19 Genius Hacks That’ll Save Your Next Beach Trip

by Natasha DavisJune 20, 2021

Let’s be honest: going to the beach with the kids isn’t the easiest thing in the world. Between making sure we have all the gear we need, packing food and applying sunscreen, there isn’t much time to enjoy the scenery. But we’ve gathered up a bunch of game-changing beach hacks that will make your seaside trip a breeze. Keep reading to get the scoop.

Beach Mitt for Easy Sand Removal

We know your little beach bums can’t get enough of making sandcastles, digging for seashells and burying their friends alive, but what happens when the day is over? How do you clean off all of these tiny specs of sand? This almost magical mitt will do the trick. Not only are they practical, but they work under sunblock, so you don't have to worry that your little ones will need to re-apply every time they clean off.

Sunburn Soothers

Sunburns are one of the few things parents don’t enjoy about frolicking in the sand and surf, so when it does happen, soothing the fiery feeling is priority number one. If you’re looking for a more creative way to help kids with sunburns, try making a batch of super cool aloe vera ice cubes like the ones we spotted over at The Chic Site. The cooling effect of the ice, along with the classic healing properties of the aloe vera will bring immediate relief to the most painful of sunburns.

Homemade Cooling Spray

After an afternoon of playing in the sand, cool off with this refreshing spray from Wellness Mama. With soothing ingredients like aloe vera, witch hazel and essential oils, it’s great for post-sun recovery. Get the details by clicking here.

DIY Towel Pockets

Keep everything you need close at hand with this genius idea from Making It with Danielle. All you’ll need is an oversized towel and basic sewing skills, and you’ll have a pocketed beach blanket in no time. To get the full instructions, click here.

The Easiest Sandwhiches

A visit to the beach isn’t complete without a picnic! To go with your watermelon, whip up a batch of sandwiches inspired by Easy Peasy Pleasy. The recipe uses Hawaiian sweet rolls (and the packaging), making it easy to make enough for your whole crew. Click here to see how they’re made.

Make Sunscreen Fun

Getting the kids on board with applying sunscreen every couple of hours can be tough, so why not make it into a game? Apply it in dots all over their body, and let them play “connect the dots” as you rub it in. Hop over to Simply Stacie for more smart sunscreen hacks.

Apple Cider Vinegar Sunburn Relief

If someone in your crew ends up with a sunburn, try this home remedy to help relieve the pain. Just combine equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it to the affected area. This is also a great addition to baby's after-beach bath, to help sooth insect bites and burns.

Keep Your Valuables Safe

Take a cue from Smart Schoolhouse and use a clean plastic jar to keep your valuables safe and dry. You won’t have to worry about digging through your bag for your keys or dropping your cell phone in the sand.

Use Household Items as Sand Toys

Forgot to buy sand toys? No worries. Check your kitchen (or the rental's kitchen) and art supply bin and gather things that'll be perfect for building. We love the items that Jill of Sandy Toes & Popsicles added to her homemade sandcastle kit: measuring cups, paintbrushes and more. See everything in her kit here.

Chill the Sunscreen

Once you’ve lathered your kid up, stash the sunscreen in the cooler, where it will be nice and cool for the next application. You'll lower your kids' body temperature and keep them sun-safe at the same time. Grown-ups will enjoy this welcome chill, too!

Keep Sand Out of Your Space

Keeping home base free of grit while at the beach can be a challenge, so if you want to create a large, clean space for your kiddos, try Team Johnson’s idea. Bring an old sheet, and using a cooler, beach bags or even an umbrella, stretch out the corners, and you’ll have a pretty sweet pad.

Bag Your Phone

The challenge is to keep sand and water off of your phone but still be able to use it. The solution? A humble Ziploc or similar zipping sandwich bag. Seriously, this works (although you do have to take it out to get a cute photo or two).

Bring a Mesh Bag for Sand Toys

Heading surfside means toting the gear your kids will need for sand castle construction, burying siblings, making beach art and other fun games, but when it’s time to pack up and ship out, the bottom of your bag looks like the beach came along for the ride. Not anymore, thanks to The Idea Room's sweet hack. Putting all of the toys in a mesh laundry basket gives dried sand an escape route, and there are major bonus points for being big enough to pack your kiddo’s entire supply of beach toys.

