With summer right around the corner, planning a summer vacation should be exciting and not stressful. Whether you’ll be vacationing close to home, taking a domestic trip, or traveling abroad, knowing how to pack smart for vacation and what to pack will help set you up for a successful trip from the
get-go.

Get some packing tips and ideas for a summer vacation packing list below, and get ready to travel confidently this summer.

WHAT TO TAKE ON SUMMER VACATION

While a packing list for summer vacation will vary from person to person and be dependent on where you’re going, the following items will give you a great foundation for many summer destinations. Feel free to add or delete any items based on where you’re going, as well as your personal needs and preferences.

• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Reading materials (books, magazines, an e-reader)
• 2 bathing suits
• Sunscreen
• Dry Shampoo
• Hand sanitizer
• Baby wipes
• Reusable water bottle
• Comfortable (yet stylish) shoes

PACKING FOR SUMMER VACATION

Now that you have an idea of the items you should bring when packing for summer vacation, check out our top tips to help you pack like a pro so you can stay organized and be able to find what you need when you need it during your trip.

One of the best ways to avoid overpacking is to make a list of what clothing you’ll need, such as bathing suits, shirts, shorts, sundresses, shoes, socks, underwear, undershirts, coverups, and pajamas. Then stick to that list! Focus
on bringing just enough - not too much.

Whether you’re tossing in books for a relaxing day at the beach or snacks to munch on while touring around town, a versatile tote bag is a perfect way to carry these items around. This bag will also come in handy when heading back home, as it can be used to store any souvenirs or other items you’ve picked up while traveling.

WEAR YOUR LAYERS

• Even in the summer months, temperatures can dip at night and get chilly. To be prepared, pack clothes that layer well together like tank tops and cardigans. When traveling, wear your layers to save room
  in your luggage.

PACKING FOR AIR TRAVEL

• If you are traveling by airplane to get to your summer vacation destination, these packing tips for air travel will help you board with ease. 

MAKE YOUR LUGGAGE STAND OUT

• You’ll want your luggage to stand out from the crowd, whether your luggage itself looks unique or you use luggage tags or other accessories that will make it easy to identify your bags from those of other travelers. This will not only save you time but minimize the chances of your luggage being accidentally taken by someone else.

PACK ELECTRONICS IN A SINGLE LAYER 

• If you’re traveling with laptops, cameras, or other electronics that you need to get through security, pack them in a single layer that can be easily viewed by TSA staff. This will avoid having your belongings unloaded to be screened.

PICK THE RIGHT SIZE BAG 

• If you want to get through the security checkpoint quickly – and save money on your checked bags – make sure that your personal item and carry-on bag fit the airline's size requirements. 

PACKING FOR ROAD TRIPS

• Off on a short weekend trip in the car? Pack efficiently so your vehicle is comfortable, and you can easily access the items you’ll need.

STOCK A COOLER WITH FOOD AND WATER

• Make room for a hard-sided cooler in your trunk. Fill it with drinks and items that are easy to eat on the go, like fruit and raw vegetables. Pack all items in individual Ziploc bags.

USE DUFFLE BAGS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR TRUNK SPAC

• Try to avoid bringing multiple structured suitcases since they’ll take up a lot of trunk space. Instead, use smaller, soft-sided bags like duffle bags and backpacks to wedge around the rest of your belongings.

WEAR COMFORTABLE CLOTHES

• You’ll be sitting for an extended period of time, so make comfort a top priority. Wear soft, roomy pieces in breathable fabric like cotton blends, and avoid items like jeans.

Whether you're getting away for a long weekend or going on a month-long adventure, you’ll be equipped to travel smart and with ease when you follow these tips. Be sure to make the most of your trip with a stylish, quality B&R bag.