I’ve lugged five bags to the beach. I’ve forgotten sunscreen. I’ve done the meltdown in the car, the sand-in-the-diaper moment, the “I can’t believe I didn’t bring ___” panic.
After three kids and plenty of trial-and-error beach days, I finally figured out what’s actually worth packing when you’re heading to the beach with a baby or toddler—and what can stay home.
This baby beach packing list is simple, stress-reducing, and built on real mom-life experience.
Whether it’s your first beach trip or you’re just tired of forgetting the same thing every time, I hope it helps you feel more prepared (and maybe even relaxed?) on your next sunny outing.
☀️ What to Wear
- Swim diapers (I usually bring 3–4)
- Swimsuit (bonus if it’s UPF-rated)
- Sun hat — wide-brimmed is best
- Rash guard (long-sleeve = less sunscreen reapplying)
- Baby sunglasses
- Cover-up or loose outfit for after water play
👜 In the Diaper Bag (Or Giant Beach Bag You’ll Overpack Anyway)
- Extra swim diapers
- Regular diapers
- Diaper cream
- Baby powder (to get sand off their skin)
- Changing pad
- Wipes
- Dry change of clothes
- Baby sunscreen
- Insect repellent (baby-safe and DEET-free)
- Small first aid kit
- Wet bag
- Bottle or formula
- Sippy cup
- Nursing cover (if you use one)
- Bibs
- Utensils
- Pacifier (and a backup)
- Beach blanket
- Hairbrush
- Hair ties
- Detangler spray
- SPF lip balm
- Towels
- Phone
- Keys
- Wallet
- Makeup sponge (for applying sunscreen)
Mom Hack: Apply sunscreen to the face with a makeup sponge!
🧊 In the Cooler
- Easy snacks (pouches, fruit, crackers)
- Water and drinks
- Formula or breastmilk
- Baby food
- Ice packs
🛟 Other Must-Haves That Make the Day Smoother
- Baby carrier
- Stroller or wagon
- Outdoor playpen
- Baby beach chair
- Adult chairs
- Umbrella
- Canopy
- Beach tent
- Beach toys
- Baby monitor
- White noise machine
- Life jacket or inflatables
💩 Diapering at the Beach
Pack more than you think you’ll need and prep for a change anywhere. A waterproof changing pad is key, and I keep wipes and a clean diaper within easy reach.
Reusable swim diapers are great, but bring a backup. Blowouts don’t care how eco-friendly you are.
👒 Sun Protection That Actually Works
Use a baby-safe mineral sunscreen with SPF 30+ like this one. I use a makeup sponge to apply it—way easier on squirmy faces and gets in all the folds.
And don’t underestimate the power of a good rash guard and some shade. UPF gear = fewer sunscreen battles.
🧸 Baby Beach Toys (Keep It Simple)
A couple of shovels, a bucket, and a ball. That’s all we pack now. I toss it all into a mesh bag so the sand can shake out before we get home.
🩹 Health & Safety
- Infant Tylenol
- Thermometer
- Band-aids
- Rash guard
- Baby sunglasses
- White noise machine
- Wireless baby monitor
🧳 Packing & Storage Tips
- Use a wet bag for anything wet or sandy
- Bring reusable containers or zip bags for snacks
- Keep a stash of plastic grocery bags (they’ll come in handy)
- Stash backup pacifiers, hair ties, and a mini brush in one pouch
🌱 Want to Go Greener?
I’m not perfect, but we try. Reusable food containers, refillable water bottles, reef-safe sunscreen, and biodegradable wipes help reduce our impact—and our trash pile.
Final Thoughts
Bringing a baby to the beach is a lot—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right prep and a realistic mindset (there will be sand in weird places, and that’s okay), you can actually enjoy the day.
Print this baby beach packing list, toss everything in the car the night before, and don’t forget the snacks. You’ve got this, mama.
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