8 Essentials Every Professional Mermaid Should Have in Their Bag
So, you’ve booked a gig, yay! Whether it’s a birthday party, a corporate event, or a poolside photoshoot, there’s one universal truth: being a professional mermaid means being prepared for absolutely anything.
Between silicone vs fabric mermaid tails, unpredictable environments, and curious kiddos, the last thing you want is to forget something important. Or run into a problem you can’t solve. That’s why we’ve put together our go-to packing list… 8 essentials every professional mermaid should bring along.
P.S. We are writing this list from the POV of a silicone tail performer, but many of these tips can apply to fabric tails as well!
1. Silicone-Safe Tail Lubricant
If you’ve ever tried sliding into a silicone mermaid tail without some kind of “lube”… you know the struggle. The easiest hack? No need to spend a ton of money on speciality lubes… a cheap, hair conditioner mixed with water in a small travel bottle. That’s all ya need. A little goes a long way, and your tail (and skin) will thank you. Its important you don’t use anything that’s not water based (think coconut oils, oil based moisturizers or any food based products) as they will build up in your tail and can cause mold growth…gross. Regular ole hair conditioner will rinse out after each use and keep everything smelling fresh. My personal favorite is the Pantene Moisturizing Conditioner. This two pack will literally last FOREVER and the pump makes it super easy to transfer into your small travel container.
2. Quick-Drying, Ultra Absorbing Beach Towel
Events can be back-to-back, and waiting hours for a towel to dry isn’t realistic. That’s why a towel becomes one of the most-used, most-loved items in your bag of tricks.
For professional mermaids, a quick-dry microfiber towel isn’t just for drying off between sets—it’s a true multitasker:
Drying Off Quickly → Whether you’re hopping from one poolside appearance to another or slipping out of the water for photos, you’ll want to feel comfortable and camera-ready fast. Nothing’s worse than sitting in damp skin or a wet top while you wait for your next splash.
Protecting Your Tail → Laying down a towel keeps your silicone tail safe from rough pool decks, sand, or pavement. Silicone is durable, but it can still scuff or collect debris, so a towel acts as a portable protective mat.
Staying Warm Between Sets → Pools and open water can be chilly, even in Florida! A dry towel wrapped around your shoulders helps you conserve energy and stay cozy until your next performance.
Emergency Cleanup → Towels double as quick clean-up tools. Splash too much water on the floor during an indoor gig? Wipe it down before anyone slips. Makeup smudge or glitter spill? A towel has you covered.
Discreet Changing Aid → A large towel can be a performer’s best friend when you need to make quick, subtle adjustments to costumes or tops in between events.
That’s why we swear by this towel. It’s lightweight, folds down to almost nothing in your gig bag, dries in record time, AND RESISTS SAND… its always ready to help me out in a pinch. Honestly? I’d never go to a gig without one.
3. Waterproof Phone Case
From event check-ins to capturing behind-the-scenes content, your phone is essential—but water is not its friend. A waterproof phone pouch or case lets you keep your device safe and snap underwater selfies with fans. You might THINK your phone won’t see water if you leave it in the changing room…but my sopping wet phone at the bottom of my tail bag begs to differ.
This phone bag has come in handy more than a few times, and saved me from an expensive phone replacement! Plus the little pouch is great to stash tiny essentials you need to have handy.
4. Quick Repair Kit (Safety Pins for the Win!)
Mermaid gigs can get unpredictable. A strap snaps, a scale detail loosens, or a costume accessory shifts—having a mini repair kit (think safety pins, hair ties, and a needle & thread) can save the day. It’s like having a pocket-sized stagehand in your bag. This isn’t really an issue if you have a silicone tail, as the tail is durable enough to not “surprise” you with any issues, but tops and accessories are notorious for these kinds of “incidents”.
5. Reusable Water Bottle
Hydration is key! Performing in a tail is a workout (seriously). Keep a stylish, reusable water bottle on hand—you’ll feel better, look fresher, and avoid mid-gig burnout. From one thirsty girl to another, when I can’t bring my 75 lb Stanley I reach for my Owala since it has a quick flip open top that I can easily open and close with one hand. This one is Ariel themed…I mean <3
6. Spare Bikini or Swim Top
Things happen—straps break, we forget things or you just want a quick change between events for any number of reasons. Sometimes that top that fit perfectly last week just isn’t hitting anymore. A spare top is one of those items you’ll rarely need but will be eternally grateful for when you do. Personally I like this one as a backup for events since it’s neutral enough to go with anything and keeps everything G rated.
7. Tail Bag with Wheels
Transporting your silicone mermaid tail is an adventure on its own. A rolling dive bag (like our beloved Akona Chelan) keeps your tail safe, hidden from little eyes, and way easier to carry. Trust us—your back will thank you. Check out this blog post for more reasons we love this bag.
8. Reef-Safe Sunscreen
If your gig is outdoors, protecting your skin and the ocean is a must. If you are within earshot of me during an outdoor gig you will be SICK of hearing me preach the importance of sunscreen. Pack a reef-safe sunscreen so you can shine without harming marine life.
