Keeping Cool at the Pool: My Top 5 Gadgets for Summer Splashing

The summer season is upon us, bringing with it sunshine and rising temperatures. If you're like me and residing in the Northeastern region, you're bracing for a heatwave. This week, I'll be lounging by the pool, fully enjoying the sunlight, but I'll be armed with my favorite tech gadgets to help combat the heat. While technology and extreme heat usually don't go hand in hand, there are a few electronic companions that enhance a relaxing day by the pool. Think e-readers, speakers, and other essentials that make your poolside lounging a notch above the rest.

Kindle Paperwhite

Whenever I'm near water, particularly a pool, my Kindle Paperwhite is my trusty companion. One of the pleasures I find is indulging in a gripping book while basking in the sun. This e-reader is a fantastic repository for my beloved reads, old and new, and is conveniently portable for travel. With a battery life extending up to 12 weeks and its waterproof feature, it becomes worry-free reading at the pool. Plus, its screen provides sharp, clear text without glare, ensuring a pleasant read even through sunglasses. It's the ultimate tech to unwind anywhere near water and has also helped me purchase physical books only for cherished titles.

If you seek a more budget-friendly option, consider the Kindle Basic, which has been recently upgraded. Although not offering full color, its adaptive front light adjusts to your eyes for various reading conditions. According to Reddit, most Kindle models, including this one, perform well in outdoor lighting.

Anker Nano Power Bank

Even when I'm enjoying the sun or engrossed in a book during pool days, my phone is always nearby. Whether at a community pool, a waterpark, or vacation, it's crucial to have a backup power source. The compact Anker Nano charger, available in different colors and connector types, is perfect for quick phone charging on the move. With a 5,000mAh capacity, this power bank is ideal for short trips. Its design is so appealing that I always keep one handy.

Supergoop Resetting Mineral Powder SPF 35 Sunscreen

Being fair-skinned with olive undertones means I can tan beautifully, but it also makes me prone to sunburns, especially in unexpected places. My fine blonde hair provides no shield against scalp burns. To circumvent this, I use the Supergoop mineral sunscreen, perfect for the hairline and face application. It even works over makeup and is portable for easy travel.

JBL Flip 5 Bluetooth Speaker

Music is a must for any pool day. Although I typically rely on earbuds in public spaces, a portable speaker is a must when I'm poolside at home. For enriching music and podcast experiences, the JBL Flip 5 is my go-to speaker. It's been with me for a few years, and its lightweight, waterproof design with 12 hours of playtime makes it a worthwhile investment. Plus, it's available in a range of colors.

Case Mate Waterproof Phone Pouch

In today's age, my phone is seldom out of reach, even poolside. While basking on a float, having my phone handy for music control is essential. The Case Mate waterproof pouch protects my device from splashes and submersion while allowing phone use and even underwater photography. This pouch is a budget-friendly $20 and ideal for pool activities and vacations.