Use a Chip Can for Valueables

Use an empty Pringles to stash your keys and some cash for ice cream (Bonus! You get to eat all the Pringles first!). Other upcycling ideas include: stashing a $20 in a lip balm container: watch this video for an easy how-to, or roll your cash and keys into a diaper—very few people will willingly pick up a "dirty" diaper.

Dig Out a Nap Space

A long day at the beach means your little one will need a comfy place to nap. Before you have visions of dragging a pack ‘n’ play over the dunes, consider digging a hole. Yes, just dig a shallow, wide hole, lay down a towel and after a little rocking, place your baby down. Be sure to angle your umbrella just right to ensure your ki has a shady spot for her snooze-fest.

Sand Baggies

Days at the beach can get pretty windy. There’s a simple way to keep the family supply of towels from blowing in the breeze; grab a few plastic bags (quart size should work) and, while setting up camp, fill the bags with sand, then seal and set on the corners of the towels and blankets. Your little plot will stay secure, and the days of flinging sand on your crew and your neighbors will be over.

Frozen Water Bottles

Freeze a few plastic water bottles and put them in the cooler. They’ll last longer than ice and when they defrost you can drink them. Bonus: you can roll the icy cold bottle on your neck to cool down. Just remember to recycle them after you’re done: studies show freezing and refreezing disposable plastic water bottles can cause a chemical breakdown that could contaminate the water. And don’t try this trick with metal bottles because they can burst when the water expands.

Beached Boat

All kiddies want to wade in the surf, but taking a dip in the ocean isn’t always the safest choice. Here's one idea for letting your toddlers have fun in the water; bring a small blow up raft, fill it with water, their favorite toys and presto! Baby beachcombers get to splash around as much as they want, and you get to keep a close eye on them.

Beach-Approved Koozie

Megan Duesterhaus via The Homes I Have Made

If you are determined to keep your drinks from spilling into the sand this summer, try making a few of these nifty cup holders we spotted over at The Homes I Have Made. Ideal for keeping cups and bottles clean and positioned at the perfect height, you’ll need a few simple materials including a large soup can, fabric, glue, and a threaded rod. Sail over to The Homes I Have Made for the tutorial.

—Natasha Davis & Amber Guetebier

The Best Sunscreens for Your Family & 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Applying It

by Jennifer SwartvagherJuly 2, 2020

Do you have a sunscreen that you know and trust? Now that summer is in full swing, parents need to find a safe and effective sunscreen for their family, The Environmental Working Group just added 119 more SPF products to their Guide to Sunscreens.

Lists of products by category:

Best Beach and Sport Sunscreens

Best Sunscreens for Kids

Best Lip Balms with SPF

It’s important to read product instructions. When sunscreen is applied incorrectly, it provides far less protection from harmful ultraviolet rays and leaves skin exposed to sun damage.

Here are 10 of the most common mistakes people make when applying sunscreen:

Not reading the ingredient label

EWG recommends a mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide because these active ingredients have fewer health concerns, and these products generally offer good sun protection. Zinc oxide especially provides good broad spectrum protection, protection from both UVA and UVB rays, and stability in the sun.

Not applying enough sunscreen

To protect your body fully, you should use about an ounce of lotion – enough to fill a shot glass. Product testers apply a thick coat of sunscreen to their skin to determine its SPF – the equivalent of a family of four using up a four-ounce bottle in just two hours. Make sure to slather it on!

Forgetting to reapply sunscreen every two hours

Sunscreens lose effectiveness over time and having a high SPF in the product you use is no excuse to prolong your time in the sun. Such products can give people a false sense of security so they think they are completely protected from sunburn and long-term skin damage, and can stay out in the sun longer without reapplying. EWG recommends that consumers avoid products labeled with anything higher than SPF 50+.

Applying sunscreen outdoors

Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before you venture outside. If you’re already exposed to the sun while applying sunscreen, harmful rays are already hitting your skin. On some days, even five minutes outside in the bright sunlight without sunscreen can damage skin.

