Your Ultimate Lake Weekend Packing List

Planning a lakeside retreat is a refreshing escape, and having the perfect packing list ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience. We've compiled the ultimate lake packing list of essentials for any scenario. 

Clothing for Your Lake Trip

When you're preparing for a trip to the lake, it's essential to consider the planned activities and season to ensure you pack appropriately for the most comfortable experience. To help with this, we've prepared a season-specific travel capsule wardrobe to help you pack smartly for your lake adventure.

Summer Lake Packing List

• 2-3 Tees: Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking blends like polyester. These materials help keep you cool and dry. Look for our X Cotton Tee, made from a breathable cotton blend with a comfortable fit and soft texture, or our Merino Wool Tee with odor-resistant and moisture-wicking properties.
• 1-2 Pairs of Shorts: Opt for quick-drying and versatile shorts made from nylon or polyester. Pockets and adjustable waistbands add convenience for carrying small items. The quick-drying Evolution Shorts with multiple pockets, an adjustable waistband, and are water-resistant, or the even more lightweight Boundless Shorts would be a great choice for this.
• 2 Swimsuits: Pick durable and comfortable swimsuits with UV protection and quick-dry capabilities. Look for Nomad board shorts and swim trunks for a mix of styles and comfort.
• 1 Pair of Long Pants: Comfy pants in durable materials such as nylon blend are great for cooler evenings or areas with more bugs. Consider our Evolution Pant made from a nylon-spandex blend that makes them stretchy, lightweight, quick-drying, yet still durable.
• 1-2 Light Jackets or Sweaters: A hoodie or jacket with a hood and pockets is ideal for chilly nights. For colder but still sunny days, look for layers with UV protection for added sun safety, like our Venture Hoodie or Venture Sweater with a special waffle texture that maintains breathability.
• Raincoat: Bring with you a lightweight, waterproof raincoat for summer unpredictable weather. Our Meta Shell offers excellent protection from the elements while being packable and easy to carry.
• 1 Pair of Hiking Shoes: Choose waterproof hiking shoes with good grip and support. Materials like Gore-Tex offer breathability and waterproofing.
• 1 Pair of Sandals or Flip-Flops: We suggest comfortable soles with quick-drying materials like EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) foam for use around water and on casual walks.
• Sun Hat and Sunglasses: To protect ourselves from the sun, we choose hats and sunglasses that offer UV protection and are comfortable and stylish.

Spring & Fall Lake Packing List

• 1-2 Long-Sleeve Shirts: Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or merino wool, which are excellent for regulating body temperature. These are perfect for layering such as a sun hoodie with UV protection.
• 1-2 Short-Sleeve Tees: For warmer days, choose moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester, as in our Session tee with anti-odor technology. For cooler weather, choose a cotton Henley tee, which is softer and has odor-resistant features.
• 2 Pairs of Pants: Choose quick-drying, stretchable pants made from materials like nylon, polyester, or spandex blends. These offer comfort and flexibility for various activities. Check out our AT Pant, which offers a balance of comfort, durability, and style while being water and stain-resistant. Spectrum joggers might be the second pair for cozy evenings near the fire.
• 1 Pair of Shorts (optional): Bring them based on the weather forecasts. If it’s expected to be warm, choose quick-drying shorts made from materials like nylon.
• 1 Swimsuit: A versatile pair of boardshorts for any unexpected warm weather or indoor swimming opportunities. Look for chlorine-resistant fabrics if you plan to swim in pools.
• 1-2 Light Sweaters: Ideal for layering, choose materials like fleece, merino wool, or polyester that provide warmth without bulk. Packable travel hoodie such as our Venture Hoodie and sun-protected sweaters like our Venture Crew are ideal match for versatility.
• 1 Warm Jacket: An insulated jacket, such as one with synthetic insulation or down, for cooler temperatures.
• Raincoat: It’s a must-have for a spring/fall lake packing list. Choose a lightweight and packable rain shell so you can layer it over a warmer jacket.
• 1 Pair of Hiking Shoes: Waterproof with good grip and support. Materials like Gore-Tex or other breathable membranes are ideal.
• 1 Pair of Sandals or Flip-Flops: Suitable for warmer days or casual walks, with quick-drying and comfortable soles.
• Sun Hat and Sunglasses: To shield from the sun even in colder seasons, opt for hats and sunglasses that provide UV protection while being both comfortable and stylish.

