What’s In My Pool Bag: A Sun-Sensitive Girl’s Complete List

Everything In My Pool Bag (My Sun-Sensitive Skin Approved List)

By Makayla Lucero | Life With KK

I love being outside in the summer. My skin, however, has a completely different opinion.

I am someone who has to be very intentional about sun protection – we’re talking prescription sunglasses, SPF on SPF, and a hat that could double as a small patio umbrella. Over the years I’ve put together a pool bag that keeps me cool, covered, and actually able to enjoy being outside without paying for it later. Plus everything is travel friendly! Here’s exactly what’s in my bag.

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1. Prescription Sunglasses

Non-negotiable number one. I wear prescription sunglasses every single time I’m outside and they have genuinely changed my quality of life in the summer. If you need a prescription and you’ve been squinting through regular sunglasses or skipping them altogether-  please, do yourself the favor. Here’s where I get my prescription glasses!

2. Face Sunscreen

My skin does not mess around when it comes to the sun, so face sunscreen is something I apply before I even think about leaving the house. I’ve tried a lot of formulas and finally landed on one that doesn’t make me look like a glazed donut, a ghost, or cause break outs. Here’s my favorite face sunscreen!

3. Sun Hat

Cute AND functional. I need a hat that actually blocks the sun — not just sits on my head looking pretty. This one does both and is easy to roll up to save space in my bag. Click HERE to see my favorite Sun Hat!

4. Sun Shirt for the Pool

Yes, I wear a sun shirt in the pool. Zero shame. It means I can actually stay in the water longer without turning into a crispy crispy lobster, and honestly the swim-friendly fabrics they make these in now are so comfortable. Click HERE to see my favorite Sun Shirt for the pool!

5. Sun Shirt for Land

A different situation than the pool one- this is a lightweight, breathable layer I throw on when I’m walking around outside or just sitting in the sun. It’s breezy enough that I don’t overheat but still gives me the coverage I need. Click HERE to see my favorite everyday Sun Shirt!

6. Personal Fan

This might be my most underrated recommendation on this list. A handheld personal fan is a summer game changer, especially if you run warm or you’re just trying to survive those hot summer afternoons at the pool. Click HERE to see my favorite Personal Fan!

7. Flip Flops

Easy on, easy off, good enough to walk to the pool and back without thinking twice. Click HERE to see my favorite Flip Flops!

8. Turkish Towel

I switched to a Turkish towel a couple summers ago and I genuinely cannot go back. They’re lighter, they dry faster, they take up way less room in your bag, and they look so much cuter than a standard beach towel. Click HERE to see my favorite Turkish Towel!

9. Water Bottle

Hydration is not optional when you’re sitting in the sun. I bring a big insulated water bottle everywhere I go- cold water lasts for hours and it genuinely keeps me from feeling terrible later. If you need a bottle with a secure leakproof lid, I’ve got a rec for that too. Click HERE to see my favorite Insulated Water Bottle and Click HERE to see my favorite leakproof Water Bottle!

10. Mesh Pool Bag

Last but not least- the bag itself. A mesh pool bag lets everything air out, shake out, and dry out so you’re not unzipping a mildew situation the next morning or bringing home half of the beach’s sand. It also means you can just rinse the whole thing down if needed. Click HERE to see my favorite Mesh Pool Bag!