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Planning a beach and pool vacation with your little ones? I’m here to help… well, with the packing part at least!

As moms, we know that traveling with kids isn’t as simple as tossing a couple of swimsuits and towels into a bag and calling it a day. Between the sand, sunscreen, snacks, and nap schedules, packing smart is everything.

I’ve rounded up some of our must-pack items that make beach and pool days more fun (and less chaotic), with shoppable links to all our favorite finds so you can easily grab what you need. These are the things I’d 1000% pack again – tried-and-true favorites from brands I genuinely love and trust.

When it comes to sunscreen, I’ve been loving Roe Wellness for the face, and both Pipette and ThinkBaby for body. They’re clean, non-toxic brands that are safe for sensitive skin and they leave minimal white cast once blended in. One game-changer for us has been this sunscreen applicator – my boys actually want to apply sunscreen now. They love filling it up and rolling it on themselves, which makes things so much easier.

A few other sun-protection must-haves I swear by: good-quality rash guards, wide-brim hats, and UV-protective sunglasses. Not only do they keep the kids covered, but they also help avoid mid-day meltdowns from too much sun exposure.

And let’s talk about Floafers – my new obsession! They’re lightweight, easy to slip on and off, super easy to rinse clean, and stylish enough to wear from the beach or pool straight to dinner. We got so many compliments on them on our recent trip to Cancun. Swim shoes are also a great option for hot pool decks or sandy beaches as they add an extra layer of safety and comfort.

Don’t forget to toss in a swim vest for water safety, a portable fan to help stay cool, and a lightweight swim coverup, because going from the heat into chilly A/C can be a shock, especially for little ones!

Whether you’re headed to a resort, staying with family, or kicking back at a laid-back beach rental, having the right gear for your babies, toddlers, and big kids truly makes all the difference.

What are your go-to beach must-haves when traveling with kids? Drop them in the comments – I love swapping tips with fellow moms!