Wearing sunscreen only at the beach or pool

You’re exposed to harmful UV radiation year-round. Up to 80 percent of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate through thick clouds. It’s not unheard of to get a sunburn on an overcast day. In winter months, the sun’s skin-damaging ultraviolet rays reflect off snow and ice, increasing your exposure. This is especially true on ski vacations, with greater UV exposure the higher the altitude. Remember, UV rays can pass through some glass panes while you drive or work by a window. Check out more sunscreen myths here.

Using an old, separated or expired sunscreen

As sunscreens age, or repeatedly heat and cool the formulation can separate or clump in its container. When this happens, the sunscreen won’t coat your skin in the thick or even way that’s necessary for proper skin protection. Shake sunscreens before applying and store them at an even temperature whenever possible. Toss any product if it clumps or if the oil separates from the lotion. Sunscreens are generally formulated to last about three years. However, it’s important to check expiration dates and examine the product’s texture before use. Discard products after their expiration date because they may no longer provide proper protection.

Neglecting to wear sunscreen because of your darker skin tone

No one is immune from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Although dark skin tones naturally produce more melanin to protect skin, it’s not enough to prevent skin cancer, wrinkling and photo-aging.

Using a product that combines sunscreen and bug repellent

Avoid products that combine insect repellent with sunscreen. Bugs are typically not a problem during the hours when UV radiation peaks. And, more importantly, if you reapply sunscreen every two hours, as advised, you will be overexposed to the active ingredients in the repellent.

Overlooking SPF products formulated for babies

Many baby products are formulated without fragrance and other sensitizing or allergenic ingredients. These products also work well to help protect adults with sensitive skin. This year, EWG found 16 best-scoring sunscreen products for kids.

Relying on sunscreen alone

Although sunscreen can help protect your skin from sun damage, it should never be your only line of defense. Proper sun protection includes wearing protective clothing, like a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection. Find or make shade as much as possible, and stay indoors during peak midday sun.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo Yaoqi LAI on Unsplash

19 Beach Hacks That’ll Save Your Summer

Must-Have Baby Gear for a Day at the Beach

These Genius UV Detection Stickers Tell You When to Reapply Sunscreen

by Jennifer SwartvagherFebruary 27, 2020

Sunburn is a literal pain. Now there is a way to take the guesswork out of knowing when to reapply your sunscreen. SPOTMYUV is the first clinically proven UV detection sticker that can tell you if your sunscreen is working.

The small clear SPOTs go on clear and change to purple to let you know when the SPF has worn away. The color change is reversible, so they will last through multiple sunscreen applications.

You can wear SPOTs on any part of the body where skin is exposed. The SPOTs are waterproof, sweat-resistant, hypoallergenic and will last all day. SPOTMYUV’s patented dermatrue skin mimicking technology allows sunscreen to wear off the sticker at the same rate as it wears off your skin as you run, play and swim. These are perfect to throw in your bag or you kid’s camp backpack.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Photos courtesy of SPOTMYUV

19 Beach Hacks That’ll Save Your Summer

Must-Have Baby Gear for a Day at the Beach

First-Aid Remedies to Save Your Summer

by Natasha DavisJuly 2, 2019

The summer season is filled with beach vacations, road trips, theme parks, camping and other amazing adventures with your family. And, with all of these activities come mosquito bites, bee stings and more. In order to make this the best summer ever, we found easy-to-make remedies for everything from swimmer’s ear to a sunburn. Take a look at our list of helpful first-aid summer hacks for parents and you’ll be all set.

A Fully Prepped First-Aid Kit for the Home

Before whipping up any homemade remedies, it's always a good idea to make sure your at-home First Aid Kit is fully stocked and ready to go. We did the work for you, and list everything you need to have in your kit, plus a few helpful hints, here.

Homemade Sunburn Relief Cream

Problem: Your kids are burnt to a crisp after a day on the beach.

Solution: You’re definitely going to want to grab some of Freebie Finding Mom’s sunburn cream. This homemade formula includes all of your favorite sunburn relievers in one awesome cream that will give your whole family instant relief.

After Swimming Ear Drops

Problem: Swimming is one of the best parts of summer. But anytime your kids are in the water there’s a possibility they might get swimmer’s ear.

