Six Summer Swimming Hole Essentials

Summer is officially underway, and here at LIVSN we believe making the most of the longer days means getting off the couch and into the outdoors.

This year experts estimate that US travelers will spend $157.3 billion on summer vacations, or roughly $2,112 per household, but there are plenty of options out there that won’t break the bank.

Everything from hiking the trails to paddling the river is just a short drive away and usually costs little financially.

Perhaps the most classic way to have an authentic American summer option is to find and splash around in a natural swimming hole.

Once you are there it’s easy enough, but take a few minutes beforehand to prepare your pack, and save yourself some time and energy you can spend elsewhere.

1) Proper Clothing

Swimsuits come in all shapes and sizes, and it’s obvious enough you need to have one of these if you want to swim (unless you prefer to go all-natural, but check local laws regarding this).

However, an all too often overlooked move is to have some fresh clothes for before and after your swim. Your skin will likely be tender from the sun, and damp swimsuits make for poor car attire. 

Having a fresh (and ideally clean) change of clothes in the car or pack is a pro move so you can seamlessly move from the swimming hole to the rest of your day.

We all want that perfect tan, but there’s a right and wrong way to go about getting it. Apply some sunscreen before and during your stay at a swimming hole and other sun safety tips. These help you avoid becoming lobsterfied and cause you all kinds of pain.

As an added bonus, getting that awkward space on the mid-back is a great team-bonding opportunity, so everyone will be in sync and protected prior to ever dipping a toe in the water. 

3) Water

While it might sound like bringing sand to a beach, having some drinkable water handy while at a swimming hole is essential when out and about on long summer days.

Staying hydrated is an often overlooked aspect of health, and by getting your recommended three liters a day, you’ll feel more energized, digest better, and be able to swim longer and faster. Some even theorize that our bodies are mostly made out of the stuff, but we here at LIVSN have our doubts.

4) Sunglasses

We all love the sun as it does so much for us every day, but unfortunately, it is simply too hot for our eyes to handle and even indirect exposure can damage our eyes. 

Pack some sunglasses so you not only look cool but can continue to see accurately into fall and winter. Add a strap to the back of them if you don’t feel like donating them to the waters below.

5) Tunes

Now this one is debatable as some are happy to listen to the soothing sounds of nature all day, and sometimes undoubtedly that is the way to go.

If you have a spot to yourself though, and all in attendance are feeling it, then having the right playlist can add another layer of enjoyment to a day at the swimming hole.

If someone there already beat you to controlling the beats, don’t worry or attempt to play over them. After all, it’s a swimming hole and not a DJ battle.

6) Friends

Swimming alone certainly has its place sometimes, but having a few friends helps make the memories we all want of summer. Witnesses to backflips, judges to cannonball form, and someone to throw you a fresh drink while you stay in the water are just a few of the benefits.

The nearby trees, rocks and water are of equal beauty, but they make for poor conversation most of the time, and so having a human or two around the swimming hole usually helps.

Read More - Summer Hiking: A Guide That Won't Leave You Absolutely Miserable

Written by Brian O'Dea