Things to Bring to the Beach on the Outer Banks

If you’re planning a family getaway to the Outer Banks, you’re in for an unforgettable coastal escape. With miles of unspoiled beaches, soft sands, and those perfect breezy afternoons, it’s no wonder families return year after year to soak up the sun and create memories that last a lifetime. But before you start picturing sandcastles and sunset strolls, let’s talk about one of the most important steps to a perfect beach day: knowing exactly what to pack.

Whether it’s your first trip or your fifteenth, this list of essential things to bring to the beach on the Outer Banks will help you feel prepared, relaxed, and ready to enjoy every salty second. We’ll also share our top tips for convenience and comfort—including how Farmdog Beach Services can take the stress out of your setup with our hassle-free beach rentals. Let’s dive in!

1. Shade Solutions: Beach Umbrellas, Tents & Cabanas

A day at the beach without shade is a recipe for cranky kids and a sunburned crew. That’s why shade solutions top our list. The North Carolina sun is no joke, and having reliable coverage is a game-changer for enjoying long, leisurely days by the surf.

Beach Umbrellas & Cabanas

You could wrestle with your own beach umbrella—or you could make life easy and rent from Farmdog Beach Services. Our North Carolina beach umbrella rentals include everything you need: sturdy setups, premium materials, and best of all, we do the heavy lifting. No lugging gear down the dunes or battling the wind to get your shade up.

Looking for more coverage or a touch of luxury? Our beach cabanas and tents are the ultimate in comfort and convenience. Whether you want a chill-out zone for the kiddos or a little sanctuary for beachside reading, we’ve got you covered—literally.

2. Beach Chairs & Loungers

After you’ve claimed your sandy spot, you’ll want a comfortable seat to take it all in. Farmdog offers premium beach chair rentals that are stylish, durable, and perfectly cozy for long days in the sun. We’ll deliver and set everything up for you, so your only job is to sit back and relax.

Trust us, after a few hours of building sandcastles or playing beach volleyball, your legs will thank you for having a spot to unwind.

3. Sun Protection Must-Haves

While we love that golden Outer Banks sunshine, it pays to be sun smart. Here are a few essentials to keep your family safe and smiling:

Broad-spectrum sunscreen (reef-safe, SPF 30+)
Hats with wide brims
UV-protective sunglasses
Rash guards or SPF swimwear for the kids
Aloe vera or after-sun lotion (just in case)

Pro tip: Apply sunscreen before you even leave the house or your beach rental. It gives the lotion time to absorb and offers better protection right from the start.

4. Towels, Blankets & Beach Mats

Towels are obvious, but it’s worth mentioning that quick-dry or microfiber towels take up less space and dry much faster than traditional cotton ones.

For extra comfort, bring along a beach blanket or sand-resistant mat for spreading out snacks, playing games, or just lounging under your Farmdog tent.

5. Coolers & Hydration

The sun and saltwater will zap your energy fast, so staying hydrated is key. Pack a cooler with cold water, electrolyte drinks, and fresh snacks like fruit, cheese sticks, and granola bars.

If you’re bringing a larger group, consider a rolling cooler or collapsible wagon to make transport a breeze. And yes, many beach stores near you carry great options if you forgot one—but why not plan ahead?

6. Beach Toys & Games

Keep the kids entertained (and the adults, too) with a few fun beach toys:

Shovels and buckets for castle building
A frisbee or beach paddle game
Football or soccer ball
Kites for catching those perfect ocean breezes
Waterproof playing cards or a travel-size board game

You can always find extra supplies at local beach stores when you arrive on the OBX. But having a few favorite toys from home can make little ones feel extra excited and comfortable.

7. Entertainment for Grownups

Sure, the beach is all about family time, but don’t forget a few indulgences for yourself:

A good beach read or e-reader
Bluetooth speaker (just keep it at a respectful volume!)
Magazines, crossword puzzles, or a journal
Your favorite beach beverage in an insulated tumbler

When you’re lounging under your Farmdog cabana, these little luxuries can turn a regular beach day into an elevated experience.

8. Safety & First Aid

Being prepared means having peace of mind. Be sure to bring:

A first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, tweezers, etc.)
Bug spray (especially for late afternoon and early evening)
Swim safety gear like floaties or life vests for little swimmers
A dry bag for storing electronics or valuables
Baby powder (a beach hack for getting sand off feet!)

Also, always keep an eye on the flag warnings for ocean conditions. Safety first, fun always.

9. Beach Bags & Storage

You’ll want at least one large, sand-friendly beach bag (or two!) to keep everything organized. Mesh bags are great for shaking out sand, and having separate bags for wet and dry items is a game-changer.

Waterproof pouches or zippered compartments can also help protect phones, keys, and other essentials.

10. Capture the Memories

This part isn’t something you can pack—but it’s so worth planning.

Whether it’s snapping candid photos of your kids jumping waves or booking a professional photographer for golden hour portraits, make time to capture the memories. You’ll never regret having too many pictures of your Outer Banks adventure.

Why Farmdog Beach Services Is a Must-Have

You’ve got enough on your plate packing swimsuits, snacks, and sunscreen. Why add bulky chairs, umbrellas, and tents to your checklist?

At Farmdog Beach Services, we make beach vacations easier and breezier with premium rental setups delivered right to your beach house. No hauling. No setup. No stress. Just walk out, sit down, and start relaxing.

Whether you’re looking for a spacious beach cabana, a shade-saving tent, or comfy chairs, we handle the details so you can focus on fun. It’s the Outer Banks way—and the Farmdog promise.

So, skip the stress and let us bring the beach to you.

Final Thoughts: Make It Easy, Make It Memorable

There’s something magical about a day at the beach—the laughter of kids chasing waves, the quiet joy of reading under an umbrella, the salty breeze that makes everything feel better.

With the right prep and the right support, your beach day can go from good to unforgettable. So pack smart, stay sun-safe, and let Farmdog Beach Services take care of the heavy lifting.

Ready to make your next Outer Banks beach day a breeze? Book your beach chairs, cabanas, and umbrellas today and see why families trust Farmdog to help create their perfect seaside escape.

See you on the sand!

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Things to Bring to the Beach on the Outer Banks