Planning a beach holiday is all about sunshine and laughter but when you’re travelling with kids, it's no easy feat and will require a lot of preps. Whether you're going to a nearby coastal town or flying to a tropical paradise, packing smart can make all the difference, making it easier for your family to enjoy a stress-free holiday.

To help you out, here’s a complete list of what to pack for your family beach holiday — from beach day must-haves to evening comforts and everything in between.

Essential Things to Pack for Everyone

These are the basics that every family member will need:
•    Swimwear – pack at least two sets per person
•    Lightweight clothing: shorts, sundresses, t-shirts, tank tops that are comfortable and easy to dry.
•    Sun hats or caps to protect skin from the harmful rays of sun
•    Light jacket for cool evenings
•    Flip flops and sandals
•    Comfortable walking shoes
•    Sunglasses (UV-protected)
•    Undergarments and socks
•    Pyjamas
•    Reusable water bottles

Beach Day Must-Haves
•    Beach towels or quick-dry microfiber towels
•    Beach mats or foldable picnic blankets
•    Snorkelling gear or goggles (some hotels provide these free of charge or a small fee)
•    Beach umbrella or pop-up sunshade
•    Beach chairs (if you’re driving)
•    Waterproof phone pouch
•    Insulated cooler for snacks & drinks
•    Baby powder (helps remove sand from skin easily!)
•    Ziplock bags for wet clothes, sand-covered toys, or snacks

Sun and Skin Protection

•    High SPF sunscreen (waterproof if you're going into the ocean)
•    After-sun lotion or aloe vera gel
•    Lip balm with SPF
•    Rash guards (especially for kids)

Essentials for Babies & Toddlers

Traveling with little ones? A bit of planning goes a long way. Keep them comfortable, entertained, and safe.
•    Swim floaties, armbands, or life jackets
•    Beach toys – buckets, spades, beach balls
•    Plenty of snacks for beach days
•    Favourite comfort items (blanket, stuffed toy, bedtime book)
•    Quiet-time entertainment – books, colouring supplies, or a pre-loaded tablet

Top Tips Before You Go
•    Make a master checklist and tick things off as you pack.
•    Check the weather forecast for your destination.
•    Pack smart with packing cubes or pouches — one for each family member or type of item.
•    Bring an extra foldable bag for souvenirs or dirty laundry.
•    Keep a small bag with immediate essentials (snacks, sunscreen, swimsuits, towels) easily accessible. That way, if your room isn’t ready or the kids want to hit the sand right away, you’re good to go without unpacking everything.

Happy travels!