When you and your partner went on trips, packing was a bit stressful. But the best part is, you both knew what you wanted to bring. Now that you’ve got children, that might be a whole lot different. You might also be wondering then what you should pack on your first trip ever to the beach with your little ones? This article will help you discover everything you need to know about packing for your little one’s first time at the shore. But first, let’s start this article by discussing why it is such a big deal when traveling with your kids.
Your Child’s Skin Is Sensitive
A baby’s skin is ten times thinner than an adult’s, making it more vulnerable to the elements. Just a few seconds in water can lead to rashes and other unfortunate problems. So when you’re at the beach with your baby, make sure to pack your baby’s lotion, baby hooded towels, or beach towels made explicitly for infants. Not only will these items provide comfort, but they also assure your baby’s safety.
Additionally, make sure you get some sunscreen appropriate for children. Do not assume that your child is safe from the UV rays because you are at the beach. The sun’s harmful rays are still present even if it’s cloudy or raining, so be sure to use sunscreen on your child during your trip.
Be aware of other common dangers when traveling with your little ones, such as jellyfish and stingrays. These are dangerous, so make sure that you wear protective footwear when wading in the water.
Pack Comfortable Shoes
If you plan to walk on the sand, make sure that your child has comfortable shoes. You can bring sneakers or sandals because loose footwear can get stuck between sand grains and damage their little feet. Also, consider bringing a towel so that they don’t have to walk barefoot through the sand back to your beach chair, especially when it’s particularly hot out.
Prepare for Changing Needs
One of the most critical aspects of your child’s safety while at the beach is ensuring they have access to clean diapers. Just think about this: if you’re baby needs a diaper change right away and you don’t have any with you, what are you going to do? You can’t leave them on the beach unattended, so be sure that you bring your stash of diapers and some diaper changing pads for this reason.
Keep in mind that while most beaches have changing tables (or even more expensive baby cabanas), you can’t count on them being there at all times. So be prepared just in case your services are needed urgently.
Pack Snacks and Water
The last thing you need is for your child to get dehydrated because they have diarrhea or are vomiting. So make sure you pack plenty of drinks for both yourself and your child, especially if the water is colder than usual. Make sure to bring some snacks during the road trip to the beach, especially when you live a few hours from the beach. Also, consider packing snacks that are easy to eat, like banana chips, instead of something messy like hot dogs that will get stuck in their hair or clothing.
Don’t Forget the Beach Toys
What are some excellent beach toys to bring? It depends on your child’s age. For babies, you might want to get some floating arches, pop-up balls, and rubber duckies, so they have something durable yet safe to play with in the water.
If your child is older or too big for baby toys but isn’t ready for a football or other heavy equipment yet, try bringing some water guns and pails. You can even get an inflatable pool that you can hang on the back of your beach chair to keep them entertained.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
While the vast majority of people who go to the beach return unharmed, there are certain possible emergencies you might run into. Keep this in mind when packing your first trip to the shore with your children.
Decide whether you or someone else will be checking on the kids every hour or so if they’re playing in deeper waters. Also, bring a first aid kit in case of emergencies. You can’t be too prepared when it comes to your child’s safety, especially when they’re in strange surroundings like the beach.
Keep close to the lifeguard too. They’ll be the first people who will try to keep your little ones safe in case of danger or call for additional help when needed. You don’t want to assume that they or you will be the first ones to notice if your child gets swept under by a powerful wave.
What should you bring with you when going to the beach for the first time? The last thing a parent wants is something happening and not having what they need on hand, so planning is essential. Pack plenty of water, snacks, diapers, comfortable shoes or sandals, depending on where your child will be playing in the sand (or sea), and sunscreen. Be sure to check every hour while at the beach too. You never know when an emergency might happen. Now you’re all set for that first beach trip you’ve been looking forward to.
