Packing the Perfect Pool Bag: Toddler Edition

Summer is here and that means pool season is in full swing. Now that I have a toddler getting ready to go is a little more challenging than when I could just put on my suit under my clothes and head on out, but little man loves the water so we go a lot. Today I thought I'd share what we pack in our bag!

I always bring little man in his regular clothes, so that I don't have to pack a change. Everything else I bring in a sturdy, water proof tote like this one from JJ Cole.

Here's what we bring!

1. A beach towel - I always look for soft, plush ones with hoods, that are large enough to completely cocoon Jacob in. He likes to be all wrapped up when he's done swimming.

2. Swimsuit and rash guard - I always bring these with us and change when we get there. I also bring a wet bag to put all his wet things in for the trip home. A gallon size ziploc bag would definitely do the trick.

3. Sunscreen - I look for sprays because they are easiest for me to get on Jacob. I prefer baby sunscreen that is formulated for sensitive skin because Jacob has a tendancy to get rashes from sunscreens, lotions, etc. I also look for a fairly high SPF since the sun is extra bright and hot in the summer.

4. Sun hat - Jacob is finicky about whether or not he will keep these on his head, but they provide the best face protection from the sun when he will.

5. Puddle Jumper - Or other flotation device. I prefer the puddle jumper because it gives Jacob the independence he craves while giving me the peace of mind that I need.

6. Water Bottle - Being out in the sun for any lengthy period of time can be dehydrating so I encourage Jacob to drink frequently. Make sure you get one that doesn't leak so the rest of the stuff in your bag doesn't end up wet if it gets jostled.

7. Swim Diaper (and a regular one!) - A big part of the reason we don't change until we get there is because swim diapers are not designed to hold a lot of pee. The last thing i want is an accident all over our car seat. We use cloth swim diapers, but disposable work just as well. You'll also want a fresh extra diaper to change your little one into after swimming.

8. Sunglasses -These provide the best eye protection against the sun's rays, unfortunately my toddler doesn't like to keep them on. I'll keep trying though until he realizes their value.

9. Snacks - I like to bring one healthy snack that doesn't require refrigeration and can't be squished.

Gerber® Lil’ Beanies are perfect for this. They come in a nice can so you won't end up with a bag full of crumbs. They are made from navy beans and have 2 grams of protein and 1 gram of fiber, so they are a snack I feel good about giving to Jacob or any friends we may meet up with at the pool.

We tend to take a snack break half way through our pool visits, or whenever else little man requests to avoid meltdowns.

A happy, full belly means we can continue our day stress free and enjoy more time in the water.

We like to get our Gerber® Lil’ Beanies at Kroger. You can find them in the baby aisle along with other yummy Gerber snacks.

Little man thinks they are Cheese puffs (and I'm totally fine with that since I know better!) and we rarely make it out of the store without him demanding that I open them right away for grocery store snacking.