Taking your baby swimming and need a packing list? No problem!
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Posted: 15/06/23
It’s an exciting time when your little one is ready to make their first splashes in the pool. Not only will it help bring your baby one step closer to learning how to swim, but it’s also an added fun way to bond with your child while they gain their water confidence. But as with every activity with a young child, it’s never quite plain sailing! To help save you added stress on the day, we’ve compiled a handy guide featuring all the essentials you need to pack in your swim bag for both you and your baby. Happy swimming!
TOP TIP! Save time and make your baby’s swimming experience fuss-free by dressing them in their swim costume before you head out. This way, you can focus on enjoying the water fun right away! With your little one already dressed for the pool (or beach), you’re one step ahead and ready to make a splash!
So let’s dive in to our baby swim bag essentials!
What to pack when taking your baby swimming
Swimming nappies
Swimming nappies are must-have! Regular nappies will expand in size and potentially burst (which is a health hazard for obvious reasons…). Swimming nappies, on the other hand, have leak guards for added protection and are specially crafted to withstand water activities. Be sure to pack a spare swimming nappy just in case your baby fills it before entering the pool!
Floating toy
Taking a small floating bath toy into the water with them will add a bit of familiarity to the environment, helping to put your baby at ease with their surroundings. Plus, it adds an extra element of fun, and once they get old enough, they may even try to reach/swim after their toy.
Changing mat
Trust us, you’ll thank us later for this one! Bringing a changing mat will make the post-swim change a far more pleasant experience for you and your baby as it will protect your little one from the cold changing room floors or the uncomfortable benches. If you can, opt for a waterproof, non-slip mat for added security.
Baby Toiletries
Don’t get caught out and forget any of these essential toiletries for baby’s swim bag! Use after swimming to wash away chlorine and leave skin and hair clean and shiny! Need a good bag to store everything in? We love our Flat Lay Drawstring Bag, which is fully washable and opens totally flat in seconds… making it super easy to find what you need!
These toiletries will ensure your little one is well taken care of during their swimming adventure. Remember to choose products that are specifically formulated for babies and are gentle on their delicate skin.
Swimming outdoors, or hitting the beach for a paddle with your tot? …Don’t forget SPF, we always recommend a water resistant Factor 50+ to protect from UVA and UVB rays!
Hooded towel
Once your baby gets out of the water, their body temperature can drop significantly, so it’s important to get them snuggled up in a cosy towel as soon as you’re back in the changing room. If you have one, hooded towels are a great option as they prevent a lot of heat loss from the head. Oh, and a top tip … pack a second towel for your baby to lie on!
Snacks, and more snacks!
Swimming is hungry work, and after splashing about for a while, it’s likely your baby will have worked up a considerable appetite! Choose snacks that are suitable for your little one’s age and dietary needs. If suitable, treat your little swimmer to some of our handy Kiddylicious snacks after a swim – perfect to keep in your bag and pull out when needed!
Coins for lockers
They are easily forgotten! Pack some coins just in case or ask at reception when you arrive whether you’ll need cash, keys or a token.
Waterproof bags
The waterproof interior means you can pop all your wet items into it, and it won’t make the rest of your items in your bag wet. If you do not have a wet bag, bring a plastic carrier bag to hold alongside your swim bag.
If you are on holiday and capturing special moments by the pool, invest in a waterproof phone pouch to keep your phone safe from water damage!
Globetrek Waterproof Phone Pouch
£1.29
Your own stuff!
As a parent, it’s easy to put your child first but remember to pack everything you need as well! This includes towels, toiletries, snacks, water, swimwear, flip flops /sandals and money.
Now we’ve covered the essentials, let’s wrap up with a few helpful tips that you may want to bear in mind before you plan your trip to the pool:
Plan your swim to coincide with school/working hours to avoid peak times as increased noise and splashing might unsettle your baby
Go when your baby is fed, well-rested and in a happy mood as they are more likely to build positive associations with swimming
Try out a local baby swim class as this is a great time to meet and socialise with parents that have children of a similar age
Enjoy this special bonding time and watch your little swimmer’s face light up with delight!
