Beach day packing list
Pack for a day at the beach with swimming essentials, shade, food, dry clothes and a few checks before you leave home.

CHOOSE THE BEACH
- Check the weather forecast and local beach information
- Check tide times if they affect access to your chosen beach
- Read local swimming guidance and choose a lifeguarded area where available
- Check opening times, parking and public transport for the journey home
- Confirm whether toilets, drinking water and shade are available
- Check rules for dogs, fires and the activities you plan to do

SWIMMING AND COMFORT
- Swimwear
- A towel for each person
- A dry change of clothes and underwear
- Sandals or beach shoes suited to the surface
- A light layer for the journey home
- A separate bag for wet clothes
- A blanket or beach mat

SUN AND SHADE
- Sunscreen suitable for everyone going
- A sun hat
- Sunglasses
- A cover-up or lightweight long-sleeved clothing
- A beach umbrella or shade shelter if permitted and safe in the wind
- Enough drinking water for the outing

FOOD AND SMALL ESSENTIALS
- Snacks or a packed meal
- A cool bag with ice packs if bringing perishable food
- Reusable cups, containers and cutlery as needed
- A rubbish bag to take waste home
- Tissues and hand-cleaning supplies
- Any medication you normally need
- A small first aid kit

BEFORE LEAVING HOME
- Charge your phone and save the beach location
- Pack payment for parking or transport
- Protect your keys and phone from sand and water
- Agree who will supervise children closely near the water
- Tell someone your plans if you are going alone

AT THE BEACH AND BEFORE LEAVING
- Read the signs and follow lifeguard instructions
- Set up away from access routes and where the tide can reach
- Secure lightweight belongings against the wind
- Take all rubbish and belongings with you
- Check towels, shoes and pockets before heading home