Before I hit the pool, I'm making sure I'm stocked up on these 12 essentials — all under $40

A selection of pool accessories. — (Image credit: Hydro Flask / Biersdorf / Quanquer / Luluhome / Bagsmart / Edited by Gemini)

One of the best ways to beat the summer heat is by making a day of it and heading to the pool. You can soak up the sun and then jump into the water to cool off when you get too hot.

But before you plan a pool day for your friends and family, it's a good idea to pack a bag to see what you have on hand and what you're missing. From practical essentials like sunscreen to the more frivolous, but almost as necessary entertainment essentials like games and toys, I've gathered up most of the things I'll be bringing to the pool this summer.

Of course, everyone's needs and wants for a perfect pool day will be different, depending on the ages and total number of people involved. But still, I think this is a pretty well-rounded assortment of essentials to at least get you started.

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Sarah Chaney is a freelance tech writer with 4 years of experience across multiple outlets, including How-To Geek, MakeUseOf, SlashGear, Laptop Mag, and of course, Tom's Guide. She loves reviewing the latest gadgets, from inventive robot vacuums to new laptops, wearables, and anything PC-related. When she's not writing, she's probably playing a video game, exploring the outdoors, or listening to her current favorite song or album on repeat.