Bacon sizzling in a cast iron pan, coffee brewing, bathing suits, floppy hats, sunscreen, sand between the toes (and everywhere else), waterskiing, napping in the sunshine, roasting marshmallows, running in the evening shadows with siblings and cousins. Lake life...there's nothing quite like it.
With small kids in tow, packing for the lake can be an ordeal. The back of the mini-van overflowing. Coming home and finding that you packed WAY too much stuff once again. Packing. Unpacking. Repeat.
Anyone who knows me, knows that I love planning and making a list or two. I wanted to share my list of must-haves with you. Click here to download our printable "Ultimate Packing List for the Lake."
Below are a few of my favourite pics for the Lake:
Shoes
Keens sandals are a great choice for busy kids. With solid rubber sole, reinforced covered toe, and Velcro straps that stay put, they travel from water to sand without missing a beat.
We love Native Jeffersons for kids and adults. Stylish, lightweight, wash and wear, easy on and off & hardworking (water, sand, land, no problem!)
For boys, The North Face makes a rugged (not flimsy) flip flop called the "Base Camp." The below ones are available on our site for $14, size 1 (like new condition):
Salt Water sandals are our fav for a BBQ or patio party. These leather shoes are gorgeous on, come in a ton of styles and colours (for boys and girls), rugged enough for lake life, and can even be hung to dry if they get wet!
Shop these excellent condition Salt Water Sandals on our site here:
Swimsuits
Pack at least 2 per person so 1 is always dry. If your using a sunsuit make sure it has built-in sun protection, the sand n' surf expert Roxy has SPF sun protection up t +40 with their suits! If you choose to go the traditional route use a good water proof sunscreen. There are so many great swimsuits for kids such as this gently used Hatley "icy treats" two-piece suit, available on our site for $10. Purchase here.
Sunscreen
Sun Bum, both organic and vegan, is my kids fav, for the delicious smell and no-sting, easy spray-on application.
BeautyCounter is a top pic for quality; only using the safest ingredients. I love their dew skin for moms, which gives an amazing sun-kissed glow & UV protection.
Swim diapers
iplay's ultimate reusable swim diapers eliminate the need for any other diaper, so mom and baby can relax and play with no embarrassing accidents. Side snaps make changing a breeze, and they come in a rainbow of hues and patterns, as well as trunks and two-piece.
This iplay ruffle tulip diaper is available on our site for $5. Like new! Purchase here.
Rocking a baby bump?
The lake is the the ultimate comfort zone! Throw off those tight shoes, stretch out your sore swollen feet, put on a comfy maxi dress, grab a comfy seat and settle in with a good book or magazine.
Now unwind & enjoy!
Most of all, try to enjoy those long, lazy days! The comforting feel of hot sun on your skin, a chilled glass of rose or sparkling water (for those NOT preggo of course).
We love a budget-friendly, but yummy boxed wine. This new one (they have red, white or rose) from www.fromthetank.com stays fresh up to a month after opening!
A friend told me recently that you only have 18 summers with your kiddos, so enjoy every one!
