A list of 25 toddler summer essentials for safe outdoor play ranges from toys and water games to sun protection and safety
Our favorite must-have items for a toddler in the summer range from toys and water games to sun protection and safety. Vihaan is 14 months old, and everything shared in the post is safe for a 14-month-old or older.
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Toddler Summer Essentials
Toddler Summer Essentials for Sun Protection and Safety
While I love taking him out, I also worry about protecting him from harmful UV rays, insects, and tick bites.
1. Natural Sunscreen
Sunscreen is an absolute summer must-have. There are so many brands out there that make baby-safe sunscreen. I encourage you to do some research to pick a brand that is safe and not greenwashed. I use either Badger Mineral Sunscreen for Baby or Badger Kids Sunscreen on my toddler; it’s one of the best natural, mineral-based sunscreens that offer superior protection without any harmful chemicals. It’s water-resistant and requires minimal rubbing for the white cast to fade. Another brand I love is Babo Botanicals. This sunscreen stick has been such a great find and is always in my diaper bag or handbag. There’s also a sensitive skin option available for babies and toddlers with more delicate skin. We use and love it!
I found out about these UV stickers recently. They change color when it’s time to reapply your sunscreen; this will be very helpful for beach outings.
2. Sponge Applicator
This sponge applicator makes applying sunscreen easy and quick. Alternatively, you can also use a beauty blender for smooth application.
3. Bug and Tick Repellent
I learned the hard way that Bug Repellents don’t protect from Ticks. While we have used the Badger Bug Repellent for years, it doesn’t work for Ticks. We recently bought this natural Bug + Tick repellent from Whole Foods, and it’s been working well so far. I also keep these Mosquito patch stickers handy when we go camping.
4. UV Clothing
One – Choose swimwear with UPF protection.
When shopping for toddler beachwear, look for swimsuits with a UPF rating. UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) helps block harmful UV rays, providing built-in sun protection similar to how SPF works in sunscreen. While you’ll still want to apply sunscreen to exposed areas like the face, hands, and feet, UPF swimwear offers an extra layer of protection and reduces the amount of skin that needs sunscreen coverage. ☀️👶💛
Two – Choose two-piece swimwear.
Pulling off a wet one-piece swimsuit can be a struggle, especially with little ones. Two-piece swimwear makes diaper changes, bathroom breaks, and outfit changes much easier for both parents & kids. That said, for actual swimming and swim classes, we often prefer wetsuits. They help keep kids warm in indoor pools and provide a bit of extra buoyancy, which can make them feel more comfortable and confident in the water.
I prefer full-sleeve Rashguard shirts wth a zipper on top for V for more protection and easy removal. Pair them with swim diapers for little ones and shorts for potty-trained toddlers. Linking a lot of cute UV swim separates below.
I also love these UV graphic t-shirts for active play in the sun, and these UV shorts and joggers
Shoes are linked under summer sandals.
Baby/Toddler Girl UV Clothing
5. Adjustable Wide-Brim Sun Hat
For Babies & Toddlers
We love this adjustable sun hat! It stays put on their tiny heads and is a little trickier for determined toddlers to yank off. This is another favorite option that provides a bit more coverage, making it great for long days in the sun. ☀️👒
For baby girls, this adorable hat is one of our favorites(refer to pic below).
For Little Kids
We use this adjustable one for school with a mesh for airflow. The wide brim and UPF 50 provide sun protection. The adjustable toggle on the head is a bonus as it creates a custom fit and keeps the hat in place. Another one we love is this quick-dry, high-coverage sunhat.
Baseball Hat
For a more casual everyday look, we also love this Infant baseball hat. It provides great face protection, is easy to wear, and pairs well with any outfit. Love this for toddler boys.
6. Adjustable Sunglasses
These baby sunglasses are the cutest! I love that they have a comfortable adjustable strap to keep them on your baby’s face. Another cute option is with a stay-put band.
For baby girls, we love these flower frame polarized sunglasses that come with an adjustable strap and are made for babies.
