The Ultimate Summer Packing List for Mums with Kids Under 6

Whether you're heading to the beach, a family picnic, a staycation in the UK or a sunnier escape abroad packing for kids can feel like prepping for a military expedition. Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers don’t travel light! So we’ve rounded up the ultimate summer essentials for little ones and their sun-soaked sidekicks!

Spoiler alert: sunglasses aren’t a luxury—they’re an everyday essential.

☀️ Sun Protection Must-Haves

Let’s start with the non-negotiables, because no one wants burnt shoulders, sand-squinting or the dreaded after-sun meltdown.

• Kids’ Sunglasses – Polarised for UV protection, especially helpful for beach glare or time on the water.

• Sunscreen – Factor 50+ with UVA/UVB protection. Choose one they won’t scream about applying.

• Sun Hat – Wide-brimmed or legionnaire style with a chin strap is ideal.

• Lightweight Cover-Up or Rash Vest – For extra sun protection and for shady lunch breaks.

Pop a spare pair of sunnies in the car/buggy/changing bag—you will lose one.

👶 Baby Essentials (0–18 Months)

Your tiny explorer may not be running around just yet, but they still need gear to enjoy the sunshine safely.

• Muslin Cloths – For everything: shade, spills, naps, cover-ups.

• UV Tent or Pop-Up Shade – Especially useful for babies on the beach or in the park.

• Pram Fan – Total game changer in the heat.

• Reusable Swim Nappy – Eco-friendly and pool-approved.

• Baby Sunglasses – Like our Smalls Cove range: soft, flexible and safe from day one.

Babies can wear sunglasses even if they’re not sitting up yet—great for prams, slings and boat days.

🧒 Toddler & Preschooler Must-Haves (18 Months–5 Years)

These little bundles of energy need gear that’s tough, comfy and washable.

• Polarised Sunglasses – Like our Sunny Cove or Mill Bay range. Polarised = no squinting = fewer whinges.

• Water Bottle – Ideally leak-proof.

• Easy On/Off Shoes – Velcro sandals or water shoes for beach/grass.

• Snacks, Snacks & More Snacks – Always double what you think you need.

• Swimwear + Change of Clothes – Accidents, puddles, and ice cream incidents happen.

Pack a wet bag to stash sandy or soggy bits on the go.

🧺 Mum's Bag Essentials

It’s not just about the kids you’ve got to look after you too, or at least pretend to.

• Oversized Tote or Backpack – Hands-free is a dream.

• Wipes, Tissues, Plasters – Always.

• Power Bank – For maps, music, and capturing the sunny moments.

• Lip Balm with SPF + Sunglasses for You – You matter too, mum!

• Sunglasses Case + Lens Cloth – For all those smudgy fingers.

  
  

📝 Extras You Might Forget

• Mini first-aid kit

• Spare dummy/comfort toy

• Ice packs (for food & for cooling little necks)

• Fold-out mat or picnic rug

• Travel potty for toddler toilet emergencies

  
  

🕶️ Don't Forget the Sunnies!

It sounds obvious (we know), but kids’ sunglasses often get left behind or forgotten in the car. That’s why Sun Days sunglasses come with a soft pouch and cloth—to make keeping them clean and close easy-peasy.

They're:✔ Affordable✔ Durable✔ Actually cute (no cartoon characters in sight)✔ Polarised & UV safe✔ Sized for babies, toddlers and big kids

Final Tip: Pack Light, But Pack Smart

You don’t need everything—just the right things. Keep a basket or shelf at home stocked with your go-to summer gear and grab it when the sun shines. Planning makes spontaneous days easier.

Heading away soon? Browse our sunglasses by age range www.sun-days.co.uk Don’t forget to tag @sundayssalcombe in your summer adventures—we love seeing happy little faces in their sunnies!