Pool days are supposed to be fun… not stressful. These are the affordable pool essentials I actually pack for my kids every summer, from sunscreen and snacks to the little things that make the day run smoother. ☀️🏊♀️🩵
Keeps wet towels and swimsuits from turning your bag into a soggy mess, and sand/dirt falls right through instead of coming home with you
Pool days somehow make kids twice as thirsty. Having cold water on hand saves money and prevents constant snack bar trips. I keep these in the shade in a cooler since they aren’t insulated.
Cheap Plastic Water Bottles - Amazon.com
Here is an insulated option
Insulated Water Bottle - Amazon.com
Lets you take poolside photos, answer texts, and keep your phone protected from splashes and accidental drops
Hiearcool IPX8 Waterproof Phone Pouch
The easiest way to keep wet swimsuits from soaking everything else in your car or diaper bag.
Wet Bag - Amazon.com
Dries kids off quickly and helps keep them warm when they inevitably decide they’re freezing five minutes after getting out
Hooded Towels Kids - Amazon.com
Water-resistant, affordable, and easy to find.
Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen SPF 70
Makes sunscreen touch-ups fast and mess-free, especially on kids who don’t sit still.
Kids Sunscreen - Amazon.com
Makes swimming more fun and cuts down on complaints about chlorine burning little eyes.
Goggles in Swimming - Walmart.com
One of the cheapest pool toys you can buy, but somehow provides endless entertainment.
Pool Noodles - Amazon.com
Turns swim time into a game and helps build confidence in the water
Diving Rings - Amazon.com
Reusable water balloons without the cleanup. Kids stay entertained for hours
Splash Balls For Pool - Amazon.com
Great for beginner swimmers and provides extra confidence while learning water skills. But swimming classes are still best practice!
Puddle Jumper - Amazon.com
Pool days create bottomless appetites. Having snacks ready helps avoid meltdowns and expensive concessions
Dunruz Snackle Box Container, 8 Compartment
Keeps drinks cold, snacks fresh, and saves money by bringing your own food
Insulated Tote Bag - Amazon.com
If you don’t want to swim, here’s a poolside chair to supervise all cannonballs and pool games!
Foldable Poolside Chair - Amazon.com
Dry quickly, take up less room, and don’t weigh down your pool bag
Large Microfiber Towels - Amazon.com
A lifesaver during hot summer days, especially for babies, toddlers, and overheated moms and dads
Portable Fan - Amazon.com
An absolute must for babies and toddlers. Helps prevent accidents and keeps everyone happy.
Swim Diapers - Amazon.com
Protects your eyes while spending hours in the bright summer sun.
Women's Sunglasses | UV Protection & Style - QUAY
Because scraped knees, splinters, and random kid injuries never seem to take a day off.
General Medi Mini First Aid Kit, 110 Pc
Makes post-pool hair brushing so much easier and helps prevent tears after swimming.