This post was created in partnership with ALDI. All content and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that keep the Studio DIY party going!
Some of my best childhood summer memories are long days at the town pool. I wasn’t a camp kid—too structured—so I spent countless hours running around the pool and loving every minute. Living in LA means we get pool days year-round at friends’ pools, our local pool, during vacations, and at family houses. Now that I’m a parent, a pool day is a different kind of outing: more gear, more planning, but still totally worth it.
With summer approaching, I put together a straightforward list of gear, snacks, entertainment, and clothing we pack for a family pool day in partnership with ALDI. They offer a wide selection of summer essentials and affordable, healthy snacks. If you want one-stop shopping before your next pool trip, they’re a great option. Below is our full packing list and tips for an easy, fun day by the water.
Pool Gear
The pool you’re visiting will influence what you bring, but here are the essentials we rely on most:
- Towels – Oversized towels are ideal. They double as picnic blankets so you don’t need extra sheets.
- Beach Bag – A roomy, durable bag to hold your packed items.
- Cooler (optional) – Useful for long days or large groups; optional for shorter outings.
- Water-Resistant Clutch or Tote – Perfect for wet swimsuits and keeping things separate.
- First Aid Kit – Bandaids, antiseptic wipes, gauze and basic supplies for minor scrapes.
Sun Protection + Outfit Changes
Sun protection is the most important part of a pool trip, and outfit changes are a close second. We usually wear swimsuits under an easy outfit or cover-up and bring everything else along. Pack the following for everyone:
- Sunscreen (broad spectrum)
- Sunglasses
- Hats for sun coverage
- Rash guard for little ones
- Extra swim diapers as needed
- Change of clothes for each person, including underwear
- Regular diapers and wipes if needed
Pool Snacks To Pack
Pool snacks should be low-mess, not overly perishable, and ideally somewhat healthy—especially with lunch and treats later. These are our favorites:
- Fresh fruit: berries, oranges, grapes, apples
- Veggies: grape tomatoes, baby carrots, cucumber slices
- Protein or granola bars
- Trail mix
- Cheese puffs or savory chips
- Veggie chips
- Freeze-dried fruit for a crunchy, light option
- Napkins or wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer for before snacks
For packing, leave items in their resealable packaging when possible. Otherwise, portion snacks into reusable containers to prevent spills. Use a zip-top bag with an ice pack for anything that should stay cold, and carry an extra zip bag for trash—peels, wrappers, and other waste add up quickly. I also bring a water bottle or cup for each person; covered cups with straws are especially handy and reduce spills.
Pool Toys and Entertainment
I bring a few toys and activities for the kids to keep them busy between swims:
- Pool floats – A couple of lightweight floats are always popular and easy to transport.
- Paint brush – A fun, low-cost activity: kids “paint” the pool deck with water.
- Cups – Great for pouring and exploring water play for toddlers.
- Small dive toys – Simple objects to toss in the water for kids to retrieve.
- Small ball or beach ball – Classic, easy entertainment for all ages.
Photos by Jeff Mindell
Are there any pool-day must-haves you’d add to this list? This is likely how we’ll spend many Family Fridays this summer.
Before your next pool outing, consider checking your local ALDI for affordable summer essentials and snacks.