And if you’re looking for retro kids’ sunglasses that are under $10/$20. I love the Janie and Jack collection
Toddler Summer Essentials For Beach or Pool
Let your toddler have some fun with water, whether it’s at home, in the pool, or at the beach
7. Swim Diapers
If your toddler is not potty-trained, swim diapers are a must. Regular diapers swell up when in contact with water.
Note- Swim diapers are designed to withstand water and contain solids. They aren’t meant to absorb. Yep, that means pee will pass through to the water, but they will keep the poop inside. I have learned this the hard way 😀 Put the swim diaper on your child right before they get into the water, and change them into a regular diaper when they are out of the water.\
These are the swim diapers we use; they are reusable. Get the ones that have snaps on the side. Easy to drag the diaper off your baby’s legs and feet. Also, this brand runs small, so size up. These are disposable swim diapers.
8. Water Shoes & Summer Sandals
Water shoes help protect little feet from hot surfaces near the pool and rough sand at the beach. I usually go for strap-closure summer sandals with a sturdy sole—they’re perfect for water play too. He often wears them with lightweight socks, which work great for summer as well.
I got these light-up Disney sandals for V this year; they are perfect for all summer activities, water play, walking on trails, and bike riding. Also got these thong slip-ons on sale for $25; they come in all cute Disney prints. I also love the Hurley brand sandals; V wore them for the last 2 summers.
9. Puddle Jumper & Floaters
Puddle Jumpers or a life vest (recommend this over a puddle jumper) are a must-have for us around the water. They provide flotation support and wrap around the chest and arms, helping little ones stay afloat safely.
For younger babies, we love a float activity center with a canopy-it’s the perfect spot to splash, play, and stay shaded while you swim or help an older sibling in the pool.
10. Beach Tent
If you want to spend more time at the beach, consider investing in a pop-up beach tent or canopy umbrella. It would be great for the toddler to play in the sand without worrying about sunburns, or you can relax, take a nap, or read a book while watching the waves. It’s totally worth it!
Shop: pop-up beach tent | canopy umbrella | Beach Loungers 2 pack | Beach Mat | Toddler chair
11. Poncho & Beach Towel
A poncho is great for throwing on a wet swimsuit; it keeps the little ones warm and toasty while strolling on the beach. This Beach towel is our favorite; we use it for swimming and beach trips.
12. Sand Toys
Highly recommend this sand playset, it encourages independent, open-ended sensory play and keeps little ones entertained for hours.
My favorite feature is the mesh storage bag, which makes it easy to shake off the sand before packing everything up. My kids love scooping sand, pouring it into buckets, and creating different sand molds, which gives us a chance to relax and catch up with friends while they play.
This is another playset we own. It’s made from recycled plastic, so it is a bit more expensive than some other options, but the quality, durability, and thoughtful design make it worth considering.
13. Beach Bags We love
The mesh bags are amazing for carrying snacks, sunscreen, toys, and other beach essentials. They’re lightweight, hold a surprising amount, and allow sand to fall through instead of collecting at the bottom.
We also own this tote with a cooler compartment, and it has been incredibly useful for beach days. The spacious tote is perfect for carrying towels and other items I don’t want getting covered in sand, while the insulated cooler section keeps drinks and snacks cold throughout the day. It comes with multiple exterior compartments to slip in sunscreen, sunglasses, etc.
Toddler Summer Essentials for Outings
14. Waterproof Picnic Blanket
We’ve had this portable waterproof blanket for over four years and can definitely vouch for it. It’s beautiful, durable, and folds neatly into a compact bag with a convenient shoulder strap for easy carrying.
The light padding makes it comfortable on uneven surfaces, whether you’re at the beach, the park, or camping with active toddlers. It’s one of those items we reach for again and again.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, here’s an alternative that’s only $16.
