- Slather on some sunscreen.
- Always stay hydrated.
- Keep yourself dry with beach towels.
- A first-aid kit is a must.
- Provide entertainment for your family.
Are you planning a beach vacation with your loved ones? Then make sure to pack the essentials before leaving home. It would be a shame to be deprived of a fantastic time because you did not have the necessary items. Here are five essentials that should accompany you on any beach vacation.
1. Sun Protection
It’s essential to protect yourself and your family from harmful UV rays while at the beach. Pack sun protection items such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and matching family swimsuits so everyone can enjoy the surf without worrying about getting burnt. Also, remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating heavily. The recommended SPF of your sunscreen should be at least 30. If you are unsure what type of sunscreen to buy, look for one labeled “broad-spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection.” Water-based sunscreen is also an excellent choice for a beach vacation, as it will not be too thick or sticky when you’re in the water
2. Refillable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is critical during any outdoor activity, especially when spending long days at the beach under direct sunlight. Make sure to bring a large, refillable water bottle for everyone in your family. Alternatively, you can fill up multiple smaller bottles that can easily fit in the cooler. There are water bottles that you can fold and roll up, making them easy to store and transport.
3. Swimsuits
Swimsuits are a must-have item for any beach vacation. Whether it’s a one-piece or bikini, choose something that is comfortable and offers sun protection. You can also opt for high-quality matching family swimsuits if you want your family to look super cute at the beach! This will ensure that you have the best family beach photos during your vacation.
4. First Aid Kit
It’s always recommended to have a first aid kit handy while going outdoors as it contains most of the items needed to take care of minor injuries such as cuts and scrapes. A basic first aid kit should include band-aids, antiseptic wipes/sprays, burn ointment, sunburn relief cream, and other items. Aside from those, you must also have insect repellant and medication for allergies. Allergies medications, in particular, are essential for those with a history of allergies.
5. Entertainment
Make sure to bring some entertainment for yourself and your family, such as books, magazines, board games, or even a small radio. This will help pass the time if you are stuck indoors due to inclement weather or too much sun exposure.
Here are some great entertainment ideas that you and your family will enjoy:
Inflatable pools and toys
Kids love being in the water, so pack a few inflatable pools or toys to play with. This will also give you time to relax and read your favorite book. However, it would help if you remembered that inflatable pools require extra care and maintenance, so follow the instructions before leaving home.
Card games
Card games are a great way to pass the time while spending quality time with family members. Pack a few card decks and enjoy fun, relaxing moments playing your favorite game. Some of the most popular card games are Uno, Poker, and Go Fish.
Scavenger hunts
These are certified hits among both adults and kids. Scavenger hunts are a great way to keep everyone entertained while discovering natural beauty. All you need is a list of items that can be found on the beach, such as shells, driftwood, or starfish. It would help if you also assigned prizes to the one who finds the most items.
Interesting board games
Board games never fail to entertain, so pack at least one that everyone can enjoy. Some great examples are Chess, Monopoly, and Jenga. One friendly reminder: only bring board games with so many pieces that they need their bag! Get ones that will surely spark fun and games into your family vacation.
Your e-book reader
Lastly, don’t forget to bring your e-book reader, as it is an invaluable source of entertainment. Before leaving home, you can pack a few books or download them directly from the store. One great thing about e-book readers is that they don’t take up much space and can last for days without needing to be recharged.
Final Words
So there you have it — five essentials you should never forget while packing for a beach vacation with your loved ones. With these items in tow, you can rest assured that everyone in your family will have an enjoyable time at the beach! Have fun!
