This post is sponsored by Kia.

Guide to a stress free family day at the beach

With Summer in full swing, we’ve been taking full advantage of the beautiful weather and hitting the beach as a family. The days of going to the beach with a bottle of water, a book and a towel are seemingly long gone now that kids are in the mix. The idea of packing the family up and getting there can sometimes feel daunting and stressful if you’re not prepared with critical must have items . As a San Diego native, I can tell you’ve I’ve seen those folks who weighed themselves down and have to make three trips back and forth from the car with too much stuff! I’ve also seen(and been guilty of) the flip side when few critical items were forgotten and the day is cut short having to head home (Boo). No one wants that. The beach is fun, and time to let loose and relax, and not stressful! Here is your guide to a balance of what to bring to make your trip AWESOME!

MUST HAVE

• Sunscreen

  100% must, no matter what even if its overcast. Apply more often the warmer it is. Running around can sweat it off a bit and no one needs burnt skin these days.

• Towels or beach blankets

  One for each member of the family, even if they aren’t going in the water, bring them one. You’ll inevitably use it for something.

• Drinks

  Again, regardless of whether its overcast or not, the salty air and running around can dehydrate you. Lots of water, Gatorade, or whatever going to keep you hydrated.DrinksAgain, regardless of whether its overcast or not, the salty air and running around can dehydrate you. Lots of water, Gatorade, or whatever going to keep you hydrated.

• Snacks

  Even if you’re bringing lunch, bring snacks in addition. Everyone is running around and playing in the water and it burns lots of calories. We tend to bring lots of fruit (grapes, watermelon, berries,etc)  Chips, crackers, granola bars, etc! They will get eaten.

• Umbrella

  I highly recommend investing in a sturdy umbrella as well as umbrella sand anchor. It can get windy at times and there is nothing worse than running down the beach trying to catch your umbrella. Plus, it provides some much-needed shade for anyone that needs a break.

• Sand Toys

  Unless your kids are teens, sand toys are always a must. Buckets and shovels will keep them occupied when they aren’t in the water. Plus what kid doesn’t love to dig a big hole, bury themselves, or make an epic sand castle?

• Other Toys

  Paddle Ball, Footballs, Frisbees. When in doubt, kids and parents love to play.

• Chair

  Our family loves our backpack chairs. It comes with a large pocket in the back that is perfect storage for the all toys, the umbrella, and anchor. Plus, the backpack keeps your arms open for carrying your beach bag and a child or two.

• Beach Bag

  I have one extra-large sturdy canvas beach bag that fits our towels, snacks and drinks with room to spare. Important to keep the bags limited to one or two. No one wants multiple trips from the car and especially with little kids, you have to make sure to have one arm open.

Okay, those are the MUST HAVES. There are of course a few other things that are a nice to have, but are not mission critical.

• Baby Wipes

  Umm, a definite must have if you have a child still in diapers, but if you don’t they are still nice to have. No need for a large package, but a small travel size pack are always hand, especially if you’re bringing fruit as snack.

• Boards

  A good rule for the family is if your wants to use a boards (boggy board, skim board, surf board, etc.) You have to be able to carry it yourself. Try to limit it to one per person.

• What you’re wearing

  Come dressed in cover-ups and hats and sunglasses. Saves on critical space in your beach bag.

• Last

  A little trick to making sure your car(Kia of course) floors aren’t covered in sand on your way home. Keep a small travel size baby powder in your beach bag and when you’re getting ready to leave, rub baby powder on everyone’s feet. It will dry up any moisture you might have and the sticky sand falls right off your feet. AWESOME!

The beach is such a great way to spend time outdoors as a family, and the last thing it should be is stressful. So keep it simple and have fun!

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.