By Mama Love
You might be thinking: “What more could I possibly add to my already bulging diaper bag?” With summer in full swing, the weather elements are out in full force: sun, wind and a few showers, too. Most likely, you’re busy with many spontaneous (or planned) family outings around town or trips to the beach or mountains.
Even if you don’t have plans, it’s a good idea to keep some staple summer items in your baby’s. Better yet, you might even prepare a special summer bag to keep in your car.
In addition to the basic necessities in your diaper bag now, like diapers, wipes, fever reducer, Band-Aids, nail clippers, extra clothes and snacks, there are a few things you should include specifically for 
summer excursions. Plus, it’s always a good idea to refresh your diaper bag and restock it.
Summer must-haves for baby’s bag:
• Oil-free sun block spray or lotion, SPF 15 or higher
• Sunglasses with a wrap
• Sandals or thongs
• Beach towel
• Reusable water bottle or environmentally-friendly baby
• Insulated lunch bag
• Aloe vera gel and hydrocortisone cream
• Spray bottle (good for getting sand off baby’s feet or hands)
• Waterproof hat with Velcro straps
• Washcloth
• Recyclable, reusable bags
• Windproof, waterproof baby jacket
• Plastic wear (cup, fork, spoon)
• Additional bathing suit
Items to consider leaving in your car for the duration of summer:
• Jug of water
• Portable beach tent
• Beach umbrella
• Picnic or beach blanket
• Beach toy set such as a plastic bucket, shovels and rakes or balls
• Kite
• Tissue or roll of toilet paper (just in case the beach bathrooms are out!)
Finding a Great Bag
We have a special orange bag for summer and my kids jump and shout with excitement when they see me pull it out. They know it means we’re on our way to having some fun. If you don’t already have a kid-friendly beach bag (in addition to your regular diaper bag), there are some festive ones in stores now that are fully equipped with loads of space, zippered compartments, key holders, water bottle storage and more. Even a sturdy, recyclable bag will do, and you can usually find them for a few dollars or less.
For any outing, short or long, of course you’ll always want to make sure your cameras and video cameras are fully charged to capture those keepsake moments. I can say from experience that traveling with kids in the summer presents something new each day, and it’s a good idea to be prepared for those spontaneous outings. Safe and happy traveling!
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