Pool days are meant to be all about fun, relaxation, and a refreshing escape. But if you’re a parent of a child with special needs who relies on incontinence supplies, those days can quickly become overwhelming.
You might find yourself stressing over potential leaks or skin irritation, not to mention the task of packing everything you could possibly need (and then some). Planning a trip to the pool can sometimes feel more like a chore than a chance to unwind. But it doesn’t have to be that way!
At UroStat Healthcare, we’ve supported countless parents in navigating these real-life situations, and we’re here to help make your summer outings a bit smoother. Below, you’ll find a practical, mom-approved pool bag checklist tailored specifically for caregivers of children with special needs who use incontinence products.
What to Pack for Pool or Beach Days with a Special Needs Child
As a mom, you know packing for a pool day isn’t just tossing a towel into a bag; it’s preparing for every “what if” that could happen. To help you out, here’s a list of items moms say they never leave home without:
- Swim diapers. Disposable or reusable, as long as they’re high absorbency and don’t balloon up. While UroStat doesn’t cover swim diapers at this time, we recommend packing a few just in case. They’re often required at public pools.
- Regular diapers. Pool days can still involve messy moments. Good news: UroStat does help cover the cost of everyday diapers and wipes for children with qualifying conditions, so you can pack confidently knowing your essentials are covered. Contact us with any questions or to receive free samples!
- Waterproof or adaptive swimwear. Something designed to fit comfortably over incontinence products without them sagging or gaping.
- Two full outfit changes. Yes, two! From underwear to t-shirts to extra shorts, wet happens.
- Quick-dry towels. One for drying off, one for sitting on, and one to keep in the car for later.
- Wet bags. An essential! They keep kiddo’s used swimwear or diapers contained and discreet.
- Sunglasses. Look for pairs with soft straps or adjustable bands, like those made by Baby Banz. One mom swears by Stay Puts to keep her child’s glasses in place all day.
- Water shoes. Total meltdown saver if your child has sensory issues with sand, pavement, or pool decks.
- Wipes. Bring your go-to brand, and maybe a backup pack just in case. It’s good to have both standard and sensitive-skin formulas. UroStat offers wipes as part of our covered incontinence supplies, so you’ll never have to ration when it matters most. Check your eligibility for free wipes and other supplies here.
- Disposable changing pads. Great for the back of the car, grassy spots, or any not-so-ideal bathroom situation.
- Hand sanitizer and gloves. For quick and sanitary cleanup.
- Barrier creams or ointments. Heat, water, and sensitive skin don’t always mix. Creams can help prevent rash or irritation from wet materials.
- Sunscreen. An obvious but important one! Sunscreen sticks are easy to use and store in your purse.
- Pop-up tent or big umbrella. Many kids with sensory sensitivities or medical conditions benefit from breaks in a shaded area.
- Flotation devices or adaptive swim gear. For kids who may need a little more support in the water, ask us if you’re not sure what’s covered.
- Waterproof mat or soft seating. Makes it easier to relax poolside without stressing about discomfort or mess.
- Misting fan. We love these! Great for hot days, fun to hold, and helps prevent overheating. You can find ones that clip onto strollers too.
- Back-up medical supplies. If your child uses a catheter, stoma, CGM, or feeding tube, bring extras. Waterproof adhesives like IV3000 or Tegaderm are lifesavers.
- Medications and emergency contacts. Always double-check before you leave, just in case plans change or you stay home longer than expected.
- Hydrating drinks + snack stash. Fruit slices, crackers, juice boxes, whatever your child tolerates best. A small cooler bag can help keep these things fresh.
- Feeding supplies if needed. Don’t forget G-tube equipment, syringes, and any cleaning or flushing supplies.
- Comfort toys or sensory tools. Think fidgets, water-safe toys, weighted plushies, or anything that helps your child feel calmer and more secure.
- Social stories or visual schedules. Helps to prep your child for what’s coming and sets expectations before transitions happen.
- That one thing they always need. Maybe it’s a favorite blanket, a stuffed animal, a certain song on your phone, whatever it may be, remember to pack it!
Want help choosing the right supplies, or getting them covered through insurance? Contact our Care Specialists or click the button below to learn more about our child incontinence supplies.
Real-Life Tips from Other Special Needs Moms
Here are some additional tips from moms for preparing yourself and your child for the pool or beach day:
- Call ahead: Check with the pool or park about family restrooms, private changing areas, or any accessibility options they might have.
- Prep your child: Using visual schedules, social stories, or even giving them a “countdown” for transitions can really ease anxiety and prevent meltdowns.
- Go early: Getting there before the busy hours means you’ll have more space and privacy to settle in before the crowds show up.
- Shorter stays are okay: Spending just 30 to 60 minutes in the water can feel like a big win, so don’t stress about staying all day.
- Give yourself grace: Not every outing will go off without a hitch, and that’s totally okay. You’re doing an amazing job!
Ready to go? Let our team help you get diapers, wipes, pullups, and pads/liners free of charge with proper eligibility.
How UroStat Helps Make Summer Easier for Families Like Yours
We know how much you already carry, physically and emotionally. That’s why at UroStat Healthcare, we work hard to make sure medical supply management isn’t one more thing on your plate.
Here’s how we support you:
- Dedicated Care Specialists. You’ll talk to the same caring person each month who gets to know your family’s needs.
- Text, call, or email, your way. We offer multiple communication methods so you can reorder or ask questions the way that’s easiest for you.
- Insurance support. We work with Medicaid and private insurance, and we handle the paperwork, so you don’t have to.
- Trusted brands. We offer better and best product options, including First Quality and Tranquility, not just the bare minimum.
- Free samples. We’ll help you find the right fit for your child’s body, skin, and lifestyle, especially for summer activities like swimming.
Let Them Splash. You’ve Got This!
Your child deserves to be part of the fun, and you should be able to soak in the moment without worrying about what’s in your bag. Let us help make that a reality.
Our Care Specialists at UroStat Healthcare are real people who work with families like yours every day. Whether you need to find the right pullups, get help with insurance, or just want to test a new product before committing, we’ve got your back.
Reach out to request free samples or chat about what works best for your child. We’ll handle the paperwork, so you can handle the sunshine.