15. Travel Stroller
A lightweight travel stroller can make all the difference when you’re navigating airports, theme parks, vacations, or even everyday errands. We own 2 travel strollers that fold compactly and are easy to carry around while travelling
Inglesina Quid 2 Stroller
If you’re looking for a lightweight travel stroller, the Inglesina Quid 2 is an excellent choice. Weighing just 13 lbs, it’s easy to carry through airports, lift into a car trunk, and maneuver through crowded spaces.
Pros:
- Lightweight at only 13 lbs
- Compact, travel-friendly fold
- Generous canopy for sun protection
- Smooth and easy to maneuver
- One hand open and fold
Cons:
- Smaller storage basket compared to full-size strollers
Ergobaby Metro 3 Deluxe Stroller
The Ergobaby Metro 3 is a great option for parents who want a travel stroller without sacrificing comfort. The padded seat, deep recline, and smooth ride make it ideal for vacations, city adventures, and long days on the go. It folds compactly for travel while still offering features you’d expect from a larger stroller.
Pros:
- Extra-padded seat for superior comfort
- Near-flat recline and adjustable leg rest
- Lightweight and travel-friendly
- Smooth ride and easy maneuverability on most terrains
- Good-sized canopy for sun protection
- Bigger basket compared to the Inglesina
Cons:
- More expensive than some lightweight travel strollers
- Folding it with one hand can be challenging
- Slightly heavier than ultra-light travel strollers
We also got the ride-on board for our kindergartener to hop on when he gets tired of walking. It’s been a great addition for longer outings and travel days. Ours is currently sold out, so I’ve linked a few similar options below that go with many strollers
16. Stroller/Hand Fan
A stroller fan and a hand fan can help keep the toddler cool and breezy in the warm summer months. These are versatile; you can attach them to the car seat, stroller, or anywhere.
17. Car Seat Sun Cover & Stroller Mosquito Net
An infant car seat sun cover was a lifesaver during summer travels with a baby. It helped block harsh sunlight, provided extra shade during walks and outdoor outings, and created a more comfortable environment for on-the-go naps. Lightweight and easy to pack, it was one of those simple items that made a big difference during the warmer months.
A stroller mosquito net is necessary if you enjoy taking strolls in the park or hiking. We have this one; it’s one of the things I added to my Baby Registry and received as one of the baby shower gifts. It’s large enough to fit on any stroller.
18. Insulated Water Bottle
The Hydro Flask stainless steel water bottle is hands-down one of the best-insulated bottles I’ve got. Water stays cold or hot easily for 2 days, and it’s lead-free. We own them in kids’ and adult sizes, and I also bought them for my parents and in-laws. For our 1-year-old, we use this stainless steel spill-proof water bottle. For milk, we use this bottle so that they can lie down and drink.
19. Collapsible Wagon Stroller
We have the Veer Cruiser Wagon, and while it’s definitely an investment, it’s one of those products that truly stands out for its quality, versatility, and durability. Built like a stroller-wagon hybrid, it handles everything from sidewalks and parks to gravel trails and beach days with ease.
We love that it comfortably fits two kids, can accommodate an infant car seat, and grows with your family through different stages. The rugged all-terrain wheels, sturdy construction, and easy-to-clean design make it perfect for outdoor adventures, and it folds relatively flat for storage and travel. If your family spends a lot of time outdoors, it’s a purchase that’s worth every penny.
More options below-
20. Portable Travel Booster Chair with Tray
Instead of buying a separate camping chair for your toddler, consider this packable booster seat. It’s a versatile 3-in-1 essential that works as a camping chair, a portable high chair with a tray, and a beach chair for little ones. Lightweight, easy to pack, and washable, it’s perfect for family outings, travel, camping trips, and beach days while taking up far less space than multiple pieces of gear.
21. Balance Or Pedal Bike
Do you know you can introduce a balance bike as early as 18 months? What distinguishes a balanced bike from a bike with training wheels? Balance bikes are lower to the ground and more accessible to younger children. They are also light and easy to ride compared to 12-inch bikes with training wheels. We got this Strider balance bike for our son’s first birthday gift, and it’s probably the best gift ever; he loves riding it. He is learning steering and balancing, which are the foundations for learning to ride a pedal bike. Now it has been passed down to my daughter.
