SwimSafer Test Packing List and Preparation Guide
A practical SwimSafer assessment packing list covering swimwear, goggles, clothing requirements, documents and last-minute checks.
Key point
Check the current assessment notice first. Official guidance indicates goggles plus a T-shirt and shorts for Stages 1–4, and a T-shirt with long pants for Stages 5–6; requirements can change or vary by assessment instructions.
Core packing list
- Usual swimwear.
- Properly fitting goggles.
- T-shirt and the stage-specific shorts or long pants stated in the assessment notice.
- Towel and dry change of clothes.
- Water bottle.
- Required booking, identification or assessment information.
- Any personal medication managed according to the participant’s medical plan.
Stage-specific clothing
The public SwimSafer CAMS information states T-shirt and shorts for Stages 1–4, and T-shirt with long pants for Stages 5–6. Use clothing previously practised in: wet clothes change drag, movement and exit effort. Do not improvise a different garment on assessment day.
Checks the day before
- Read the latest venue and assessment message.
- Confirm date, reporting time and correct location.
- Check closures or weather instructions.
- Pack and label every item.
- Prioritise normal sleep and meals over last-minute hard training.
Practise clothed skills only under programme supervision
Clothing increases resistance and can make movement harder. Do not rehearse deep-water survival tasks alone.
Primary sources
See the current SwimSafer CAMS information for the public and SwimSafer 2.0 instructor manual. The participant’s current assessment notice takes priority.
Common questions
What should a child bring for a SwimSafer assessment?
Follow the current provider checklist. Typical needs may include approved swimwear, cap, goggles if permitted, towel, dry clothes, water and any required identification or medication.
Can a child use unfamiliar equipment during the assessment?
Do not assume so. Confirm permitted equipment with the provider and use familiar, properly fitted items rather than testing new gear on assessment day.
What should parents confirm before travelling?
Confirm the stage, venue, reporting time, required items, assessment rules and what happens during weather or facility closures directly with the provider.
Written by Alvin, SSI Swimming Instructor Trainer, published with Swim2u Swim School. Last reviewed 26 October 2026. How we check our content.