Top Pool Toys for Kids

Summer is calling, and that means we will be spending a lot more time at the pool! I just updated two of my most popular posts — what I pack for a family beach trip and my favorite sunscreen for adults and kids.  — and I realized I hadn’t shared a full roundup of what we pack for the pool. Whether you’re heading to a local pool, staying at a resort, or enjoying a friend’s backyard, this list will have you fully prepped.

We live in Texas, and with daughters who love to swim competitively year-round, we practically live at the pool. When we take a family vacation, the hotel has to have a pool! While there is some crossover between what we pack for the beach and the pool, the biggest differences are the pool toys for kids and a few other pool essentials. 

What to Consider When Packing for the Pool

Every pool outing is different, and what you bring to the pool depends on:

• Your kids’ ages and swim skills
  

• Whether you’re flying, driving locally, or staying somewhere with a pool
  

• How long you’ll be there (and if snacks will be required—spoiler: they will!)
  

Here’s how to pack smart for each scenario:

• ✈️ Flying: Keep it light! Pack compact floats, skip towels if your hotel provides them, and choose pool toys for kids that dry fast.
  

• 🚗 Local pool: Bring towels, sunscreen, and small, easy-to-carry toys, but leave the giant inflatables at home.
  

• 🏡 Backyard pool: The sky’s the limit—oversized floats, games, chairs—go for it!

If you need a little help packing for the pool, I’ve created a list of pool gear and pool toys for kids that will work for all ages and any situation. Just browse my ideas below and pick the ones that are right for you and your family!

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Pool Floats

Pool floats are always so much fun! When deciding which pool float to get, remember to stick to the weight limit for your kids so it remains safe. Floaties can also give children a false sense of security in the water, so it’s a good idea to give them some time in the pool without one. Whichever pool float you choose, remember to stay close by and keep an eye on them at all times.

• Inflatable Pool Floats: I guarantee that even if you only go to the pool once this year, your kid is going to want a pool float as soon as you get there! I like this sea turtle float because it has handles for kids to hold onto. You also can’t go wrong with some classic ring floats.

• Baby Pool Floats: If you’re bringing a baby to the pool, you’ll need something smaller for them to float around in. This baby swim ring comes in a lot of fun styles and features a removable canopy with sun protection. Or you can grab a slightly larger baby pool float that has toys on the front. 

• Pool Noodles: Pool noodles are just plain fun, and they can help young swimmers feel more relaxed in the water. There are also so many other ways to use them too — just look up pool noodle hacks!

• Kick Boards: A kick board can give young swimmers more confidence while helping them work on their floating and kicking skills. 

• USCG-Certified Swim Vest: If you want to give young kids a little more independence in the pool, choose a swim vest with arm floaties that’s certified by the US Coast Guard.

• Pool Chair: This one’s for the adults! If you’re in a pool with plenty of room for lounging, this pool chair comes with a headrest and cup holders for drinks.

Pool Toys

Splashing around in the pool is fun enough on its own. But sometimes it helps to bring a few pool toys for kids that will keep them entertained while also helping to build their confidence in the water. I’ve included a few ideas in this list that adults will love, too! 

• Reusable Water Balloons: These reusable water balloons are a blast in the backyard, at the pool and the beach all summer

• Diving Sticks: I love pool toys for kids that are both fun and help them work on their swimming skills. These diving sticks sink fast, stand upright, and come in bright colors so they’re easy to find in the water. My daughters will play with them for hours!

• Swim Thru Rings: Give your kids an extra challenge by creating an obstacle course under water. These swim thru rings are perfect for kids who like to get a little competitive!

• Dive & Catch Game: This pool toy is perfect for kids that aren’t quite ready to dive all the way down to the bottom of the pool. The set includes five animals that float at different depths and includes a net to scoop them up.

• Bluey Floatin’ Figures: Sometimes it helps to bring along pool toys for kids that will stay afloat and help them feel more at ease in the water. If your kids love Bluey, they’ll have so much fun splashing around in the pool with this toy! 

• Water Squirters: If you have a baby, toddler, or preschooler, bring along some bath squirters to help them have fun and feel comfortable in the pool. Older kids could also play with mini water guns.

• Robo Fish: I’m all about practical finds, so it makes me happy when I find pool toys for kids that can be used in multiple ways. These robo fish swim in five different directions and can be used in the pool, at home in the tub, or in any container of water.

• Diving Gem Toys: Turn pool time into a treasure hunt with colorful, easy-to-grab diving gems that sink and sparkle underwater.

• Volleyball Net & Basketball Hoops: Have your own pool at home? Make it extra fun with a pool volleyball net and basketball hoops that works for all ages. 

• Inflatable Dart Board: Another great option for those of you with your own pool! You can also use this inflatable dart board as an outdoor toy. 

Waterproof Games

Plan on being at the pool for a while? These cards are perfect for when you need a break from playing in the pool but still want to do something fun. You can also take them with you on any outdoor adventure or wherever spills might happen.

• Waterproof Playing Cards: These cards can get wet or dirty and they’ll still be easy to shuffle and handle. 

