Beach with kids
Shade and kids' sunscreen go in the day bag, not the suitcase.
Little ones burn faster than the forecast suggests. Pack a spare swimwear set, a compact shade option, and snacks that survive a hot beach bag.
Beach holiday packing list for families
Last updated:
A beach holiday looks easy to pack for, until you're on the sand without kids' sunscreen, a dry bag or any shade. This list covers the sun, swim and sand essentials, plus all the travel basics.
It's set up for a 7-day summer beach holiday abroad for 2 adults and 2 kids. Use Customise this list to change the dates, travellers or where you're staying.
This list is set for
- 7 days
- 2 adults · 2 kids
- International
- Summer
- Beach
- Hotel
- Flight
Before you go
Beach holiday
Reef-safe sunscreen beats buying it on arrival.
Pack after-sun, a dry bag, and hats before you leave. Hotel towels are a maybe; apartment and camping stays almost never include beach towels.
Travelling with kids
Keep a spare outfit in the cabin bag.
Spills and delays are easier when each child has a change of clothes, snacks, and headphones in the bag at your feet — not in the hold.
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Documents
0/12
Our pick
UNBREAKcable AirTag Holder (4-Pack)
Protective AirTag cases with keyrings to clip a tracker to luggage handles, bags or keys. AirTags not included.
Toiletries
0/20
Health & Meds
0/6
Tech & Chargers
0/9
Our pick
Portable Travel Clothesline (12 Clips)
Retractable travel washing line with two hooks and 12 clips.
Clothing
0/15
Kids
0/14
Beach
0/4
Last-minute
0/2
Our pick
Antfuny Turkish Beach Towels
Lightweight, quick-drying beach towels that shake off sand and pack flat in your suitcase.
Questions
How much sunscreen should I pack for a beach holiday?
More than you think: sunscreen needs reapplying after swimming and every couple of hours. For a family week at the beach, plan on at least one full-size bottle for the adults plus a separate kids' sunscreen, or buy extra on arrival.
What do kids need for a beach holiday?
Kids' sunscreen, UV swim shirts, a sun hat, water shoes, a swim vest or armbands for younger children, and some shade such as a pop-up beach tent. Keep snacks, water and a change of clothes in the day bag.
Should I bring beach towels or use the hotel's?
Many hotels provide pool towels but not always beach towels. Quick-dry, sand-free towels pack flat and are worth bringing if you're unsure, and they're essential in an apartment.
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