Summer has finally arrived, and like many families, you may be eager to head outdoors for a little seaside relaxation. If you're planning a trip to the beach, you've probably already got sunglasses, swimsuits, and sunscreen on your list. But if you're traveling with a baby, you may want to pack a few special accessories, like a beach tent. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, infants under six months old should avoid sun exposure. That means having a great beach tent is just as important as packing sunscreen when heading to the beach with a baby. Baby beach tents provide a cool shady area to protect your babies from the sun and a (somewhat?) clean spot to change your little one's diaper or put them down for nap time. It also makes a pretty handy home base for all your stuff!

What to Look for in a Baby Beach Tent

Don't just grab the first baby tent you see on the store shelf. As with any baby gear purchase, it makes sense to do your research and put a little thought into it. Choose the best baby tent for your family's needs, prioritizing quality and safety. Here are a few questions you may want to consider:

• How much shade does it offer? Shade is one of the main reasons you want a beach tent, right? Choose a beach tent designed from UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) material to get more complete protection from the sun's rays. Enclosure options on all sides are another bonus, but be sure there's a way to remove or zip down walls if necessary. Those baby tents can heat up like little ovens on the beach!
• Can it withstand wear and tear? You'll need a durable, high-quality tent to withstand the intense sunlight and windy weather at the beach. Evaluate the materials the beach tent is made from so that you don't have to invest in a new product every year.
• Is it simple to put together? It may look pretty, but is your child going to be entering junior high by the time you get it assembled? Pop-up options are a fantastic time-saver. Tents that are easy to fold up and come with a travel bag also make transport easier.

In addition to a tent, you'll probably want a few more accessories to make sure your baby is safe and comfortable at the beach. Take a look below at our favorite products that will make your family day at the beach a blast.

Our Top Picks for Baby Beach Tents and Beach Accessories

• Best Beach Tent: Veer Basecamp Pop-Up Tent
• Best Family Beach Tent: Veer Family Basecamp Pop-Up Tent
• Best Accessory: Veer Misting Fan
• Best Sunscreen: Zoey Naturals Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30
• Best Snack Holder: Zip Top Reusable Baby + Kid Snack Containers 100% Silicone, Set of 4
• Best Water Bottle: OXO Tot Transitions Straw Cup With Handles
• Best Beach Bag: Original Bogg Bag
• Best Sand Mat: Veer Sand Mat

Veer Basecamp Pop-Up Tent

Need something a little tougher than your average sun shade? Take a look at the Veer Basecamp Pop-Up Tent. This sturdy tent is ASTM-compliant and JPMA-certified, meaning it meets the top standards for quality, safety, performance, and functionality. It opens easily and folds down quickly and compactly into a handy travel case. Moreover, the removable UPF 50 sun/rain cover provides cool shade and airflow for hot days. This impressive tent also features a water-resistant bottom and mesh sides to keep your little cool and comfortable.

Veer Family Basecamp Pop-Up Tent

Parents love Veer's original Basecamp so much that Veer designed a family-size option! The Veer Family Basecamp Pop-Up Tent is sized to comfortably fit two adults and kids plus unlimited accessories! Your family will stay shaded and cool no matter where your day takes you. It's fully assembled, popping open and closing with ease. Durable, water-resistant, and sun-protective UPF 50 polyester panels provide customizable air flow options with 3-1 zip windows. The water-resistant floor will keep you dry. Spending the day on sand? Simply swap the floor for a sand mat that whisks away grit. This beach tent comes with a convenient shoulder bag for easy transport.

Veer Misting Fan

Stay cool on your next beach adventure with the Veer Misting Fan. This powerful little fan uses high-frequency technology to turn water into an ultrafine mist that keeps your little one (and you) comfortable on hot days. Simply fill the reservoir and place it in a stroller cup holder – the two-setting fan blows a gentle, humidifying mist for up to ten hours on a full charge. Plus, the moving parts are enclosed to keep little fingers safe.

Zoey Naturals Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30

Zoey Naturals Sunscreen gives UVA/UVB sun protection and is infused with nutrients to keep your baby's skin nourished while in the sun. It's formulated for babies and is loved by parents all over the world. Their effective and simple formula is free of harsh chemicals and is gentle on the environment. 

Zip Top Reusable Baby + Kid Snack Containers 100% Silicone, Set of 4

Designed to fit in little hands and cup holders, these snack containers are perfect for the beach! Their large, soft zippers are easy for little fingers to open and close. Zip Top Reusable Baby + Kid Snack Containers are made of 100% platinum silicone, they are endlessly reusable and dishwasher safe. We love this cute set of four in baby animal shapes.

OXO Tot Transitions Straw Cup With Handles

Keep your beach baby hydrated with the OXO Tot Transitions Straw Cup With Handles! The almond-shaped straw conforms to your child's mouth to minimize mess. This cup is an easy transition from a bottle, breast, or a sippy cup. The straw valve opens when lips touch and the hinged cap closes for a leakproof seal so the beach sand stays out!

Original Bogg Bag

The Original Bogg Bag is a versatile tote that's stylish enough for a girl's weekend and large enough for a family day at the beach. Their durable, washable, tip-proof, sturdy design will give you peace of mind knowing you have everything you need in one bag. Simply rinse off at the end of the day, and it's as good as new again, ready for the next adventure!

Veer Sand Mat

This custom filtering sand mat by Veer leaves sand at the beach where it belongs. Designed to fit the floor of the Family Basecamp or to be used alone.

Looking for more great gear for your next outdoor adventure with your baby? Veer inspires great family fun, connecting parents and children alike to the great outdoors.

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