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Summer is just around the corner. The daily temperature averages are already over 80 degrees in some parts of the U.S., so having fun in the sun is quickly becoming a daily occurrence. With that in mind, it’s time to get you and your families ready for summer. Taking stock of what you do have and what you need to make summer not only fun, but also SAFE is a good approach, especially right now. The following list of 10 summer must-haves for families should help you have as much fun as possible this summer:
Make a Splash this Summer with these Must-Haves for Families
By Having Fun Saving – Summer Must-Haves
Sunscreen
It’s an absolute must. Even on cloudy days! In fact, my grandpa always said that you get the worst sunburn on cloudy days because you don’t think about wearing sunscreen, and the UV rays are still coming through the clouds. I can tell you from experience that I’ve had more than one bad sunscreen on a chillier, cloudy day.
Towels
I don’t normally carry around towels for drying off if it’s warm out – I let the sun do that. But, I do bring them to sit on at the beach and on the chairs at the pool. You may want to consider a Beach Blanket, too. OneStepAhead has a Sand-Away Beach Sheet! Keep sand where it belongs – on the beach – not in your food!
Beach Bag
A good beach bag is a must. As parents, we’re responsible for just about EVERYTHING. That means you need a bag that can carry EVERYTHING. I recommend the Family Beach Bag from OneStepAhead. It has a ton of features that you’re bound to love. I have a love/hate relationship with sand. I love going to the beach, the feel of sand in my toes, but I HATE that it gets into everything. My bag is always full of sand and cleaning it out after I get home is a pain. This beach bag features Sand-Away Mesh on the corners of the bag. I think it’s absolutely genius. That means the sand that’s on your toys, towels, and everything in-between can EASILY be shaken out and not come home with you. Seriously, this bag has great features and is one of my favorites. It’s also water-resistant. When the kids get it wet on accident, I don’t have to worry about it staining. Less worry for mom = happier mom = more fun time at the beach.
Swimsuits
Yes, that seems obvious, I know. But, you need ones that everyone actually feels comfortable in! A swimsuit that’s going to stay in place while the kids swim and play. I also suggest one that has a UPF rating. My daughter tried out the Seahorse Collection from the Sun Smarties line at OneStepAhead. She loves that the bottoms cover…her bottom. Plus, it’s absolutely adorable. The pink Seahorse is so cute! We love the blue and white design. For me, I like to shop at HAPARI. They have great swimsuits for women of all shapes and sizes. My son and hubby are sporting DEL SOL swim trunks this summer.
Clothing with SPF Protection
This is one that you may not think about. But, if you’re spending a lot of time outside, make sure to have clothes that the kids can put on to protect themselves from the sun. My daughter tried out pieces from the Sun Smarties Rainbow Collection at OneStepAhead. She loved them! She was amazed that she was wearing long sleeves and long pants, but she wasn’t super hot (we live in Florida and the temps are well into the ’80s now). The fabric is breathable and very soft. I like that it has UPF 50+. She wore hers as she danced, swam, and even practiced her cartwheels. It’s very quick-drying, so she would go from pool to cartwheels and back again.
Sunglasses/Hats
Don’t forget to protect your eyes! Have sunglasses/hats for not only the kids, but also yourself.
Umbrella/Tent
These are essential for extra sun coverage for those long days on the water or at the pool. Sometimes you just need a break from the sun!
Water
Can’t emphasize this one enough. Make sure to stay hydrated!
Snacks
If you plan on being out and about for awhile, save yourself some money and pack your snacks. We love bringing apples because they’re juicy and sweet. We like the individual snacks packs from Crunch Pak best.
Toys
You know, for those moments when you JUST sat down to relax and the kids say “Mom! I’m bored, what can I do now?” Are you excited for the warmer weather and days outside? I know we love it!
Del Sol is all about having fun in the sun. What other tips and tricks would you recommend for your sunshine activities this summer?