Ultimate Guide to Swimming Gear in Australia [PDF Checklist]

Why Is Swimming Gear So Important?

Swimming is one of the most popular sports and fitness activities of the 21st century. However, the right swimming gear is essential to get the most out of your swim. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced swimmer, everyone needs help finding the right swimming gear.

Whether swimming in different environments, such as indoor pools or outdoors, you must consider bringing swimming equipment. The right equipment can ensure the swimmer's safety, especially when swimming outdoors.

Of course, the right swimming gear can help swimmers be more efficient and enjoy their time. Just as an artist needs the perfect paintbrush or a musician needs the right instrument, a swimmer needs equipment that fits perfectly to perform at his best.

The right gear and equipment can improve a swimmer's swimming skills and make swimming safer and more enjoyable.

The perfect fit of your swimming gear is not an aspect that can be compromised or ignored. Proper gear (hat, jacket, goggles, etc.) must be used whether for swimming, fitness, or competition considered.

Ensuring a perfect fit is essential for optimal performance, maximum safety, and the highest level of comfort and confidence. Remember, having the right swimming gear is necessary for a comfortable and enjoyable experience in the water.

>>Download The Swimming Gear Checklist PDF

Personal Swimming Gear Checklist

Beginners don't have to worry that their gear could be better than experienced swimmers. Swimming gear should be simple, practical and not expensive. You can buy them all, even if you have average financial conditions. This section prepares swimming gear based on personal swimming.   

Swimming Gear: Swimsuit

Swimming suits and trunks protect the skin from chlorinated water. Most men wear swimming trunks, mainly casual briefs and short boxer trunks, which are generally close-fitting, with the upper body naked.

Women usually wear swimming suits. There are many types of swimsuits, and different kinds have different characteristics.

One-piece swimsuits are more convenient and less likely to be exposed when swimming. Speedo-style swimsuits are safer when swimming. One-piece swimsuits are more convenient to put on. Therefore, choosing the right swimsuit is very important.

Most swimsuits and swimming trunks are made of nylon and spandex. The criteria for the selection are comfort, durability, and unobtrusiveness of the joint, and it is not easy to collect moisture.

When buying a swimsuit, touch it or refer to the material's ingredient list. The best swim fabric is soft and stretchy, so the threads don't fray with movement. When trying on swimsuits or bathing suits, fit and comfort are the best. 

Swimming Gear: Goggles

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced swimmer, swimming goggles are essential to swimming equipment. Not only do they provide safety features and improve underwater visibility, but they also serve as training aids in various ways.

Swimming goggles protect your eyes from pool chemicals and reduce eye strain, pain and inflammation when swimming outdoors.

Swimming goggles range from casual to professional, with various designs to suit different needs. When choosing swimming goggles, key factors include comfort, fit, and lens functionality.

Swimming Gear: Swimming Cap

A swimming cap can reduce water resistance and prevent hair from unravelling while swimming. At the same time, a swim cap can keep your head warm and prevent you from getting cold when swimming in the water.

When choosing a swimming cap, it is best to choose one that is wider so that it does not feel tight when worn because a swimming cap that is too small can quickly get your hair wet while swimming.

There are two primary materials for swimming caps, namely silicone and fabric. Silicone swimming caps are more encapsulating than fabric and can effectively fix hair. 

Swimming Gear: Earplugs

Earplugs help prevent water-borne bacteria from entering the ear canal. Bacteria can multiply and penetrate the skin of the external ear canal, causing otitis externa. Choose an earplug type that fits your ears comfortably and securely.

Swimming Gear: Nose Clip

Nose clips can effectively prevent you from choking on water while swimming. When you first learn to swim, wearing a nose clip can also help you practice breathing and holding your breath more efficiently.

Swimming Gear: Drinking Water

Always remember to replenish water when swimming. Staying hydrated before, during, and after swimming is one of the most important things to consider when considering swimming safety. A healthy fluid intake is essential. More than two per cent dehydration can lead to reduced performance. Proper hydration can reduce the chance of muscle cramps and similar injuries while ensuring dehydration and heat stroke are avoided.