Baby swim bag essentials
It’s an exciting time when your little one is ready to make their first splashes in the pool. Not only will it help bring your baby one step closer to learning how to swim, but it’s also an added fun way to bond with your child while they gain their water confidence. But as with every activity with a young child, it’s never quite plain sailing! To help save you added stress on the day, we’ve compiled a handy guide featuring all the essentials you need to pack in your swim bag for both you and your baby. Happy swimming!
TOP TIP! Save time and make your baby’s swimming experience fuss-free by dressing them in their swim costume before you head out. This way, you can focus on enjoying the water fun right away! With your little one already dressed for the pool (or beach), you’re one step ahead and ready to make a splash!
So let’s dive in to our baby swim bag essentials!
What to pack when taking your baby swimming
Swimming nappies
Swimming nappies are must-have! Regular nappies will expand in size and potentially burst (which is a health hazard for obvious reasons…). Swimming nappies, on the other hand, have leak guards for added protection and are specially crafted to withstand water activities. Be sure to pack a spare swimming nappy just in case your baby fills it before entering the pool!
Floating toy
Taking a small floating bath toy into the water with them will add a bit of familiarity to the environment, helping to put your baby at ease with their surroundings. Plus, it adds an extra element of fun, and once they get old enough, they may even try to reach/swim after their toy.
Changing mat
Trust us, you’ll thank us later for this one! Bringing a changing mat will make the post-swim change a far more pleasant experience for you and your baby as it will protect your little one from the cold changing room floors or the uncomfortable benches. If you can, opt for a waterproof, non-slip mat for added security.
Baby Toiletries
Don’t get caught out and forget any of these essential toiletries for baby’s swim bag! Use after swimming to wash away chlorine and leave skin and hair clean and shiny! Need a good bag to store everything in? We love our Flat Lay Drawstring Bag, which is fully washable and opens totally flat in seconds… making it super easy to find what you need!
These toiletries will ensure your little one is well taken care of during their swimming adventure. Remember to choose products that are specifically formulated for babies and are gentle on their delicate skin.
Swimming outdoors, or hitting the beach for a paddle with your tot? …Don’t forget SPF, we always recommend a water resistant Factor 50+ to protect from UVA and UVB rays!
Hooded towel
Once your baby gets out of the water, their body temperature can drop significantly, so it’s important to get them snuggled up in a cosy towel as soon as you’re back in the changing room. If you have one, hooded towels are a great option as they prevent a lot of heat loss from the head. Oh, and a top tip … pack a second towel for your baby to lie on!
Snacks, and more snacks!
Swimming is hungry work, and after splashing about for a while, it’s likely your baby will have worked up a considerable appetite! Choose snacks that are suitable for your little one’s age and dietary needs. If suitable, treat your little swimmer to some of our handy Kiddylicious snacks after a swim – perfect to keep in your bag and pull out when needed!
Coins for lockers
They are easily forgotten! Pack some coins just in case or ask at reception when you arrive whether you’ll need cash, keys or a token.
Waterproof bags
The waterproof interior means you can pop all your wet items into it, and it won’t make the rest of your items in your bag wet. If you do not have a wet bag, bring a plastic carrier bag to hold alongside your swim bag.
If you are on holiday and capturing special moments by the pool, invest in a waterproof phone pouch to keep your phone safe from water damage!
Your own stuff!
As a parent, it’s easy to put your child first but remember to pack everything you need as well! This includes towels, toiletries, snacks, water, swimwear, flip flops /sandals and money.
Now we’ve covered the essentials, let’s wrap up with a few helpful tips that you may want to bear in mind before you plan your trip to the pool:
Enjoy this special bonding time and watch your little swimmer’s face light up with delight!
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