If you’ve ever packed up the kids for a pool day and realized halfway there you forgot the goggles, snacks, or sunscreen (or all three), you’re definitely not alone. That’s why having a solid pool day packing list is a total game-changer! It helps you show up prepared and keeps the day smooth and stress-free.

Listen Below For The Entire Episode On The Systemize Your Life Podcast

Friend, I’ve been there too many times. Pool days should be fun, not a logistical nightmare that leaves you frazzled and frustrated before you even find a lounge chair.

That’s exactly why I created a pool day packing list that I can grab and go—every single time.

This isn’t just a list. It’s a full-on system. A simple solution to keep your summer organized, make pool days effortless, and actually enjoy the time with your kids (yes, even if they’re fighting over snacks and splash each other 24/7).

Now that we’ve got that covered, let me take a second to say hey. I’m Chelsi Jo, and if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that systems are the secret sauce to keeping my head on straight.

I’ve taken the everyday chaos of motherhood and business and turned it into a whole lot of calm, peace, and actual joy. And let’s be honest—summer tends to stir the pot just a bit. The kids are home, the boredom hits faster, and somehow you feel just a smidge more overwhelmed than usual.

That’s why I’m so excited to show you exactly how I pack my pool bag. This little system has totally changed my summer routine—and I know it can do the same for you.

Let’s dive in, shall we?

Why a Pool Bag System Is a Must: My Go-To Pool Day Packing List

Let’s be real: pool days can feel like a second full-time job if you’re not prepared. What should be fun becomes chaotic. But a solid, organized pool bag changes everything.

“Having a very strategic and organized pool bag makes it easy for everybody to hop in, swim, and come home.”

After years of trial and error, I finally found a system that lets me grab one bag and go. No second trips back into the house. No meltdowns (okay, fewer meltdowns). Just pure, organized summer fun.

“Having a very strategic and organized pool bag makes it easy for everybody to hop in, swim, and come home.”

Let’s Talk Pool Bags — Which One Should You Use?

Let’s take a minute to talk about the bag—because honestly, this matters way more than you might think. I’m obsessed with my Bogg Bag for pool days. It’s waterproof, super sturdy, and it actually stands up on its own, which makes loading and unloading way easier.

But here’s the thing—you don’t need a Bogg Bag to make this work. What you really want is a rectangular, easy-to-clean tote that won’t flop over like those soft cloth bags tend to do.

Think waterproof or at least wipeable material. It should be roomy enough to hold a few smaller bags or containers without turning into a big mess. I’ve found some really great options at Target and Amazon that fit the bill.

The key is the structure — when your bag stands tall and keeps everything organized. It makes your whole pool day packing list way easier to manage.

My 5 Non-Negotiables for Your Pool Day Packing List

When it comes to pool days, a little prep goes a long way. After years of hauling wet towels, forgotten snacks, and cranky kiddos back and forth, I’ve narrowed it down to five absolute must-haves. These make every pool day smoother, simpler, and way more fun.

These are my non-negotiables — the things I never leave the house without. Today I’m handing them over to you so you can ditch the stress and enjoy your summer in the sun!

Pool Day Packing List Item #1: Insulated Lunch Tote

We live in the desert, and let me tell you — anything left out in the sun turns to lava in no time. That’s why a small insulated bag is an absolute must for your pool day packing list. You’ll want it for all the drinks and snacks that need to stay cool. I like to tuck mine right inside my big pool tote so I’m not juggling multiple bags on the way in or out.

Here’s a little bonus that’s saved me more times than I can count: I always pack a snack tray. Nothing fancy, just a big container with compartments and a lid. I fill it up with dry snacks that won’t melt—think popcorn, crackers, dried fruit, pretzels — so the kids can grab what they want without digging through a bunch of bags and making a huge mess. It keeps everything neat, easy, and mom-approved.

