Summer Getaway Packing List
We all love the thought of a summer trip to a different city to lounge along the ocean for a few days or even a trip to explore a new country, but then the reality sinks in of realizing you have to pack for such a getaway. Some people pack exactly what they need, nothing more and nothing less, whereas others will pack for 8 days instead of the 5 they are staying for. No matter which side of the spectrum you are on as a packer, we have exactly what you need to pack for a summer getaway to make this task a little bit easier.
- Outfits for your trip. In most cases, during the summer, you will be wearing shorts or dresses and skirts. Lay them out for how many days you are planning on being there. Then, take into account travel days. If you are merely traveling by car, shorts will also work, but if you are flying on a plane, you may want something a bit warmer, as airplanes can be cold. In that case, opt for leggings or lounge pants, and a top with a cardigan or jacket layered. We know it can be tempting to pack several extra "just in case" outfits, but try to limit it to one or two. This will help you save space in your suitcase.
- Undergarments for all the days. We always think it's smart to pack an extra pair or two of underwear, because you truly do never know what's going to happen. However, you probably do not need 8 extra pairs for a weekend trip, so try not to go overboard on that. Make sure that you have undergarments that match what you're wearing, so you don't find yourself in an awkward situation later on.
- Swimwear. This is a summer must! As long as you're traveling when it's warm, pack at least one swimsuit just in case. Even if lounging by the pool isn't on your itinerary, you may find that you need a rest day from the jet lag, and the perfect place to spend it is by the water, whether beach or pool. This keeps you from having to spend quite a bit of money on a swimsuit at a store in a different country, or worse, a hotel gift shop, where you have limited options and quite a high price tag.
- Toiletries. Depending on where you are staying, you may not need to pack everything. If you're staying at a hotel, it is likely that they will provide shower gel, shampoo, and conditioner for your use. However, if you are staying at a rental house, you'll need to pack all of that for yourself. Hotel or rental, you will need anything extra such as extra contact lenses, contact lens solution, toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, mouthwash, any facial cleansers you use, a razor, hairspray, hair brushes, deodorant, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and any makeup that you may need. Depending on your personal style and preference, you may wish to bring a curling iron or flat iron as well, but that is a personal choice. Most hotels have hair dryers, if you're at a rental, you'll need to bring your own as well.
- Workout clothes. If you're big into fitness or know that your vacation will be spent hiking waterfalls or biking around the city, workout clothes are a great addition to your packing list. These materials will be better for keeping you cool during those activities than if you were wearing jeans or regular shorts.
- Shoes. Shoes can take up a lot of space, so try to pick a neutral pair of shoes that can go with multiple outfits. If you're planning on hiking or workout out, you'll need a pair of hiking boots or at the very least sneakers, and finally, maybe a pair of heels or wedges for a nice dinner out. Try to pack as few shoes as possible, really focusing on pairs that will match everything you're packing to keep your space as open as possible.
- Pajamas. Don't forget a pair or two of pajamas for the night time! The last thing you want to do is forget pajamas and have to sleep in dirty clothes or use some of your workout clothes for sleeping.
- Face masks. These are a must for anyone traveling this year, so make sure you have a couple of different ones. We suggest 2 for each day that you'll be there. This way, you have a backup in case a strap breaks or the mask becomes wet or unusable for the rest of the day. Bring a plastic bag to put the dirty masks in so they don't contaminate your other clothes.
- Medications. If you take anything, make sure you pack enough for your trip. This is one thing that we can agree packing more of is best. You'll also want to ensure that you have pain and cold/allergy meds on-hand because you never know when a headache will strike, and you never want to have to miss out on fun. Pack any supplements or vitamins you're used to taking as well.
- Miscellaneous electronics and chargers. If you are packing an e-book reader or tablet, make sure to pack the chargers for those as well as your phone.
Depending on your trip, you may need some other items, but this is a good start to your packing list for your summer getaway.