What Parents Should Know Before Buying A Beach Tent For A Baby or Toddler
Some of our fondest family memories are made at the beach. It’s the fun parts of those beach days that we remember, but what goes into a family beach day can be quite the feat of strength, planning, and preparation. We've all seen many brave parents trudging through the hot sand, struggling to carry a litany of beach toys, chairs, umbrellas, coolers, & more. Making those memories is worth it, but what will set every parent up for success is investing in the right equipment.
When it comes to taking your baby or toddler to the beach, a beach tent is an essential piece of gear to keep them protected from the summer sun. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know what to look for when choosing the right one for your little one. In this post, we'll go over the most important features to consider when shopping for a beach tent for your baby or toddler.
1. UV protection is the #1 feature to consider in a beach tent.
The number one priority when it comes to beach gear for babies and toddlers should be sun protection. Shade after all is the main reason to invest in a beach tent, but not all beach tents provide adequate sun protection. Look for a tent that offers UPF 50+ protection, which blocks out at least 98% of UV rays. This will keep your little one safe from sunburn and other harmful effects of the sun.
2. Size matters…pick a beach tent or a playpen that your little one can grow into & fits all their beach day accessories
Consider how much space you'll need for your child and their belongings. A tent that's too small will be cramped and uncomfortable, while one that's too large may not offer enough protection from the sun. You may even want to consider a playpen style tent that your baby or toddler can grow into. Look for a tent that's designed for both babies and toddlers that can comfortably fit a small beach blanket and toys.
3. Ventilation: look for a tent that offers a balance of shade & ventilation
Being trapped in a stuffy, hot tent is not only uncomfortable, it can also be dangerous. Look for a tent that has mesh windows or vents that allow for air flow and keeps the inside of the tent cool.
4. Durability: the best beach tents are made with quality materials that can withstand the elements
A day at the beach can be tough on gear, so it's important to choose a tent that's made from durable, waterproof material that can withstand sand, wind, and saltwater. Look for a tent with reinforced corners and sturdy poles to ensure it can stand up to the elements. We’ve all seen our fair share of beachgoers chasing down a rogue umbrella or tent which can be dangerous. Sturdy tent stakes offer additional support and protect your baby or kids from unexpected wind gusts.
5. Ease of set-up: find a beach tent that you can set up & secure in seconds
The last thing you want to do when you're trying to enjoy a day at the beach is struggle with a complicated tent set-up. There’s plenty of options on the market you can set up in minutes or even seconds. Look for a tent that's easy to assemble and disassemble, and comes with clear instructions. When it comes to ease of use, also consider a baby beach tent that is easy to clean. Sand gets everywhere, not to mention the sticky messes your little ones can make. Get a tent that’s both easy to set up and can be cleaned in between uses.
6. Portability: A lightweight & portable beach tent is essential for any successful beach day
Adding a heavy beach tent to your family beach excursion will slow you down and make it difficult to trudge through the sand. A beach tent for a baby or toddler should be lightweight and easy to transport. Look for a tent that is under 10 lbs in weight and comes with a carrying bag or has a built-in carrying handle.
7. Versatility: A beach tent isn’t only for the beach. Find a tent or playpen you can use indoors, at the park, camping, & more.
8. Extra features: don’t settle for less with a baby beach tent
