With summer quickly approaching, you will need to have your packing routine down for your upcoming beachfront vacations. Whether you will be vacationing in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, the Islands of Loreto, or Cancun, you will need your beachside essential items along with your clothes and travel items. Read along to learn what to pack for your summer vacations and how to make everything fit in your suitcase.
What to Pack for Your Summer Vacations
Sun Screen
The sun is stronger in the summertime and UV rays keep increasing. There is nothing worse than getting sunburned on the first few days of your summer vacation and spending the rest of it uncomfortable. Sun safety is more essential now than ever before.
Sunglasses and Hats
Sunglasses and a hat are very important, especially if you plan on working on your tan. A good pair of shades has UV lenses as well and some more expensive brands offer anti-glare lenses. Whatever you choose, make sure that you wear your glasses and/or hat if you are in the sun during peak hours to avoid hurting your eyes. The hat will protect your head and ensure that your scalp does not get burned when in the sun for long periods of time.
Topical Sunburn Remedies
Topical sunburn remedies are a must-have whenever you go on a vacation to beachfront resorts. Sometimes, even if you have sufficient sunscreen on, your skin still absorbs the heat from the sun and burns. As soon as you notice that your skin is redder than usual, apply topical sunburn remedies and ointments to reduce the effects. If you do not have topical remedies, you could also use plain cold yogurt on the affected area.
Bring a Water Bottle
Remember that during summer, sweat will ooze from every gland of your body. Make sure that you have drink enough water throughout your day and bring a water bottle with you anywhere you go. After all, you would not want dehydration to ruin your summer vacation.
Bring a Camera
This one sounds obvious, but you would be surprised how many people either forget to bring the camera or the extra batteries or the memory card. Fix your camera gear in advance so you have it ready to go; you do not want to miss that amazing sunset or your child’s first encounter with the dolphin.
Be Prepared
Keep a small kit handy that includes any standard medicine, vitamins, supplements, and any first aid supplies that you may need. If you take a daily supplement or drink protein powder shakes, bring these supplies with you. Standard medicine may include Tylenol, allergy medicine, and/or digestive supplements or Tums. These supplies will enable you to feel your best and make the most out of your vacation. Of course, the Palmita Market offers all basic medicines, but knowing you are prepared when out and about will enable you to relax that much more.
Bathing Suits
Bring at least two bathing suits with you so that when you are washing or drying one you have another one to wear.
Adapters and Chargers
Adapters and chargers are also very important to bring for your phone and any electronics you may use such as a laptop or iPad so that your devices are charged at all times. Our resorts in Mexico use the same wattage as the US; however if you are planning to use your devices off property be sure to have the right tools.
How to Pack Light
Whether it is a weekend trip or a full two-week journey, one thing all vacationers agree with is the need to pack light. You do not want to spend time dragging your suitcase and you certainly do not want to miss any key items while away from home. With some stress-free tips, you will be able to pack a much lighter suitcase, have all of the items you need, and have fun on your vacation without worrying about carrying a heavy bag. Below are a few tips to help you master how to pack light.
Make Lists
Lists will definitely help you reduce your stress while you are planning a vacation. Rather than trying to remember it all, we suggest you create master lists on your computer that you can print and use each time you take a trip. You will be able to greatly reduce your planning time for the vacation and lessen the chance of forgetting any details.
Keep Only Essentials
First things first, know the difference between what you want to take with you, and what you really are going to use when on vacation. Keep apart only the things that you are really going to need and then think about how to pack them in the best possible way. It means only pack must-go items.
Keep Toiletries and Cosmetics in Little Plastic Containers
It may seem a waste of time moving toiletries and cosmetics into tiny containers and it is much easier to dump a few large bottles and tubes in your bag instead but using small containers will help save a lot of space. Plus, tiny plastic, leak-proof containers are allowed in carry-on bags if they are 3.4 ounces or less per item. We recommend putting all liquids in a plastic bag or reusable carrier so that if these items leak the rest of your luggage does not get wet.
Pick Shoes that do Double Duty
Shoes take a lot of space, but they have to go. Try to minimize the number of shoes to one or two pairs by choosing a pair that will go with maximum outfits. Fill your shoes with socks to save space. Choosing the right ones will be an important decision to make. For all vacations by the beach, make sure to bring a pair of sandals or flip-flops as well. On your travel day, wear your bulkiest pair of shoes if you can to maximize packing space.
Choose Clothes Wisely
When packing clothing, choose clothes that you can mix and match to make a variety of outfits. Select solid-colored lowers that will go with many shirts and tops. Bring clothes that coordinate; however, make sure they can also be used for multiple uses. Additionally, take one light sweater in case there is some wind. For women, beach dresses are an awesome thing to pack as they take up little space and are a great outfit. Make sure you have at least one dressier outfit in case you want to go for dinner and a restaurant has a fancier dress code.
Skip Packing Items you Plan to Buy While on Vacation
If you plan to go shopping during your trip, do some travel research and plan ahead for ideas on items to purchase in Mexico, such as clothes, jewelry, or souvenirs. Make sure that you have ample space in your bag to bring items back if you plan on shopping.
How to Make Everything Fit in the Bag
Leave the heavy weight at home and learn how to pack your bag for travel in a carry-on size bag. Check with your airline to ensure that your bag meets the carry-on size requirements. These handy packing tips will keep your load light, your pack tight and your approach on the right path for a great trip without weighing you down.
Selection of the Right Bag
All your clothes, excluding what you wear, need to fit into a medium-sized bag with compression straps to tug it into a super-tight package. Rolling duffel bags may be good for anyone who needs to travel for short time, typically less than four weeks. Canvas-style bags are also increasing in popularity due to this current trend. Backpacks are also an option while traveling as they can accommodate many things and are easy to walk around with. Keep your clothing fabrics lightweight, durable, and quick to dry.
Bottom Base
Put heavy items like shoes on the bottom so when your suitcase is upright or rolling it is more secure. Fill the gaps between the handles with a fleece jacket or sweater for a tight fit base that does not permit any sliding or shifting movements.
Electronic Gear
Pack a small laptop with a secure case into a separate sleeve or zippered pocket in the back of your backpack to create a flat surface against your back. Atop the base, place your SLR camera and lens, wrapped in a tight-fitting case, in a central and safe position.
Protective Padding
A sheer scarf, tissue paper, gloves, or any clothing are perfect for stuffing the space around your electronic gear for a secure and stable fit and also for space saving.
Fill Up Space
By now your bag should be at least half-filled. Take your leftover odds and ends and fill up any holes or spaces left. Unclean clothes, a first aid kit, charging cables, and a toiletry kit all will work for this.
Top End Items
With your pack only half to three-quarters full use the top portion for items you want to access during the day. A foldable daypack for sightseeing tours is a good item to take along if you plan to leave the resort. Cinch up the main section and keep some room to spare for remembrance items.
Outside Pockets
Keep the number of external pockets to a minimum. A stretchable front bucket pocket is better for a damp towel and a deflated neck pillow for bus and air travel. Just remember that external access sometimes attracts pickpockets, so if you don’t want to lose it, store it inside your main bag, not in a pocket.
Top Lid Pocket
The catchall for small items uses the top pocket for maps, a book, a cell phone, snack food, lip balm, and lotions. Use small bags to keep items from sliding around and hiding in a deep corner.
We hope these tips help you pack light for your next summer vacation. Please note that these items are examples, and you will need to add to or modify this list to suit your needs. We look forward to welcoming you back to your home away from home this summer and wish you an extraordinary vacation experience.