Swimming Gear: Swimming Bag

You can pack small items or swimming equipment that you carry with you into your large-capacity swimming bag. After all, it is a public place, so it is more conducive to keeping your belongings properly.

There are many different styles of swim bags, from backpacks and duffel bags to mesh bags and totes, and you can choose based on size, storage space, and features. For example, mesh bags are perfect for storing swimwear.

Because the mesh bag evaporates moisture, dries and prevents mould growth. A waterproof swim bag can hold your smartphone, keys, clothes and other items that must be kept dry.

Swimming Gear: Swimming Earphones

Two kinds of headphones are waterproof. The first one links to your phone via Bluetooth and plays whatever music is on your phone. The bad thing about this is that you must be close to your phone for music to play without interruption. The second kind is a small MP3 player, which is the easiest to set up. 

Your choice will depend on whether you like being attached to your phone or would rather be free to move around while working out.

Family Swimming Gear Checklist

The family swimming equipment in this section is based on the personal swimming equipment mentioned above, with the addition of some equipment and special requirements according to different environmental conditions.

Indeed, there are many things to consider when swimming as a family. In particular, families with children and older people should pay attention when choosing swimming gear.

Swimming Gear: Sun Protection

Sunglasses reduce eye damage caused by UV rays by blocking ultraviolet and infrared rays without changing the colour of the outside environment.

The function of sunscreen is not only to prevent or absorb ultraviolet rays but, more importantly, to reduce the injury to the skin caused by exposure to ultraviolet rays.

Wearing a hat on the beach will reduce the risk of sunburn and sunstroke. Choose a hat with a large brim, SPF, and quick-drying products. The parasol protects from the sun's heat, so you can sit on the beach without worrying about getting burned.

Swimming Gear: Beach Chair

Bringing a folding beach chair will make your outdoor activities more enjoyable. Even tired older adults and children regain strength by resting.

Beach chairs lower this risk by giving you shade and a place to put on sunscreen without worrying about water washing it off. Plus, beach chairs keep you off the hot sand, which is another safety step.

Swimming Gear: Beach Towels

A beach towel is essential at the beach. Beach towels can be used not only as towels but also as cushions. Today's sand-free towels are thinner and dry faster, but sand doesn't stick.

Size is the main difference between a beach towel and a pool towel. The towels at the pool are made to cover the whole body while you soak up some sun. Any old beach towel should only work here if pool towels are already the best choice for the pool or the sea.

Not only do pool towels dry you off quickly, but they also help your body retain moisture after a hot sun bath. In general, a pool towel is more significant than a bath towel.

Swimming Gear: Change of Clothes

Remember to bring a change of clothes. As sweat condenses on the skin, body heat is absorbed by evaporation. When you get out of the water after swimming, water droplets cling to your body, and your body temperature drops as you sweat.

Therefore, after swimming, you should clean the water drops left on your body as soon as possible and change your clothes quickly. Drying yourself as soon as possible can prevent older people and children with weak constitutions from colds and fevers caused by the body's rapid heat dissipation.

Swimming Gear: Floating Objects

The main things to bring are a life buoy, a life jacket, and other swimming auxiliary floats. These items can prevent drowning in different situations.

When choosing a life jacket or life jacket, remember to touch the edges and corners and ensure there are no sharp objects to avoid personal injury. However, while carrying these items, you should always check your life jackets and buoys for leaks to avoid accidents.

Swimming Gear: First Aid Kit

A compact first aid kit can be accomplished by packing a small backpack or duffle bag with essential supplies for treating minor cuts, scrapes, and mishaps. If you need to, a first aid kit can help you with minor injuries until you can get professional help.  

The kit should have wound care materials like antibiotic ointment, gauze, bandages, and disposable gloves. It should also come with a triangle bandage and a pre-made splint that can be used to protect a hurt limb.

Bring tweezers if you need to remove ticks, splinters, or bug stingers. Also, remember to bring over-the-counter medicines like cortisone cream, antibiotics, and pain and fever medicines.

