Water parks are not just for the kids but adults as well. With all the rides, slides, and attractions you’ll find here, such a venue would be ideal for a family day out.
There are plenty of choices for fun things to do during the weekend at a water park for each member of the family. Toddlers and younger children will love areas that allow them to play and splash around in water to their heart’s content. Racers and loops are perfect for teens and adults who enjoy exhilarating slides, and there are also water rides that closely resemble roller coasters in theme parks.
However, water parks are not just for thrill seekers. The best ones will have areas where families can chill and relax. Much like theme parks, there may even be shopping sections where travelers can buy souvenirs to remember their trip. Of course, there are areas for visitors to enjoy great food and drinks, too.
With so many things to see and do at the water park, how can parents determine which ones are best suited for their kids? How should parents go about planning a fun day out so everyone can go home satisfied at the end of the day?
Here are a few great tips to help you prepare for the trip.
Set your kids’ expectations
Get your kids involved while planning for the trip to the waterpark. Let them know what rides, slides and attractions are available, which ones they can try, and how long you plan to stay. Having this discussion beforehand reduces the chances of arguing during the trip and heading home.
Bring lots of sunscreen
Most families spend the entire day at the waterpark to get the most out of the experience as possible.
Unfortunately, most sunscreen brands can only last for 8 hours at the most with a single application. Check the label of your sunscreen before you head to the water park to see how often you will need to reapply the product for the amount of time you will be there. Aim to bring more than what you think is enough.
There are also swimsuits and rash guards with built-in SPF protection. These types of swimsuits may cost more, but will provide better protection for your little ones and the whole family.
Pack lots of extra clothes
There are several reasons why you may want to bring some extra clothing. Primarily, you will want to bring some extra clothes for the whole family since it’s highly likely that you will get all sweaty from walking around and trying out different activities. Also, some young children may feel uncomfortable wearing a wet swimsuit for prolonged periods. You may have to change them out of their wet things and into dry clothes while they rest or eat, and then they may want to play again in the water afterwards.
If you are going to an indoor water park that has temperature control, walking around in damp clothes can also make your kids feel cold quickly. To protect them from discomfort and keep them from catching a cold, pack some cover-ups.
Rent a cabana
Carrying your bags all day from one attraction to another can take a toll on your body. Consider renting a cabana where you can set your things down and rest in between attractions. It may cost more, but it does offer several advantages.
Other than being a place to leave your belongings and valuables, your cabana can be your private space away from the crowds. When going around with older kids and teens who want to check out areas on their own, you can use your cabana as your meeting point. You can also use it to chill and relax, especially if you have a toddler who gets overwhelmed by all the surrounding activity.
Cabanas often have attendants standing by to take your order. As in a hotel, you can have food or a fresh set of towels sent to your cabana. Consider renting one if you are traveling with little children, if the waterpark is massive, or if you are planning to stay for a day or more.
Bring a stroller
Water parks often cover a lot of ground. When traveling with an infant or toddler, a lightweight stroller comes in handy. Umbrella strollers covered in quick-drying fabric are the best choices, especially with your young ones coming out of the pool.
Check what the rules are when it comes to strollers. While these provide convenience for the guests, the rules for their usage can vary depending on the area. For instance, strollers may be allowed near kiddie pools but not around bigger water rides.
Protect your gadgets
Water is the enemy of your devices, but with water everywhere, it can be challenging to keep your belongings dry. Leaving your phone at home or in the cabana may not always be the wisest or most practical decision. Your spouse or teenage kids may need to get a hold of you at any point throughout the day, so having a dry phone nearby is critical.
Invest in a waterproof case or pouch to ensure that your device stays clean and dry regardless of where you are or what is happening all around you. For a cheaper alternative, you can also use a Ziploc bag. Not only is a Ziploc bag practical, but it also makes it easy to remove your device, in case you need to take a quick candid picture.
Spending the day at the water park can provide some much-needed recreation and enjoyment for the family. With these tips, you have a better idea of how to plan and what to consider for your next trip.
