25 Expert Tips to Make This Summer Your Best!
Summer's calling, and whether you're dreaming of exotic escapes or soaking up the sun in your own backyard, preparation is key! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to purchase to make the most of your summer! From essential travel gear to home decor that screams summer vibes, and lifestyle upgrades for ultimate enjoyment, we've got you covered. Get ready to create your ultimate summer shopping list!
Why You Need a Summer Prep & Shopping List:
Getting ready for any new season is exciting, but can be overwhelming, but summer is one of those times you want to spend as much time as possible outdoors enjoying life, instead of at home stressed out and trying to organize.
I always SWEAR by having a summer prep checklist to:
Stress-Free Adventures: Knowing you have everything you need for your travels minimizes pre-trip anxiety and ensures smooth sailing.
Efficient Packing & Spending: Planning your purchases in advance helps you buy only what's necessary, saving you time and money.
Home Oasis Ready: Equipping your home for summer entertaining and relaxation maximizes your enjoyment of the season.
Enhanced Summer Lifestyle: Investing in the right gear for your favorite activities makes them more enjoyable and convenient.
Let's dive into the ultimate summer shopping list!
25 Expert Tips to Make This Summer Your Best:
The Ultimate Summer Prep Checklist!
Part 1: Vacation Prep - Your Ticket to Seamless Travel ✈️🌴
No summer is complete without at least one vacation! I am working on plans for a few, and even though I always prefer to spend more of my money on the trip than on the prep, I do need to refresh a few items before heading out on my next adventure. If it’s been a while since you treated yourself to a vacation, and some new vacation ready outfits and accessories, here is what I recommend you add to cart:
Lightweight Dresses: Breathable and stylish, lightweight dresses are perfect for staying cool in warm climates and transitioning effortlessly from day to evening.
Classic Linen Separates: This is the fabric of summer and is perfect for running around your city or exploring a new country on vacation. I love having a rotation of linen tops, tanks, pants and dresses to keep me covered for every trip.
Swimwear You Feel Good In: Packing at least two swimsuits ensures you always have a dry one, essential for beach and pool days. And don’t worry about the skimpy cuts or trendy looks, go for what makes you feel good! And don’t forget your sarong or kimono. It can double as a cover up or elevate even a simple sundress or shorts and tank combo. Throw in a travel friendly beach bag that will hold all your essentials, and you are good to go! This one from Simple Modern is perfect for carrying everything you need and is a breeze to clean up.
Shoe Wardrobe Refresh: Comfortable footwear is a must for summer! Think about picking up a pair of versatile sneakers that are perfect for active adventures, travel days, and casual sightseeing. Casual walking sandals are also a must, so invest in some quality walking sandals to be able to explore all day while preventing blisters and foot fatigue.
Stylish Sun Protection: Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays while adding a touch of style to your look. You can also opt for a stylish sun hat to provide crucial sun protection for your face and scalp and just look pretty cute in your pics!
Compact Travel Tripod: As someone who travels solo often, this is an essential! You can easily capture stable, high-quality photos and videos, like the ones I shot of myself in this post! I love this one that comes with two ring lights and can extend fully up and down to capture the perfect overhead shots.
Durable Packing Cubes: I look like I pack light, but my bag is usually stuffed to the brim! Packing cubes have been a game changer for helping me organize my luggage, compress clothes to save space, and make it easier to find what you need.
Part 2: Home Decor & Summer Entertaining - Creating Your Summer Sanctuary ☀️🍹
Entertaining at home in the summer is always a blast! Whether it’s for BBQs, cocktail parties, or movie nights, this is how you can transform your home into a summer haven and host events with a level of chic that will rival even the impeccable Megan Sussex!
New Outdoor Decor: Refresh your outdoor space if you have one – you’ll be using it a lot more this season! Even if it’s a small space, some fresh cushions, outdoor rug and string lights can change the ambiance and create a more inviting and comfortable outdoor living space.
Entertainment essentials: invest in some colorful melamine plates and bowls and shatterproof drinkware. They are durable, lightweight, and perfect for outdoor dining without the risk of breakage. And while you’re at it, add a new pitcher to cart! Its perfect for serving refreshing summer drinks like iced tea, lemonade, or infused water in style. And don’t forget the citronella candles or torches keep pesky insects away, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space in peace.
