Moms on Call Pool Bag Essentials: A Must-Have List for Your Next Outing

Summer is in full swing, and there’s nothing quite like soaking up the sunshine and splashing around with your little ones. Whether you're heading to the neighborhood pool, a friend’s backyard oasis, or even your local splash pad, a little preparation can go a long way in making sure the day is fun (and stress-free!) for the whole family. But let’s be honest— packing a pool bag with a baby or toddler in tow can feel like preparing for a full-blown vacation. That’s where we come in. 

The Moms on Call team of pediatric nurses and moms knows what it takes to turn chaos into calm—and we’ve rounded up our favorite must-have items to help make your next pool outing smoother, safer, and a whole lot more fun. Keep reading for our pool bag essentials that’ll have you ready for anything the day may bring!

👜 Our Go-To Pool Bag: The BOGG BAG

Let’s start with the foundation— the bag itself. Our top pick? The one and only BOGG BAG. This durable, waterproof bag has become a favorite for a reason. It’s easy to clean, spacious enough for all the essentials (yes, even extra towels), and it comes with a clear insert to store anything you’d like to keep dry and sand-free. Moms on Call Consultant Morgan Sewell, BSN, RNC-OB, EFM, calls it “the best bag ever invented”—and we couldn’t agree more.

💨 Stay Cool with a Stroller Fan

Even with shade and hydration, babies can get overheated quickly . That’s why we always recommend tossing a stroller fan into your pool bag. These fans come with a flexible tripod-style grip that attaches easily to strollers, wagons, or just about any surface nearby. And with an 8-hour rechargeable battery, it’s a simple way to keep your baby cool and comfortable, no matter how long you stay poolside.

🏊‍♂️ Reusable Absorbent Swim Diaper

There’s one item that should never be forgotten: the swim diaper. And if you ask us, reusable absorbent swim diapers are the way to go. These pull-on style diapers are breathable, machine-washable, and designed with UPF 50+ protection and waterproof layers. Best of all? They’re made to keep everything contained—no surprises in the water. As our consultant Rebecca Davis, RN, MSN, says, "The disposable ones still let solids leak. These DON'T! A must for avoiding embarrassing situations."

☀️ Sunscreen Applicators

We get it— putting sunscreen on little ones isn’t always a walk in the park. But we’ve found a way to make it easier: refillable sunscreen applicators. These handy tools come with a sponge tip that helps apply and rub in the lotion more efficiently—especially when you’re trying to get a wiggly toddler ready to jump in the pool. They’re compact, mess-free, and perfect for quick touch-ups throughout the day.

💦 Water Blaster Toys for Endless Fun

Not every kid is eager to jump right into the water, and that’s okay! For toddlers who like to hang back, water blasters disguised as pool noodles are the perfect solution. They float, are lightweight, and super easy to use—even for the littlest hands. These toys are a hit with the whole family and keep even the hesitant swimmers involved in the fun.

🪣 Stack & Pour Buckets

If your little one prefers the shallow end or stair sitting, these stack-and-pour buckets are a total win. Designed to support motor skill development, each bucket in the set has a different sprinkle effect, offering both sensory play and learning opportunities. They’re compact, colorful, and easy to toss into your pool bag—perfect for those quick breaks from splashing.

🐳 Poolside Playset

Looking to keep your preschooler busy while you supervise your baby? This poolside playset is a favorite for kids ages three and up. It includes a fillable river, slide, and floaty accessories—all themed around cute animal friends. Whether they’re splashing in shallow water or playing on the edge, this toy set keeps them entertained and engaged.

👟 Water Shoes for Safety

Pool decks can get hot, slippery, and a little risky for tiny feet. That’s why water shoes are an absolute must. We love styles that are lightweight, easy to slip on and off, and designed to stay put. Not only do they help protect against slips and burns, but they’re also versatile enough to be used at the beach or in the backyard sprinkler.

🎒 Dry Bags for Easy Organization

If you haven’t used a dry bag yet, trust us—you’re missing out. Moms on Call Consultant Sierah Hicks, RN, swears by them: "These are great for putting inside your bag for sunscreen, sunglasses, you name it!" They help you stay organized, keep items dry, and make it easy to grab what you need without digging through a wet mess.

Pack, Prep, and Go: You’ve Got This!

Now that you’ve got the full list of Moms on Call pool bag essentials, you’re officially ready to pack up and head out with confidence. With a little planning (and a lot of sunscreen), you can make the most of your family’s pool day and focus on making sweet memories. Don’t forget the snacks, plenty of water, and maybe an extra towel or two—because with little ones, you never know what the day might bring. We hope your pool outing goes swimmingly! For more poolside parenting tips, check out our feature: Tips & Tricks for Pool Time with swim coach and former competitive swimmer, Allison Hunter.