Whether you're taking your child for his or her weekly swim lesson or a day at the pool, packing your swim bag is crucial. There is nothing worse than getting to the pool and realizing you left something at home. We recommend making a checklist of all the things you will need in your perfect swim bag.
Extra Set of Clothes
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Always, and we mean always, bring an extra set of clothes for you and your child. We've all experienced sitting in the hot sun waiting to dry or having to head home in sopping wet clothes. It's no fun. Packing extra clothes ensures everyone goes home comfortably. We recommend taking a separate bag for all of the wet clothing, too. No need to get your bag or other essentials wet.
If your child is younger and needs swim diapers, it's best to pack several extra pair. It's one of those things you'll be sorry you forgot. Plus, you don't want to make your kid go commando, do you?
Putting your child in the right swimsuit makes all the difference. If you are heading to an indoor pool or swimming in colder water, you might want to dress your child in a one-piece suit with sleeves. Not only do sleeves provide extra warmth, they also protect a baby's delicate skin from the sun. Look for a comfortable swimsuit with good coverage.
Some swim classes require you to rinse off before and after class. Or, if you are going to a pool or beach on your own, it might be better to wash off the sand or chlorine before you head home. We recommend packing soap and/or shampoo in travel-safe cases so they don't leak on other items in your bag.
It never hurts to take extra towels. Some pools and swim classes provide these, but we recommend taking a set of your own just in case–you never know when the pool might run out of them. Always take two towels: one for after your swim and one for after your shower.
If you're planning to swim outside, packing sunscreen is a must. Kids are more sensitive to sun exposure than adults, and frequently applying sunscreen while swimming is the best way to protect them. But wait; don't just buy whatever kid- labeled sunscreen you find at your local supermarket. You might want to do some research first on harmful chemicals that are in some sunscreens.
Another staple if you're outdoors, bug spray keeps your child from itchy, painful bites that will stick with them days after their swim. Like sunscreen, be sure to look for kid-friendly options.
Some swim classes require swim goggles while others don't. Be sure to ask what the policy is for your swim school before attending. But if you are just going for a fun swim, it never hurts to pack these for your kids to protect their eyes underwater.
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