Summer vacations are for making special memories! Pack those pocket tees and baby hoodies for exciting activities and fun adventures. Comfortable, protective kids’ outfits are perfect for outdoor exploration and travel. Use this parent-tested checklist as a guide for packing your diaper bags and duffels. Add a few summer accessories, and you’ll be ready for your next family trip!
Kids’ Shorts and Comfy Summer Bottoms
Summer is a time to relax and play in comfy outfits, so create a fun summer style with cozy bottoms in fresh and vibrant colors. Pull-on bamboo terry pocket shorts are perfect for exploring and playing outside. If you’re creating a look for girls, dolphin or ruffle shorts will add plenty of personality to their look.
Drawstring shorts are another chic summer style. They’re cute and comfortable enough for vacation dinners but also nice enough for family parties. Dress up your little girl’s look with bright pink tutu skirts or soft ruffle skorts. You’ll find plenty of outfits with fun tie-dye or dainty floral patterns. Next, pack lightweight baby or toddler pants for cool evenings. Bamboo terry joggers are fashionable and cozy, especially in neutral colors like cream or fog.
Cute, Cozy Travel Shirts and Tops
Does your family love outdoor play? Maybe you’re going on an exciting road trip. Active families will need plenty of lightweight tops, so stock up on short-sleeved shirts and tees for the kids. Don’t forget to mix in a few tank tops for hot days! Tanks are another stylish way to stay cool, while lighter long sleeves are perfect for crisp mornings.
Baby girls will look adorable in flowy bow-strap tanks paired with bloomers or ruffle shorts. Fluttered tees and peplum tops add more instant style to your vacation. Bamboo and pocket tees are adorable for baby boys, especially in a relaxed surf stripe.
You also can’t go wrong with a classic neutral color like beige or bright white. Button-down polos made with plush bamboo material are perfect for a special summer occasion. Warm up on a breezy evening with a long sleeve pocket tee or Henley.
Girls’ Summer Dresses
Are you searching for an easy, breezy summer outfit? Dresses are perfect for vacation! Effortlessly dress your little ones and make for easy diaper or clothing changes. Skater dresses and smocked styles are great for playing and exploring. Pack a button-down dress or flutter-tiered tutu for pictures or a family party.
Stylish, Vacation-Ready Outerwear
You won’t have to bring heavy layers for a summer adventure, but lightweight outerwear is a relief during rainy days or windy weather. Pack a rain jacket or poncho and then grab a couple of baby or toddler hoodies. A few styles for different occasions will make your child cozy for their entire trip. A denim jacket is a stylish summer piece for a breezy dress. It’s also an excellent accessory for a button-down polo shirt with chino shorts.
Kids’ Summer Swimwear
Swimsuits and rash guards are essential for many summer vacations. Long-sleeved swim tops and protective UPF swimwear can help shield your child’s skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Some parents will pack their swim diapers or diaper coverings for younger children. We always recommend packing a pair of goggles if you plan on doing some summer splashing.
Children’s Summer Footwear
Road trips and adventures usually require a pair of walking shoes or sneakers. A nice pair of slip-ons or closed-toe tennis shoes are ideal for exploration. Your child may need a pair of sandals to add to their look and keep their feet cool. Try sandals with straps and a supportive footbed to keep their feet comfortable. Fun patterns or colors make wearing summer shoes more exciting! Water shoes are a fashionable way to protect feet during wet activities.
Kids’ Pajamas for Vacation
Lightweight kids’ pajamas made from soft, breathable fabric will make sleeping on vacation more comfortable for children. Babies will be snuggly in zip-up short-sleeve bodysuits, but you can also pack infant gowns for easy diaper changes. Toddlers and older children will love the coziness of buttery two-piece pajama sets with shorts.
Stylish Summer Accessories
Now, consider your child’s sun protection. Hats and caps help protect against the sun, so pack a few styles to match your kids’ clothing. Add sunglasses, a tote bag or a small backpack to carry children’s items. Headbands and headwraps make summer outfits more fun and fashionable.
Comfortable Travel Essentials
Bringing a few favorite items from your child’s room can be helpful. A soft bamboo blanket will comfort your child while they’re away from home. Bring along a few toys or stuffed animals. Portable children’s games can help pass the time on a road trip.
Everyone in the family needs toiletries and undergarments, including the children. Soft socks are essential for summer sneakers, but some kids may like to wear them while relaxing or sleeping. Many babies and small children like the comfort of hooded towels, so feel free to pack a couple from home.
Get Ready for a Memorable Summer Vacation
Summer is a time for exploring new places and making memories together. This summer essentials guide for parents will help you save time while packing so you can have more precious moments with your family. Include cute outfits and neutral basics you can mix and match and then add a pop of color with lightweight layers and seasonal accessories. Soft, seasonless fabrics with bold, fun colors will prepare you for every summer adventure.
