Show Me the Summer Must-Haves
These summer must-haves will ensure you’re ready for your next summer trip. Whether you’re packing these summer essentials for a weekend getaway, laid-back vacation or an extended adventure, we have all the summer must-haves so you’re prepared for your next warm weather trip.
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Summer Essentials That Get You Ready
Body Scrub
Friends, it’s time to slough off winter, and the Tree Hut scrubs are fabulous. They have the perfect combination of sugar scrub and oil, leaving your skin feeling soft and moisturized. Even better, they come in an array of delightful fragrances. Lets be honest – doesn’t Coco Colada scream summer?
TRUDY TIP: Exfoliation is an essential step before any self-tanning routine.
Shave Oil
Now that you’ve exfoliated your skin, it’s a great time to shave all your essential parts.
The Tree Hut Shave Oil, has quickly replaced my favorite shave cream. Why, you ask? It leaves your body moisturized and somehow magically prevents, or at least reduces, the occurrence of razor bumps.
Foot Scrub
If I could only choose one summer must-have, it would be the Baby Foot Exfoliation Foot Peel.
If you’ve spent time scrubbing your feet in hopes of silky smooth skin – then, my friend, your dreams are coming true.
This peel is magical! You wear the booties for an hour, and then, in 5-7 days, your feet begin peeling. I’m not exaggerating; it’s a lot of peeling! Kinda gross, but very satisfying. Afterward, your feet are left as smooth as a baby’s bottom. I’m not joking when I say this is a summer essential.
Trudy Tip: For a little added exfoliation, soak your feet ahead of time and do some pre-peel exfoliation with your favorite foot scrubber. While not necessary, I do think it gives the process a little extra boost.
Self-Tanning Drops
I really like these Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops.
The adjustable color is what appeals to me. For a subtle glow, mix 2-5 drops with your favorite lotion and apply to your legs, arms, etc. For a bronze sheen, add more drops. I haven’t experienced any issues with streaking when mixing these drops with my preferred lotion. However, ,I have noticed that lotions with a medium consistency spread the most evenly.
Trudy Tip: As always with self-tanning, exfoliate ahead of time, paying special attention to areas that tend to be drier, like knees, elbows, and feet.
Nail Polish
While I love a bright pink or red polish for a summer pedicure, I’ve found that the combination of sand and saltwater acts like Mother Nature’s sandblaster. Before you know it, you have chips and peeling polish all over the place.
I’ve found that a barely-there color, like Bubble Bath, provides a hint of color but is less noticeable when it starts to chip. If you begin to notice chips on your toes, you can often fill them in with another coat. Because the color is light, even a messy touch-up is less noticeable.
Summer Essetials -Before You Head Out!
Sunscreen
You’ve gotta try Sun Bum sunscreen. It’s completely reliable for keeping you protected from the sun. And here’s the kicker—it’s hypoallergenic and reef-friendly, so we’re looking out for those ocean critters too. I’m a fan of both the lotion and the spray versions.
Glowy Sunscreen
Supergoop Glow Screen is a lovely option when you want a little extra glow to your skin.
It’s non-greasy and leaves your skin feeling dewy with just a little glow.
This light-weight body oil provides the perfect combination of moisture and glow.
It’s made from algae which enhances it’s moisturizing properties leaving your skin feeling silky smooth, yet not oily.
It’s not cheap, but definitely worth the price.
Summer Must -Haves ThatAdd
Just a Little Something
Glotion
I know, I know… there’s a bit of a glowy trend here, but sunny days leave you wanting just a little extra glow.
That’s exactly what this L’Oreal Lumi Glotion offers. If you’re interested in a little color over your tan or a natural glow under your favorite foundation, then look no further.
Serum Foundation
This L’Oreal Serum with Hyaluronic acid provides light to medium coverage to help even out your complexion. The added bonus is that the hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture, leaving your skin feeling hydrated. It can easily be applied with your fingers, a sponge, or a brush. It’s perfect if you want a little coverage on your excursion or when headed to dinner.
