Pool Party Essentials

Having a pool party requires more planning than just food and drinks. If you want to host a pool party then you need to plan for the things that your guests either don't have or forget to bring. You can easily plan an enjoyable party for both adults and kids with these extra items that won't break your budget but are necessary for any pool party.

Pool Party Essential: Beach Towels

It may seem obvious to some people: if you get invited to a pool party then bring a towel. I have hosted many pool parties and only about half of my guests will remember to bring a towel.

Make sure all your towels are washed and dried the day before your party. This will prevent you from having to scramble around looking for towels. Set a stack out by the pool. Not every guest needs their own towel so once they use one they can hang it up for the next guest to use.

Pool Party Essential: Sunscreen

It seems that only parents with babies remember to bring sunscreen but if you're having a pool party on a bright, sunny day then other guests will need sunscreen too. I normally buy two kinds of sunscreen that are safe for both adults and kids. I buy an aerosol sunscreen and a lotion sunscreen and put them poolside so the guests can use them whenever they want.

Pool Party Essential: Kids' Items

Safety is a priority for any pool party and it is nice if you can provide a small level of safety for your younger guests. If you are planning on having children at your pool party you should pick up a couple of cheap pairs of water wings. You can find these at the dollar store and they are easy to store and blow up.

I found a cheap baby float at a discount store that has come in handy for children under 3. This float will support the baby and free the hands of the parents.

Pool Party Essential: Extra Bathing Suits

I always have guests come to my pool parties fully expecting not to swim so they don't bring a swimsuit. Luckily, I have old bathing suits of different sizes and can normally find one that fits them. If you don't have extra swimsuits then suggest an extra t-shirt and shorts so they can enjoy the pool when they change their minds.

Pool Party Essential: Lights

You may not plan on your party going into the night but if it is warm and everyone is having fun then the possibility exists. Plan on providing some lighting for when it gets dark. It can be tiki torches or just a string of white Christmas lights hung to provide some ambient light when the sun goes down.

Providing these items will make your guests a lot more comfortable and once you have these pool items then you won't need to buy them for the next party. As long as think about the things people could forget then you will have grasp on the extras you can provide. Happy swimming!