Summer is here and beach days are a must for young babies and kids! A day at the beach is a sensory-packed experience that's perfect for kids and adults alike – the fresh air, salty water, and warm sun on your face just bring back so many happy memories. It is the closest feeling to being on a holiday without being on holidays. We’re so lucky in Australia to have so many great beaches to visit!

To make beach outings a breeze, I've created an easy beach bag checklist that you can print off and keep in your beach bag. Here's what you'll need:

In Your Beach Bag:

• Beach towels: nothing fancy is required, but Turkish towels tend to be less bulky. Hooded towels for kids are cute and keep them warm once they're out of the water.
• Beach first-aid kit: opt for a clear wet purse so you can see everything inside. Pack band-aids, hair ties, lip balm, hand sanitiser, emergency saline drops (in case your baby gets sand in their eyes), any necessary medications, insect repellent (those pesky beach flies!), aloe vera, and talc-free baby powder for easy sand removal. Don't forget the sunscreen and a makeup brush – check out our hack for applying sunscreen to toddlers.
• Swim pouch: pack in a wet bag disposable or reusable swim nappies (these nappies don't absorb water, so they're much more comfortable for kids when they're playing in the water. The main goal is to hold any poop they might do while at the beach). Pack spare swimmers or rash vests too.
• Swim vest or floaties: for older babies and kids, these provide safety and support while around water.
• Sunhats: I find the best toddler sun hats have a neck flap for extra protection and a strap that goes around the chin, so it stays on.
• Toys in a mesh bag: this keeps them as sand-free as possible. Bring your kids' favourite sand and water-resistant toys, such as trucks, sand moulds, buckets, watering cans, and spades.

In Your Nappy Bag:

• Phone or camera: don't forget to capture those beautiful sweet moments in between the stress of setting up and packing down.
• Keys: you can't go anywhere without these! Just bring your car keys and keep them somewhere safe, like the key clip in your nappy backpack. The last thing you want to do is dig around in the sand for misplaced keys – trust me, I've done this before and it's not fun for anyone.
• Dry clothes pouch: pack a dry outfit and undies for each child in a medium packing pouch. This pouch can also be used for wet bathers later.
• Water bottles: hydration is key on a warm or hot day.
• Milk or formula: hydration is especially important for babies.
• Snacks: I've never met a toddler who could go without snacks on an outing. Cut fruit like watermelon, oranges, and strawberries are great! And if you know you'll need something more substantial, make a few sandwiches. Just be sure to bring foods that will handle the heat well.
• Rubbish bag: a place to throw all the rubbish away. Beaches and parks in Australia usually require you to take your rubbish home with you.
• Waterproof Tote: large enough to fit all your wet towels and clothes. Dump everything dirty in here at the end of the day, and sort it out once home in front of the laundry. Keep your belongings dry and protected with our fold-up tote bag.

Optional Extras:

• Beach trolley: these make the trip out of the car to the beach much easier, especially when you're lugging kids around. They can also double as a place for babies or kids to sleep in once they're emptied. And when it's time to leave, just throw everything back in and sort it out at the car. Toss your beach bag and food bag in here, along with:
• Shade or tent: really important to have even if the sun isn't at its hottest. Babies and kids need to be protected from the sun, especially when they're young.
• Beach chairs or umbrella: bring these for comfort and shade.
• Waterproof rug: a large blanket is useful for sitting on and keeping sand at bay.
• Portable change mat: this all-in-one portable changing station also holds the nappies, creams and disposable nappy bag.

Before you go:

• Pack your bags the night before and make a list of everything you need to bring.
• Apply sunscreen to your kids before you leave the house. It's best to do it first thing in the morning before they're dressed. You can get them ready in their swim gear once you arrive at the beach.
• Set a reminder to reapply sunscreen at the beach. Keep in mind that babies under 6 months of age shouldn't use sunscreen, so make sure to choose a cream that is suitable for kids and adults.
• Get dressed in your swim gear before you leave the house so you're ready to go as soon as you get to the beach. All you'll need to do is get your kids ready.
• Feed your kids (and yourself) before you leave the house. This will help prevent any whining or grumpiness due to hunger while you're at the beach. Pack some snacks for the car ride or walk to the beach too.
• Practice setting up your shade or tent beforehand so you know what you're doing once you're at the beach. This will also help you pack it up quickly when it's time to leave.
• Prepare any food and drinks the night before so they're ready to go in the food bag. Don't forget to pack a couple of rubbish bags too.
• Keep an emergency bag in your car with sunscreen, a spare towel, spare clothes, and nappies. This will come in handy if you forget anything or decide to take a spontaneous trip to the beach.

I hope this beach bag checklist helps make your beach days with baby and toddler a little easier! Don't forget to have fun and create some unforgettable memories.

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