Item #2: Leak-Proof Water Bottles

Let’s talk water bottles, because this one might seem small, but it is so big for your sanity. Each kid gets their own—and yes, it matters.

They need to be insulated, spill-proof, and kid-approved, or they don’t make the cut. I’m obsessed with the Simple Modern brand. They’ve held up to every single summer we’ve had—dropped, rolled, tossed, and still going strong. I use one with a flip-top and a straw that stays clean, doesn’t leak, and somehow still fits in our pool bag.

No more soggy books, damp towels, or puddles in the bottom of the bag from a bottle that popped open.

Each of my kids has two bottles that we rotate. I always make sure they’re filled and in the fridge the night before a pool day. If you’re still using sippy cups or water bottles that tip and spill, it’s time to level up. This one swap has saved me so many headaches, and it keeps the kids hydrated without the constant complaints.

It’s a simple change—but trust me, the payoff is huge.

Pool Day Packing List Item #3: Summer Survival Kit

This, my friend, is the holy grail. The zippered pouch that keeps us sane, safe, and free from mystery goo leaking in the bottom of your pool bag.

It’s the one bag I never leave home without. It lies flat and zips all the way open (hello visibility!). This gives me quick access to everything I need without digging around like a raccoon in a diaper bag.

I call it my summer survival kit. It’s packed with the small-but-mighty things that make a big difference during long pool days. Here’s what’s always inside:

• Mineral sunscreen – We use Doterra’s formula and a beef tallow-based one that’s rocking my world this summer. No chemicals. No nonsense. Just protection that actually works (and doesn’t turn the kids into slippery ghosts).
  
• Wet wipes – Always, always, always. These are a non-negotiable. Sticky fingers, snack messes, random dirt… wet wipes to the rescue.
  
• Chapstick – Because the Arizona sun does not play around, and no one wants cracked lips.
  
• Hair ties and a claw clip – I stash extras in here because someone’s hair is always falling in their face or getting dunked in pool water. This saves me from the “Mom! My hair!” drama every. single. time.
  
• Essential oil roller – I keep a citrus and peppermint blend in here for a mid-day mood boost (for me and the kids). It’s like instant energy in a bottle. I tuck it under a towel so it doesn’t heat up too much in the sun.
  
• Wet bag – Game changer. For wet swimsuits, dirty clothes, or the inevitable oops moments that come with small children and water. This one thing has saved the rest of my bag more times than I can count.

This little kit? It keeps me from feeling like I’m juggling a dozen half-used items every time we head out. It’s clean, it’s efficient, and it makes me feel like I actually have my act together—even if the rest of the day looks a little wild.

Item #4: Mesh Toy Bag

You know all those little pool toys your kids swear they have to have — but you never seem to find them when it’s time to leave the house?

Yep. We’re solving that right here.

Goggles, dive rings, squirt toys, mini floats, pool noodles (the small ones), and whatever else magically ends up in the rotation this summer—all of it needs a home. And not the bottom of your main bag, where it tangles with your towels and snacks.

That’s why I have a dedicated mesh drawstring bag just for toys. Ours is a leftover from my daughter’s competitive swim days, and it’s still going strong. It opens wide so the kids can get to their stuff without dumping everything out, and because it’s mesh, it’s a breeze to shake out and toss straight in the wash when it gets grimy.

It’s simple, but it keeps my main bag from becoming a hot mess of plastic and soggy straps.

Keep this bag stocked and ready, and encourage your kids to help put their toys back in it before you leave the pool. You’ll teach them some responsibility and get out the door faster. Win-win.

Pool Day Packing List Item #5: Quick-Dry Towels

This one’s a total game changer. A few summers ago, we ditched our thick, fluffy beach towels (you know the ones that take up half your bag and never fully dry?) and made the switch to lightweight, quick-dry towels—and let me tell you, I am never going back.

They roll up super compact, dry in half the time, and don’t carry around ten pounds of water. I pack two per person, because—let’s be honest—at some point, someone’s going to want a dry towel after their first one gets soaked or dropped in the grass. Even with double the towels, they still take up less space than the old ones ever did.

