Need advise on how to prepare to take my three kids( 1 1/2 and two 3 1/2 yo's) to the beach. What to bring?

Question

What should I not bring? any thing you learned that you could share w/ me to make my trip better?

Answer 1

Don't forget sunblock!!! Re-apply every couple of hours!

Do not try to take a wagon or stroller! They are a pain in the butt on the beach!

Give each of your kids their own bucket with sand toys (only 1-2 plus shovel) to carry! If the beach you're going to tends to be windy, take a kite!

Pack light in a backpack so you'll have your hands free during the walk to and from car! you don't want to lug too much out there!

Take plenty of water, kids get dehydrated quickly in the sun!

Take an extra change of clothes and an extra towel per child and leave them in the car so that you can wipe them off with a sand free towel and put them in clean clothes before putting them back in your car!

Answer 2

Sunscreen, lots of diapers(both "swimmers" and the regular ones), wipes, plenty of water (more than you think you'll need), sand toys, changes of clothes, extra towels, more sunscreen, hats, plenty of snacks (stay away from sticky ones).

Did I mention sunscreen?

Oh, yeah, make sure you have cash!

Answer 3

Sunblock (don't forget ears and lips!), sunhats, rashguards (a shirt they can swim in Old Navy has a nice selection), sand toys (buckets and shovels is all that's really necessary), umbrellas so they can get out of the sun, little beach chairs, plenty of drinks, towels, an extra set of clothes (so they don't have to get into the car sandy and wet) easy to carry and eat snacks like crackers. Buy good life vests, like those rated for boating, unless you can ensure each child will have an adults full attention at all times.

Don't take fussy snacks that require utensils or bowls/plates/cups. Don't take too many toys because you have to lug them back, don't take inflatables unless you are prepared to haul them back (you'd be amazed how many people leave these lying on the beach or in the water).

One Step Ahead sells a great mesh carry all tote that is perfect for the beach as well as a selection of sipper tops that fit on most juice and water bottles.