Packing: Beach Essentials for Mom and Toddler
My family and I just came back from the beach this weekend with my in-laws down in New Jersey. The water was still too cold for swimming, but the weather was perfect for beach bumming - breezy and not too hot. Now that summer is officially upon us I thought I'd share what I packed and hopefully save you some time & planning!
Let's start with this photo above of Chase's hands covered in sand and baby powder. For those of you who don't know this life hack: Baby Powder helps get sand off instantly! I learned this while packing last week and I'm thrilled to report that it really works. I started calling it "magic powder"! Chase would rub his eyes with his sandy hands which bothered him and all wet wipes did was waste time. I will never go to the beach (or sand box) without it from now on.
Many may brush off the 'First Aid Kit', but we did have a small incident where my husband cut his hand - so at minimum I suggest packing Band-Aids and Neosporin.
Clothing wise, I forgot to pack long sleeves. I just thought 'hot beach hot beach hot beach'. Fortunately my husband was better prepared and I was able to borrow his during the trip. You will likely come across an air conditioned environment or a chilly night time, so it's best to bring a couple layers. Thankfully I managed to pack my toddler a hoodie and long pants which came in handy. While we are on the topic of baby clothes - pack double what you plan to! Their clothes are so small anyway, it doesn't hurt to be prepared for anything.
When we travel with our toddler I always bring a baggie and leave it out within reach. He tends to get nauseous quite easily especially if he just had a meal (he threw up twice on the bus ride home). If you plan on going on a boat or long car ride - you can salvage everyone's clothes and seat by having this and lots of wipes out.
Last note - sun protection. I love the sunblock that you can spray - it's so easy to apply (especially on kids that don't sit still or can't be bothered) and applies much more evenly. Don't forget to cover your ears and feet and reapply every few hours. I also recommend a canopy if you are going with a family instead of lugging multiple umbrellas. Tip: I got Chase to wear his sunhat by telling him he can only play in the sand if he wears it!
Save this Check List - It's a printable image I made just for you!
Napping tip: Chase sleeps best if he eats and drinks after play time. Change them out of their swim diaper and put on normal ones - Chase once got a diaper rash because we didn't know that swim diapers don't breathe. Find or provide shade, then sneak on sunglasses since there are no black out shades on the open beach for a longer nap. Your little one will appreciate a small pillow if you can manage one (I used my spare dress and his small blanket). Now you can really kick back and relax!
If you're packing food - this chicken wing recipe and corn will be a crowd favorite for both kids and adults! My sister-in-law Linda is an amazing home cook and of course she would find this! From Bonappetit.com, serves 4 - marinade altogether for at least one hour or overnight and grill for 15-20 minutes on medium heat.
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1/4 chopped fresh oregano
- 1/4 chopped fresh rosemary
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- salt, pepper
- 2 pounds chicken wings
Now have a blast and make lots of memories!! Thanks for reading!