• Taco Cat Goat Cheese: This is a fun game for ages six and up. We have the original at home, and I love the idea of this waterproof travel version!

• Spot It! Waterproof:  The fast-paced matching game you can take to the beach, pool, or splash pad thanks to its durable, water-resistant cards. 

Hair Care

Chlorine can be really harsh on hair, so removing it quickly is key to preventing damage. My daughters swim competitively so we’ve tried a lot of products to find the best ones! Our typical routine is to rinse off, wash hair, and use a leave-in conditioner. Then we use a detangling brush to remove tangles. 

• Chlorine Removal Shampoo: This gentle shampoo removes chlorine while also hydrating and moisturizing hair. 

• Detangling Brush: You can use this detangling brush on wet or dry hair to gently loosen any knots or tangles. There’s also a mini version that is great for toddlers or keeping in your purse.

• Conditioning Detangler: There are two leave-in conditioners I always take with me to the pool and beach — Sun Bum and Unite Hair. Both work to detangle knots and keep hair smooth, strong, and healthy. 

Other Pool Essentials 

These are the more practical items I always bring to the pool to make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.  

• Sunscreen: The sun reflects water, so it’s important to wear sunscreen — even if it’s cloudy! Since you’ll be in the pool, make sure to choose a water-resistant sunscreen and re-apply at least every two hours. Check out this post for my complete list of our favorite sunscreens.

• Swimmer’s Ear Drops: My oldest daughter often gets swimmer’s ear, so I keep these on hand when we go to the pool. If your kids have ever struggled with water-clogged ears, these drops help dry out ears quickly. 

• Bogg Bag: A worthwhile investment! Bogg bags are super durable, hold a lot, and can be rinsed off, making them perfect for outdoor activities. A mesh bag is also a great option.

• Wet bag: Anything dirty, wet, or damp can go in this bag. You can also use it to pack extra clothing for kids to switch into once they’re done at the pool.

• Towels: Obviously towels at the pool are a must! These beach towels are compact, quick-drying, and ultra-absorbent—and the fun patterns make them just as cute as they are functional — perfect for the pool or beach. 

• Sunglasses: Chlorine can damage sunglasses so make sure to rinse them off if they get wet in the pool. Here are my favorite sunglasses for babies and toddlers and sunglasses for kids three and up.

• Water Bottle: Swimming and playing in the pool is a workout, so it’s important to stay hydrated. My favorite water bottle for kids is this Hydro Flask. 

• Snacks: I think all parents know that snacks are always a must anytime you go anywhere! 

• Portable Lock Box: If everyone is going to be in the pool, you might want to lock up any valuables (like your phone and wallet) in a small lock box.

• Waterproof Pouch: If you’re taking photos or videos while in the pool, it’s a good idea to keep your phone protected.

• First Aid Kit: I take this DIY kit with me whenever we travel anywhere.

Swimwear

Obviously, swimwear is a must at the pool, even if you’re just lounging! In this list are my favorite swimwear styles for the whole family, including the goggles my kids like best. 

• Swimwear for Kids: Choose a brightIy colored swimsuit so it’s easier to spot in the pool. I love this Boden swimsuit for girls and these swim trunks for boys. Rash guards are also good for added sun protection. My girls love these long sleeve one piece rash guards. 

• Swimwear for Adults: The two swimsuits I always pack are this one-piece swimsuit and this front crossover swimsuit. Mr. Kids wears these quick-drying swim trunks. 

• Swim Diapers: For kids who aren’t potty trained yet, layer a disposable swim diaper with a reusable swim diaper. 

• Goggles: My kids compete on the swim team year-round, so they love their goggles. These racing goggles and these Swimple goggles are our favorites as they are mirrored, so they basically act like sunglasses too!

Clothing

Similar to the beach, you’ll want to bring swimsuit cover-ups or other clothes that are easy to change out of. You may also want to bring along an extra pair of clothing for your kids to change into, depending on if you’re driving home or going somewhere after.

• Flip Flops: Mr. Kids loves these flip-flops, while these are my go-to sandals for the pool. My kids can't get enough of these sandals. They come in several fun colors too!

• Water Shoes for Babies & Toddlers: These are a great option for little feet that can't manage flip-flops yet!

• Swimsuit Cover-Up: This dress shirt is super cute, lightweight, and easy to throw on, then remove while at the pool. I can't get enough of the sarong cover up either!

• Hats: Make sure to grab hats for your kids and sun hats for babies that offer UPF protection. If your kids don’t like to wear hats, remember to use scalp sunscreen. Personally, I always pack along my straw hat.

Final Thoughts: What’s in Your Pool Bag?

I’d love to hear what you bring to the pool, whether it’s pool toys for kids or more practical items like sunscreen. Honestly, the practical items are also what can make the pool fun! And it’s always good to be prepared. If you’ve seen the Bluey episode where they go to the pool, you know what I’m talking about.  

For more summertime ideas and tips, check out my post on what to bring to the beach and the best sunscreens to use.