Kids Wagon or Stroller
You can very easily spend the entire day at this zoo so go prepared! I would suggest you definitely bring a stroller or wagon if you have little ones. There’s a lot of walking to be done and many hilly areas. We always bring our Step 2 Versa Seat Wagon with Canopy with us. The canopies keep the hot sun from beating on the kids and the ride is a nice smooth one. It’s super easy to pull and maneuver and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a great quality wagon. – http://amzn.com/B003DJ3A5W
Sunscreen
Also, be sure to bring sunscreen with you! To make it through the entire zoo, you’re going to be there for 4-5hrs, if not more. When you’re in the sun for that long, you need to reapply often so don’t forget it at home. My oldest son is allergic to everything and has very sensitive skin. My favorite sunscreen is Arbonne Baby Care Sunscreen. It’s the only one that my son doesn’t break out in a rash from and it works great! – http://amzn.com/B0012IJXQG
Hat & Sunglasses
Along with the sunscreen, I would suggest you bring hats and sunglasses. Any hat will do but kids’ sunglasses can be tricky. Many are very cheaply made and don’t really protect their eyes. My favorite kids’ sunglasses are Kids K20 Sunglasses UV 400. They are extremely durable, do an amazing job at protecting my boys’ eyes and they look sharp! I’ve purchased two pairs for each of my boys so we always have a back up if we misplace a pair, that’s how much I love them! –http://amzn.com/B002LKONA0
Pack a Lunch!
Finally, a full day at the zoo means you’re going to need lots of snacks and lunch for everyone. You could purchase lunch from one of the many food courts at the zoo but if you want to save a little money, bringing your own is the way to go. I always pack our lunches in our PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag. This lunch bag has ice packs built in and will keep your food cold for up to 10hrs! When not in use, simply fold up the bag and store it in your freezer until the next time you need it. Also, it comes in lots of fun colors and patterns. Don’t forget to pack your Pick-Ease as it’s best way to eat those picnic type foods! –http://amzn.com/B00HJ8DEFO
We’ve been going to the zoo a lot this summer. make sure to check out my guide to bringing kids to Southwick’s Zoo!