The Ultimate Lake Day Essentials: Packing List For Summer

Planning a summer lake day and want a packing list for the essentials? Whether you’re heading to a local swimming hole or a mountain lake retreat, packing the right gear can make or break your day.

We’ve camped, hiked to, and swam in lakes during our adventures in California and it has now become one of our most enjoyable summer activities. There are a ton of fun things you can bring so that everyone has fun on lake day.

This guide covers everything you need to bring for a day at the lake, organized by category – from sun protection to safety gear, plus a printable checklist at the end.

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What to bring for a day at the lake

We’ll start with sun protection first, because we’ve found that it’s so easy to get a sunburn when you don’t necessarily feel the heat from the sun.

Sun protection essentials

California’s sun is just so harsh, and we’ve learnt it the hard way several times. Here’s what I recommend for sun protection essentials during lake day.

1. Sunscreen

Look for SPF 30 or higher and reapply often, especially after swimming. Your best bet is water resistant sunscreen that has less chances of polluting the lake, and has higher efficacy. Apply sunscreen 20–30 minutes before getting in the water for best absorption.

2. Sunglasses

Polarized lenses cut glare so you can actually see the water – whether you’re watching the kids, reading a book, or spotting fish. I like these non-slip ones that are also durable while being affordable.

3. Wide-brim hat or cap

A little shade makes a big difference. Hats help protect your face and neck from UV rays, and recently I’ve enjoyed wearing bucket hats.

4. Lip balm with SPF

Your lips can burn too! Keep them hydrated and protected with a balm that has sun protection.

5. Lightweight sun shirt or rash guard

These are lifesavers when you want to avoid constant sunscreen reapplication. Look for breathable, quick-drying fabric. My hiking sun hoody is perfect for me during lake days when I’m only taking a quick dip and then chilling on the shore.

6. Shade tent or pop-up canopy

Not every lake spot has trees. A portable shade setup gives you a cool retreat when the sun gets relentless.

Clothing

Stay comfy and dry from sunrise to sunset. Layers are helpful if you’re going early or staying late.

7. Swimsuit

You can keep your clothing dry by bringing a swimsuit for dipping in the water.

8. Extra undergarments + dry clothes

After a full day in the sun and water, it’s nice to feel dry and fresh again. Don’t forget to bring a change of clothes!

9. Sandals or water shoes

Good footwear is key especially if the shoreline is rocky, muddy, or full of slippery roots. We’ve stubbed our toes on some rough rocks in while swimming in Lake Aloha in the past, and having water shoes could’ve prevented that. We normally just bring sandals so we can use them comfortably while camping too.

10. Warm layer

Even in summer, lakes can get breezy in the evening. A light layer keeps you cozy without overheating.

Outdoor gear for the shore

If you prefer to spend time by the shore, make sure to prioritize the things that help you feel the most comfortable. Here’s how you can upgrade your set up.

11. Quick-dry mat

Pick something that shakes off sand easily and dries fast if it gets wet, like this pocket blanket that is so compact yet fits 2-4 people.

12. Camp chairs or inflatable loungers

If sitting on the ground is too boring, chairs or loungers are worth the trunk space.

13. Waterproof bag

Stuff gets wet, sandy, and messy fast so waterproof bags help keep things organized and dry.

14. Portable table

A portable table keeps your food off the ground and gives everyone a place to sit and hangout. Our camping table is the perfect gear for all kinds of activities.

15. Cooler with ice packs

A reliable cooler means cold drinks and fresh food to keep you fueled throughout lake day. We usually put the ice packs we get with our groceries into the freezer so we can use them for summer days like this.

16. Gear wagon

If you end up bringing a lot of gear, having a gear wagon can be really helpful to transport things from the car.

Swim and water gear

The real fun happens in the water. Bring enough gear to splash, float, or paddle all day.

17. Floating chair or inflatables

Imagine sitting and chatting with a friend in floating water chairs that can be linked together. That sound like the perfect lake day to me.

18. Quick-dry towels

These dry faster and pack smaller so you won’t need to hang up soggy towels in your car as you drive home.

19. Paddleboard or kayak

If you have your own, bring it because nothing beats exploring a quiet cove or paddling out at golden hour. Paddle boarding on a lake in summer is definitely on my bucket list.

20. Dry bag

Store your phone, keys, and snacks in one of these and toss it in your float or boat without worry. Although newer phones are likely to be water resistant, it’ll be useful to have a waterproof pouch for your phone too. A roll top dry bag like this one works too.

Food and drinks

There’s nothing better than eating food in beautiful places. Pack easy, satisfying options to keep everyone fueled and happy.

21. Snacks

• Pre-made sandwiches or wraps
• Fresh fruit (grapes, berries, oranges)
• Chips, trail mix, or granola bars

22. Water bottle

Stay hydrated! Bring more water than you think you need because swimming is sneaky exercise. If you’re feeling tired or cranky by mid-afternoon, you’re probably low on water or salt.

23. Drinks

Bring something refreshing like sparkling water, iced tea, or cold brew.

24. Utensils, cups, and plates

Make your setup feel like a real picnic by bringing kitchen items that remind you of home.

25. Trash bags

Leave no trace! Trash bags make cleanup easy and you’ll help to keep the lakeshore beautiful for years to come.

Toiletries

You won’t need much, but these little items go a long way in keeping you fresh and comfortable.

26. Wet wipes

Great for a quick freshen-up before lunch or the drive home, especially if there’s no restroom nearby.

27. Hand sanitizer

An easy way to clean up before eating if clean water and soap access is limited.

28. Tissues or toilet paper

Trust me – you’ll be glad you brought it if the bathrooms are out or far away.

29. Portable toilet

You can also consider using a portable toilet lined with a wag bag, and a privacy pop up tent for greater convenience.

Safety and health

Better to have it and not need it than the other way around.

30. First aid kit

Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, or allergy meds may come in handy when you least expect it. For example, you may get scrapes, bug bites, or the inevitable “I stubbed my toe on a rock.”

31. Insect repellent

Mosquitoes love the lake as much as we do, especially in early summer. Keep them at bay with a good repellent – something we sorely underestimated in the past. We now use a this one that diffuses the repellent into the air and creates a 20-ft safety zone while minimizing pollution of the lake.

32. Portable phone charger

Make sure to bring a portable phone charger so you can continue taking pictures and find your way back if you’re hiking out.

Lake day essentials checklist

Here’s a printable-style overview for your bag or phone:

Before you go…

Double-check the weather, charge your devices, and make sure someone knows where you’ll be, especially if you’re heading to a remote lake like in the Desolation Wilderness in California.

Take one last look around your spot. Are you leaving behind anything that wasn’t there when you arrived?

✅ Pack out all trash (even tiny wrappers)
✅ Shake off blankets away from water sources
✅ Respect wildlife and keep noise to a minimum
✅ Leave natural objects like rocks and plants where they belong

Leave No Trace isn’t just for the backcountry – it matters at the lake too. Let’s all do our part to protect the places we love.