Beach and Pool Vibes: is it really even summer without some beach or pool parties planned? Upgrade your towels to some fluffy fresh ones in fun pop color designs and grab a cute inflatable floatie for even more fun!
Part 3: Summer Lifestyle & Activities Shopping List - Embrace the Season! 🚴♀️🍉
Whatever your fave summer activities are, it’s time to get ready for all of the fun in the sun!
Essential Fitness Upgrades: It’s time to grab some lightweight workout gear, new hiking boots, and a fresh pair of kicks for all the hot girl walks you’ll be going on! And don’t forget a water bottle to encourage hydration and reduce single-use plastic waste.
Fun Beach Games & Active Entertainment: Enhance your beach or backyard fun with engaging activities that will keep you and your friends active.
A new Journal or Coloring Book: I love the idea of having a dedicated space for capturing your summer memories, thoughts, and inspirations. And coloring is a perfect way to relax and unwind, and definitely beats the nightly doom scroll!
Part 4: Beauty Upgrades for New Season
My skin has gotten weirdly sensitive as I’ve gotten older, so I’m being extra careful about the ingredients and products I introduce into my routine. Summer weather can cause extra irritation, but the increase heat and humidity can also make it impossible to keep your makeup on and looking good.
Gentle Cleansers: Keep this part of your routine simple to ensure you are not overloading on active ingredients. I love Cetaphil cleansers and moisturizer to keep my skin balanced and not compete with other ingredients and stress out my skin.
Sunscreen: Don’t leave home without it! You really should be wearing it all year round, but especially in summer when you are getting a lot more sun exposure.
Longwear Primer & Setting Spray: Humid temps are terrible for keeping your makeup looking fresh! I swear by priming and setting my skin properly to keep my face on all day. And if your skin is extra oily, you can consider adjusting your usual foundation to a powder formula.
Moisturizing Foot Masks: You’ll be showing your feet off a lot more this season, so keep those little piggies soft and moisturized with frequent exfoliation and moisturization.
What are you looking forward to most this summer?
Summer Ready! 10 Tips You Need to Look and Feel Your Best This Season
Summer is just around the corner, and it's time to get ready for the season of sunshine, warm weather, and outdoor fun! Whether you're planning a beach vacation, a pool party, or just looking forward to enjoying the sunny days at home, here are some lifestyle tips to help you make the most out of your summer and get ready for the upcoming season.
Summer Ready! 10 Tips You Need to Look and Feel Your Best This Season
Stay Hydrated
As the temperature rises, it's crucial to stay hydrated to keep your body functioning optimally. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during outdoor activities. You can also include hydrating foods in your diet, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges, which are high in water content and can help keep you hydrated.
Protect Your Skin
Sunscreen should be a non-negotiable part of your summer routine. Exposure to harmful UV rays can damage your skin and increase the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and apply it generously to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, arms, and legs.
Don't forget to reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. And don’t forget your eyes! They need protection from the sun as well. The strong UV rays during the summer can harm your eyes and increase the risk of eye conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. Make sure to wear sunglasses with UV protection that block out 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Look for sunglasses that wrap around your eyes for maximum coverage and choose ones with polarized lenses to reduce glare, especially when you're around water. Don't forget to also wear a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection.
Get Your Summer Wardrobe Ready
It's time to put away your winter clothes and update your wardrobe for summer. Invest in lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen that are perfect for hot weather. Opt for light-colored clothing, as they reflect heat and keep you cooler. Don't forget to add some stylish sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and comfortable sandals to complete your summer look.
Stay Active Outdoors
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities and get moving. From swimming and hiking to biking and beach volleyball, there are plenty of fun ways to stay active during the sunny season. Regular physical activity not only helps you stay fit and healthy but also boosts your mood and energy levels. So, make the most of the longer days and warmer weather by incorporating outdoor activities into your routine.
Plan Your Summer Vacation
If you're planning a summer getaway, now is the time to start planning and booking your travel arrangements. Whether it's a beach vacation, a camping trip, or a city break, plan ahead to get the best deals on flights, accommodations, and activities. Research your destination and make a packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a stress-free and enjoyable trip.
Stay Cool and Comfortable
As the mercury rises, it's important to stay cool and comfortable in the summer heat. Dress in loose, light-colored clothing that allows air to circulate and keeps you cool. Use fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, and take cool showers or use a damp towel on your neck and wrists to lower your body temperature.
