It's all in the prep

One of the great things about swimming outdoors is it's free. You don't need any special kit -- in fact, if you're discreet you don't need any kit at all! But preparation is everything, and that means arriving knowing your swim spot and with everything you need to warm up afterwards.

Here are some tips:

Know your venue: be aware of nuances like currents, tides and entry/exit points
Have an idea of the temperature: be aware of how cold the water is and use it to guide you
Don't swim alone: make sure you have a swim buddy or somebody to spot from the side
Don't stay in for too long
Take warming up seriously: have extra layers and a warm drink for afterwards

Here's a handy kit list to download

But remember, you don't have to buy new stuff -- you can improvise with what you've got.

Carry it well

Kit bag

Grab a bag. Think about how far you'll carry it, what the ground and weather are like while you swim, and where you'll put wet stuff afterwards.

You could use a rucksack, holdall or even a supermarket bag for life.

Be seen

Stay safe

Think about your visibility. A brightly-coloured hat and tow float will ensure others can see you. If you're swimming heads-up breaststroke you could wear a bobble hat or beanie.

What you need to swim

Swimming stuff

For open water swimming with your head in the water, you'll need goggles, earplugs and a swim hat. If it's sunny, pick polarised or shaded goggles.

Wetsuit or skins?

Wetsuit

Whether or not you wear a wetsuit is your choice. If you're training for an event, I recommend training in whatever you'll wear for the event. If you wear a wetsuit, make sure that it's suitable for swimming.

Swimming wetsuits are different to surfing wetsuits. Please make sure you buy carefully.

A swimming wetsuit will have a smooth coating and variable thickness so that you are kept buoyant in the right places but you're still able to move your arms freely. Check out my wetsuit buying guide for more info.

Pack an extra layer

For afterwards

Pack a towel and changing robe or dressing gown to change under, plus an extra layer of warm clothing.

Bring a warm drink

Eat and drink

Make sure you have eaten and you're well hydrated. A snack and warm drink is a great way to warm up afterwards too.

Pack for the weather

Sun, wind or rain

Adjust your kit to suit the weather. UV protection is important in the summer, and windproof/waterproof layers are important in the rain. Hot water bottles, hand warmers, thermal socks and lots of layers are essential in the winter.

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