Solution: These annoying earaches are painful, and one way to make sure that your little ones don’t have issues is to try this homemade ear drop recipe from Daily Momtivity.

How to Remove a Tick

Problem: One creepy crawler you’re likely to run into this summer is the tick. Ticks are dangerous, and if your kid gets bit by one of these pesky little guys, you'll need to remove it right away.

Solution: You’ve got two options: Your first choice is to loop a small piece of floss around the tick’s head, pull tight and lift up. Another option is to take a credit card and slide it between the ticks head and your kiddo’s skin. Done! And all without a trip to the Urgent Care.

Treat Rashes Naturally

Problem: Whether it’s poison ivy, swim trunks or an allergic reaction, rashes can really put a damper on your summertime adventures.

Solution: Try creating a paste with oatmeal or coconut oil and spreading it over the itchy area. Both of these products are natural anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory ingredients that will neutralize the itch.

Summer Cold Remedies

Problem: You might think colds are just a struggle during winter, but colds in the summer are always possible.

Solution: Have your little ones eat a spoonful of honey when they have a sore throat. Another solid choice is giving them as much Vitamin C as possible to boost their immune system. You can also use a humidifier to cleanse the air and add moisture without adding heat.

DIY Bug Sticks and Spray

Problem: Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it’s also the time when mosquito bites or a bee sting could ruin your whole day.

Solution: If you’re not into the harsh chemicals in the run of the mill bug strays and itch repellents, try this homemade version from Little Sprouts Learning. The natural ingredients are healthy and effective!

Or Use a Nontoxic Product to Repel Mosquitos

If making your own natural repellent isn't your wheelhouse, we recently tried the PARA'KITO line of products. They offer a variety of options perfect for families; there's a roll-on stick, wristbands in cute styles and colors., and even a clip. The bands and clips are refillable, too, making them more environmentally friendly than a disposal brand. They are made from essential oils and are chemical-free. Check out more at parakito.com

Stopping Stomach Bugs

Problem: With all of the awkward storage situations for food in the summer, stomach bugs are a bigger problem than you might think. Coolers aren’t as cold as a fridge, which means things aren’t quite as sterile as we’d like them to be. Plus, your kids might be taking in water from unknown sources.

Solution: In order to keep all of your food sanitary, store raw meat separately from other foods. Another way to combat stomach bugs is to make sure your kids don't swallow any water in lake or ponds.

Soothe Mosquito Bites

Problem: You're out camping or hiking and forget to pack your favorite itch cream.

Solution: If someone gets mosquito bites, and you don’t have anything to help calm the itching, simply warm a spoon under hot water and place it over the bite. The heat from the metal stops the production of the histamines that cause the itching.

Treat Your Bee Sting

Problem: Bee stings are a huge concern in the summer. Even after you’ve removed those pesky stringers, there is usually a lot of swelling and pain.

Solution: All you need is baking soda and water. This homemade paste will neutralize bee venom and control swelling. The paste will dry and flake off, and you can always apply more if your little ones need it.

Editor’s Note: In the case of a real emergency, please consult a healthcare professional or head for an emergency room.

9 Stylish Sun Hats to Pack in Your Beach Bag

by rtemilywarmanMay 12, 2019

Nothing ruins a good beach day like a pesky, preventable sunburn. After all, you’ve got sandcastles to build and little sea creatures to find! From the latest styles to total SPF coverage, keep those precious noggins out of the sun with our picks for the best functional and stylish sun hats. Scroll down to see our favorites.

Noggins Sun Hats

Noggins

These hats are not only made of UPF 50+ fabric, they offer lightweight and effective coverage for the face and necks of your little sun-soakers. Billed as "the sun hat that will stay on" they have an adjustable chin strap with a safety release buckle as well as an adjustable feature to make it fit just right. There's a mesh lining, too, to help kiddos stay cool.

$19.95. Available in blue camo and pink butterfly, at veyokids.com

Wallaroo Bucket Hat in Maui

Wallaroo Hats

Who says sun hats have to be monochrome? The Wallaroo Hat Company makes an array of hats that fit kids as young as 3 mos., up to 5 years. They are UPF 50+ and made to block 97% of UV rays, and have the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Approval. Add to that some serious style and variety and you've got a great choice for the under six crowd. We love this Hawaiian inspired print!

