A trip to the beach is a rite of passage for any Aussie youngster, but just thinking about the logistics can create quite a headache for mothers. There’s all that sunscreen application for starters… On the other hand, nobody wants to be the Grinch that stole summer, so here are 9 essentials to make your next beach trip with little ones a breeze.
# 1 – Rashie
Constantly slip, slop, slapping yourself, your offspring and your hubbie’s back can make a trip to the beach seem like a lot of hard work. Investing in a family kit of rash vests means more time for making sandcastles. Mini Sandcrabs do the cutest little UPF 50+ one piece swimsuits for even the littlest of littlies that provide broad spectrum UV protection from the knees to ankles.
#2 – Healthy snacks
If Junior is starting to get grizzly, chances are he/she is getting peckish. Little Bellies do a range of yummy, healthy, grab-and-go snacks for babies and toddlers that are free from artificial additives, herbicides, pesticides and genetically modified ingredients. The Baby Puffs in yummy carrot and bursting blueberry are suitable for bubs nine months and up and are certified organic and certifiably tasty.
#3 – Reusable Pouches
Happy Tummies’ Reusable Food Pouches are a great way to pack yoghurt, purees and homemade baby food for a family beach trip. They’re also freezer, microwave and dishwasher safe, making the prep and clean up super easy.
#4 – Wet wipes
To clean up the inevitable stickiness that comes with snack time, don’t leave home without a stash of baby wipes! Water Wipes are great for sensitive little skins and are free from parabens, phthalates, alcohol, perfumes and more.
#5 – Family size beach cabana
Keep the whole family protected with a Beachkit beach shelter. The Sun Wing family size shelter is easy to assemble and sturdy (no more chasing your runaway umbrella down the beach when the wind whips up), with side vents to capture that beachy breeze. With a sun protection rating of UPF 50+ you’ll be made in the shade.
#6 – Baby powder
Peanut covered in sand and not particularly happy about it? A sprinkle of baby powder is all you need to shake off those nasty grains.
#7 – Baby sunnies
You wouldn’t go to the beach without your sunnies, and it’s even more important to protect little eyes from glare and UV exposure. Baby Banz have a great selection of ‘Adventure Banz’ wrap around sunglasses for 0-5 years which feature a silicone brow and nose piece for maximum comfort.
#8 – Bub-friendly sunscreen
You didn’t think we’d forget sunscreen now did you?! Opt for a low-irritant zinc oxide formulation for sensitive little skins. Invisible Zinc’s Junior Clip On Cream SPF 30+ is paraben-free and provides high UVA and UVB protection, with a handy clip so you can attach to your bag, belt, pram…
#9 – Beach ball
For plenty of fun in the sun, a bright and cheery beach ball will keep the little kids (and big kids!) entertained. We love this rainbow hued version from Sunnylife.
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