Once the weather hits “unbearable” and school is out, we’re either at the pool. We might also be heading to the beach or looking up waterparks with concerning levels of enthusiasm. And because I’ve learned the hard way (not all water shoes are created equal), I now have a go-to stash of summer essentials that I keep packed and ready to go.
This isn’t one of those over-the-top lists that makes you feel like you need 35 gadgets and a waterproof phone lanyard to survive a pool day. These are things I actually bring, actually use, and actually recommend. Let’s go!
The Bag That Carries It All
Yeti Camino Carryall | Amazon link
This bag is worth every single penny. It stands up on its own (no floppy collapse situation while you’re trying to load it), rinses clean with a hose, and somehow fits everything without feeling like you’re carrying a boat anchor. We use it for beach days, waterparks, the pool, all of it. Bonus: it looks good and holds up forever. Also available in a larger size for those who need a little more room.
Water Shoes That Stay On (And Look Cute)
Kids’ Water Shoes
Mom Water Shoes – ShopStyle option | Amazon option
Wave pool moms, these are for us. These kid water shoes are easy for them to put on and (even better) stay on when they’re sprinting across hot pavement or kicking around in the pool. And I found two solid options for the moms that don’t look like hospital shoes but also don’t fly off when you’re chasing your child through the lazy river. Because my kid is incapable of being lazy, even when the river calls for it.
Life Vest = Peace of Mind
I’ve tried a few, and this one is comfy, fits well, and doesn’t rub or ride up. I still keep a close eye in all water situations, but him wearing this makes me slightly less anxious. And it’s a must-have for boat outings. We love it.
The OG Wet Bag
Bumkins Waterproof Wet Bags – Amazon link | ShopStyle link
I started using these back when I had a diaper bag packed like I was going on a two-week cruise, and I still use them every single pool or beach day. They’re way better than plastic baggies, cuter, and can go straight in the wash. Toss in wet swimsuits, sandy toys, or that surprise juice box explosion.
Goggles That Don’t End in Drama
Speedo Sunny G Goggles | ShopStyle link
These are the only goggles my kid will wear. No complaints, no fogging, no tears mid-swim. They adjust easily and don’t tug on his hair which, in our house, is the dealbreaker for most other goggles.
The Sunscreen We Actually Like
Supergoop! PLAY Sunscreen – ShopStyle link | Amazon link
This one checks all the boxes. Works for kids and adults, doesn’t sting eyes, and goes on like a lotion, not a grease slick. My kid doesn’t whine when I put it on him. I don’t break out from it. It’s the one we reach for every time.
Towels That Feel Like an Upgrade
L.L. Bean Seaside Beach Towels
If you’re still bringing an old bath towel to the beach, I promise these will change your mind. They’re soft, oversized, and hold up wash after wash. I bring one for me, one for my kid, and one to lay everything out on. Five stars, no notes.
That’s the lineup. I keep most of this packed in our bag all summer so we’re ready to head out the door without a last-minute scramble. I added links above if you want to check any of them out (some are affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase, at no extra cost to you).
Stay cool out there, and I’ll see you in the lazy river.
Curated, Kinda 
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