carolynmiles4212@gmail.com

Packing for a trip to Galveston isn’t just about tossing a few swimsuits into your bag and hoping for the best. I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that what you bring can make or break your beach vacation. Whether you’re headed down for a weekend getaway or a week-long family escape, this list will help you hit the sand running without forgetting a thing. Trust me—you’ll thank yourself when you’re not paying resort prices for sunscreen or scrambling for beach chairs. Beach Essentials You Can’t Skip Galveston’s sandy shores are a sun-lover’s dream, but they can also turn a little tricky without the right gear. Start with high-quality beach towels—at least one per person, and maybe an extra or two if you plan on getting wet more than once a day. Reef-safe sunscreen is a must, not just to protect your skin but also the local marine life. I always pack a wide-brim hat, polarized sunglasses, and a rash guard for extra sun protection. Throw in a beach umbrella or a pop-up tent for shade—especially if you’ve got kids or plan to spend hours by the waves. A cooler bag with ice packs will keep your drinks and snacks chilled. And don’t forget a mesh beach bag to carry it all; one that doesn’t trap sand is a lifesaver. Clothing That Works for Island Life You don’t need to pack your whole closet—Galveston is laid-back and beach casual, so think breezy. Lightweight cotton or linen outfits are ideal, and you’ll definitely want more than one swimsuit (because let’s be honest, no one likes putting on a damp suit). Bring a comfy cover-up, flip-flops or sandals, and one pair of sneakers if you plan to bike or explore The Strand. Evenings can get cooler, especially by the water, so toss in a light sweater or jean jacket. If you’re planning to dine out or stroll the seawall at night, a casual dress or collared shirt will go a long way. And remember—humidity is real. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics when possible. Kid & Baby Must-Haves Traveling with little ones? Galveston’s beaches are family-friendly, but you’ll want to be prepared. Pack sand toys, buckets, and shovels to keep the kids entertained. Water shoes can protect small feet from hot sand or sharp shells, and a beach tent is perfect for shaded naps. For babies, don’t forget swim diapers, a wide-brim hat, and plenty of snacks. A beach wagon or stroller with big wheels makes transporting gear (and tired tots) a breeze. I also always bring a small inflatable pool—perfect for little ones to splash safely in the shade while the grownups relax. Tech & Gadgets That’ll Save the Day You don’t have to go full tech-free on your trip. A waterproof phone pouch is clutch if you want beach selfies or need to check Google Maps mid-sandcastle. I also bring a portable charger and power strip—many rentals have limited outlets, and between tablets, phones, and e-readers, the outlets fill fast. If you’re a music lover, a waterproof Bluetooth speaker sets the mood. And for the photo-inclined, a GoPro or waterproof camera can help capture those boogie board wipeouts and sunset walks. Health & Safety Items You’ll Wish You Had Nobody wants to think about sunburns and jellyfish stings on vacation, but trust me—a small first-aid kit can save the day. I include band-aids, antiseptic, aloe vera gel, and a few painkillers. Bug spray is also a good idea, especially if you’re heading near the marshes or fishing at dusk. If anyone in your group gets motion sickness, bring wristbands or ginger chews—they’re a game-changer for boat tours and ferry rides. And of course, make sure all prescription meds are packed in a clearly labeled bag. Kitchen Staples for Rentals Most Galveston rentals come with kitchens, but you don’t want to spend your vacation shopping for salt and pepper. I always bring small containers of the basics: cooking oil, coffee and filters, tea bags, and a few spices. A roll of paper towels, some ziplock bags, and foil also come in handy. If you’re traveling with kids or a larger group, bringing reusable water bottles and snack containers can cut down on waste and costs. Don’t forget a corkscrew or bottle opener, too—those are surprisingly easy to overlook. Rainy Day Entertainment Sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate—and that’s okay. Pack a few games or activities to keep the vibe upbeat if you’re stuck indoors. A deck of cards, travel-sized board games, or a puzzle are great for families. If you’ve got little ones, bring coloring books, sticker sets, or magnetic toys. For adults, a downloaded playlist, a great beach read, or a streaming service loaded with offline content can turn a rainy day into a cozy movie marathon. One of my best Galveston memories was watching a thunderstorm roll in from the porch with a glass of wine in hand. Local Gear for Exploring Galveston is more than just the beach. A day exploring The Strand or heading out on a fishing charter calls for different gear. I always pack a lightweight backpack or crossbody bag to keep essentials close without being bulky. Binoculars are great for birdwatching or spotting dolphins. Planning to bike or kayak? Bring your own helmet or dry bag if you have one. And if you’re casting a line, remember your fishing license and gear—or rent from a local outfitter once you’re there. Documents & Travel Logistics Keep all your important info in one place. I recommend printing out booking confirmations, ferry schedules, and a list of emergency contacts just in case your phone dies or loses service. If your rental requires a gate code or door lock combination, have that saved offline. Don’t forget your ID, health insurance card, and any parking passes your rental may provide. If you’re using travel insurance, bring a copy of the policy. Having everything in a waterproof folder or pouch makes things easy to grab on the go. What Not to Pack It

