Beach days. They sound luxurious and easy going, but not going to the beach prepared can leave you feeling straight up depressed about your visit to the beach! I agree that sand stuck in hair and crevices is annoying, but having a beach day should be so much more than that and it can be. Follow along as I tell you how I prepare for going to the beach, with or without kids!
Pick a Day
A pretty simple step, pick a day where nothing is on the schedule. I prefer going during the week to avoid larger crowds, but know there will still be crowds! Look ahead at the weather and if kids are involved, prepare them with the unexpected rain plan.
Book/Journal
If you really want to just lay out on your towel and soak up the sun, with an occasional dip in the water, bring a book or journal with you. Just laying around can get boring, especially if you're not used to being still, yoga masters you're probably good. I can get really inspired when I hear the waves crashing, seagulls squawking and wind blowing so journaling is always a great idea. Reading is great in the early mornings at the beach when there still aren't too many people.
Snacks/Lunch/Water
Whether you plan to just be there for an hour or all day, bringing food and water is always a good idea. When we are playing out in the water and hot sun, our stomachs get really hungry, as our bodies are working hard! It doesn't have to be a full picnic, especially if you have lunch waiting at home, but a snack for the car ride back is always a good thought.
Fitted Sheet/Towels/Chairs
Grab an old fitted sheet, beach towels and chairs for the lounging/picnic part of your trip. See the next item for how great old fitted sheets are when at the beach and how to use them to their full potential!
Coolers/Bags
At the very least I like to bring 4 bags/coolers to place on the inside corners of our fitted sheet. It creates a lounge area with partial barriers to keep unwanted sand at bay. The bags and coolers are also going to be necessary for storing your snacks and beverages, but also your backup clothing, towels and sun protectant. I also like bringing an extra towel and bucket to fill with water so those sandy feet can get rinsed before sitting in the blanket for a snack or reading break.
Umbrella/Sunscreen/Hats
These are excellent items to think of packing to keep you safe from the sun. The beach is a much more fun experience when you've got some shade and escape from the heat.
Beach Toys
Buckets, shovels, even just some plastic or tin plates and cups to help in assisting you with the epic sand castle you're going to make. Beach ball, life vests, goggles and toy trucks are some other ideas to keep you entertained for a fun day at the beach.
Extra Clothes/Towels/Large Mesh Netted Bag
Always bring extras! You never know when you or a kiddo are going to have some sort of accident. I always bring along some menstrual products as well. Just in case nature's call, calls earlier then expected! This is also a great thing to pack if you have pre-teen/teenage girls. Towels and clothes can get wet and dirty at the beach so throwing them all in the netted bag and then shaking them out in there is easier. then it can go straight into the washer when you get home. Extra towels are also great to lay on the seats of your car.
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