Eat Fresh and Healthy
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables that are abundant during the season. Incorporate plenty of salads, smoothies, and grilled vegetables into your diet for a nutritious and refreshing summer meal. Opt for lighter and cooler foods, such as yogurt, salads, and chilled soups, to help you stay refreshed and hydrated.
Take Care of Your Hair
Summer can be harsh on your hair, with exposure to sun, saltwater, and chlorine from swimming. Take care of your locks by using a hair sunscreen spray to protect your hair from UV rays, and rinse your hair with clean water after swimming to remove saltwater or chlorine residue. Deep condition your hair regularly to replenish moisture, and consider using a wide-brimmed hat or a stylish scarf to protect your hair from direct sunlight.
Plan Outdoor Social Activities
Summer is the perfect time to connect with friends and family and plan outdoor social activities. From BBQs and picnics to outdoor movie nights and beach bonfires, there are endless opportunities for fun and memorable gatherings. Plan ahead and make a list of outdoor activities you want to do with your loved ones, and create lasting memories while enjoying the warm weather.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Summer can be a busy season with lots of activities and events, but it's important to also prioritize self-care and relaxation. Take time to practice relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to reduce stress and stay balanced. You can also create a calming outdoor space in your backyard or balcony with some comfy seating, soft lighting, and relaxing music to unwind and enjoy the summer evenings.
Getting ready for summer involves more than just packing your bags for a vacation or buying a new swimsuit. It's about taking care of your health, staying safe in the sun and water, staying active, and enjoying quality time with loved ones. By following these lifestyle tips, you can make the most out of the summer season and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. So, put on your sunscreen, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to embrace the warmth and joy of summer! Happy summer preparations!
Summer Ready! 10 Tips You Need to Look and Feel Your Best This Season
Stay Hydrated
Protect Your Skin
Get Your Summer Wardrobe Ready
Stay Active Outdoors
Plan Your Summer Vacation
Stay Cool and Comfortable
Eat Fresh and Healthy
Take Care of Your Hair
Plan Outdoor Social Activities
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Travel is a Mess! 6 Tips to Not Ruin Your Vacation in 2022
What in the world is going on with travel these days! I for one was so excited to start traveling like it was 2019 once the worst days of the pandemic were put behind us. I was vaccinated against covid and I was boosted. Plus countries were dropping entry requirements left and right, making testing requirements and quarantine rules were a thing of the past. Everyone is traveling with a vengeance, airlines and agents have unfortunately been completely unprepared for this increased demand. Travel in Summer 2022 has become a hot steaming mess!
You’ve all seen the stories on the news- record wait times for luggage, if your bags ever even show up. Flights are being canceled with a moment's notice and people forced to wait hours, if not days in the airport for a new flight out. Travel is supposed to be exciting, but not like this!
If you are planning to travel this summer or Fall and want to make the most of your experience and avoid the drama, keep reading for my tips on how to avoid some major travel nightmares this season.
2022 Travel Nightmares and How to Avoid Them
Skip the checked bags when traveling this summer
I personally hate checking luggage and always try my best to avoid it, but that is going to be critical with all this travel drama going on these days. Luggage is disappearing left and right or taking days if not weeks to be tracked down. And if your luggage gets lost and you have to shop for new items, it can take weeks to reimburse and the airline may not even cover it all.
Just save yourself the stress and pack light. Invest in packing cubes or even travel friendly space bags that will help you maximize your space.
When you land, grab any essential liquids or toiletries that you may have had to leave behind. Depending on where you are going you can squeeze in a few hours of shopping to get some pieces that didn’t fit when you packed and got on your flight. You can also try minimizing your shoes or bulky items and plan your outfits around one or 2 comfortable pairs of shoes.
But you don’t have to create a boring capsule wardrobe or give up your cute, trendy Insta-friendly outfits. I have packed 2 weeks of clothes into a carry on bag and was able to make over 17 different outfits, so check out that video from my YouTube channel embedded below on how I made that work. If you end up buying too much stuff and having to check on the way back, that is much less stressful. Even if they lose your bags then, at least your vacation is over and you’re back home!
Don’t book through a third party
Booking through a third party like Travelocity or Expedia can be convenient and save you money on your bundle deal, but with all the travel craziness going on right now it will only add another layer of stress. Those third party vendors are extremely limited in terms of what they can do in regards to customer service. Most of them just wait to connect to the airline or hotel directly, then pass their latest policies along to you.
