Summer Packing Tips

 

First let me say what a great away-from-home bag the large utility tote is. It's large enough to hold most anything you'd need at the park, the pool, the beach or on a mini-trip. The single and double thermal organizers allow you to customize how many cold items you need to store. The large utility tote lid protects contents from spilling out or rain.

Packing Tips (for families with children):

• Water/juice, etc. Pack at least two servings per person for each hour you're in a really hot environment. Brita makes water bottles for both adults and children that make tap/fountain water taste like the fancy bottled stuff with a built in filter.
• Sunscreen. Remember to apply 30 minutes prior to sun exposure. Don't assume last year's lotion is still good; most sunscreen expires by the time the next season arrives. For babies under 1, ask your pediatrician or read the sunscreen label. Its recommended that all children wear 30 SPF or greater.
• Towels/blankets (depending on your destination).
• Sun hats for small children or chairs with umbrellas (as pictured) to prevent over-heating and burns to the scalp and face.
• Baby powder to easily remove sand from skin if you're headed to the beach.
• Chapstick with SPF; lips get burned too!
• Sunglasses
• Thermal zipper pouch/mini-thermal zipper pouch for things that shouldn't get too hot (i.e. cell phones, keys, chapstick, sunscreen, camera)
• Cell phone tip: place in ziploc bag prior to heading to the beach/pool. Use your touch screen phone through the plastic to prevent water/sand damage.
• Snacks...'cause water makes you hungry!
• Flip-flops or "water shoes". A pair of shoes that can withstand getting wet are important since concrete and sand can cause burns significant enough for a doctor visit.
• Toys & "floaties"
• For the pool: Hair de-tangler & large toothed comb for long or curly haired children and adults alike.
• Change of clothes. Wet swimsuits usually dry in the sun, but sometimes can cause heat rash if left on the body too long. Wet swimsuit bottoms left on for hours can lead to redness/irritation as well.

General rules: Re-apply sunscreen at least every hour and drink plenty of fluids!