What to Bring to a Pool Party: Your Complete Checklist
If you’re headed to a pool party, you want to nail your packing so you can relax and have fun. Here’s the answer up front: swimwear, towels, sunscreen, water, snacks, and a few fun extras. That’s all you need!
You don’t want to drag a giant bag but you definitely don’t want to get there and realize you forgot your sunglasses or snack. Use this checklist to make sure you have everything you need for a great day at the pool.
What to Bring to a Pool Party: Your Complete Checklist
Don’t stress about forgetting something. Here’s your quick list. Screenshot it, print it, or run through it before you leave the house:
- Swimsuit
- Light cover-up, plus flip-flops or slides
- Towels for everyone, you’ll appreciate having your own dry one
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+ is your skin’s BFF)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Sunglasses and a packable hat
- Plenty of cold water and favorite drinks
- Easy snacks or food
- Pool floats or water toys for instant fun (optional but awesome)
- Bluetooth speaker
- Waterproof pouch for your phone and wallet
- Plastic bag for your wet clothes
- Small first aid kit (better safe than sorry)
- Wet wipes and any personal toiletries
- Dry clothes and underwear
Poolside Style: Clothing and Swimwear
Wear a swimsuit that fits you and that you can comfortably swim and walk in. A backup suit is a great idea for kids. If you spill something or yours is damp, you’ll be thrilled you packed it.
Grab a light cover-up. It’s perfect for when you’re taking a snack break or running to the restroom. Flip-flops or slides make things easy since you’ll switch between wet ground and grass. Your feet will thank you for comfy shoes.
Don’t forget sunglasses and a cute hat. They cut glare and keep the sun off your face. Style points, but total skin savers too.
Towels and Comfortable Seating
Bring at least one towel per person, trust me. Hosts usually can’t supply towels for a crowd, and a dry towel between swims feels amazing.
If you love lounging, add a portable chair or lightweight blanket if there isn't seating at the pool you're going to.
Sunscreen and Skincare Essentials
Sunscreen isn’t optional, it’s your poolside armor. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Put it on about 15 minutes before you head out. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or towel-drying.
Lip balm with SPF is a total lifesaver. You’ll wish you’d packed it if you forget. Toss in aloe vera or after-sun lotion for a smooth wind-down at the end of your pool day.
Don’t skip sunglasses with UV protection. Your eyes soak up sun as much as your skin does, so keep them protected!
Food and Drink Basics
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Pack lots of water. Sports drinks or mocktails keep everyone happy. If you’re thinking of packing booze, double-check if it’s allowed.
Snacks should be quick and clean. Watermelon, grapes, cheese sticks, and chips are all great options that are hand-held and easy to eat between swims.
Fun Add-Ons and Entertainment
Pool floats, inflatable games, and water toys instantly make a pool day memorable. If you’re going with kids, they absolutely need something to toss or splash around with.
When you’re done, scoop all toys out of the water. It’s safer for little ones and keeps the pool tidy.
A Bluetooth speaker will kick up the fun, but always make sure you're being respectful. Keep music at a fun, not blaring, volume.
Yard games like cornhole or bocce are super fun for anyone who wants to stay dry. They won’t take up much space and make sure there’s action between swims.
Extra Items for a Comfortable Pool Day
Always bring a waterproof pouch for your phone and wallet. Few things kill the vibe faster than a soaked iPhone or missing credit card.
Pack a plastic bag for wet clothes and towels. It’ll keep your bag from smelling or soaking through on your way home. Don't forget clothes to change into (no one wants to be stuck in a wet swimsuit for the ride home).
Add a tiny first aid kit, just in case. It matters even more if there are children at the party. Wet wipes, deodorant, and a hair tie will save you in all the little ways. You’ll be thankful to have every one of them.
Plan Your Pool Day Right
There you have it. Your pool party packing is done. Focus on swimwear, towels, sunscreen, water, snacks, and a handful of personal goodies.
For an even easier pool day, book a private pool with Swimply. A lot of pools even include essentials like towels and sunscreen. The best part is you'll have the pool all to yourself, so you won't be fighting for pool chairs or space with other guests.
Don’t stress at a crowded public pool when you could have your own private oasis. Browse private pools on Swimply and lock down a private spot with everything you need!