What To Pack For A Weekend at the Lake
All across the United States lakes will be full of swimmers, boaters, fishers and water skiers over Labor Day weekend. Going to the lake is one of my favorite pastimes and I know many of you guys love to be there, too. As an ode to summer ending, I've put together a packing list and a little lakeside inspiration for you this weekend. We've been living in an AirBnB for the month of August up here in Northern California and will be on the lake during this upcoming weekend. Everything I'm sharing in today's posts are outfits I've worn over the past two weeks as we've been walking from our cabin home down to the shores of one of the prettiest spots in California. I hope you enjoy and find this helpful for your long weekend preparations!
Bring a couple of swimsuits. I prefer to wear a one piece like this adorable gingham one found a few seasons back or a retro style halter swimsuit. Now that I'm 34, it's not that I can't rock a string bikini, but my lifestyle has changed so much it's not worth the effort. I'd rather be able to throw a skirt on and wear my swimsuit into the evening as we BBQ or hang out instead of feeling like I'm half naked after getting out of the water. Everyone has different preferences, but a one piece or high waisted two-piece offers so much more coverage and you can relax as you move around.
If you spending time in the Southern part of the US the weekend I recommend bringing a couple of dresses that are easy to throw on. Dresses are some of the most comfortable garments I own in soft fabrics like cotton or linen. I like to bring dark colors to wear so in the event mud or grass gets on them they do not stain. Navy is a great color for the end of Summer and will withstand a weekend outdoors.
For makeup, I recommend bringing bare minimum and definitely an SPF product! I'm always have in my purse TOUCH primer, YOUOLOGY SPF Broad Spectrum Beauty Fluid and my Flawless BB Complexion Enhancer. A swipe of bronzer or mascara and a little lip balm for after I'm done being in the water and freshen up. Whether you wear no makeup or a little no makeup look you'll want to make sure you bring your basic skincare products and at least SPF protection.
A few other additional items would include a sun hat or baseball cap, sunglasses that are inexpensive (too many pairs have ended up at the bottom of lakes and rivers for me) and a scarf or two. Scarves are a must have for me when I go anywhere. They are one of the most versatile pieces and instantly make any ensemble look chic.
As far as what else to pack I recommend at least one pair of jeans, yoga pants and athleisure, and a good solid sweatshirt. You never know if it will be cool or not in the mornings or evenings so always bring something cozy. Plus, if you are camping this weekend a sweatshirt can double as an extra pillow. Bring a few pairs of slides or sandals and always something comfortable to walk on uneven terrain.
Another must have is a pair of topsiders. I have used my Sperry's time and time again and am now on my second pair. I love that they are slip resistant and made to wear on the docks of boats. I've worn countless times both a pair of leather ones and canvas ones without disappointment. Another benefit? They never go out of style. You can also do light hiking in them and I've even worn them while I floated the river!
Don't forget other essentials like beach towels and a tote. I love finding vintage straw bags and this one I bought second hand has a sweet Mexican flair. It's been used for picnics, as a tote and for overnight travel. Look for a straw bag with sturdy handles (I've also had a few of these break on me) and then don't overload! Inspect repellent and a citronella candle will help keep bugs at bay. You might also consider bringing aloe for after sun care, conditioner and lots of moisturizer!
Finally, don't forget a cooler. One of the most underrated and necessary items for any outdoor activity. If you are going alone or with just another person grab a purse style one. If it's a larger group I recommend getting something with durability and lots of room. Also, one that's insulated good because the more people you have the more often they will open and shut the lid.
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