What to Pack for a Splash Pad Day: The Ultimate Family Checklist
Splash pads are one of the best ways to beat the summer heat — free (or cheap), safe for all ages, and endlessly fun. But only if you're prepared. Forget sunscreen and you're in for a rough afternoon. Forget towels and everyone rides home soaked.
Here's everything you need for a perfect splash pad day.
The Essentials
Swimwear
Pack a swimsuit for every family member, plus a backup for the kids. Splash pads can get messy, and a dry change of clothes for the ride home is a lifesaver.
Towels
At least one per person. Quick-dry microfiber towels are ideal — lightweight, pack small, and dry fast in the sun.
Sunscreen
Apply before you leave the house, not when you arrive. Kids are especially vulnerable to sunburn in reflective water environments. Bring water-resistant SPF 50+ and reapply every 90 minutes.
Water Shoes
Splash pad surfaces can get scorching in direct sun. Water shoes protect little feet from heat and slipping on wet pavement.
Food & Drinks
Water Bottles
Running through water sprays is thirsty work. Pack an insulated water bottle per person — most splash pads don't have water fountains nearby.
Snacks
Kids burn energy fast. Pack easy, no-mess options like:
- Cut fruit (watermelon, grapes, orange slices)
- Pretzels or crackers
- Granola bars or trail mix
- String cheese
Avoid anything chocolate or sticky in the heat.
Small Cooler or Lunch Bag
A soft-sided cooler keeps drinks cold and snacks fresh. Many splash pads have picnic tables nearby — check the listing before you go.
Safety & Comfort
Rash Guard or Sun Shirt
For extra sun protection — especially for fair-skinned kids — a long-sleeve rash guard is worth every penny.
Hat & Sunglasses
Protect eyes and face during breaks from the water. Wide-brim hats offer the best coverage for little ones.
Change of Clothes
For everyone. Wet kids in car seats are uncomfortable for them and a headache for you.
Plastic Bags
A few zip-lock or grocery bags for wet swimsuits and shoes on the way home. Simple but essential.
Basic First Aid Kit
Bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain reliever. Most splash pads are safe and supervised, but scraped knees happen.
For Toddlers & Babies
Swim Diapers
Required at most splash pads with standing water features. Pack extras — always.
Baby Sunscreen
Regular sunscreen isn't recommended for babies under 6 months. Look for mineral-based formulas with zinc oxide for sensitive skin.
Portable Shade
A pop-up sun tent or beach umbrella gives babies and toddlers a cool spot to rest without full sun exposure.
Stroller or Wagon
Toddlers tire out fast. A folding wagon doubles as gear storage and lets little ones rest when they've had enough.
Nice-to-Haves
Waterproof Phone Case — protect your phone and capture all those great moments without worry.
Small Water Toys — cups, buckets, and water guns add extra fun for younger kids.
Portable Speaker — splash pads with nearby picnic areas are perfect for your own soundtrack.
What to Leave at Home
- Floaties and inflatables (not needed, often not allowed)
- Glass containers
- Expensive electronics you can't get wet
- Food that spoils fast in the heat
Quick Packing Checklist
Clothing & Sun Protection
- [ ] Swimsuits (+ backup)
- [ ] Towels
- [ ] Water shoes
- [ ] Rash guard or sun shirt
- [ ] Hat & sunglasses
- [ ] Sunscreen (SPF 50+, water-resistant)
Food & Drinks
- [ ] Water bottles
- [ ] Snacks
- [ ] Cooler or lunch bag
Safety & Gear
- [ ] Change of clothes for everyone
- [ ] Plastic bags for wet items
- [ ] Basic first aid kit
- [ ] Waterproof phone case
For Toddlers & Babies
- [ ] Swim diapers (+ extras)
- [ ] Baby sunscreen
- [ ] Portable shade tent
- [ ] Stroller or wagon
One Last Tip: Check Before You Go
Before heading out, look up the splash pad on Splash Pad Locator to confirm hours, admission cost, parking, and available amenities. Nothing's worse than arriving at a closed splash pad or finding an unexpected entrance fee.
Now go have a great splash pad day!