Powder Foundation
These Laura Geller powder foundations are among my newest favorites. They are pure magic as they work well with both young and mature skin without settling into fine lines. They feel weightless on your skin and somehow offer color-matching properties. Even better, they are quick and easy to use. You can brush these on and be out the door in no time.
The Baked Balance-n-Brighten has a natural finish, and the Baked Balance-N-Glow has a beautiful satin finish. I was definitely skeptical but was happily surprised.
Trudy Tip: The colors run a little dark, so I’d recommend selecting a shade lighter than you would normally expect.
Blush and Bronze
Just swirl your favorite makeup brush into this Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow blush to add a pink sun-kissed glow. Even better, it comes in two shades, is a clean product and hypoallergenic. I love the versatility of this blush!
Trudy Tip: This can also be used as eyeshadow if you want just a little color.
Mascara
If you want to give your lashes a boost, the L’Oreal Lash Paradise Mascara is definitely a summer essential. Available in both regular and waterproof options, this mascara lengthens and volumizes for under $10, giving the more expensive brands a run for their money.
Summer Must-Haves - In Your Bag
Lip Balm
High on my list of summer must-haves is the Blistex Lip Medex lip balm, and it is my all-time favorite lip balm! I have at least four different containers at any one time. They are located in my car, at work, in my purse, and in my travel bag. It leaves my lips feeling soft and moisturized.
And what’s even better, it lasts, and I don’t end up with that dry, ‘need-to-reapply-every-minute’ feeling like some other lip balms.
Facial Spray
This Mario Badescu facial spray is perfect when your skin is feeling dry or if you want to freshen up your makeup. It also comes in a variety of fragrances.
This summer must-have is perfect if you want a quick spritz of freshness in the morning, while out in the sun, or on a long-flight.
Sunscreen Powder
Have you ever wanted to touch up the sunscreen on your face, but you’ve got makeup on? This Colorscience Brush On Sunscreen Powder is your answer.
While not a budget-friendly product, it addresses a specific concern by offering SPF50 coverage. Ideal for on-the-go situations when you need a quick sun protection touch-up
Cleansing Towelettes
These Neutrogena cleaning towelettes are a great item to have in your bag, in case you need to remove any sunscreen or makeup.
I like that they are gentle on your skin and compact, so they don’t take up a lot of space in your bag.
Mini Fan
A mini fan is your best friend when walking around or, even worse, standing in long lines during the heat and humidity. Ugh!
This mini fan is battery-operated, compact, and really gets the job done!”
![JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan, 3 IN 1 Hand Fan, Portable Small Fan, Battery Powered Fan [12-19 Working Hours]...](https://i0.wp.com/m.media-amazon.com/images/I/219a-hROVaL._SL160_.jpg?w=1200&ssl=1)
Misting Fan
And if a fan just isn’t enough, upgrade to this misting fan. It’s compact, lightweight, rechargeable, easily fillable, and provides a light mist.
This is perfect for hot and humid destinations, especially when waiting in long lines like at Disney World. Oh, how I wish I had thought to bring this when we were in Thailand. Ugh… so sweaty…
Multi-Purpose Bag
I love the versatility of this beach bag. It’s not only a beach bag but also has a detachable cooler on the bottom.
The bottom ‘cooler’ section can also be used for items you want separated from the rest of your belongings, such as wet swimsuits, shoes, etc.
This is a good-sized bag for one or two people but would not hold everything for a larger family. Nonetheless, its versatility makes it a great summer essential.
Water Canteen/Bottle
I know, I know, you’re thinking, ‘just another water bottle,’ however, I really like this one.
Its insulated, holds 25 ounces, yet still fits in most cup holders. I also appreciate the narrower mouth, which is easy to drink out of. There is something about the smooth texture that looks a little fancy and feels good in your hand. You know, the important stuff.
Tumbler
Why wouldn’t you want an insulated tumbler for your beverage, or ‘adult’ beverage for that matter? It also has a lid to avoid spills – basically an adult sippy cup. ha ha!
