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What to Pack for a Day at the Beach or Lake with Kids

KidsMap Team

28. June, 2026

The sun is shining, the kids are excited, and it’s time to head to the beach, lake, or swimming pool. But just as you arrive, you realize the sunscreen, spare clothes, or your child’s favorite toy is still sitting at home.

To help you avoid those last minute surprises, we’ve put together a simple checklist of everything worth packing for a fun family day by the water.

Swimsuit and Spare Clothes

Wet swimsuits aren’t ideal for the journey home or for staying outside when the weather cools down. Be sure to pack:

  • Swimsuit
  • Underwear
  • T-shirt
  • Shorts or a dress
  • A lightweight sweatshirt or hoodie for the evening
  • A UV protection shirt for longer stays in the sun

🧡Kidsmap Recommends

If you’re planning to spend the whole day by the water, UPF 50+ sun protective clothing is a great choice, offering children a high level of protection from the sun, even while they’re playing in the water. You can find it in the Piháček collection, which includes not only children’s clothing but also matching family collections featuring coordinated designs. Through these products, Piháček also guides families to its educational website, where parents can find valuable information about skin cancer prevention, photoprotection, and proper sun safety.

Towel or Beach Towel

One towel is often not enough, especially for younger children. We recommend bringing:

  • A large towel for drying off
  • An extra towel or blanket for sitting on

Sun Protection

Children’s skin is much more sensitive to the sun than adults’.

Don’t forget to pack:

  • High SPF sunscreen
  • A sun hat or cap
  • Sunglasses

🧡Kidsmap Recommends

For reliable sun protection, we recommend BOEP SPF 50+ mineral sunscreen, which is gentle even on sensitive children’s skin.

Snacks

A hungry child can quickly bring even the best day out to an end.

Great options include:

  • Fresh fruit
  • Cut vegetables
  • Bread or pastries
  • Homemade snacks packed in a lunch box

Plenty of Drinks

Children often forget to drink while they’re busy swimming and playing.

Pack:

  • Water
  • Unsweetened tea
  • Water-rich fruit such as watermelon or grapes

Water Shoes

Water shoes are especially useful at lakes, ponds, or rocky beaches. They help protect little feet from:

  • Sharp stones
  • Shells
  • Hot surfaces

Water Toys and Swimming Equipment

You don’t need to bring half the toy room.

Usually, these essentials are enough:

  • Ball
  • Bucket and shovel
  • Swimming goggles
  • Inflatable swim ring or arm bands

🧡 Kidsmap Recommends


Planning a day by the water but still missing a few essentials? At Lavly, you’ll find a wide selection of summer gear for children all in one place. From sunglasses, UPF hats and clothing, beach towels and bags to sandals, water shoes, beach toys, inflatable water toys, paddling pools, and children’s life jackets. It’s an easy way to get the whole family ready for fun-filled summer adventures by the water.

A Small First Aid Kit

It’s always a good idea to keep these essentials close by:

  • Bandages
  • Disinfectant
  • Insect repellent
  • Any medication your child regularly takes

🧡Kidsmap Recommends

Instead of putting together your own first aid kit, consider a fully equipped family first aid kit from Pomuze.to. Designed by parents for real family needs, it includes carefully selected first aid essentials and a practical layout that helps you find everything quickly, even in stressful situations. It’s also proudly made in the Czech Republic using durable materials, making it perfect for day trips and family holidays.

A Bag for Wet Clothes

A simple waterproof bag can save the rest of your belongings on the way home.

Good Mood and a Little Flexibility

Things don’t always go according to plan when you’re out with children, and that’s perfectly okay. Sometimes the biggest success is simply enjoying a relaxing day together without stress.

A day by the water is one of the most popular summer activities for families. When you’ve packed everything you need, all that’s left is to enjoy quality time together and make wonderful summer memories.

Looking for Family-Friendly Places to Swim?

Browse the Kidsmap guide to discover family-friendly swimming pools, natural swimming lakes, and bathing spots perfect for children.

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