1. Moody Gardens This sprawling entertainment complex is a family favorite for a reason. With three massive pyramids—each housing an aquarium, rainforest, and discovery museum—there’s enough here to keep everyone wide-eyed and curious. My kids were glued to the penguin exhibit while I soaked in the serenity of the rainforest pyramid, which feels like stepping into another world. But wait, there’s more! Moody Gardens also features a 3D and 4D theater, a paddlewheel boat cruise, and seasonal attractions like Festival of Lights and Palm Beach water park in the summer. Trust me—this is one of those places where you’ll need more than a day to do it justice. 2. Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier Set on a pier that juts out into the Gulf, this amusement park offers classic thrills with a beachfront view. There’s a Ferris wheel, roller coasters, midway games, and the kind of cotton candy that makes your kids’ faces stickier than a popsicle on a hot day. I still remember the squeals of joy from the Galaxy Wheel at sunset—it was picture-perfect. You’ll want to get an all-day ride pass if your crew is ride-happy. There are height requirements on some rides, but there’s enough variety for all ages, and even a few calmer ones for grandma and grandpa. Food-wise, grab some fried shrimp or a funnel cake and call it a win. 3. Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston This place is the definition of family splash fun. With thrilling slides for the big kids and gentle splash zones for the little ones, Schlitterbahn is my go-to summer escape when the heat gets fierce. The Torrent River wave ride is a lazy river with some attitude, and the heated pool makes it great even in cooler months. They also let you bring your own cooler, which is a rare gem these days. We usually pack sandwiches and drinks, then rent a shaded cabana for the day. Pro tip: go mid-week for shorter lines and more elbow room. 4. The Galveston Children’s Museum Tucked inside the Moody Mansion, this museum is small but mighty, packed with interactive exhibits perfect for younger kids. My youngest spent nearly an hour in the building zone with foam bricks, while my older one got lost in the art studio. It’s the kind of place that turns learning into play without them even realizing it. There’s also a toddler section, so even your tiniest explorer can get in on the action. Best part? It’s indoors and air-conditioned—perfect for a rainy day or escaping that blazing Texas sun. 5. Galveston Railroad Museum If you’ve got a train lover in the family, this is a must-visit. You can walk through vintage railcars, marvel at model train setups, and even hop aboard the Harborside Express for a short ride. My kids pretended to be conductors while I soaked up the nostalgia. The museum is also home to a great exhibit about the role of trains in Texas history, which gives parents something educational to chew on. We spent nearly half a day here and barely scratched the surface. 6. Stewart Beach One of the most family-friendly beaches in Galveston, Stewart Beach has calm waves, plenty of space to set up a tent, and lifeguards on duty. We always rent chairs and an umbrella, then let the kids go wild building sandcastles while we chill with a cold drink. There’s also a playground, volleyball courts, and clean bathrooms—three things every parent knows can make or break a beach trip. And when you’ve had your fill of salt and sun, you’re just minutes away from great eats along Seawall Boulevard. 7. Galveston Island State Park This hidden gem offers a quieter, more natural beach experience. It’s where we go when we want to ditch the crowds and do some birdwatching, kayaking, or just hike along the dunes. The park offers both beach and bay access, so you can enjoy a variety of landscapes in one visit. There are ranger-led programs and kid-friendly educational signage throughout the park. We’ve spotted everything from crabs to osprey here—and those little “a-ha” wildlife moments really stick with the kids. 8. The Bryan Museum Not every museum hooks the kids, but The Bryan Museum—with its treasure trove of Texas and Old West artifacts—feels like walking into a movie set. The antique weapons and saddles sparked loads of questions from my boys, and the interactive kids’ section was a hit. The building itself is stunning—it used to be an orphanage—and the lush gardens outside are perfect for a quiet picnic before or after your visit. Great way to sneak in a little culture and history without the kiddos even noticing. 9. Dolphin Watching Tour from Pier 21 You haven’t truly visited Galveston until you’ve waved at a pod of dolphins from a boat. Several tour companies run daily dolphin-watching cruises from Pier 21, and it’s always a family favorite. On our last trip, we saw at least ten dolphins leaping through the wake. The tours are usually around 45 minutes, and the guides are full of fun facts about the area’s marine life. It’s also a great excuse to visit Pier 21, where you can grab a snack, take photos, and just enjoy the coastal vibe. 10. La King’s Confectionery Step back in time at this old-fashioned candy shop and ice cream parlor. My kids watched in awe as the taffy-pulling machine worked its magic. They’ve got handmade chocolates, retro sodas, and some of the best root beer floats around. It’s right on the Strand, so after your sugar fix, you can stroll the historic district and window-shop. La King’s is the cherry on top of a perfect Galveston family day. Planning Tips for Families: With something for every age and interest, Galveston makes family vacationing feel easy and exciting. Just don’t forget your sense of adventure—and maybe an extra towel or two!