Swimming Gear: Energy Food

Bringing enough food to maintain energy intake can also indirectly keep swimming safe. Snacks at the beach or pool help you refuel and stay full. Individual amounts keep you from overeating and make it less likely that sand will get into your food.

If you want to stay hydrated, try to stay away from salty snacks. String cheese, cheese cubes, or cheese rounds that are low in fat or no fat are tasty snacks that are also good for you.

Swimming Gear: Portable Power Station

A portable power station is considerably more essential for beach swimming to maintain the functionality of all electronic devices, including a portable cooler, portable speaker, fan, and more. Jackery Portable Power Stations are ideal for swimming trips due to their portability, versatility, and usability.

The advantage of a portable power station in Australia lies in its capacity to store significant energy that may be utilised at any time and location. This capability renders it a perfect companion for outdoor expeditions, unforeseen circumstances, or as a supplementary power supply at one's residence or workplace.

The Jackery Portable Power Station is a generator powered by a rechargeable battery. AC power outlets, DC vehicle ports, and USB charging connectors in a power station can charge your electronic gadgets.

There are more gear and equipment that you may be interested in:

- Fishing Gear in Australia

- Camping Essentials in Australia

- Must-Have Hiking Gear

Jackery Portable Power Stations for Swimming

Take your swimming trips to the next level with Jackery Portable Power Stations. Jackery Portable Power Stations are made for people who like being outside and care about the environment and their comfort. They give your tools a safe way to get power while on the go.

Jackery ensures that their Portable Power Stations use lithium-ion and LiFePO4 batteries for a steady power source. These generators can use the sun's energy now that Jackery Solar Panels are added. This makes them an eco-friendly power source for the beautiful Australian scenery.

Jackery Portable Power Stations offers more charging options than any other brand. These include solar panels, carports, and AC adapters. You can use renewable energy to improve your swimming trips, whether for the beach or pool. 

Jackery Explorer 500

This Jackery Explorer 500 power station is made to withstand harsh weather thanks to its advanced temperature monitors and robust construction that can work in hot and cold conditions. Because it's so durable, it's an excellent choice for camping trips, outdoor activities, and backup power in an emergency.

With a capacity of 518Wh and a 500W inverter that can handle surges up to 1000W, the Jackery Explorer 500 can support multiple appliance charging, making it a versatile power solution for various needs. It is also designed for convenience, featuring a portable and light design that makes it easy to carry and use wherever power is needed.

The power station has three ways to charge it: solar panels, a wall outlet, and a car plug. This gives you options for how to charge it. With a noise level of 37.9dB, it's a quiet power option that won't bother you while swimming.  

Jackery Explorer 300 Plus

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus portable power station is a lightweight and efficient power supply designed to meet the power needs for various situations such as kayaking, picnicking, camping, road trips, and emergency power backup.

This power station has a unique Battery Management System (BMS). It has 52 safety features and 12 BMS algorithms that work together to keep the device and any attached appliances as safe as possible. It also has four kinds of physical security to ensure everyone is safe.

This model stands out because it has an intelligent app control feature that lets users quickly manage the battery through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This makes it more modern and convenient to use. It's also very light - only 8.27 pounds - so it's an excellent choice for people who are always on the go.

Tips for Caring & Maintaining Swimming Gear

There is nothing better than a relaxing swim in the beautiful Australian summer. Whether for exercise, relaxation, or just relaxing with family and friends, swimming gives many Australians a chance to spend a few hours away. The following are some tips for caring for and maintaining swimming gear.

Cleaning of Swimming Equipment

Correct cleaning and storage will extend the life of your swimming equipment. Rinse items with clean water after each use and allow to air dry before storing. Keep the equipment from sunlight or excessive heat for a long time.

Swimsuit Selection

Consider a swimsuit or sun protection garment with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. This fabric has additional UV protection and is available in various styles and colours.

Swimwear Care Tips

Wash your swimsuit in cold water after each use to remove harmful chlorine. If there is dirt, apply neutral detergent to the stain and leave it for 30 minutes, then wipe the stain and rinse with clean, cold water. Squeeze out the remaining water (don't squeeze) and let it dry. Proper care helps maintain fabric elasticity and colour vibrancy.

