One of the best ways to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip is to prepare yourself with the appropriate equipment for your outdoor activity. Water parks are an enjoyable way to take the family out for a day of fun-filled water activities without the dangers of deep ocean currents. Water parks are especially great for families who don’t live near the ocean or who don’t have a local pool.
Those who participate in water activities as an addition to their travel plans will want to also review our other checklists as well to ensure that they’re fully stocked for anything that may come their way. Keep in mind that many water parks will allow for the storage of items in lockers and other secure areas, and this can come in handy while you and your family are enjoying everything that the park has to offer so that you don’t have to constantly lug your gear around with you or worry about theft with your unattended items.
Click here to download a printable PDF shopping list.
Basic Gear
Some of these basic items can be loaned by the water park itself (like PFDs) while others will need to be brought into the park with you. We recommend a backpack to store all of your items securely and then renting a locker if your entire family plans to participate in water activities so that you aren’t leaving your gear unattended in a public place. You can simply store your essential information and money in a waterproof sleeve (in case of emergency) and store the rest of your gear for later use.
Item | Why You Need It |
Protect ID, Cell Phone, Matches, Maps | |
Hydration During Breaks | |
Gear Organization | |
Energy Food/Snacks | |
Keep Lips Hydrated and Protected | |
Dry Yourself When Finished | |
Keeps Water Out of Ear Canal |
Clothing
Water Parks are meant for fun and leisure, so the clothing you wear should match the situation! Typically, you’ll need only casual attire such as a basic swimsuit, but don’t forget coverup items as well like board shorts and even shoes to get you from place to place within the park in comfort. A simple pull-over dress or shirt is appropriate for many, as sporting your swimsuit for the entirety of the day is not unheard of in a water park.
It’s important to note that many kids can benefit from a long-sleeved coverup top meant for water use (like a body glove), as this can add an additional layer of sun protection as well as protection from rashes due to continual use of plastic water slides and other water park items.
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 |
Coverup Attire | |
Pullover Sundress | Coverup Attire |
Protection, Insulation, and Comfort |
First Aid
As an essential to any trip, first aid can help to ensure that minor accidents and ailments are taken care of. Many water parks will already have first aid stations available, as it is their legal obligation to do so. But having your own small first aid kit for the occasional scrape or cut can be more convenient that seeking out an attendant for help.
Item | Why You Need It |
Medical Info/Card | Useful for Emergency/Healthcare Workers |