This one comes in a variety of colors and sheens including matte, shiny or sparkly, but why wouldn’t you want “sparkle unicorn magic”? I did and love it! Yep, it’s one of my summer favorite summer must-haves.
Beach Bag
This extra-large beach bag can easily hold multiple towels and leaves room for other items. It’s durable, waterproof, and sandproof, making it great for pool days and beach outings. It comes with an accessory bag that keeps your smaller items nicely corralled. It also comes in a variety of colors and patterns.
Summer Haircare - Stylist Recommended
Did you know that sun, chlorine, and salt water all wreak havoc on your hair, not to mention what it does to that expensive color treatment you paid for?
Wet Brush
I love this wet brush. It glides through your hair easily removing tangles without damaging your hair, not to mention the bristles feel great on your head.
Drop this summer must-have in your bag and go.
Sun Bum Scalp & Hair Mist
This Sun Bum Scalp and Hair Mist is lightweight, doesn’t weigh down your hair and prevents a sunburned scalp. Yikes!
It’s SPF 30, reef-friendly, oil-free, and even better, it is gluten-free.
Clarifying Shampoo
A good cleansing shampoo is essential for gently removing sunscreen, sand, and products from your hair.
This shampoo not only does all of that, and is great for your hair and scalp; it’s color-safe and has a refreshing scent.
Moreover, this product is excellent for scalp itchiness and can help with thinning. Who knew?
Moisturizing Condition
Sun, salt water, and chlorine can leave your hair feeling dry and brittle.
This Redken conditioner is a great option when dealing with summer heat and the impact of washing your hair more frequently.
Leave-In Conditioner
This Mizani Leave-In Conditioner is a great option for added moisture, detangling, and taming frizz. It’s lightweight and particularly effective for curly or wavy hair. An added bonus is that it also serves as a heat protectant.
Hair Ties
A fun feature of these hair ties is that they come in a wide range of colors, including various shades of blonde, brown, black, red, grey, and white.
Summer Must Haves - Accessories
Sunglasses
I love these Ray Ban sunglasses. They are lightweight and don’t leave those little dents it the side of your nose after wearing them for awhile.
They also provide excellent UV ray protection and aren’t oversized, so they should fit most face sizes.
I’ve had these for over two years, and they’ve held up well. I also appreciate that they came with a case and a cloth to clean them.
Amazon also includes these in their ‘try before you buy’ program. So, you can try them for seven days. If you like them, they’ll charge you. If you don’t like them, return them before the end of the seven days without your card ever being charged.
Comfy Flip Flops
These Nike Flip Flops will forever be my favorite on the go flip flops.
I like that they are durable but most of all they are comfortable. I have walked many miles in these without any rubbing between my toes or blisters.
Versatile Flip Flops
Flip Flops +
These are also great flip flops but for a completely different reason. I like these in the champagne color because they go with everything, and are more versatile than my beloved Nike flip flops.
Pair these stylish flip-flops with a summer dress, capris, or shorts if you prefer not to wear sandals. Despite their slimmer straps, they are incredibly comfortable and durable.
Well they don’t hold up to puppy teeth – but really what does
Cover Up/Dress
I own numerous summer dresses and cover-ups, but this one consistently receives compliments. It’s perfect for throwing on over your swimsuit, strolling along the beach, or heading out for dinner on your tropical vacation. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and available in multiple colors. It’s definitely a summer must-have for your next trip.
Other Fun Summer Essentials
Games
This Mexican Train Dominoes game is one of our favorite travel games. It’s easy to play and suitable for all ages. There are several brands out there, but this one is the best quality I’ve found and comes with a handy carrying case.
We also really enjoy this Rummy tile/cube game. It is based on the rummy card game and is also easy to play.
All ages can play this game; however, I would say it is most suited for ages 12 and above. This one is also very portable because of its compact carrying case.
Thanks For Reading This Post!
I hope you found some summer must-haves for your next sunny getaway. Let me know in the comment section below if you have other summer must-haves.
If you have a long flight in your future, check out our 25 Most Important Long Flight Essentials post.
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