We’ve tried a few brands over the years, and there are some great options on Amazon. Look for ones that are soft, durable, and machine washable. You’ll thank yourself later when everything fits in your bag and your laundry isn’t drowning in sand and bulk.

Oh—and don’t forget the towel clips. They might be such a small thing, but they are such a big help. I clip everyone’s towel to their pool chair, and no more chasing towels across the deck when the wind picks up. Because nobody has time to chase towels across the pool deck—let’s keep it cute and collected, not chaotic.

Pool Day Packing List Bonus: Don’t Forget to Pack for YOU

Here’s the deal—I want you to actually enjoy pool days too. I know it can feel like you’re just there to supervise, reapply sunscreen every 45 minutes, and referee splash fights. But Mama, you deserve a break, too.

That’s why I always pack a few things just for me. A hat and a magazine are perfect to flip through while the kids are busy playing. Nothing fancy, just something that feels fun, light, and completely unplugged.

And let’s be real—my phone never makes it through an Arizona summer pool day without a heat warning. It’s basically begging me to take a break from screens… so I do. I lean into the analog life for a few hours and let myself unwind.

If you’re more of a book girl, pack that novel you’ve been meaning to start. If journaling is your thing, throw it in there. Whatever fills your cup, toss it in the bag. Just make sure there’s something in there that’s just for you, even if it’s small.

When you take care of yourself—even in little ways—you show up better for everyone else. And pool days are way more fun when you’re not running on empty.

The Bottom Line

Mama, listen—you deserve pool days that feel fun, not frantic. No more running back into the house five times. No more forgotten goggles, missing snacks, or last-minute chaos.

With this pool day packing list and a little bit of prep, you’ll become that mom who actually enjoys going to the pool. The one who’s calm, collected, and ready when the kids say, “Can we go swimming today?”

Because when you’ve got systems in place, the heavy lifting is done before the fun even starts. You show up more present, more prepared, and yes—even more joyful.

No more scrambling. Just a cool, confident you, sipping water poolside while the kids cannonball their hearts out.

If you’re thinking, “This sounds great, but I need help with way more than just packing my pool bag,” you’re not alone. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.

Grab my FREE Time Blocking Workbook to get your summer schedule running like clockwork. It’s the exact tool I use to balance work, home, and all the extra sunshine chaos that summer brings.

Or hop into our FREE Facebook community, where I hang out with other system-loving moms just like you. There’s nothing like being surrounded by women who are working hard to show up for their family and themselves.

And friend, don’t go far. This is just the beginning of my Summer Systems Series, and I’ve got even more good stuff coming your way. Let’s make this your best, most peaceful summer yet.

I’ll be cheering you on poolside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need a special bag for the pool?

You don’t need a high-end or trendy brand, but yes, you do need the right kind of bag to make your pool day run smoothly. A structured, waterproof (or at least wipeable) tote that stands up on its own and holds everything in place is a total game-changer. It keeps your snacks, towels, sunscreen, and extras from getting jumbled or lost at the bottom of a floppy cloth bag.

The right bag helps you stay organized, saves time, and makes packing up so much easier. It’s a simple switch with a huge payoff.

What’s the best way to keep my bag organized between trips?

As soon as you get home, take a few minutes to restock your pool bag. Refill water bottles, swap out towels, and restock your survival kit. Then store the bag in a shaded, easy-to-grab spot so it’s always ready for your next pool day—no scrambling, no stress.

What if I don’t have time to buy all this stuff?

Start with what you already have on hand! Repurpose lunchboxes, pencil pouches, and even grocery totes to create your organizing system. The goal here is all about function and practicality, not perfection. 

Using everyday items you love or already own keeps things simple, budget-friendly, and totally doable. This system is designed to work for you, so focus on what helps you stay organized rather than what looks perfect on paper.