Family Beach Trip Packing List and Tips: A BOB Gear Guide

For families who love getting outside together, a beach trip is often the highlight of the summer. From collecting shells to making sandcastles, there are so many fun beach activities that can turn into cherished family memories. Before you hit the waves, you’ll need to make sure you’re fully prepared for your trip with all the right gear for you and your crew. 

To help make your vacation smooth and memorable, we’ve created a family beach trip packing list and compiled 10 helpful tips for making the most of your time at the shore.  

Comprehensive Family Beach Trip Packing List  

Swimwear and Beach Necessities:  

  • Swimwear (bring extras!) 

  • Swimsuit cover-ups  

  • Swim diapers for little ones 

  • Beach footwear (like water shoes & flip-flops) 

  • Towels (the more, the better!) 

  • Extra-large towel or beach blanket to relax on  

  • Swim goggles  

  • Floatation devices for kids  

  • Wet/dry bags for transporting used towels & clothing 

  • Sand-proof beach bags 

  • Comfy beach chairs for both kids and adults  


Sun and Heat Protection:  

  • Sunscreen 

  • SPF lip balm 

  • Umbrella or beach tent (check the beach rules first) 

  • Sun hats 

  • Sunglasses  

  • Aloe vera or after-sun gel  

  • Bug spray  

  • Cooling towels, personal


Food & Beverage:  

  • Cooler with reusable ice packs 

  • Refillable, insulated water bottles (bring more water than you think you need!)  

  • Sippy cups, baby bottles, or kid-friendly drink containers 

  • Family-favorite snacks  

  • Pre-made sandwiches, wraps, or other quick-and-easy meals 

  • Trash bags for easy clean-up 


First-Aid:  

  • Adhesive bandages 

  • Antibiotic ointment  

  • Prescription medications  

  • Child-safe over-the-counter pain medications 

  • Hand sanitizer  

  • Wipes and paper towels  

  • Baby powder or other rash/chaffing relief  

 
Clothing & Extras:  

  • Weather-appropriate outfits for activities, dining out, and taking family photos  

  • Workout clothes for beach runs  

  • Ample socks & underwear for the whole family (this one can be easy to forget!)  

  • Sleepwear  

  • Comfortable shoes for activities like mini golf or family dining  

  • Toiletries for the whole family 

  • Waterproof phone bags or pouches 

  • Cash for vendors or local activities 

  • Baby essentials: diapers, wipes, pacifiers, changing pads, baby food, formula, pump, etc. 


Gear & Fun:  

  • Sand and water toys  

  • Beach-friendly games (balls, frisbees, badminton, etc.) 

  • Portable speaker  

  • Card and board games for downtime indoors 

  • Beach-friendly stroller: All BOB Gear® jogging strollers feature air-filled, all-terrain tires designed to glide effortlessly across sandy beaches. 

  • Phones, tablets, chargers, and headphones 

  • Books, magazines, and/or activity books 

  • Comfort items like pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals  

Top 10 Tips for Beach Days With Little Ones 

Now that you’re all packed and ready for some sand and sun, here are 10 tips to help make your beach vacation more enjoyable:  

  1. Prioritize Safety: Always listen to lifeguards and follow all posted rules. Check the beach warning flags each day to ensure that it’s safe to swim.  

  2. Take Midday Breaks: Go back to your hotel or condo for a few hours during the day or find an air-conditioned mall or restaurant where you can take a break from the heat and sun. 

  3. Sunscreen on Repeat: Set a timer on your phone as a reminder to put on more sunscreen at regular intervals. Be sure to apply thoroughly! 

  4. Stay Hydrated: Drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated and cool. 

  5. Time it Right: Beaches can get packed during the middle of the day, so opt for an early or late start to avoid the crowd. 

  6. Pack Extra Everything: It never hurts to have additional swimsuits, dry outfits, towels, sunscreen, snacks, and water on hand.  

  7. Bring a Beach-Friendly Stroller: Not all tires are designed for all terrains. BOB Gear jogging strollers have air-filled tires that are perfect for sandy beaches. Plus, the UPF 50+ canopies can help keep your child shaded and cool.  

  8. Be Smart About Sand: Baby powder and a small brush can help get the sand off your feet and legs before you get back in the car. You can also opt for a sand-free mat in place of a traditional beach towel. 

  9. Have a Backup Plan: Have a list of indoor activities prepared in case of inclement weather. 

  10. Be Present: Don’t take your vacation time for granted. Use this time to disconnect from work and other stressors, focusing on bonding and making memories with your little ones. Soak up every moment as you focus on what matters most. 

Beach Day, Best Day 

 From swimwear and snacks to sun protection and the right strollers, a little preparation goes a long way. With the right gear – including your trusted BOB Gear stroller – your next family beach trip can be relaxing, fun, and full of unforgettable memories. Now pack up, head out, and enjoy the sunshine, salty air, and ocean breezes. We’ll see you at the shore!  

 

Melissa Regalbuto