Ultimate Family Beach Holiday Packing List for an Unforgettable Trip
Introduction
Preparing for a family beach holiday can be both exciting and overwhelming. To help you make the most of your holiday and ensure a smooth experience, we have created the ultimate family beach holiday packing list. From essential items to keep your family safe and comfortable to entertainment options that will keep everyone occupied, this list will help you pack efficiently and enjoy a memorable beach getaway. Thank you for coming to read Ultimate Family Beach Holiday Packing List for an Unforgettable Trip.
1. Beach Essentials:
- Swimwear (pack at least 2 each so one can be drying as the other is worn)
- Beach towels (we take poncho towels for the children)
- Sun hats
- Sunglasses
- Beach umbrella or shade tent
- Beach blanket or mat
- Waterproof beach bag
- Flip-flops or sandals
- Water shoes (for rocky beaches these can be absolutely essential)
- Waterproof phone case (if you want to take your phone in the water with you these are a must)
2. Sun Protection:
- High SPF sunscreen (both face and body)
- Scalp protection spray
- After Sun
- Lip balm with SPF
- Wide-brimmed hats for sun protection
- UV-protective swimwear for kids
3. Safety Gear:
- Arm Bands/Floats for children
- First aid kit (plasters, antiseptic cream, insect repellent, painkillers, bite cream)
- Portable phone charger
- Waterproof pouch for valuables
- Mosquito net or citronella candles (if applicable)
4. Beach Toys and Games:
- Sandcastle building tools (buckets, shovels, molds)
- Beach ball
- Frisbee
- Bodyboards or inflatable rafts
- Snorkeling gear (masks, snorkels, fins)
- Kite
5. Entertainment and Relaxation:
- Books or e-readers
- Portable speakers or headphones
- Playing cards or travel games
- Beach-friendly toys (kites, water guns)
- Portable beach chairs or loungers
- Beach umbrella or shade tent
- Inflatable air mattress or floaties
- Portable camping chairs
6. Clothing and Accessories:
- Lightweight and breathable clothing
- Swimsuit cover-ups
- Extra sets of clothes (including underwear)
- Pyjamas
- Hats or caps
- Ponchos or light rain jackets (in case of unexpected rain)
- Casual evening wear (dresses, shirts, shorts)
- Extra towels for hotel or accommodation (if applicable – check with your accommodation what is included)
7. Toiletries and Personal Care:
- Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Take full sized if you will all use it or you’re going for more than a few days.
- Toothbrushes and toothpaste
- Hairbrush or comb
- Deodorant
- Feminine hygiene products
- Prescription medications (if applicable)
- Sanitiser
8. Baby and Toddler Essentials:
- Nappies or swim nappies
- Baby wipes (I still take these now even though my children are 5 and 8)
- Baby sunscreen
- Baby powder (for removing sand)
- Baby bottles and formula (if needed)
- Baby food/snacks
- Pushchair or carrier
- Changing pad or mat
9. Miscellaneous:
- Reusable water bottles
- Snacks and drinks (take more than you think you’ll need)
- Beach-friendly cooler
- Cash or credit cards
- Travel documents (passports, IDs, travel insurance)
- Maps or guidebooks
- Waterproof camera or GoPro
- Portable beach-friendly speakers
- Children’s scooters or bikes (space permissible)
Remember to customise this packing list based on the specific needs and preferences of your family. Not everything will be relevant to everyone, and best will in the world there are some things that just won’t fit in a suitcase….but if you are driving to your holiday then you have more options.
If you want to check out our other packing lists have a look at our Winter Packing list, or our Carry on packing list.
