The Do’s and Don’ts of Packing for a Summer Getaway

There’s something magical about a summer getaway. Whether it’s a weekend road trip to the lake, a beach vacation with the family, or even just a few nights at a cozy cabin in the mountains, the thought of escaping the usual routine and trading it in for sunshine, breezes, and a little leisure is enough to make anyone giddy. But before the relaxation begins, there’s one important step that can make or break your vacation: packing.

Now, I don’t know about you, but I’ve made just about every packing mistake you can think of. I’ve packed three pairs of shoes and forgotten a swimsuit. I’ve arrived at a lovely B&B only to realize I brought four books but not one phone charger. And don’t get me started on the time I packed an entire wardrobe for a trip to Charleston and wore the same sundress three days in a row because it was the only thing that felt comfortable in the heat.

Packing shouldn’t feel like a full-time job or a math equation. It’s all about planning smart, knowing what you truly need, and leaving the rest behind. So whether you’re heading out solo, with your better half, or with the whole extended family in tow (God help you), here’s a handy guide of do’s and don’ts to get you through it stress-free.

Do: Make a list ahead of time

There is no better feeling than checking things off a list, and when it comes to packing, it’s the best way to keep your head on straight. Don’t trust yourself to remember it all the night before. Start your list a week ahead of your trip and keep adding to it as things come to mind—phone charger, allergy meds, flip flops, sunscreen, bug spray. The essentials go first. Then the “if there’s room” items. You’ll thank yourself later.

Don’t: Wait until the last minute

I’ve done it. You’ve probably done it. We tell ourselves we’ll throw it all in a bag after dinner and be done in twenty minutes. Two hours later, we’re still hunting down that one pair of shorts we swear we saw yesterday. Save yourself the stress. Packing at the last minute is a surefire way to forget something or pack things you don’t need. Give yourself some breathing room and do it a day or two ahead. That way, if you remember something at 3 a.m. (like I always do), you still have time to throw it in the bag.

Do: Pack outfits, not options

This is one of my biggest lessons learned over the years. I used to pack like I was going to be in a fashion show. Three pairs of jeans, five tops in case I “felt like wearing something else,” two sweaters, and enough shoes to fill a trunk. Spoiler alert: I wore the same sandals and two dresses the entire trip. Lay your clothes out and plan full outfits—down to shoes and accessories. Not only will this save space, but it also takes the guesswork out of getting dressed once you’re there. Just wake up, pick an outfit, and go enjoy yourself.

Don’t: Pack “just in case” items

I know it’s tempting. What if it rains? What if it turns cold? What if we get invited to a surprise dinner at a fancy restaurant overlooking the ocean? Let me tell you this: most of the time, those “what ifs” never happen. Bring one just-in-case outfit, and let the rest go. You’re not moving to another country—you’re going on vacation. And chances are, if you do forget something major, there’s a drugstore or boutique nearby.

Do: Check the weather

Before you pack even one flip-flop, pull up the forecast. Are there rain showers expected every afternoon? Is it going to be 97 degrees in the shade? Nothing’s worse than packing cute summer outfits and needing a rain jacket or long sleeves. A quick weather check can help you adjust your choices and avoid being caught unprepared.

Don’t: Overpack shoes

I say this with love because I’ve been there. Shoes take up a ton of space and weight in your bag. Think function, not fashion. A good rule of thumb is three pairs: one pair of comfortable walking shoes or sandals, one pair of something a little dressier for evenings, and flip flops or pool slides. That’s it. Unless you’re going hiking or ballroom dancing, you don’t need more than that.

Do: Use packing cubes or zip bags

If you haven’t hopped on the packing cube train, let me be your conductor. These little lifesavers help you organize everything, save space, and keep your suitcase from turning into a jumbled mess two days into your trip. Use them to group outfits, undergarments, toiletries, or even electronics. Clear zip bags work just as well in a pinch.

Don’t: Forget the little things

I always say the little things are what save a trip—or sabotage one. Think about what you use daily and make sure it’s packed: medications, sunglasses, your toothbrush, chargers, extra hair ties, a small first aid kit. And for the love of all things holy, bring sunscreen. Nothing says “I didn’t plan” like a sunburn on day one.

Do: Leave room to bring things home

If you’re anything like me, you will find a cute souvenir or a local jar of jam you can’t resist. Don’t pack your bag to the brim. Leave a little wiggle room, or pack a lightweight foldable tote you can use as a second bag for the return trip.

Don’t: Let packing stress ruin your excitement

At the end of the day, packing is just the thing you do before the fun starts. Don’t let it steal your joy. Take a deep breath, put on your favorite playlist, and turn it into part of the vacation process. Laugh at yourself a little when you pack four pairs of earrings and wear the same ones every day. Vacation is about fun, memories, and maybe a little sunburn on your nose—perfection not required.

Bonus Tips for the Southern Traveler:

• Bring your own snacks. I don’t care if you’re going to a five-star resort—ain’t nothing like having your favorite chips, homemade cookies, or a few pimento cheese sandwiches for the road.
• Keep a fan or cooling towel handy. You never know when Southern heat and humidity will humble you.
• Bring a small laundry bag or even a pillowcase to separate dirty clothes—trust me, you’ll be glad you did.
• And finally, pack your patience. Travel delays, screaming kids, and offbeat roadside detours are all part of the charm. Embrace it.

Summer getaways are meant for relaxing, recharging, and making memories. With a little planning and a smart suitcase, you’ll be ready for whatever adventures come your way—whether that’s lounging on a beach, strolling through a quaint downtown, or navigating a hotel breakfast buffet like a seasoned pro.

So wherever you’re heading this summer, may your packing be light, your drinks be cold, and your return flight be on time. Happy travels, y’all.