Here is the ultimate family beach vacation packing list you need for the perfect day at the beach. Whether you are sipping a Pain Killer on the shores of White Bay in the British Virgin Islands or playing paddleball on the Florida coast, you will need the ultimate beach vacation packing list full of the essentials for the perfect day at the beach.

Plus, you can download the ultimate family beach day packing list PDF printable here so you won’t forget a thing.

You deserve a stress-free day at the beach, with the sun beating down on your beautiful face (covered in sunscreen, of course), your toes in the sand, and reading the perfect novel.

Socially distanced, of course.

Nowadays, a visit to the beach is the perfect way to enjoy a safe and memorable day with your family. The beach makes everything better. When you listen to the waves, inhale the salty air, and feel sand under your feet, it brings a feeling of peace and tranquility.

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While growing up on the east coast of Florida, I was always on my way to the beach. When we were young, the time of year did not phase us at all; we went 365 days out of the year. What I am getting at is that I have packed many bags for the beach.

The Ultimate Family Beach Vacation Packing List: Begin with a stylish beach bag full of sunny day must-haves.

Put your crossbody and bulky leather shoulder bag away and grab a colorful, lightweight, fashionable, yet practical beach bag. There are tons of totes to choose from, depending on your style and needs. I have two types: an adorable straw one and a more practical mesh bag with a bunch of pockets and a detachable cooler, and an ice pack. And if you need the hands-free style, here is a backpack option for you to check out.

Essentials to include on your family beach vacation packing list for your next escape to the coast.

A sign of the times: Add these pandemic supplies to your family beach vacation packing list.

• Comfortable masks for the whole family. These lightweight masks are the family’s favorite.
• Disinfectant wipes.
• Hand sanitizer.

Protect yourself.

The sun provides a dose of Vitamin D, which our body needs to absorb calcium and promote bone growth. However, the harmful rays of the sun can increase your risk for skin cancers, including melanoma. The sun also causes skin damage and premature aging. Plus, as you know, sunburns hurt.

• Pack sun protection. Make sure it is not expired. Re-apply often, meaning every 60-80 minutes and after swimming.
• Lip balm with SPF.
• Cool shades with UVA protection.
• Wear an oversized straw hat or a distressed trucker hat (my personal favorite).

• Pack hand sanitizer.
• Bug spray.
• Don’t forget aloe for after sun care.
• And a first aid kit.

What to pack in your beach day first aid kit.

Purchase a waterproof, air-tight container to hold all of the items in your first aid kit.

• Bandaids.
• Ace Wrap.
• Tape.
• Hydrocortisone Ointment.
• Benadryl Ointment.
• Antiseptic wash.
• Instant Ice Pack.
• Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen.
• Imodium.
• Tweezers.
• Epi-Pen if Concerned with Allergies.

Snacks and hydration.

Beach activities can bring on thirst and hunger, so be prepared, add these necessities to your family beach vacation packing list.

• A soft cooler full of cold drinks. **Do not bring glass bottles to the beach.**
• Grab-and-go, non-perishable, individual snacks such as pretzels, chips, popcorn, and cookies for a sweet treat.
• A simple picnic with sandwiches (meat and cheese on Hawaiian rolls, simple and kids love it) plus some cut up veggies and fruit.

Here is a super thorough post of top tips for packing a cooler like a pro.

Now on to swim essentials.

Pack a swimsuit that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Grab a cover-up.

**Ninja Mom Tip: Wear a modest cover-up that can double as a summer dress, pack some undergarments, and be on your way for an evening of fun straight from the beach.**

And don’t forget your flops.

Swim essentials for the littles to add to your family beach vacation packing list.

• Pack rash guards for the kids; this will keep them warm in the ocean and provide additional SPF.  
• The sand can be scorching. Water shoes are better for the kids if they can’t wear flip flops, yet.  
• And a cute beach hat for protection.
• Floaties for the littles. Here are the floatie favs for this family.

Beach essentials for family camp set up.

• Shade umbrella or beach tent.
• Fold up beach chairs.
• Snorkel gear. 
• Goggles.
• Littles can occupy themselves for hours with sand toys.

