What are you packing in your pool bag this summer? Kate Farr finds products that are good for you, your kids and the environment.
Hong Kong is home to some of the region’s most beautiful beaches and getting the tribe together for a day of sand, sea and sunshine is as easy as hopping into a cab. Here’s what we’re packing in our totes this season for a healthy family day at the beach.
Frankie Rays Relax
Nothing says cool like a pair of awesome shades, and Frankie Ray’s leopard print kids’ frames, metal aviators or sporty wraparounds are cooler than most. All sunnies are fitted with Aussie-certified UV-resistant lenses and come with a durable case to prevent scratches when they’re dumped unceremoniously back in your bag at home time.
$249. Available from Bumps to Babes, 5/F, Pedder Building, 12 Pedder St., Central, 2522-7112, www.bumpstobabes.com.
Rash Decisions
Speaking of UV-proofing, a good quality rash vest is a safer option than relying on sunscreen alone if you’re planning a full day at the beach. Sandy Feet offers a great selection of UVPF 50+ kids swimwear made from quick-dry, chlorine-resistant print fabric that’s guaranteed to keep its shape and look pretty darn cool too.
Prices from $220 to $380. Available from Tiny Footprints, 10/F, 1 Duddell St., Central, 2522-2466, www.tinyfootprints.com.
Bohemian Wrapsody
An ingenious baby-wearing beach buy, the Duo Water Wrap by Wrapsody keeps you hands-free in the sea – invaluable if you’re keeping an eye on more than one kid. The quick-drying fabric is stretchy enough to be comfortable, while strong enough to be secure in the water. It’s also pretty versatile and can be used for yoga or other gentle exercise, making it good value too.
$607. Buy online from petittippi.com.
Totes Kewl
Mary and Marie’s beach totes are made from vegan-friendly recycled plastic, making them super-lightweight, durable and stylish. But it’s inside where things get really interesting. The entire hand-washable lining zips out, making it a doddle to shake out sand, rid yourself of sunscreen smears and mop up sippy cup spills. Plus, there’s a neoprene bottle holder to keep drinks cool and large mesh pockets that are perfect for stashing pirate treasure.
Beach bags range from $465-$820. Buy online from maryandmarieshop.com.
Let’s Talc About It
Did you hear about the magic trick that rids you of sand? Impress everyone with this epic parenting hack using Neal’s Yard Remedies’ talc-free Lavender and Tea Tree body powder. Simply sprinkle on, and in the shake of a leg, all sand is right back where it belongs: on the beach.
$100. Available from Neal’s Yard’s Hollywood Road flagship store. 65 Hollywood Rd., Central, 2155-0508, www.nealsyardremedies.com.
Bug Off
Sand means sandflies, and here in Hong Kong, the dreaded’no see-’ems can cause relentless itching, particularly for little ones. Cherub Rubs’ all-organic Scatterbugs lotion is a DEET-free formula that contains no petrochemicals or artificial preservatives, colours or fragrances, making it safe for use on even the most delicate skin.
$188. Available from Mothercare stores citywide, including Shop 305-307, 3/F, Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Rd., Central, 2523-5704, www.mothercare.com.hk.
Screen Time
It’s now known that sun damage sustained in childhood can make you up to 50 percent more likely to suffer from skin cancer in later life, so a broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential. MooGoo delivers a non-greasy SPF40 protection with added moisturising benefits from plant-derived ingredients. It also smells like coconut milkshake, encouraging even the most reluctant kiddos to slip, slop, slap.
$200. Buy online at baobae.com.