So I know I’m only 6 years in to this mom gig, but I’ve come up with three items that EVERY Florida mama should have in her mom bag. These three items are essential before you head to a sporting event, beach, pool, amusement park, splash pad, (or anywhere else any time of year in Florida).

Wet bag

A lifesaver for wet swimsuits, sweaty sports uniforms and soaked clothes after they find the splash pad at the amusement park despite your best efforts to avoid it!! No more soggy clothes leaking out of plastic Publix bags. No more having to wash the towels you didn’t really use because you had to throw the saturated swimsuits on top. No more moldy-smelling garments from roasting in the hot trunk.

Do a search for “wet bag” and order whatever pattern you prefer – there are so many brands and colors from which to choose. You’ll notice that these bags are intended for baby clothes that get wet when you’re on the go. Don’t worry about that…I’m telling you, no matter how old your child is, they are great to always keep on hand.

Sunglasses

Spend.the.money. Get a polarized pair of sunglasses from a reputable brand. It’s better for the health of your eyes, and the skin around your eyes, if you invest in a good pair. I know, I know…you lose your sunglasses, your kids sit on them, your dog uses them as a chew toy, you only need a pair that can double as a headband. But this is Florida. The sun is out all the time.

Furthermore, when I hit a milestone birthday at the beginning of the year, I went to the eye doctor and he tried to sell me on prescription sunglasses. He told me to trust him, and I am so glad I did. I have not regretted spending the money on prescription sunglasses for a single day since. So worth it, especially given how often we wear sunglasses here in Florida.

Spray Sunscreen

With three young kids, I find this to be a true gift. It’s easy and quick to apply, and re-apply later in the day. Some work better than others, so test a few and if your kids are anything like mine, they will be sure to tell you which ones are too sticky. It’s pricey, I will admit, but in season it goes on sale often. I even stumbled upon it for half price at Marshall’s this year.

As a note of caution, I don’t use this on their faces unless I spray it in my hand first and then rub it on. Usually, I go old school and use a cream sunscreen or a stick. I’m always relieved when I have this with me and can quickly spray it on the whole family, regardless of where we are and what we’re doing.


And there you have it. This Florida native mama has found these three items – a wet bag, sunglasses and spray sunscreen –  to be essential to have on hand whenever I venture out with my kids. I would love to know if you have an essential item that you always have with you, too. Lord knows my bag is large enough to add more to it, so bring it on!

 

 

 

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