You will have much more flexibility booking with the airline directly, like direct access to more experienced, more senior customer service agents and reduced wait times to get your situation figured out. Plus if you are someone that has a relationship with that airline, like status or even a frequent travel history and a lot of miles, you can leverage that for better treatment if anything does go wrong.
Plan to arrive at the airport as early as possible
Even if you, like me, are not a morning person, get in the habit of getting on the first flight out of the day.
London’s Heathrow airport recently announced they were capping the number of daily visitors because of the increased volume, so most people with flights scheduled to land in the afternoon or evening will be at high risk of getting canceled. And you better believe many other airports will follow suit.
Plus as flights start getting delayed or cancelled, things quickly and easily get backlogged, so your chances of getting out get worse and worse. An early morning delay or cancellation may only cost you a few hours, but if you were on one of the later scheduled departures that day, you’ll probably be bumped 24 hours or more. If you are connecting to a train or cruise, catch that early flight and be sure you have an adequate gap in between that connection. People have missed out on entire week long cruises because their flight to the port in Florida was canceled and they couldn’t get on another one!
I recently flew into Paris and had to catch a train to Saint Emilion and we barely made it by the time we got out of the airport, ran into a taxi and peeled into the train station. While we arrived at the perfect time for our plans for the weekend, it was so stressful I wished I would have built in more buffer time. And if my flight would have been even more delayed, or we would have had to check bags, that entire day would have been ruined! So just do yourself the favor and build in more buffer time. If your final destination requires a connection by train or boat, I might even recommend arriving a full day early and just getting a hotel for the night. Plan early, and plan for things to go wrong so you can still end up enjoying the rest of your trip!
Don’t get sick when traveling
We all know that Covid never really went away, we just collectively got sick of it and stopped policing. Once pre-travel testing requirements started dropping and there was less risk of testing positive and getting forced to quarantine abroad, the floodgates were open.
While Covid is still very much spreading, but now we also have to worry about monkeypox! Right now there are no travel regulations around monkeypox, so you better believe people are infected and traveling with it. Whether they know they have it or are in the early stages before the lesions start to show is up for debate. But all you can do is take precautions to protect yourself from both dangerous diseases.
Even though masks are no longer required, wear one anyway, preferably a surgical one or N95. Yes they are uncomfortable, but suck it up for a few hours anyway. Also I have never been a fan of exposed skin when traveling and you better believe I am keeping my skin covered up now. My uniform is usually leggings and a sweatshirt or a button down. And even if the shoes I wore when traveling don’t require socks, I keep a pair handy in case I want to kick my shoes off but avoid being barefoot.
And if anyone you are seated next to is making you uncomfortable or showing symptoms of an illness, quickly and discreetly ask a flight attendant to change your seat. Whatever you do, do not make a scene and publicly shame anyone! Some people have chronic acne or other medical conditions that could cause them to have random non-contagious bumps on their body, and they deserve respect and sensitivity. So of course take your precautions, but keep it quiet, classy and safe!
Avoid Flying All Together
Now obviously this will only work for people planning short trips, but you can save a ton of headaches by just avoiding air travel altogether. Take a road trip, gas prices allowing or hop on a train or bus. Amtrak has a ton of beautiful routes that run all over the USA, and if you already live in Europe, you already know you can get anywhere you need to go by train. If you are a fan of cruises and live near a port of departure or can get to one without flying, that is another great option.
While that may rule out the destination you had been dreaming of, you can always save the cash and go next year, hopefully when things have calmed down.
Know your rights as a traveler
And last but not least, know your rights! Airlines will try to get away with anything, so it’s up to you to stay informed.
Read the fine print or at least follow people on social media that do! Of course all the circumstances will vary based on how long your flight delay was, impact of your cancellation, which country your trip originated in and more. But depending on the circumstances, you could be entitled to cash, hotel and meal vouchers, flight credits and more. Do your research before booking, after you book and before you depart so you have the info fresh in your brain. Print out terms and conditions and highlight relevant parts if you need to before you head to the airport!
Let me know in the comments if and where you are planning to travel this summer! And stay tuned to my Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for in real time travel tips and updates!
6 Ways to Avoid Travel Nightmares in 2022
Don’t check a bag when traveling this summer
Book with the airline directly, not through a third party
Get to the airport as early as possible
Take precautions to avoid covid and monkeypox when traveling
Avoid travel by air and take a train or road trip instead
Know your rights as a traveler
