What You Need for the Perfect Beach Day

To fully enjoy a day at the beach there are few thing to bring along. Families that are bringing children have to be especially prepared. While it's okay to go out and buy specially prepared packages of beach supplies there are cheaper ways to have fun.

The one thing that no one should skimp on is good sunscreen. It is more important to use proper sunscreen than to save a buck. You can ask your doctor to see what he recommends. It's a good idea to bring bug spray. If you go to the beach and the wind is coming off the land then it will inevitably bring biting flies along with it. Any family with children should bring a tent, umbrella or canopy of some kind; the sun gets intense around the afternoon hours and it is important to avoid things like heatstroke on certain days. You can check the weather channel on your TV, radio or computer to see the heat index level for the day. Of course you should bring snacks and food, but keep in mind that seagulls will attack any food that seems loosely guarded, even when you're still holding it, and keep your uneaten food in a cooler. Always bring lots to drink. Water is best, but teas and lemonades will work as well. You should avoid packing only sodas to insure proper hydration on those really hot days. It's also a good idea to bring a small box of waterproof bandaids just in case someone steps a seashell. The weather can change instantly at the shore so always respect what the lifeguards tell you, and it might even be a good idea to program your phone to receive text weather updates for your area.

You don't have to buy a whole load of toys to have a good time with your kids at the beach. Gardening shovels and metal rakes can be a little dangerous for really young kids so the plastic versions are okay. Things like plastic cups, plastic plant holders, and even spoons can help make gigantic castles and mermaids. The best toys you can find at home. Old board games are a great way to get the whole family to play together at the beach, just keep track of any small game pieces. If you are going to bring balls to play catch please be considerate of your beach neighbors and play away from others. Reused grocery bags can help you carry everything in an organized manner. Naturally it is a good idea to make sure that you can comfortably carry everything that you bring. Camping chairs are often easier to handle than traditional beach chairs since they usually come folded in a lightweight bag with a wide strap. Old blankets make a great place to sleep in the sun, and can be used to form a comfortable space between you and your beach neighbors. It's a good idea to bring a bag with a zipper or even a small lock to keep cellphones, wallets and ipods safe when you're in the water. Always bring small bills and loose change with you to the beach. Many parking places use a meter, and any snacks bars on the beach won't accept credit cards.

The most important thing to bring to the beach is a smile. Enjoy a safe, low cost and relaxing day with your family. The things can always change quickly at the beach, but as long as you listen to lifeguards and come prepared there is no limit to the fun you will have!