Winter Lake Packing List

• 1 Pair of Long Underwear: Don't forget to take thermal base layers made from merino wool or synthetic fabrics for extra warmth
• 2 Long-Sleeve Thermal Shirts: Base layers made from materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics like polyester help retain body heat and wick moisture away.
• 2 Sweaters: Warm and cozy options, preferably made from wool, fleece, or polyester, provide excellent insulation and temperature regulation. Our Venture collection of men’s hoodies and sweaters maintains breathability and odor-resistant properties while keeping body temperature regulated.
• 1-2 Pairs of Pants: Look for pants with fleece lining or insulated materials like down or synthetic fills. Water-resistant outer layers are beneficial. Our Diversion Pants, made from flexible, durable nylon, are suitable for various activities, from hiking to casual wear.
• 1 Jacket: Choose the heavier or lighter one depending on your destination’s weather. Insulated and waterproof jacket or vest made from materials like down or synthetic insulation would be good at retaining warmth.
• 1 Pair of Waterproof Boots: Sturdy boots with good grip and insulation. Look for materials like leather or waterproof synthetics.
• 1 Pair of Warm Socks: Thermal or merino wool socks provide added warmth and help keep your feet dry.
• 1 Pair of Gloves and a Hat: Essential for keeping extremities warm. Choose insulated, water-resistant gloves and a hat made from wool or fleece.

By choosing versatile, season-appropriate, and quick-dry travel clothes, you'll be ready to fully enjoy your lakeside retreat, no matter the weather or activities planned. Now, let’s move on to the next important part of any outdoor adventure.

Tech and Travel Gear List for Lake Trip

When packing for a lakeside adventure, having the right gear can make all the difference. From keeping belongings dry to enjoying music by the campfire, we’ve created an ultimate list of lake essentials. However, consider your specific needs — whether camping or staying at a lakeside house, cooking yourself, or dining out— and avoid overpacking.

• Portable Power Bank: Choose high-capacity (Aim for at least 20,000mAh), fast-charging power banks with multiple USB ports to charge several devices simultaneously.
• Waterproof Phone Case & Waterproof Ziplock Bags: Choose durable fully submersible cases to protect your phone from water and sand and waterproof bags made from durable, waterproof materials like PVC or tarpaulin. Secure closures such as roll-tops or waterproof zippers are a must to prevent water from getting in.
• Portable Bluetooth Speaker: Choose waterproof, shockproof models with long battery life.
• Action Camera: If you want to capture high-quality photos and videos of your adventures, from kayaking to hiking, opt for a waterproof, durable camera.
• LED Headlamp: Essential for nighttime activities or early morning. Choose the one with adjustable brightness settings, long battery life, and a comfortable, adjustable head strap.
• e-Reader: Ideal for quiet moments by the lake.
• GPS Device: This would be handy for exploring new trails and ensuring you don’t get lost. Or at least make sure you have downloaded offline maps on your phone.
• First Aid Kit: Essential for treating minor injuries, preventing infection, and providing immediate relief during outdoor activities. Waterproof and durable bandages, antiseptic cream with pain relief, non-stick gauze pads, hypoallergenic tape, breathable elastic bandages, precision tweezers, compact scissors, easy-to-activate cold pack, antiseptic alcohol wipes, travel-sized pain relievers, latex-free gloves, compact emergency blanket.
• Noise-Canceling Headphones: Not an obvious item for a lake trip but if you’d like to enjoy some peace and quiet or do meditation near the lake, you need to add them to your packing list.
• Cooler: Pick coolers with thick insulation for better temperature retention. A sturdy build and enough capacity to store food and drinks for our group are essential. Portability features like wheels or handles are a bonus.
• Refillable Water Bottles: Opt for insulated bottles to keep the beverages cold for longer periods. They need to be made from durable materials like stainless steel or BPA-free plastic and have leak-proof lids.
• Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife: Go for tools with a variety of functions such as a knife, scissors, screwdriver, bottle opener, and pliers.
• Telescope or Binoculars: If you would love to enjoy the views of the night sky or distant wildlife, select clear optics that are portable and easy to use.

Camping Gear

If you are going to spend your lake gateway camping you definitely need some more specific travel gear to make your trip experience memorable and stress-free:

• Tent: We choose a tent that is weather-resistant, with good ventilation and enough space. Easy setup and takedown features are a big plus.
• Camping Chairs: Check they are foldable and lightweight chairs with sturdy frames and some features like cup holders and adjustable armrests.
• Camping Table: Pick a portable table that is foldable, and easy to set up and take down and sturdy enough to hold our meals and activities.
• Lanterns or Flashlights: We opt for LED lanterns or flashlights for their long battery life. Rechargeable, water-resistant, and durable models are preferred.

Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping Bag per Person: Select sleeping bags based on the season’s temperatures. Synthetic materials or down insulation features provide warmth and comfort.
• Sleeping Pad or Air Mattress per Person: Choose lightweight and compact options that provide good insulation and cushioning. Self-inflating or foam pads are convenient for easy setup.
• Blanket: We look for blankets made from warm, soft, and durable materials. They should be versatile enough to use inside the tent or for sitting around the campfire.

