Should I pack a beach tent?

Only if you are driving to your destination. If flying, it’s cheaper and less stressful to rent one locally or use a lightweight UV umbrella.

How do I keep electronics safe?

Use heavy-duty Ziploc bags or dedicated waterproof pouches for phones and keys. Keep them inside a secondary dry bag buried in your clothes pile when you leave the spot.

Packing for a Beach Vacation with Kids

Focus on sun protection, sand-management tools, and versatile layers to keep kids comfortable and mess-free. Pack only the essentials in a modular system to ensure you can locate gear instantly without dumping out a suitcase.

Pre-pack the 'Sand Kit'. Use a mesh laundry bag for all sand toys. Sand shakes out through the holes before you ever put the bag in your rental car or luggage.
Layer for sun, not just warmth. Pack long-sleeved UPF 50 swim shirts (rash guards) for each child. This reduces the amount of sunscreen you need to apply by 60% and guarantees protection against midday UV rays.
Organize with dry bags. Bring three labeled dry bags: one for wet swimsuits, one for clean dry clothes, and one for electronics/valuables. This keeps your 'go-bag' organized when moving from beach to dinner.
Prep the medical stash. Include a travel-sized bottle of baby powder. It works like magic to remove stubborn, wet sand from skin before you get back in the car.

Should I pack a beach tent?: Only if you are driving to your destination. If flying, it’s cheaper and less stressful to rent one locally or use a lightweight UV umbrella.
How do I keep electronics safe?: Use heavy-duty Ziploc bags or dedicated waterproof pouches for phones and keys. Keep them inside a secondary dry bag buried in your clothes pile when you leave the spot.