Pack These 14 Things For a Summer Day Out with Kids
Have you ever been about to go out with kids and you are constantly asking yourself, "What else do I need to pack? What am I forgetting?" Of course you have, anyone with children can understand the anxiety of feeling like you're forgetting something you really need to pack!
Living in Florida, we know all too well how being prepared for the heat of the day can mean the difference between misery and comfort. You’ll never want to leave the house again having experienced an uncomfortable summer day unprepared. This list is comprehensive for a day trip to the beach, pool, or park. There’s also value in referencing this list if you are preparing for a camping trip or even a trip to Disney or other major theme parks.
At the bottom of this page, you will find a downloadable PDF version of this list. So save it and reference it when you need it for those last-minute packing moments! Don’t go at it unprepared. One of my favorite quotes and principles is if you fail to plan, you are planning to fail!
1. Sunscreen
Badger brand is my favorite. We prefer mineral sunscreen.. a zinc oxide type. The reason is that mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed in, clogging pores. Learned this from @drtylerjean on Instagram!
2. Hat or Glasses
Shade shade shade! Shade on the face can help to reduce the squinting that happens in the bright Florida sun. Believe it or not, headaches can arise from too much sun exposure on the face and head. We love the sun in our house and we are just beginning to truly understand the intricacies of being under or over-exposed to it. Some people can handle more sun exposure than others but where do you fall on the spectrum? A great tool, also introduced to us through @drtylerjean is the dminder app! Don’t be afraid to get sun exposure, instead feel empowered by understanding how much is optimal for you personally.. and then get on that non-toxic sunscreen!
3. Fan
Battery-powered, rechargeable, or mechanically powered are all decent options. A portable fan that is rechargeable is perfect for a day out, keep in the car, clipped to a car seat and bring it along in the stroller for hot walks. This one saved us while out for the day and I’d even recommend having multiple fans / 1 per kid and have them charged the night before! We also have a mechanically misting fan which greatly helps to cool us down when needed.
4. Cool Refillable Water Container
A stainless steel water bottle will keep your drinks cooler longer. Opt out of any and all plastic water bottles in the heat, please.
5. Frozen Berries or Fruit for Snack
Packed in a lunch box with an ice pack, this can be a great way to cool down while getting some nutrients and recharging your child’s batteries right when the heat may be slowing them down.
6. Insulated Lunchbox
As we just mentioned to keep your food items cool. Do you have a favorite you use? Share it with us in the comments!
7. Change of Clothes
Messes like water play, sweat, or even accidents can mean that by having a change of clothes handy, you can ensure your child’s comfort level getting back in the car for the ride home.. where they’re bound to fall asleep!
8. Bathing Suit
You never know when there will be impromptu water play activities. Twice this summer already I’ve taken my son someplace and he’s gotten in water activities with regular clothes on because we forgot his bathing suit so I recommend bringing a bathing suit with you anywhere during the summer just in case. Our favorite water play place was actually Bok Towers! Lots of shade there and water activities to keep kids cool.
9. Towel
After water play or a small towel for dabbing and absorbing sweat.
10. Sneakers AND Sandals
Sandals can keep your child cooler but you may need sneakers for situations requiring better grip like playgrounds or farm grounds where you’d want closed-toe shoes. This one may not be a huge MUST but is helpful when you realize your child needs a better shoe option while you’re already out.
11. Hand Sanitizer
In the form of squeeze bottles, sanitizing wipes, or spray sanitizer, but either way, it always grants some peace of mind when our kids can have clean hands after playing or being in a public space. You don’t have to get fancy with this but we like this EO organic sanitizer spray.
12. Bug Spray
Mosquitos are relentless so any help in this area can make a difference.. the sooner you start carrying some with you, the sooner you can find what works best for you. We have yet to find our magic component! Send tips in the comments for the best natural bug repellent you’ve found works best!
13. Itch Relief Cream
We understand that bug bites will happen in our family so we invest in a good itch cream that is as natural as can be as well as effective. After-Bug Balm, Badger stick has done wonders for our itchy spots! I love that Colloidal Oatmeal is the main ingredient.
14. First Aid Kit
We love love love this one. Comes with everything you can need for small scrapes, cuts, and bumps.
That's All
These are all things useful for being prepared on day trips, camping, playgrounds, splash pads, and even parks like Disney in Florida’s heat! Parents can surely use the items as well but the truth is, we grown-ups can handle most situations for a short while but dread to see our kids having a hard time. The goal for a fun, successful hot summer’s day is to be prepared with the things needed to keep your child cool and comfortable.
