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There's a certain point every summer when the only plan that sounds good is finding the nearest pool. The sunscreen is on, the water is sparkling, and all that's left to do is settle into a lounge chair with an ice-cold drink in hand. But before you head out the door, there's one thing that can make or break the entire day: what's inside your pool bag.
Thankfully, Alex Drummond knows exactly which poolside essentials are worth bringing along. From cute coverups and the oversized bag she calls her "ultimate summer beach tote" to an insulated tumbler that keeps drinks icy in the blazing sun, Alex's go-to picks are all about making hot days a little cooler and a lot more enjoyable. Ahead, take a peek inside her pool bag and discover the necessities you'll want to pack before your next sunny escape.
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Whether she's lounging by the water or chasing after little Sofia, Alex knows the value of a little extra shade that comes with a straw hat. Besides offering sun protection, this accessory instantly gives any swimsuit or coverup a polished, vacation-ready feel.
A great pair of sunglasses is one accessory Alex never seems to skip during the summer. They're the finishing touch for everything from pool days to beach vacations, while also protecting your eyes from harsh UV rays. Bonus points if they're timeless enough to wear long after summer ends.
A cute swimsuit is the foundation of any good pool day, and Alex always seems to land on styles that feel both effortless and flattering. Just like this blue-and-white one-piece that she recently wore to the beach. Like her, you should go with fun colors, cheerful prints, and silhouettes that move easily from lounging poolside to jumping in for a swim.
Hydration is key when temperatures soar, and Alex is rarely far from her favorite tumbler. “These are my favorite because they are leakproof and I can just fold the straw down and toss it in [a] bag,” she says of her HydroJug. These insulated cups help keep ice water cold for hours, so you can stay refreshed without constant refills.
Alex doesn't head to the pool without a roomy tote, and her favorite is the Bogg Bag. She recently called it, “the ultimate summer beach/park/travel tote!! Especially if you have kids!” That’s because it’s washable, tip-proof, and has plenty of room for towels, sunscreen, snacks, and extra clothes.
Even the pool can't completely beat the summer heat. A handheld rechargeable fan is an easy way to cool off while sitting in a lounge chair. It's compact enough to slip into a tote bag but powerful enough to earn its keep. When Alex bought this fan, she said: “Will be getting our money’s worth from this!”
Whether it's an oversized button-down, a breezy linen set, or a flowy dress like this one Alex wore in Cabo, a cover-up lets you head from the pool to lunch without missing a beat. It's an effortless (and stylish) staple that every summer wardrobe needs.
A reliable pair of sandals makes getting to and from the pool a breeze. Alex's style leans casual and classic, so simple slides or comfortable flat sandals fit right in with the rest of her warm-weather wardrobe. Look for a comfortable pair that can handle getting a little wet.
One of the most important things in Alex's pool bag isn't an accessory at all—it's sunscreen. A broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin no matter how you’re spending your time outside. Don't forget to reapply throughout the day, especially after swimming.
A soft, oversized towel is the finishing touch for any successful pool day. It gives you plenty of room to stretch out in the sun, dry off after a swim, or wrap up when the breeze picks up. Alex knows this all too well! Toss one into your bag, and you'll be ready for whatever your summer day has in store.
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