Get one at wallaroohats.com, $20

Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hat in Reptile

Sunday Afternoons

Sunday Afternoons are meant to be spent at the beach, right? We love all their styles, but this reptile print hat might be our fave. With a wide brim keep rays at bay, a comfy sweat wicking liner that will withstand any type of excitement and an adjustable strap to keep everything in place, plus UPF 50+ material! They come in a ton of other patterns, too!

Available at Sunday Afternoons, $26.

Kids Ribbon Fedora from the Gap

GAP

Get your dapper dude (or dudette) ready for a sunny day out with this stylish fedora from Gap. It's lightweight (100% paper) and will keep their heads cool while deflecting the glare. There's no UPF in this hat so it's better for being out-and-about than a day at the beach.

Find it at gap.com, $19.95

Handmade Bucket Hat

Designed by a mom for a friend whose son just can’t keep his hat on, this reversible, denim topper is kid-tested and mother approved. We love the measurements of this sunshade---the brim lands right above eye-sight---so kiddos can be protected and still see all!

Available at Etsy, $30.

Floppy Sun Hat by Flap Happy in Red Dot

Flap Happy

Pair this cheerful topper with a picnic in the sun. It’s UPF 50+, and the generous brim provides protection for her sensitive ears and neck.

Available at Flap Happy, $16.95.

Reversible Baby Bucket Hat from Patagonia

Patagonia

This reversible sun bucket hat from Patagonia is UPF 50+ and made to stay right on that little sweet head to prevent sunburn and overexposure. The fabric is wind and water resistant and dries quickly, plus it packs small so you can aways keep it on hand. The chin-strap is adjustable and the brim protects head, face and neck.

Get it patagonia.com, $29

Coolibar Kid's Surfs Up All Sport Hat

For serious sun coverage, keep them shielded in these All Sport toppers that are rated UPF 50+ and come with an attached drape to protect the neck. It’s travel friendly, meaning you can crush it up in your beach bag when it’s time to go.

Available at Coolibar, $22.

UV SKinz Girls Ribbon Hat

VSkinz

For the little ladies up to age 5, this hat shades eyes, ears and necks. The ruffled ribbon design will make your girlie-girl happy while the SPF 50+ coverage gives Mom and Dad confidence that their sun-loving kiddo has complete coverage. We love the added bonus of a bendable brim, making for easy on-the-go storage.

Available at UV Skinz, 23.95.

— Amber Guetebier & Emily Warman

RELATED STORIES

The Best Sunglasses for Kids

Silly Summer Jokes for Kids

The Countries 10 Best Beaches for Families

The Best Swimsuits for Kids

Beach Mitt for Easy Sand Removal

Sunburn Soothers

Homemade Cooling Spray

DIY Towel Pockets

The Easiest Sandwhiches

Make Sunscreen Fun

Apple Cider Vinegar Sunburn Relief

Keep Your Valuables Safe

Use Household Items as Sand Toys

Chill the Sunscreen

Keep Sand Out of Your Space

Bag Your Phone

Bring a Mesh Bag for Sand Toys

Use a Chip Can for Valueables

Dig Out a Nap Space

Sand Baggies

Frozen Water Bottles

Beached Boat

Beach-Approved Koozie

Related reads

Related reads

Related reads

A Fully Prepped First-Aid Kit for the Home

Homemade Sunburn Relief Cream

After Swimming Ear Drops

How to Remove a Tick

Treat Rashes Naturally

Summer Cold Remedies

DIY Bug Sticks and Spray

Or Use a Nontoxic Product to Repel Mosquitos

Stopping Stomach Bugs

Soothe Mosquito Bites

Treat Your Bee Sting

Related reads

Noggins Sun Hats

Wallaroo Bucket Hat in Maui

Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hat in Reptile

Kids Ribbon Fedora from the Gap

Handmade Bucket Hat

Floppy Sun Hat by Flap Happy in Red Dot

Reversible Baby Bucket Hat from Patagonia

Coolibar Kid's Surfs Up All Sport Hat

UV SKinz Girls Ribbon Hat

Related reads