Baby Swim Bag Essentials: What to Pack for the Pool

What baby swimming accessories do you really need to reduce the stress factor? We spoke to parents, who all agreed the following were essential things to pack in your baby's swim bag.

They had plenty of great advice on each item too. Read on for everything you need to know about what to pack for a trip to the pool with your baby.

In a warm pool you can opt for a mini swimsuit or costume, but if you prefer an extra layer, go for a baby wetsuit or rash guard made of neoprene that traps a layer of warm water next to your baby's skin. A firm favourite with parents was the Swim Cosy from Swim Elite, here.

Hooded towels are great for wrapping and keeping warm as soon as you get out, and a spare towel is always a good idea for your baby to lie on, if you have room to pack one. Our parents recommended the Cuddledry Hands-free towel.

Huggies® Little Swimmers® are perfect for pool visits until your child is potty trained. They're specially designed to be used in water, with leak guards that protect against accidents and, most importantly, don't swell in water like normal nappies do. They help keep your baby safe by not taking on water and enabling maximum movement. Don't forget the regular nappies, Huggies® Baby Wipes and cream for afterwards.

Although it may seem like a fun idea, the general consensus on baby floating aids is a big no. Your first thought might be that they increase stability, but the opposite is true. Instead of keeping your little one upright, buoyancy aids such as armbands or water wings can flip them into the water or land on top of them, making it difficult for them to surface.

The best course of action is to help them learn how to swim naturally, through proper lessons under a qualified instructor. This helps them develop the correct techniques at an early age and feel more confident and independent in the water.

Always bring another set of clothes in case things get wet, including some layers for keeping warm post-swim. If your baby is tiny, a hat is a good idea, as babies lose heat through their heads.

Your baby will be ravenous as soon as you get out, so bring drinks and snacks they can hold themselves, like bananas and rice cakes, to keep them occupied and happy while you're drying off. If your baby isn't on solids yet, they'll be ready for a feed immediately, so check the facilities before you go in.

Pick a favourite small bath toy to pack to offer some familiarity, reassurance and fun in the pool. It's a good distraction for babies that might not feel so relaxed.

Before you leave home, check that you have enough change for two lockers in case they are unrealistically small for baby bags and coats.

Don't forget yourself. Are you packed or wearing your swimming costume? Easy-to-remove clothes? Got your own towel and some spare pants? And breathe. You're good to go.

Once the fun's over, it's time to get dry. Save the tears and make getting ready friction-free with these parent-tested changing room hacks.

How exciting is this? Your little one is taking their first splashes on their very own swimming adventure - from doggy paddle to their first swim gala and maybe even the Olympic games.

In the meantime, keep them afloat with the best possible baby swimming advice, whether that's keeping your baby happy on their first swim, water games to make the experience more interactive, and what injections are needed before they go.