Summer by the Pool: Packing for the Country Club
I don’t know why I love watching or reading about what people pack for specific events, maybe its because I am a list maker and planner. Always wanting to be prepared for whatever might happen (I would have made a great girl scout). Maybe its because I am nosey - probably both.
After moving around and attending different country clubs I have also come to realize that each one is personal. What one club offers in Tennessee another in Texas offers something different, honestly country clubs one or two counties over in the same state can be vastly different. For example our club pool has its own bar and restaurant with a full menu, therefore I don’t need food or drinks.
Another interesting thing is how what is carried reflects not only the region but the persons age. Mom’s will pack swim diapers, water toys, floppy kid hats, and extra snacks. A single woman might pack more for personal entertainment; a kindle to read, ear buds for watching without bothering someone else.
So I figured I would throw my hat in the ring and share with all of you what I like to carry now that I am a mom to adult children residing in the south. Gone are the days of floaties and dive toys. I pack what would make me most comfortable, be entertaining while I relax, and take minimal space. I have paid my dues lugging around everything including the kitchen sink for my family. These are the times where I pack for myself.
So what do I bring? Its pretty easy - mostly basics. Below is my list (warned you about my list making). Of course amend it to your personal trip. Hope what I recommend and use will be helpful to you. Don’t forget to share what you love to pack in the comments below - I’d love to know!
Turkish Towel - Far more “packable” than a traditional towel yet just as absorbent as a fluffy old school beach towel. Easy to find a good Turkish towel at Walmart, Homegoods, etc.
Mini Soft Side Cooler - Definitely enjoy carrying a small soft side cooler like the skinny SCOUT coolers that were made for pool/beach bags. I like to keep any after sun lotion or Evian facial water spray in mine as well as maybe a high noon beverage or two from the pool bar. Just don’t forget the small ice brick.
Book - I always bring a physical copy of something to read. I love that I am guaranteed to get a couple chapters in. Not to mention its my favorite way to soak up some sun in between swimming. *check out my post about the top 5 books on my summer reading list.
Bose Ear buds - Perfect addition for listening to music or answering a phone call without bothering the people next to you.
Sunscreen - This is obvious but I wanted to mention that I enjoy the Eucerin brand which I grab at Publix while grocery shopping.
Sunglasses - Pick up a cheap knock off pair on Amazon. I own the exact ones in the above graphic from the SOJOS brand in Milky Blue [currently $14.99].
Hair Ties & Claw Clips - Any claw clips or hair ties come from Teleties. Hands down my favorite hair brand. The ties are plastic so they don’t slip when in your hair and dry quickly. The hair clip is flat making it comfortable to lay back unlike traditional claw clips. Total game changer.
Brumate: regular & skinny can sizes - Grab both sizes in place of a traditional fabric can koozie. Keeps drinks cold far longer. I bought both of mine at a local friends store [Mildred & Mable’s], however you can find them everywhere online even Amazon too.
Small card holder - I always try to have one credit card, a little cash, and my drivers license at all times. The card holder makes it so I don’t misplace anything in a deep pocket.
BONUS: Not in the graphic above but I enjoy floating in the pool so I always bring my WOW Sports foam pool noodle. Grabbed mine on Amazon [currently $39.99] however, a traditional noodle from the dollar stores would be perfect too.