This is the helmet she’s wearing. It’s still a little loose on her since she was only 14 months old, but it was a great fit for V when he was 2 years old. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and provides good coverage for bike rides, scooter rides, and other outdoor adventures.
V started riding a pedal ride right after he turned 3. Once he got comfortable with the balance bike, we transitioned him to a pedal bike. We chose the Woom 2 because it’s the lightest pedal bike on the market and sturdy, making it an ideal transitional bike. Initially, we introduced it as a balance bike to help him get comfortable. After adding the pedals, he wasn’t very interested in pedaling at first and continued using it as a balance bike. However, once he saw other kids pedaling, he quickly followed suit and learned to pedal within 2 days.
Shop: Woom Bike | Woom Helmet | Bell | Knee and Elbow pads
Toddler Summer Essentials for Playtime
22. Kiddie Pool or Water Table
I haven’t met a toddler who doesn’t love playing in the water. A Kiddie pool or water table can keep them entertained for hours. We opted for a kiddie pool for several reasons-
- It’s affordable compared to the water table.
- The kiddie pool allows the little one to play in the water without a flotation device. It helps them gain confidence in the water and become familiar and comfortable with it.
- You can use the pool for sensory activities. I add food color and floating or bath toys and throw in ladles or a butterfly net to scoop and play, or I add bubble soap and give my little one a bubble bath experience outdoors.
- My son loves the flexibility of getting in and out of the pool, which he doesn’t have in the bathtub. He also loves filling the tub with water using the hose.
The Kiddie pool in the picture is our friends in size M. It fits an adult and 2 toddlers. We have it in the size XXL, which fits 2 adults. It’s a foldable pool, so no need to inflate or deflate it; simply fold it up for easy storage when you’re done. Plus, it’s great for travel!
23. Bubble Machine
We’ve had this spill-proof bubble machine for a couple of years now, and it’s been a favorite. My son can carry it around and run all over the yard without spilling the bubble solution, which is a huge plus. The machine rotates 360 degrees and produces tons of bubbles, keeping little ones entertained for hours of outdoor fun. It’s one of those simple toys that gets used again and again.
We also have these rechargeable bubble guns, and they’re a huge hit with the kids. Since they’re rechargeable, you don’t have to constantly replace batteries, which is a big plus. They’re easy for little hands to use and provide tons of independent outdoor play,
24. Sandbox
V loves playing in the sand; we recently got this Sandbox. It’s bigger in size compared to most sandboxes and affordable, too (currently on sale for $84). My husband and I can sit in it with my son in a spare room; it’s a good size and quality for the price—a good buy. We got this natural play sand to fill the sandbox.
If you’re trying to keep your toddler outdoors more, a sandbox will do the trick. I am linking a few options to consider. Added a few more options in the slider below
25. Water Toys
The splash pad sprinkler offers amazing water playtime for both toddlers and little kids. It’s another fun way for our toddler to play outside. Perfect for hot days, it keeps him cool and happy. He loves running through the water, and it keeps him entertained for hours.
We have a four-pack of mini water guns that my son is obsessed with. All he wants to do all day is go outside and squirt water on our dog and the trees. He finds bugs and worms and squirts them. The water guns are small and comfortable for tiny hands.
Reusable water balloons provide all the fun of traditional water balloons without the excess work or waste. My kids love running around the yard, tossing them back and forth, and having friendly water battles. They’re quick to refill, easy for little hands to use, and can be reused over and over again, making them a fun and eco-friendly option for outdoor play.
The water sink toy is another fun option for water play. Our toddler loves it, and it helps improve his fine motor skills. He washes toy dishes and toys, which keeps him entertained for a good amount of time. Plus, it’s a great way for him to learn through play.
Did I miss anything? Please add them in the comments below-
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