what I packed: a week at the lake
If you’re reading this, I’m already on my way to Maine for a week on Lake Sebago - a vacation I have been looking forward to for months. If you’re anything like me, you seriously underestimated how important it is to do even the littlest things outside of your home without worry and to be able to get a change of scenery is something I am truly grateful for. We will be taking all the necessary precautions and practicing all the distancing when we arrive and I’ve packed as well as I can (chronic over-packer over here) to ensure minimal trips to the store.
Here’s what’s in my suitcase…
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CLOTHES
Must-haves
Hat: A good hat keeps your hair out of your face, the sun out of your eyes and provides enough of a disguise that encourages you to skip the make-up. At the lake, it’s just easier to go au naturel and with any luck, you won’t be seeing anyone you know anyway.
Hoodie: You’re bound to want to be cozy. Whether you’re layering up for cool nights, for protection against bugs or to warm up on a rainy day, pack at least one hoodie or sweatshirt you love. It doesn’t matter if it doesn’t match anything else you pack, as long as it does the job.
Pajamas: Unlike summer nights in Boston, evenings by the lake are cool and may require a bit more length and substance than you’ve become accustomed to. I recommend pants, especially some with pockets, and you can never go wrong with a matching set.
Other things I recommend: rain jacket, shorts, swimsuits, layering pieces (tanks and tees).
FOOD, DRINKS & SNACKS
Must-haves
Cooler: For transporting whatever it is you need for a day at the beach or a few kitchen staples you might not be able to find at just any grocery store. We plan on making one shopping trip for the week once we’re up there so items like your favorite coffee creamer, cotton candy grapes (my latest obsession) and anything else that you will want should fit nicely inside.
Kitchen tools: You never know what cabins are going to be stocked with so having a few things on hand is super important and makes the whole cooking-away-from-home experience much less stressful when you realize your cabin kitchen isn’t equipped with what you need. Veggie peelers and tongs are some of my most used items so anything extra in this set is such a bonus.
Microplane: Also known as a grater or zester, think of it as your best friend when you’re grating cheese, zesting lemons or grating ginger. If you’re going to add that extra flavor to your dishes, do it right with fresh ingredients to make your vacation meals even more memorable.
Other things I recommend: avocado, coffee, Gardetto’s or your favorite snack), ice packs.
FOOTWEAR
Sandals: Just In time to have them delivered in time, I was reading a round-up by Rank and Style of the 10 Best Pool Slides which led me down an internet shopping rabbit hole in search of the perfect poolside (or in this case lakeside) shoe. I’ve moved on from the plastic flip flops of yore, and much of what I own now is leather which can wear out (or at least appear to) in the harsh sun or when wet.
Sneakers: For when you might have a hike in store, a game of manhunt or anything that just won’t work with open toe shoes. Keeping it classic is also one way to ensure those nostalgic family vacation vibes alive.
Socks: I shouldn’t have to say this but pleaseGodwearsockswithyoursneakers. If you don’t want weird foot things, this is how you avoid them. People who appear to not be wearing socks, are either living on the edge (of very real foot odor or worse) or invest in the no-show sock game (of which I am in full support). As Nike says, “just do it.”
Other things I recommend: Blister band-aids.
FOR THE BEACH
Aloe vera: I pack some kind of “after sun” lotion anytime I’m going somewhere where sun exposure is more than usual. Even if I don’t been burned, there’s nothing like the fresh, clean, cooling sensation after a refreshing shower when you’re giving your skin the care it needs to live it’s best vacation life.
Beach blanket: I’m equal parts chair lounger and waterfront napper so having a beach blanket on hand is really important when I’m on vacay. If you’re with any number of littles, its smart to have a blanket on hand if, nothing else, to keep everyone’s belongings visible and out of the sand. It can also double as a picnic blanket and sometimes double-duty is important too.
Sunglasses: Did I recently treat myself to a pair of Chanel sunglasses because I’m celebrating thirty-fun and not thirty-one with no major social event? (Thanks, COVID.) Yes, yes I did. And I would do it again. Because sunglasses that make you feel like a Hollywood starlet are worth it.
Other things I recommend: Folding chairs, sunscreen, towels.
TOILETRIES
Body wash: Whether it’s dirt, sunscreen, bug spray or just the day, having a good wash can be a vacation in itself. This paraben and sulfate-free formula has all the makings of a good cleaning and the rosehip oil and jojoba might just have you looking forward to your next one, the minute you step out of the shower.
Hairbrush: It’s 2020 so the least we can do for our hair is not run just any old comb or hairbrush through it, especially when it’s wet. And there’s even a brand that creates for this exact purpose. Cue the end of tears, the embrace of soft bristles, a secure grip and ergonomic design so your hair doesn’t have to fear damage after you’ve already put it through sun, chlorine and whatever else your vacation has planned.
Lotion: If you like the idea of extending your glow or just keeping your skin in tip-top shape, moisturizing at all times is key. Plus, you' don’t want to worry about dry skin on vacation and with this stuff you won’t have to.
Other things I recommend: shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrush.
MISC.
Basic First Aid kit: In case of emergency, you’ll be glad you did. Keep it in the car, your tote, wherever you go. Because “just in case” is better than nothing.
Book(s): Early mornings, beachside relaxing, nighttime peace? Vacation was practically made for books. You can catch-up on everything I’ve been reading here.
Bug repellent: Bug bites are the bane of my existence. Being itchy gets me internally irritated like nothing else. Harmful chemicals? Don’t even get me started. This little guys packs a soothing punch.
Other things I recommend: games, notebook/ pencil, umbrella.
FOR THE CABIN
Flashlight(s): Darkness by the lake can be very different from darkness at home. And just in case you lose power, initiate a game of flashlight tag or just feel like being prepared, this is a handy purchase.
Portable speaker: Music sets the mood, there’s no arguing that. For the beach, a rainy day of reading or even to amplify your morning meditations, sometimes its nice to share your sounds. And this little device is a charger too. Worth. Every. Penny.
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