Cooking Toolkit

• Portable Grill or Camping Stove: If you are planning to cook yourself, bring a lightweight and compact designs grill or stove compatible with fuel sources like propane or butane.
• 2-4 Fuel Canisters: To ensure you have enough fuel for the entire trip.
• Set of Cooking Utensils: Opt for durable, compact, and easy-to-clean utensils. Our basic set usually includes items like a cutting board, 1-2 knives, can opener, spatulas, tongs, and cooking spoons.
• Set of Reusable Plates, Cups, and Cutlery: Choose eco-friendly options made from lightweight and durable materials like stainless steel or BPA-free plastic.
• 1 Cooler: To keep perishable foods and drinks cold.
• 1 Set of Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Herbs): To add flavor to your meals, especially if you’re going to prepare some barbecue.
• 2-3 Trash Bags: To keep your campsite clean and follow Leave No Trace principles.
• 1 Bottle of Cooking Oil: Essential for frying and grilling.
• Food: Consider bringing some food in each category to ensure everyone finds something they prefer: fresh fruits and vegetables (e.g., apples, carrots, bell peppers), protein options (meat, tofu, canned beans), bread and tortillas, instant coffee or tea, snacks (nuts, granola bars, chips), and condiments (ketchup, mustard, hot sauce).

Having the right gear is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. From a restful night’s sleep to delicious campfire cooking, the right camping gear will make your lakeside adventure stress-free and memorable. Moreover, since lakes are often in mountainous areas, be sure to check out our mountain packing list.

Lake Trip Outdoor Activities Gear

With our general lake trip gear sorted, let’s dive into the fun part—gear for outdoor activities. Here’s our personalized lake packing list, based on the activities we enjoy most during our lake trips, to ensure your lakeside retreat is both adventurous and relaxing, no matter the season:

Water Activities Staff

• Towels (1 per person): Microfiber towels that dry quickly and are compact are our go-to.
• Water Shoes (1 pair per person): To protect feet from rocky or slippery surfaces.
• Mask, Snorkel, and Fins: Lightweight and adjustable options ensuring a proper fit are crucial for a comfortable snorkeling experience.
• Frisbee or Ball: For spontaneous games, we pack a frisbee or ball that’s lightweight and easy to pack.
• Life jacket: Bring it for safety in water activities. keep an eye it should be comfortable and properly fitted to ensure buoyancy and protection in the water.

Fishing Gear

• Fishing Rod (1 per person): Select a portable rod suitable for lake fishing.
• Tackle Box: Organized with hooks, lines, and baits.
• Fishing License or any necessary permits: Ensure you have the proper permits for fishing in the area.
• Soft swim baits/jerk baits/ Floating Rapala/stick baits: For fishing activities.

Bonfire Gear

• Firewood and Fire Starters: Check local regulations to ensure we have dry and safe firewood and starters.
• S’mores Supplies: No bonfire is complete without s’mores! Pack marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers for a tasty treat.
• Blankets: For warmth and comfort around the fire, we choose blankets that are warm and durable.

From water activities and hiking near the lake to stargazing, having the right gear ensures a memorable and stress-free vacation. Adapt this list based on your preferences, but don't forget about renting options to avoid overpacking. Now, we’re ready to dive into the last part of the lake trip packing list.

Toiletries List for Lake Gateway

After making sure you have all the right gear for your lake stay, whether it’s camping or a lakeside beach house, let’s not forget the equally important toiletries packing list:

• 2 Biodegradable Soap Bars: Choose biodegradable and eco-friendly ingredients.
• 1 Bottle of Biodegradable Shampoo: Opt for a biodegradable formula that won't damage the lake's ecosystem.
• 1 Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Travel-sized toothpaste and a toothbrush with a cover to keep it clean.
• 1 Deodorant: Choose a natural deodorant to be more environmentally friendly.
• 1 Package of Wet Wipes (Biodegradable): Do not forget to bring them for quick clean-ups when water isn't readily available.
• 1 Microfiber Towel Person: We prefer microfiber towels that dry quickly and are compact, making them ideal for travel.
• 1 Bottle of Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher): Water-resistant and reef-safe to protect your skin and do not harm aquatic life e.g., Waterman High Performance
• 1 Bottle of Insect Repellent: Look for DEET-free options that are effective and safe for the environment.
• 1 Lip Balm with SPF: Choose the one with SPF protection and moisturizing ingredients. Smooth and safe.
• 1 Hand Sanitizer (Travel-sized): Opt for an alcohol-based formula to ensure effectiveness.
• 1 Nail Clipper and File: Handy for unexpected snags.

Having these toiletries on hand will ensure you stay fresh and comfortable during your lakeside retreat. 

Summing up

Planning a lakeside trip is a fantastic escape, and thorough preparation ensures a smooth travel experience. Our lake packing list, covering all the essentials, should help you plan and enjoy a natural lake beauty and a peaceful retreat, promising an unforgettable getaway.