Trips to the beach with kiddos, especially when it’s their first time, can be an absolute blast. But taking an infant to the beach can also be a bit involved.
From packing the car with all the gear you might need to planning baby-friendly activities, there’s a lot of prep work that goes into making beach day a success. If this is your first time introducing your little one to the sun, sand and waves, read on for some of our favorite must-haves for your baby’s first beach trip.
1. First thing’s first: Cute swimwear with sun protection is a must!
We offer a variety of swim tops and bottoms as well as rashguard sets, so it’s easy to mix and match.
At Carter’s, most of our swimwear offers UPF 50+ sun protection, which blocks much of the sun’s UVB and UVA radiation from reaching your little one’s precious skin with a quick-drying fabric to keep baby cool all summer long.
Our swimsuits for girls come in a variety of cute prints, colors and design options, including one-piece and two-piece suits, and three-piece sets with matching rashguards; and for baby girl, we offer diaper-snap styles for quick and easy changes.
For boys, our swimwear includes equally adorable swim trunks with easy pull-on designs, diaper-snap styles, comfortable covered elastic waistbands, and functional drawstrings for a perfect fit. There are also matching rashguard sets and one-piece zip-up rash guards for additional sun protection.
2. Swim diapers are essential!
Regular diapers and the beach just don’t mix. Diapers’ absorption power, while ideal for normal days, means baby will have a water-logged and ineffective diaper when he or she’s playing around in the surf.
To help contain messy accidents, switch from a regular diaper to either a reusable or disposable swim diaper when they’re ready for a dip in the water. Just remember: Swim diapers aren’t always designed to absorb all urine, so there may be some leakage.
3. Don’t forget the baby sunscreen.
If your baby is 6 months or older, sunscreen is recommended and should be applied liberally. Make sure it’s a broad spectrum product with a high SPF, and reapply at least every two hours (if not more often). It’s a good idea to buy special baby sunscreen for your little one, since many ingredients found in regular sunscreens may irritate the skin and eyes.
4. Pack other forms of sun protection.
You’ll want to keep your baby as covered as possible and out of direct sunlight. Protective clothing (think rashguards and coverups), brimmed hats and sunglasses are great options here — although this certainly doesn’t apply exclusively to those 6 months or younger. Our selection of cool shades and brimmed baby beach hats make sure your baby’s face is protected without skimping on style.
Rashguards and cover-ups are definitely must-haves for babies younger than six months, but babies of any age would benefit from these types of protective clothing. Baby rashguards are sold in short sleeves and long sleeves and can be purchased individually, in matching sets or as one-piece swimsuits.
5. Create a shaded oasis with a baby beach tent.
A trip to the beach, with all the new things to explore and experience, can be a lot for a baby to handle. A small tent with UV protection is a great way to shelter your baby from the sun or to give them a quick break from all the activity. It also gives you and your little one some privacy for diaper changes, breastfeeding breaks or short beach naps.
Since beaches can feel a little exposed, beach tents are also great for providing a bit of privacy when you need to change diapers or breastfeed.
Pro tip: Opting for a larger beach tent or playpen ensures it will last you through the toddler years and beyond. Even adults may enjoy a pleasant little escape from the sun!
6. Bring a baby pool and bath toys.
Ocean waves might be too much for your little one, but there’s no need for them to miss out on the fun of splashing around in the water. Instead, bring the ocean to them! A pop-up baby pool can easily be assembled, securely positioned in the sand and filled with ocean water. Add a few floaty bath toys, and that should keep baby entertained throughout the afternoon.
7. And, of course, you need a set of beach toys.
Your baby may not be able to construct masterpieces out of sand just yet, but it really doesn’t take much to entertain them. They’ll be just as enamored with using their shovel to dig holes or build little sandcastles. From building sand castles to scouring the shoreline for seashells, there’s a lot you can do with a shovel and pail. Inflatable beach balls also fit nicely in suitcases, and bath toys can even double as waterside entertainment.
Another option: Grab a pail and let them explore the shore looking for seashells. Then head back to your blanket to blow and chase bubbles or lightly toss around a small beach ball.
8. Keep their feet protected in the sand.
Sand gets hot, especially the sand that’s not covered in the shade of your beach tent. Keep baby’s little feet from feeling the scorching heat with sandals.
These cat, dinosaur, and floral print flip-flops celebrate the beachy atmosphere and are easy to slip on and off. Yet the back straps keep them secure, no matter what adventure awaits.
9. Snacks and water.
Pack extra snacks for the beach, including lots of water to beat the heat. Cereal, grapes, on-the-go yogurt pouches and small sandwiches are a few great and easy options to bring with you on the go.
Pro tip: Freeze a few water bottles and yogurt packets beforehand to put in the cooler. By the time you’re ready for them, they’ll likely be melted enough to enjoy.
10. Lastly, bring an extra tote and a change of clothes.
Make sure your baby is cool and comfortable (and able to snooze!) during the ride home. Change baby into a new, dry set of clothing and a regular diaper before strapping him or her into the car seat. And just toss everything wet (towels, swimsuits, etc.) into a separate bag to keep your other beach and baby supplies from getting damp.
When it comes to packing for young children, ‘easy’ and ‘versatile’ are two words to keep top of mind. Carter’s best-selling multipack bodysuits give parents five instant outfits and take up minimal suitcase real estate. Trying to slip a bodysuit on or off a messy beach baby? Overlap shoulders mean you can pull it over their head or slide it from their legs. (Bonus: The snaps make for quick diaper changes, an essential while on-the-go!)
This list of beach must-haves for toddlers and babies ensures you’ll have all the things you need to keep everyone comfortable. Shop Carter’s for all of your little one’s seaside swimsuits, footwear and accessories. And don’t forget to take a peek at our cute sets that make for easy vacation outfits. Maybe you’ll even get the perfect family photo to always remember your special trip!
