When I picture the perfect day on the beach, it’s kicking off my sandals, feeling the sand between my toes, the kids rushing off to jump in the water, and the warm sun hitting my face. As a mom of four active kids, finding the perfect beach apparel and accessories at an affordable price is a must! When planning a thrifted beach day, Goodwill NCW is one of my favorite places to find some of our beach essentials. Shopping for a family of six can easily set our budget back, but thrifting can help offset the cost.

Before I head out on a shopping trip to Goodwill, I go through our family’s items and make a list of the things that we need to grab. Kids grow fast, and it’s easy for them to outgrow last year’s swimwear even before the end of the season. A great starting point is looking for swimsuits, cover-ups, sun hats, a cute beach bag, and beach toys or inflatables. As you browse the aisles, keep an open mind; some of my best thrifted pieces are often unexpected! When I’m looking for swimsuits, coverups, and wide-brim hats, I like to look for fun patterns and breathable fabrics. Don’t forget to check the accessories section for sunglasses and hats.

Here are a few ideas on what to look for as you browse the aisles:

Swimwear: Look for a one-piece suit or a two-piece bikini that flatters your body type. Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles or grab a vintage swimsuit that stands out.

Sunglasses & Hats: From vintage aviators to colorful frames, you can find something that matches your style. While you’re browsing, check out their selection of hats. Wide-brimmed sun hats or trendy caps can shield you from the sun while adding a bit of style to your beach outfit.

Cover-Up: A lightweight, flowy, easy-to-throw-on cover-up is essential for when you’re transitioning from the water to the shore. Oversized shirts, beach dresses, or sarongs can add a bit of style to your beach look.

Umbrella: A beach umbrella provides some shade when the sun is too intense, or you can always cool off with a quick dip in the water.

Footwear: Comfortable, easy-on and off sandals or flip-flops are a must. Look for colorful, funky designs that highlight your personality and style.

Beach Bags & Totes: A large, durable beach bag is a must for carrying all your essentials, and Goodwill NCW has a wide selection of stylish totes, duffle bags, and backpacks. Look for canvas bags or oversized totes with plenty of room for towels, snacks, toys, sunscreen, and more.

Beach towels and Blankets: Beach towels and cozy blankets are perfect for lounging by the water. You can often find oversized towels or gently used beach blankets in the linens section. A big beach blanket or picnic blanket makes a great space to relax.

Reusable Water Bottle: When heading to the beach, packing a reusable water bottle is a game-changer, not just for staying hydrated, but also for keeping your drinks cold and free from sand.

Inflatables: Inflatables can be a fun way to lounge in the water, relax, and cool off after spending all day in the sun.

Toys: Look for plastic trucks, buckets, and butterfly nets. Get creative and check the kitchen section for utensils or even some plastic containers for making sandcastles. This is a great way to keep the kids busy while you sit back, relax, and sip your favorite beverage.