• Avoid using bleach to clean your swimsuit; try not to wash it with other clothes such as underwear and pyjamas.
• Detergents designed for delicate clothing or even pure white vinegar can clean swimsuits.
• Do not machine wash or tumble dry.

Swimming Cap Care Tips

Please rinse and spin dry the swim cap after each use and store rolled up in a towel to absorb excess moisture. Keeping your swim cap dry will help protect its elasticity and prevent mould and bacteria growth.

Swimming Goggle Care Tips

Swimming goggles are low maintenance. Rinse with cold water and hang the goggles to dry between uses. Avoid touching the lenses of your swimming goggles, as they may be scratched or scuffed.

Sun Protection

Australia has one of the mildest climates in the world. However, the sun can burn skin surprisingly quickly and cause permanent damage, so proper sun protection is crucial. All local supermarkets and pharmacies have various sun protection products that can reduce UV damage.

Always apply sunscreen (preferably SPF50+) at least 20 minutes before swimming.

Wear a hat and sunglasses and cover yourself when not in the water. Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours.

Swimming Gear FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about swimming gear in Australia.

1. What are the simple equipment for swimming?

The only absolute necessities for swimming are a swimsuit and goggles. Because naked swimming is frowned upon, a swimsuit is required for swimming equipment. Swimming goggles can prevent your eyes from becoming itchy, red, or sore from exposure to bacteria in the water. With simple swimming gear, you can still have the freedom to get a great swimming workout.

2. What equipment does a menstruating woman need for swimming?

A menstrual cup is the best product to prevent leakage during swimming. Because a menstrual cup forms a seal within the vagina, it allows complete control of your flow (when worn correctly) and does not absorb water.

It means there's no risk of string sticking out of your swim. Eight hours of usage time means you can spend all day at the pool or beach. If you have heavy menstrual flow, choosing a more significant capacity menstrual cup will get you closer to eight hours of use.

3. What gear will make swimming in cold water easier?

Here are some tips to help you quickly swim in cold water and tolerate frigid temperatures.

Wear two swimming caps. One swimming cap protects against the cold, but wearing two will keep your head comfortable when swimming in cold water. Most body heat is lost through the head, so prioritising it will keep the rest of your body warm.

Wear a wetsuit. A wetsuit is an essential piece of equipment when swimming in cold water. Marine mammals have very thick skin, which protects them from the cold of the deep sea. So, a wetsuit will keep you warm so you can swim longer without getting muscle cramps.

Wear earplugs. Cold water in your ears feels much worse than cold water in your head. The water gets into your ears and cools the rest of your body. So, earplugs can help keep water out so your body can stay warmer for longer.

Bring a thick coat. After resting or swimming, wear a thick coat to help your body temperature recover faster.

4. What are the benefits of wearing a swimming cap while swimming?

When engaging in swimming activities, using a swim hat to safeguard your hair from the potential harm of chlorine and other chemical substances commonly found in swimming pools is advisable. Wearing a swimming cap when swimming can help reduce resistance in the water to a certain extent. You should wear a swimming cap when swimming to prevent hair from getting tangled, especially if you have long hair.

5. Are earplugs essential equipment for swimming?

For those who use swimming as a daily exercise, earplugs may be essential. Swimming without earplugs for prolonged periods can cause infection or inflammation of the ear canal, leading to hearing loss. Earplugs are great for preventing ear infections and inflammation. Therefore, in addition to professional athletes, many recreational swimmers also use earplugs if they are prone to ear infections.

Final Thoughts

The weather is getting hotter, and Australia's beaches are getting more popular in the summer. Many people avoid running and opt for swimming, which combines aerobic exercise with good physical activity. Apart from the fitness requirements, there is also the wonderful feeling of being outside, breathing fresh air, and feeling cold water on your skin.

If you want to enjoy the sun more this summer, why try swimming a few laps in the water? Whether you're a novice swimming your first mile or a seasoned swimmer hoping to reach the Olympic podium, choosing the right swimming gear will help you perform at your best in the water.