8 Tips On Keeping Your Valuables Safe While Swimming
SECURE YOUR ITEMS BY THE POOL, ON THE BEACH, OR AT THE WATERPARK THIS SUMMER
Venturing to the beach, pool, or waterpark by yourself can be an entertaining way to fill a morning, afternoon or even the better part of a summer day. When the water beckons, however (or the bathroom, or you need a food or drink run), what options exist for securing your phone, room key, and more—while still allowing for a relaxing, refreshing and worry-free swim? Since losing or ruining your phone or room key in the water could wash out your summer vacation, how to you keep them safe and still have fun? Follow these 8 expert tips.
1. DON’T BRING THEM WITH YOU
Having a smart phone or tablet by your side may seem like the norm, but should you not need to use it, leaving it at your lodging or at home might be the perfect excuse for some decompression and screenless peace and quiet. This is also the option that delivers the most freedom to venture from your things—even better should you also not need a credit card, money, or a key.
2. ASK A FELLOW SOLO TRAVELER TO WATCH THEM AND RETURN THE FAVOR
Many times, popular beach or swimming areas are frequented by other travelers. Should you be able to, you can ask another traveler to watch your things (and perhaps return the favor). This can be a nice way for both of you to have some freedom while on vacation. It’s an especially great option if you’re both staying at the same lodging or traveling together on the same cruise ship.
3. USE A WATERPROOF BAG YOU CAN SWIM WITH
A waterproof buoy bag allows you to enter the water with it while it floats by your side, or behind you. This way your valuables are with you at all times, yet protected from the water, sand, and sun. You may also want to consider a waterproof waist pack or a waterproof pouch. They are all lightweight and easy to pack, and perfect for a just-in-case option when headed to a beach by yourself, a boating activity, pool, waterpark, or anywhere you might want to get in the water.
4. TRY A PERSONAL SAFE THAT LOCKS TO YOUR BEACH CHAIR
Locking your items up and attaching the bag or container to a stationary beach lounge chair or other nearby object (like an umbrella, golf cart, or table) can grant you peace of mind when needing to leave your things. These portable safes are quite versatile, and can also be used in hotel rooms, dorms, offices, and other spaces to keep things secure.
5. BRING A LOCKING COOLER
Locking cooler bags and boxes can be another way to secure valuables as well as your stash of food, beverages or medication that keeps them away from the elements. Most are durable, insulated, leak-proof, roomy, stylish and functional. These coolers are also perfect for camping, picnicking, fishing or boating. Tether one to a stationary object and you are good to go.
6. PLACE YOUR ITEMS IN A SMALL WATERPROOF WAIST PACK
When you only have a few lightweight things (like a phone, money, and perhaps a room key), it may make more sense to simply swim with a small waterproof waist pack. Great for boating and water sports as well, this allows your things to easily remain on your person, but stay safe and weather-protected at the same time.
7. HIDE ITEMS IN OTHER CONTAINERS (WITH THE OPTION TO BURY THEM IN THE SAND)
Some beachgoers and pool attendees swear by the trick of hiding valuables in a container that looks innocent enough (think Pringles can, opaque drink bottle, cracker box, or baby food container). You’ve got the option to leave the container as-is, or if it’s easily done, burying the container with a covering of sand can further camouflage your things and deter theft.
8. RENT A LOCKER
This is a great option if you’re taking a lesson or participating in a water sport rental. Many have lockers for rent and you may have the ability to use them for longer than your class or activity. This option is also a terrific solution at places like waterparks, amusement parks and community pools. Being able to enjoy your destination hands-free with valuables safely tucked away can be very freeing.
These tips offer viable options for those times by the water when you need to be out of sight or out of reach from your valuables, but want them to remain secure. Most are simple, can be catered to your budget, and work whether traveling across town or across the world. They allow you to navigate the beach, pool, or waterpark confidently and get busy enjoying your vacation—something we can all appreciate.