When it’s not quite warming up yet, it can be hard to believe Spring Break is just around the corner…then summer soon after! But don’t let it sneak up on you. We are planning for a five-day family vacation and warm-weather escape next month, so Lolli and I have been scouring the Web and stores for our family’s travel gear, swim wear, and everything else we need to prepare. Of course, we cannot forget to pack for pool fun and beach play, road trip essentials and sun protection, too! Here is some of the inspiration we have so far:
For Lolli and Me
It is hard to suggest women’s swimwear options when everyone has such different body types, but something that’s always flattering is a good beach coverup, big sunglasses, cute sandals and a great beach bag. It’s also essential to protect your skin from the sun no matter your destination, and we love a large-rimmed hat and SPF lotions for that job. Here are a few of our picks for the season:
Cover Up: Inez Long Dress // Sunglasses: Dorso Sunglasses // Sandals: Metallic Slide // Beach Bag: Straw Travel Tote
For Girls
Little ladies need modest but cute swimwear and accessories! This easy-zip pink terry cover up is 30% off, and it pairs perfectly with a bright, floral one piece:
Look 1: Terry Hooded Coverup // Look 2: Flutter One Piece Swimsuit
For Boys
Does your little man like sharks? Fishies? Stripes? There are so many great prints and patterns available for boys’ swimwear! These Pirate Octopus bathers are fun (and on sale!), or add some extra sun protection with this shark rashguard and matching trunks!
Look 1: Octopus Bathers // Look 2: Shark Rashguard and Shark Swim Trunks
For Baby
Babies may not be able to swim, but they can sure join in on the sunshine and splashing! Your baby girl will be rosy in this precious pink two-piece (on sale now!), or dress your baby boy in this “crabby” coordinated set :
Look 1: Rashguard and Hat Set // Look 2: Rosette Two-Piece Swimsuit
Keep all your tots safe and above water with a personalized puddle jumper! We love monogrammed covers for these safety floaties from The Smocking Bug, but you can find all kinds of colors and patterns available online:
Sibling Sets:
One of the best parts of having young kids is that they usually don’t mind mama’s matching outfits! We love these darling monogrammed seersucker suits in all sizes, from baby girls to little boys! Smocked Auctions has lots of sweet and photo-ready options:
Photo by Smocked Options
And here are some more of our sibling set finds that should please the whole crew:
We like to bring along our own toys to entertain the littles at the beach or pool (to avoid those dreaded hotel gift shop prices!), so we’ve pulled together some suggestions below, along with sun lotion, towels, and other family fun necessities:
Pack it Up
Packing (and unpacking) the entire family can be a stressful process, so be sure to have the right luggage and gear on hand in order to make the process go more smoothly. I often put the kids’ individual outfits in plastic freezer bags, labeled by day of the week, so there’s less hassle in getting dressed each morning of a trip. Here are some travel gear ideas, including luggage styles that coordinate and should last your family for years:
Carryall totes are a must for family vacation! They’re a great place to stash sunscreen, toys, snacks, and towels, plus whatever souvenirs you may end up with! You can use them as your carry-on for a flight, or pack to the brim if you’re driving in the car. These are some bottomless “Mary Poppins” bags to carry it all, from plane to pool, and beyond:
Hit the Road
Road trips are a great time for making #intentionalmemories! There are so many fun ways to stay entertained between naps on the road! Try making some entertainment boxes as a family, or play an “I spy” spotting game! Here are some fun activities to-go that travel well, by plane or car:
Where are you headed for a #warmweatherescape? Please tag #lolliandme in your posts including any of this inspiration. We’d love to see it! Safe (and splashy) travels, y’all!
Featured photo by Juan Salamanca