Our friends over at Muddy Puddles are on a mission to make clothes which protect children on their outdoor adventures in all weathers, while making sure they're kind to our planet. They've put a fantastic blog together for us, with their top tips for getting beach ready this Summer...
We love a fun filled day at the beach – there really is nothing else like the salty sea air and the feeling of sand between your toes! With sandcastles to build, rockpools to explore, lots of splashing in the sea and a well-earned ice cream at the end of the day, there is plenty to keep the whole family happy.
Once you’ve planned where to go it’s time to get packed. We’ve put together a list of some essential items to pack in your beach bag for your next seaside adventure with the family. Let the good times flow!
Photo by Andy Chilton on Unsplash
1) UV protective clothing
For ultimate protection from the sun, try our new UPF 50+ swimwear, made using recycled fabric from plastic bottles. These bright and bold swimsuits, surf suits, surf sets, rash vests and swim shorts are designed to make a splash and protect your growing explorers from the sun’s harmful rays.
2) Sun cream
The forecast may not be balmy, but you know how fast British weather can change. Pack plenty of sun cream, which you can put on first thing and stay protected all day without having to worry but don’t forget to reapply after swimming to keep children’s delicate skin safe.
3) Sun hat & sunglasses
A sun hat and sunglasses are essential items for protecting growing adventurers on hot summer days and means they can spend all day splashing in the sea and running on the beach.
4) Towelling poncho
We may be biased but we think our towelling ponchos are pretty great and a must have for family adventures at the beach. The absorbent towelling fabric will keep active explorers warm and dry after all that splashing in the sea.
5) Wellies
Nothing beats wellies for practical footwear! Taking a pair of wellies to the beach may seem odd but as muddy beach lovers, we believe they are an essential for exploring rock pools, pebbly beaches and paddling in the sea.
6) Beach activities
Don’t forget the classics like a bucket and spade for building the ultimate sandcastle. A frisbee or ball is great for a game of football or volleyball on the beach. If it’s a dry day with a gentle breeze, why not try flying a kite with your little ones? They will love controlling it as it swoops and turns through the air and it’s a great way to build skills like hand-eye coordination and persistence!
Photo by Heather McKean on Unsplash
7) Snacks
Bring all the snacks! With all that running around and splashing in the sea, your growing explorers are sure to build up an appetite quickly. Picnics are great for the beach and are sure to be a hit with the whole family.
8) Waterproofs
We highly recommend bringing a waterproof jacket such as our brilliant and lightweight EcoLight jacket for those unexpected sudden downpours. Convenient and packable into its own pocket, you can easily carry this jacket or hang on your beach bag with the handy carabiner clip.
9) Shelter
An umbrella or tent is a great idea to bring to the beach, offering up some shade to keep the whole family cool and protected. On windier days, wind breakers are the ultimate windscreen and can shield your picnic spot, lounging area or nap area in one go.
10) Picnic rug
After all that running around and splashing in the sea, you’ll need somewhere for children to sit and recharge their batteries while eating their picnic lunch. A picnic rug can also double up as a great place for an afternoon snooze for those all-important naps.
Is the beach quite a way from your house? Fear not, we've got some great games to play with the kids on a long car journey. Or if you're looking for something yummy to cook up at the beach, take a look at our campsite recipe for miso soup.