One of the best ways to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip is to prepare yourself with the appropriate equipment for your outdoor activity. Swimming in an indoor or outdoor pool still requires some basic items, although you’ll typically have the benefit of safe and easy access to your gear at all times. Even pools can become dangerous for those who are inexperienced at swimming, so be sure to check water depths before entering the pool.
Click here to download a printable PDF shopping list.
Basic Gear
Depending on whether you’re spending a casual day in your backyard swimming pool or opting for an intense day of swim practice, you’ll want to stock yourself with either some or all of this basic gear. Review this checklist of basic gear, and use your judgement on what you will and will not need. Remember that many items can be left with your gear outside of the pool itself, and more experienced swimmers may be able to opt out of items like a PFD. When swimming in a public pool, waterproof sleeves for your personal items like credit cards, cash, and license can help reduce your anxiety and reduce the likelihood of theft of these items.
Item | Why You Need It |
Swimmies | Keeps Children Afloat |
Protect ID, Cell Phone, Matches, Maps | |
Hydration During Breaks | |
Dry Bags | Gear Organization |
Energy Food/Snacks | |
Keep Track of Your Fitness Progress | |
Keep Lips Hydrated and Protected | |
Dry Yourself When Finished | |
Keeps Water Out of Ear Canal | |
Bodyglide | Skin Lubricant |
Fun for Kids! | |
Swim Diapers | Toiletry Care for Infants |
Pool Bag | Keeps Gear in One Place |
Umbrella | Shade from the Sun |
Clothing
If you’re opting for a quick exercise swim in an indoor pool, you’re likely to need fewer layers than someone participating in a rigorous triathlon during cooler months. Your local public pool may also have areas within walking distance for food and other fun, so be sure to pack some coverup clothing as well to ensure a comfortable day.
Item | Why You Need It |
Designed for Comfort in Water | |
Non-Skid Surface for Pre- and Post-Swim | |
Blocks Sun from Eyes | |
Swimsuit | Great for Warm Weather and Casual Swim |
Cap | Streamlines Head and Protects Hair |
Protect Eyes |
First Aid
As an essential to any trip, first aid can help to ensure that minor accidents and ailments are taken care of. Because swimmers generally don’t take any items with them out on the water, you’ll simply want to have these items on-hand close-by.. Always store your first aid items in a waterproof bag to ensure that bandages and other goods stay dry. You can also consider simply storing your cellular phone and other medical information in this bag as well to keep everything in one place, especially if your pool is in a private area.
Item | Why You Need It |
Medical Info/Card | Useful for Emergency/Healthcare Workers |
Treat Mild Sunburn |
