Have I ever talked about going to the beach?  I can’t remember, and honestly, I’m too lazy to look back.  However, since we have lived in a beach/lake town for almost 13 years, I’m quite the expert.  Before having Harlow, my beach day could fit in a single bag.

• Towel
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Book
• Music
• Water
• Cute beach bag

Since having Harlow, I’ve had to add a few things… but they are all super necessary.  I promise!

• Two towels
• Three kinds of sunscreen (adult, kid, and kid face stick)
• Portable kiddie pool
• Bucket to fill portable kiddie pool
• Mesh portable kiddie pool bag
• Giant blanket/sheet
• Sun tent
• Portable potty in the tent for emergencies
• Scads of sand toys
• Mesh sand toy bag (actually, several mesh bags…)
• An entire cooler full of snacks and drinks
• Beach umbrella
• Two beach chairs
• Two pairs of sunglasses
• Beach cart to carry it all in
• Two pairs of water shoes
• Hat
• Change of clothes
• Garbage bag for trash

Did I forget anything?

I ALWAYS get comments from other beach-goers about the amount of stuff I bring, but they are overwhelmingly positive.  It looks like a lot (and it is) but it all sets up and breaks down super quick and easy, so it really just makes for a nice, relaxing, comfortable day.

I didn’t link to anything, because, well, I have barely any readers, so why do the work?  But if anyone does read and wants links to what I have, or similar, let me know.  The pool is the big one.  After a lot of trial and error, I moved away from having a blow-up kiddie pool and it has made a TON of difference.

Happy Beaching!