Invest in a Turkish towel; they are thin, lightweight, super-absorbent, yet quick-drying, and they take up way less space than a beach towel or beach blanket and serve the same purpose. You will be thankful to have more space for other essentials in your beach bag.

Tech and Toys to add to your family beach vacation packing list.

• Waterproof phone case or cover.
• Bring a portable phone charger.
• Waterproof and sand proof Bluetooth speakers are a must to listen to your summer beach jams playlist. 
• If you want to lose yourself in your tunes, bring your headphones or Air Pods.
• Your waterproof camera to capture the memories.
• If you are into reading at the beach, The Kindle Paperwhite is perfect. This device is now waterproof and has twice the storage, and the battery charge lasts weeks. I prefer an old fashioned hardback book.
• And for the kids, and the kids at heart, you must pack a beach football, paddleboard set, or a giant beach ball.  
• The beach is the perfect spot to fly a kite, too.  
• And, boogie boards are a blast for the older kids.

Beauty Essentials for Your Perfect Beach Bag.

• Hairbrush.
• Hair ties.
• Leave-in conditioner.
• Detangler.
• Dry oil spray.
• Sea Salt Spray.

For when your day is winding down.

• Baby powder is fantastic for getting that pesky sand off. Simply apply the baby powder to your skin and wipe the sand off.  
• Sand remover brushes, yes, this is a thing, and it is life-changing.
• Change of clothes.
• Waterproof bag for wet swimsuits. This is my favorite.
• Aftersun care with aloe, in case you get caught up in fun and forget to re-apply.

Family Beach Vacation Packing List: Safety Tips.

• Make sure wherever you go, there is a lifeguard on duty. Look for the lifeguard stands with a red tube hanging. You can’t miss it.
• Show the lifeguard stand to the kids and teach them to go there if they get lost.  
• Use a floatation device at all times for the littles, even if they are competent swimmers.
• THIS TIP IS OF UTMOST IMPORTANCE: Supervise your kids at all times, whether they are confident swimmers, wearing floaties, or a lifeguard is on duty.
• Respect the sea. Beaches provide flags for the tide, swim safety, and rip current warnings. Take appropriate precautions based on the signage.

• Keep your children close at all times; they can fall and get caught up in a wave in the blink of an eye.
• Apply sunscreen every 60-80 minutes and after swimming.  
• Hydrate all day long. Then hydrate some more.
• Don’t drink alcohol and swim.
• Bring shade; it gets so hot out there. You will need occasional respite.
• And tell your kids, “DO NOT throw sand.” Sand can cause eye injuries, even to people not involved in the sand fight.

Rip current safety; know before you go.

Rip current account for up to 80% of beach rescues. A rip current is a rush of water headed out to sea. If you get caught in a rip current, don’t fight it, swim parallel to the shore out of the current. If you can’t escape, float or tread water, and wave for the lifeguard.  

According to NOAA (National Oceanic & Atmospheric Association), a rip current is “not going to pull you underwater. It’s just going to pull you away from shore.” Lifeguards are fully aware and are watching for this exact situation. Wave and yell to let them know you need help. For a rip current survival guide, visit NOAA here. 

A few quick beach travel tips for you to keep in mind.

• Pack your bags and your vehicle the night before your road trip to the beach.
• Arrive at the beach early so you can grab the best spot, plus you will be able to park closer.
• Sunscreen. Use at least SPF 30. Make sure it is not expired. Re-apply often. Set the alarm to re-apply every 60-80 minutes.
• Rash guards are fantastic.
• Hydrate. Pack plenty of water for everyone. Freeze a few water bottles for ice and to drink when they defrost.
• Store your cellphone and keys in a ziplock bag to keep them dry and sand-free.
• Bring a trash bag and only leave footprints in the sand.
• Use a beach buggy to transport all of your stuff.
• If it is super hot, pack these towels.
• You will be happy you packed your bug spray. There are more bugs on the beach than you think, and many you can’t even see.  

Click here for instant access to the ultimate beach vacation checklist.

I think that covers all of the beach day essentials for a well-deserved relaxing day at the beach.  Well, except a cutie cabana boy with umbrella drinks, although I don’t think that would fit in your beach bag.

Is there anything special that you would add when heading out for the perfect day at the beach?

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