When my husband and I were dating, our first trip was to the Outer Banks in NC, and the experience quickly cemented as a yearly pilgrimage. Thirteen years later, with three kids in tow, it is still our favorite destination to unplug for a week. The family-friendly, pet-friendly, natural beauty of the area is unmatched! Our tradition has expanded to a big group trip of friends and family gathering in one of the beautiful beach houses. The Whale Head community has become a favorite area to stay in, with quiet beaches and many local attractions within a short driving distance. Somehow I got lucky and have three beach babes who love to just be on the beach. Here are 5 must have OBX items:
5 Outer Banks Must Haves
1- An absolute game changer for getting on and off the beach with the essentials is my Bogg Bag! I keep a small for snacks, hats, and small items I want to keep out of the sun and sand. Then the x-large size for beach toys. It is so easy to wash out and air dry!
2- Sun safety is a major priority! Having plenty of reef safe, high quality sunscreen is key. Everyday Play by Supergoop is a household favorite. The pump makes it easy to keep in my Bogg Bag so my sons know where it is to reapply. Less mess. Less time searching for where the sunscreen is! Love that it soaks in so no crazy streaks on cute cheeks in our pictures!
3- The Sun Ninja sand free blanket is the best option for light, compact packing. I love how easily sand brushes off the material! I use this at parks when we aren’t at the beach. But I haven’t found that beats how easy this is to throw in my beach bag and then keep in my car during the warmer months for parks and playgrounds.
4- Probably an unexpected item that is now a must pack item on trips to the beach are a comfy pair of slippers! These Dearfoam Slippers are just the right touch of cozy and comfort! I have them ready for evenings when watching the sunset from a deck or before bed when I don’t want sandy feet!
5- One of our favorite toys to pack are these reusable water balloons! They are perfect for the beach or pool. We fill up a bucket, drop the water balloons inside, and the little magnets close the two sides to seal in the water. So many options for games, pretend play (this year they were dino eggs), and or just a good old fashioned water balloon fight. I love that I don’t have to worry about pieces of a popped balloon around little ones!
Enjoy!
Tracy Ruth
TRUTH by Tracy Ruth 