang to dry before storing it in its bucket bag.

3. UV Skinz Sun & Swim Suit

Protect your baby’s delicate skin from harmful UV rays with this full body swimsuit. With a UPF 50+ rating, this soft, stretchy swimwear keeps your little one well-protected and super comfortable. A full front zipper closure makes diaper changes a breeze, even when the suit is wet, so you don’t have to fuss with wet, clinging fabric when your baby is crying. 

4. UV Skinz Swim Flap Hat

This UPF 50+ swim hat blocks over 98% of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays, so you don’t have to worry about protecting your baby’s face while outside. An elastic back allows the hat to fit comfortably on the head without slipping, while a neck flap at the back provides comprehensive neck and ear coverage. Designed to protect every part of your little one’s head and neck, this hat is a clever and comfortable way to prevent sunburn. 

5. Primary Swim Diaper

Why go disposable when you can go reusable? This super soft swim diaper has plenty of comfortable stretch while staying securely fitted for all-day play. Constructed from recycled materials and made to be UPF 50+,  this reusable swim diaper effectively contains waste, so you can avoid any potty mishaps. Just remember, swim diapers are not designed to contain liquids, so keep the regular diapers on during the car ride!

6. The California Beach Co. Pop N’ Go Playpen

Sunburn is an obvious concern when it comes to being at the beach, and your baby’s sensitive skin is extra vulnerable to UV rays. Even if you’re generous with the sunscreen, having a safe, shaded area is important to avoid overheating. This lightweight playpen effortlessly assembles with one hand and offers plenty of room for your baby to crawl, walk, play, or rest. An SPF 50 UV cover keeps the harsh rays off of your little one, while the mesh sides allow plenty of visibility and ventilation. 

7. Cotopaxi Hielo 24L Cooler Backpack

This giant cooler can be worn as a backpack for convenience, keeps food fresh and drinks cold, and is stylishly colorful. A bucket style opening makes it easy to reach in and grab what you need, while a top accessory pocket stores your phone, wipes, or whatever else you need to carry. Padding on the back and shoulder straps, and built-in carry handles on all sides make this one-of-a-kind cooler super comfortable to take along to the beach.

8. BEAU JARDIN Folding Beach Wagon

Going to the beach with a baby means you’re going to be hauling a million and one things, so a wagon can make your experience a thousand times better. This folding wagon is made for rough terrain, including sand, and wheels smoothly

9. Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair

Voted the best beach chair by many, this folding chair can be worn as a backpack, and adjusts to 5 reclining positions (it even lays flat!). If you nurse your baby, it’s far more comfortable to have a supportive seat with a back. Made from lightweight, rustproof aluminum, this beach chair features an adjustable pillow, an insulated storage pouch, a cell phone holder, a cup holder, and folding towel bar. 

10. Guava Lotus Travel Crib

Safe sleep doesn’t have to stop just because you’re traveling. This ultra light travel crib weighs in at only 13 lbs, folds down to a compact size and fits in its backpack-style carrier, and features a side zip panel so you can easily access your baby without throwing out your back. Your little one can use it for sleep, play, or whenever they need a safe space.