Going on a summer holiday soon and want to make sure you pack the right swim shorts? Smart move. Some countries have surprisingly strict rules about what you can wear in the pool.
You can’t just jump into the water everywhere wearing your trusty swim shorts. Especially in France and Italy, many campsites and public swimming pools require you to wear tight-fitting swimwear - such as swim briefs or swim trunks. No joke. If you show up there in your loose-fitting shorts, you can stay on the sidelines showing off your wrong pair of shorts while your friends cool off in the water.
Swimwear rules by country
Check the rules for each holiday destination here:
France: Swim shorts banned? Check the rules for France.
Italy: Tight-fitting swimwear and a swim cap?! Check the rules for Italy.
Belgium: Surprisingly strict? Check the rules for Belgium.
We’ll add to this list as soon as we’ve researched more countries. Is your holiday destination not listed yet for this summer? Come back before then!
Not every swimming pool is equally strict
Many countries in Europe don’t have strict rules about wearing swimwear. But there are exceptions. Especially at swimming pools at campsites in France and Italy, you’re often only allowed to wear tight-fitting swimwear.
By “tight-fitting”, they don’t mean a fashion show, just something practical: no loose fabric and no flapping legs. So either swim trunks (with a leg) or swim briefs.
Still, that rule doesn’t apply everywhere. There are also swimming pools where you can simply enter the water wearing your swim shorts. So check with your campsite beforehand to find out exactly what they require.
And don’t think: “It’ll probably be fine.” If swim shorts are banned, they really do enforce it. No tight-fitting swimwear? You’ll simply be asked to leave the pool. And in some cases, you’ll even have to wear a swim cap. A free cultural shock included.
Need tight-fitting swimwear after all?
No panic. At Goedkopezwembroeken.nl, we have more than enough tight-fitting swimwear for men and boys. Whether you choose classic swim briefs or prefer to wear swim trunks, you’re in good hands with us.
And yes, they’re affordable too. Because let’s be honest: most men only wear tight-fitting swimwear because they have to. Not because they want to. So you won’t have to blow your holiday budget on it.
No strict rules in your holiday destination? Or, as a down-to-earth Dutchman, do you enjoy taking a little risk with your swim shorts? That works too. For those who prefer a looser fit, we also have plenty of great swim shorts. Ideal for wearing at home, or at campsites that don’t make a fuss.
With swimwear from us, you’re always in good hands. Literally and figuratively.
