1. Remove sand easily with baby powder

Baby powder is a lifesaver for getting sand off! Just sprinkle it on the affected areas and wipe it off. Make sure to use talc-free powder though. I like to keep my powder in a machine washable wet bag, because it can get pretty messy.

2. Apply sunscreen to your toddler using a makeup brush

Seriously, it is a game changer. Just paint the sunscreen on and you'll be able to get into all the hard-to-reach spots. My toddler even likes to use the brush to apply it to herself.

3. Keep hair salt-free by applying conditioner before swimming

Trust me, trying to comb through sandy, salty hair is a nightmare. This is a hack I learnt during my very short surfing stint: comb through some conditioner before you hit the water, it'll coat your strands and make it so much easier to wash out the salt later.

4. Bring a waterproof tote to make pack-up a breeze

Find a big enough tote to fit all your wet towels and clothes, and then just dump everything in there at the end of the day. You can sort it out once home in front of the laundry instead of dealing with it all at the beach.

5. Create a sand-free play area using a fitted sheet

Just turn a fitted sheet upside down, hold down each corner with a heavy bag, and boom - instant pop-up play area for your little on to crawl around in without getting covered in sand.

6. Freeze snacks the night before

Frozen pureed fruit pouches, yoghurt, or juice boxes make for a refreshing snack at the beach. You can also freeze a few bottles of water to use as ice packs to keep other snacks and drinks cool.

7. Go hands-free with a backpack

There's nothing worse than lugging all of your gear to the beach on one shoulder! Pack everything you need - changing essentials, first-aid kit, spare clothes, wet bags, snacks - in a nappy backpack, and you'll be set.

8. Don't forget the saline drops

I always bring emergency saline drops for when pesky sand gets into the kids eyes! Just be sure to consult with a medical professional before using them.

9. Baby carriers are a game changer

Not only do they keep your hands free, but they also keep your little one safe and close to you. Plus, you can even go in the water with your baby strapped on - just make sure the carrier is machine washable or water-friendly.

10. Frozen washcloths are a must

Freeze some damp washcloths in a zip. lock bag and you can use them as ice packs to keep your baby cool, or to clean up any messes. Great for teething babies too!

11. Make a DIY body mist

Fill a spray bottle with cold water and spritz your little one if they start getting flushed.

12. Use a mesh bag to store toys

Mesh bags are great for keeping your toys sand-free. Most beach toys come with one, so hang onto it and use it to store your buckets, spades and other beach gear.

13. Bring a baby pool

Handy to have a small space that is safe for bubs to play in, or even big kids. They can be in the shade and still have water play. The water will be nice and warm too! These are great as they’re usually just a fold up or blow up so they don’t take up too much space. I’ve also seen other parents just bring along a plastic tub with handles that doubles up as a carry for all things instead of a beach trolley.

14. Invest in a beach trolley

If you’re lucky enough to have one, a beach trolley can be a lifesaver for transporting all of your gear to and from the beach. It can also double up as a space for bubs or kids to sleep in once emptied!

15. Keep a spare beach bag in the car

You never know when you are going to stumble across a beautiful beach spot or be offered a spontaneous afternoon by someone's pool! Keep a bag in the car loaded up . Besides, it is always great to have spares just in case you forget something in the chaos of getting out & about!

16. Pack first-aid essentials in a clear bag

My top 6 first aid essentials for the beach are:

• waterproof band-aids
• eye drops or saline solution
• hand sanitiser
• aloe vera
• cold packs
• sunscreen

Pack them in a clear zip purse to keep sand-free and easy to see.

17. Set a sunscreen re-application alarm

It is so easy to forget to re-apply sunscreen, so set your re-application alarms before you leave home!

18. Pack a portable changing mat

A portable changing mat is a handy item to have when you're out and about with a baby or toddler. It provides a clean and hygienic surface for nappy changes, and it's easy to pack in your beach bag.

19. Bring a beach umbrella or beach cabana

Really important to have even if the sun isn’t out, you can still receive damaging UV rays even on cloudy days. Tent, Umbrella or sun shade? The great debate! Whatever is your personal choice and that is easy to set up with kids hanging off you I say. I have a great shade that’s super easy to set up and pack down and easily fits 4 people. Open on all sides so I don’t feel like I am blocking anyone's view when I set up the monstrosity.

I hope these hacks help make your next beach trip with your little ones a breeze! Have fun and stay cool.

Content disclaimer:

The information and other content provided in this blog, or in any linked materials, should not be construed as medical advice and it is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author's employer, organisation, committee or other group or individual.