9 essentials to take to a water park with kids

Going to a water park is a unique, exciting experience for the whole family, especially for the little ones. But as with any activity we do with kids, it’s important to go well prepared to make sure we have a fun, safe day. In this post, I’ll tell you the essentials to take if you visit a water park with kids, so you can enjoy a day full of fun and free of worries.

1. Sun cream

Just like at the beach, sun cream is number one on the list of essentials for a water park. Babies’ and children’s skin is very sensitive, so make sure to bring a water-resistant sun cream with a high SPF. And don’t forget to reapply it every two hours so the little ones don’t burn.

ISDIN Fotoprotector Pediatrics SPF 50 spray

2. Life jacket

Although many water parks have life jackets available for kids, it’s worth bringing your own if you have one. Life jackets are essential for children who can’t swim well yet and let them enjoy the water attractions more safely, while giving the parents more peace of mind.

Float vest for kids aged 2 to 5 and 14–30 kg

3. Hats and sunglasses

Hats and sunglasses are important to protect the head and eyes from the sun. The sun’s reflection off the water can be very strong and affect children’s eyes, so it’s important to bring sunglasses with UV protection. Choose a fun, colourful model with one of their favourite characters.

By the way, make sure the hat and sunglasses are comfortable and fit your little one’s head well.

Stitch 2-piece cap and sunglasses set (one size)

4. A cool bag with snacks and drinks

Going to a water park can be great fun but also exhausting. That’s why it’s important to bring a portable cool bag with some snacks and drinks. Remember that many water parks don’t allow food or drink into the venue, so be sure to check the rules before you go.

Dinosaur picnic cool bag with name label

5. Waterproof bags

The waterproof bags are essential for carrying personal items like your phone, money or the park locker key. They’ll also keep them safe from water and damp while you enjoy the park’s water attractions.

Waterproof bags — waterproof case for camera, phone, documents and map, 3 pieces

6. Water shoes

At a water park you walk a lot from one attraction to another. Most water parks have concrete floors that can be very hot and slippery. That’s why it’s important to bring shoes for walking that are comfortable and non-slip, such as water shoes.

Quick-dry, non-slip unicorn water shoes for kids

7. Water toys

Water toys like floats, balls and pool toys can be great fun for kids. They also help keep them entertained while waiting in the queues for the water attractions.

30-piece pool toys

8. Towel or poncho

It’s essential to bring towels or ponchos to keep the kids dry after they get out of the water or to cover them from the sun during the day. Microfibre towels are a good option, as they’re light, compact and dry quickly. Ponchos are great for kids because they’re comfier and easier to put on than towels.

And because they’re adorable!

Bluey and Bingo hooded beach poncho-towel, 50 x 115 cm

9. A change of clothes

This is the classic thing that often gets forgotten. Bring a dry change of clothes (including underwear) to change into at the end of the day at the water park and avoid spending the rest of the day in wet clothes.

Here you can also read our post about the best water parks in the Canary Islands

I hope this list helps you prepare for your visit to the water park with kids.

Have a fun day!