How to Prepare for a Short Beach Trip with Kids (Without the Chaos)
We just got back from a quick beach getaway—just me and my girl—and I wanted to share how I planned for a stress-free trip that included flying, picking up a rental car, and staying in a beach condo. It wasn’t a long trip, but with a little prep, it felt like a true escape.
Whether you’re heading out for a weekend or a 4-day refresh, here’s how to get organized before wheels-up (and enjoy the beach without the burnout).
BEFORE THE FLIGHT
1. Pack Light — But Smart
Since this was a short trip, I focused on packing intentionally:
One small suitcase each: Rolling carry-ons only
Mix-and-match outfits: Think 2 swimsuits, 1 beach cover-up, 2 dresses, and 1 comfy outfit for travel
Essential toiletries only: Pre-packed in TSA-size pouches
Reusable tote bag: Doubled as a beach bag & plane bag
Tip: Let your kid help pick outfits—it builds excitement and makes packing smoother.
2. Prep a Calm Carry-On
Kids get overwhelmed in airports, so I packed:
Noise-canceling headphones
Watercolor books + colored pencils
A tablet with downloaded shows (no Wi-Fi? No problem.)
Snacks: fruit leather, goldfish, and a couple treats
Cozy hoodie or blanket scarf
RENTAL CAR READY
Once we landed, we picked up our rental car right at the airport. I always:
Bring a small phone mount for GPS
Have a playlist or downloaded stories ready for the drive
Pack a few plastic bags (trash, wet clothes, random sand)
If your kid still uses a booster seat, many rental companies offer one—but check prices in advance; sometimes it’s cheaper to bring your own travel seat.
BEACH CONDO BASICS
Staying in a condo means less eating out and more slow mornings, which I love.
Here’s what I always bring or grab at a local grocery stop:
Breakfast basics: fruit, oatmeal, eggs, tea
Easy lunch fixings: wraps, fruit, chips
One “fun dinner” at a local restaurant
Beach snacks: freeze some juice boxes, bring a small cooler
And for the condo itself:
A travel-sized dish soap + sponge
A small first-aid kit
Zip-top bags and reusable containers
Sound machine for sleep (the walls are often thin)
WHAT MADE IT CALM
We didn’t over-schedule. One beach morning, one outing, and lots of chill time.
I gave her space to explore the beach on her own terms—digging, shell-hunting, wave-jumping.
I let go of being on all the time. Sometimes we just sat on the porch and watched the water.
FINAL PACKING LIST SNAPSHOT
Carry-On:
1 swimsuit & cover-up
1 hoodie or sweater
1 set of PJs
2–3 comfy outfits
Undergarments
Toiletries
Beach sandals + sneakers
Travel documents + ID
Personal Item:
Snacks
Entertainment (coloring, Kindle, tablet)
Reusable water bottle
Sunglasses & sunscreen
YOUR TURN
What’s your favorite must-pack item for beach trips with kids? Drop it in the comments or pin this post for later planning.
