Whether for the summer you are planning a road trip, trip to Hawaii, Internationally or a weekend away, we have created the the ultimate packing list for Summer vacation!

As a mom of six, I know that planning and packing for a summer vacation can be a daunting task. From diapers and bottles to teenage fashion and technology, there is a lot to consider. But with a little bit of planning and a whole lot of humor, you can create a packing list that will ensure a successful and stress-free summer vacation.

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The Best Packing List For Summer

We broke it all down for you in regard to our packing list for Summer vacation. From essentials, to what to pack for babies and even technology!

We have it all listed below in order of some of our favorites and down to the nitty gritty of clothing, toiletries and travel documents!

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The Essentials

First things first, make a list of all the essentials that pretty much everyone in the family will need!

Supergroup Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a definite essential when it comes to your packing list for Summer. The Supergoop brand happens to be my favorite sunscreen to bring on our trips. Check it out here.

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Murphy’s Insect Repellent

Depending on where you travel to, having some insect repellent might be a big essential. Murphy’s Naturals is a plant based bug spray that is great to pack. Check it out here.

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Hats

A hat is an absolute summer packing list essential and I absolutely love this “Not Salty At All” hat from Aerie. Check it out here.

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Sunglasses

A good pair of sunglasses is a Summer essential for everyone in the family. Check out these popular Ray Ban sunglasses here.

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Bathing Suit

A good bathing suit can be hard to find, but is a packing list essential for Summer. Above are some of our favorite swimsuits that we know you are going to love!

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Beach Towels

If your Summer destination is a tropical location or a resort with a gorgeous relaxing pool, then a good beach towel should be on your list! This microfiber, super absorbent beach towel is perfect and compact for your suit case. Check it out here.

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Hearth & Hand Beach Bag

Wherever you end up going to during the Summer. A great bag is another essential that you are going to want to have. I personally love this cute beach bag from the Hearth & Hand collection at Target. Check it out here.

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For the Babies

If you are traveling with a baby, packing for them is an entirely different story in regard to essentials and needs.

The main essentials like diapers, wipes, baby formula and baby food is a definite must, but we have also included below some other amazing items for you packing list for Summer.

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Carter’s Baby Glasses

Our little Jack is always sporting a cute hat and glasses on our vacations. I absolutely adore these wood baby glasses from Carter’s. Check it out here.

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Beach Toys

Beach toys is another must if your summer vacation involves the beach. We loves these adorable beach bucket toys for the little ones. Check it out here.

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Adventure Wagon

Having a wagon for the little one is not only great for giving the baby a break and place to nap. It also is great to haul things from and to the beach. Check it out here.

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Portable Pack N Go Play Yard

Having a little play area dedicated for your baby at the beach is also another great thing to pack. Check out this one from the California Beach Co. here.

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For the Older Kids

For the older kids, make sure they have comfortable walking shoes and plenty of clothes. If you’re going to a colder climate, pack some jackets and sweaters.

And if you’re going to a warmer climate, make sure they have plenty of shorts and t-shirts. Below are some other things you might want to consider bringing for the older kids.

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Morey Beach Body Boards

Your older kids need some fun beach toys as well. Like these awesome boy boards from Amazon. Check it out here.

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Swimming Pool Waterproof Football

Are you heading to a resort with a pool? Having this waterproof football will add to so many family vacation memories. Check it out here.

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Technology

Now, let’s talk about technology. As a mom of teens, I know how important it is for them to stay connected with their friends, even when they’re on vacation. But that doesn’t mean they need to spend the entire trip glued to their phones.

Encourage them to put their devices down and enjoy the sights and sounds of their surroundings. You also might want to consider rolling out our #NoPhoneZone challenge while on vacation!

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• Cell Phones + charger
• Laptops + charger- This really isn’t a necessity, but if you need it, it always is good to remember to pack.
• Portable USB Charger + cords- these are like gold when you travel and I would highly recommend packing a few portable chargers.
• iPads/ Tablets
• Kindle- I know some of my friends love bringing their kindle’s so they can read poolside or by a beach!
• Headphones– for entertainment.
• Camera + charger + extra batteries + extra memory card– trust me on the extras, you will need them!!
• GoPro + charger + extra batteries- there are plenty of water shots you are going to want photos of between the pools, beaches, and snorkeling. If you don’t have a GoPro I would suggest getting a disposable water camera.
• Waterproof Case for phone and/ or camera

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TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

• Passports/ Birth Certificates– If you are traveling international make sure you bring a passport (check expiration dates)
• Drivers License
• Cruise Documentation– If you are planning to head on a cruise for your Summer vacation!
• Luggage Tags (If cruising or flying)
• Flight Boarding Documents (if flying)
• Transportation/ Hotel Reservation Confirmations
• Medical Insurance Card- always smart to do in case you need it.
• Travel Insurance Info
• Cash/ Credit Cards

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Clothing Items

• Sundresses Something light and airy is perfect and you will want to pack a few.
• Cute Tops Pack three-five, a mix of fancy and casual.
• Jean Shorts Comfy ones for every day
• Cocktail dresses or Jumpsuits – Optional
• Formal Dress – Optional
• One pair of jeans 
• Pajamas 
• Bras– make sure to pack the types you need for each outfit.
• Underwear
• Socks
• Exercise Clothes (if you plan on working out or doing activities during your vacation.)
• One long sleeve shirt or lightweight sweater 
• Lightweight jacket or sweatshirt

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TOILETRIES

• Shampoo, Conditioner 
• Toothbrush/ Toothpaste
• Makeup
• Dry Shampoo
• Styling Products
• Brush/ Comb
• Curling Iron
• Bobby pins, hair rubber bands
• Deodorant
• Razor
• Lotion
• Makeup Remover
• Wrinkle Release Spray
• Nail Clippers

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Packing List for Summer Strategies and Tips

Now, let’s talk about packing strategies. With six kids, it’s important to stay organized.

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Packing Cubes

Consider packing each child’s clothes in separate packing cubes or bags. This will not only keep their clothes organized, but it will also make it easier to find what you need without having to dig through a giant suitcase. Check it out here.

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Mix and Match

Encourage the entire family to mix and match their outfits to create different looks with fewer pieces. This not only saves space in the suitcase, but it also encourages creativity and personal style.

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Don’t Stress

So, as you plan and pack for your summer vacation, remember to stay organized, bring plenty of snacks and drinks, and as always do NOT forget to pack some humor and fun.

Whether you’re heading to the beach, going on a road trip, or visiting a theme park, there will inevitably be some unexpected moments and challenges.

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Pack Light

One important tip for packing for a family vacation is to pack light. It might seem impossible with a big family, but trust me, it can be done. Bring only the essentials and try to pack clothes that can be mixed and matched. This will not only save space but also make it easier to get ready each day.

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Make a List

Another tip is to involve the kids in the packing process. Have them make a list of what they want to bring and let them pack their own bags (with some guidance, of course). This not only gives them a sense of responsibility but also ensures that they bring things they actually want to wear or play with.

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Packing List for Summer Vacation – The Overall

At the end of the day, we can always PLAN! PLAN! PLAN!… but we need to remember what these vacations are really for, the memories. That said, I encourage you to truly live presently and go-with-the-flow and create those beautiful family memories!

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We would LOVE to hear about your Summer vacation plans! Comment below so we can read about your plans!

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If you enjoyed reading about our Packing List for Summer, you might also enjoy:

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THE ULTIMATE DISNEYLAND PACKING LIST! + [FREE PRINTABLE]

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