Preparing for your South County vacation could take some time, and it all begins with creating a packing list. You’ll want to figure out what you’ll need to bring well ahead of departure to ensure you don’t leave anything behind, and your list could evolve as you get closer to the start of your holiday.
Of course, your packing list will vary based on the time of year you’re visiting and how you’re getting to South County, as winter clothes could be necessary for the colder months. You might also have to travel a little lighter if you’re flying into Providence and renting a car to navigate to your vacation rental than you would when driving the entire distance.
However, there are some items you’ll need to bring, no matter how you’re getting to South County. Here’s an essential packing list for your summertime vacation in Rhode Island.
A Variety of Clothing
The most important thing on your packing list is clothing, but you’ll want to ensure you bring a variety of items. Of course, you’ll need swimsuits for the days you’ll spend at the beach, but packing rain gear for those less-than-perfect days is advisable, and you might want some comfortable footwear to ensure you’re covered if you go on a hike near one of South County’s kettle ponds.
It’s also a good idea to bring some nice clothing to wear at a fancy dinner or a night on the town, workout gear if you’re a fitness buff, and a jacket for those breezy nights near the ocean.
The great thing about booking a vacation rental is that you can opt for a unit with a washing machine, allowing you to pack lighter. Having the opportunity to wash your clothing halfway through your vacation makes packing that much easier.
All the Essentials
Depending on the size of your suitcase, you might want to bring as many essential items as possible with you. The products you pack might include shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrush, comb, deodorant, glasses, razor, makeup, and medication.
It isn’t a huge deal if you forget some of these essentials because South County is full of shops where you can pick up replacements at reasonable prices. A quick trip to South Kingstown or Westerly will have you covered in no time at all.
Stuff For the Beach
You’ll undoubtedly spend multiple days enjoying the sun and sand in South County, so packing your beach gear is vital. Bringing some swimsuits is a no-brainer, but don’t forget your beach towels, blankets, and toys for the kids. Some vacation rentals have beach chairs, but you’ll have to inquire about their availability before booking.
Other items you pack include sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, sandals, cover-ups, a speaker, reusable water bottles, and aloe. Picking up some snacks from a local retailer before heading to the beach is a great way to save some money, as well, and you can pack a small collapsible cooler to keep your food and drinks cool.
Sheets and Linens
Some vacation rentals don’t provide sheets and other linens, so you might have to bring them with you. Fortunately, these items won’t take up too much space in your suitcase, and you can wash them during your vacation and before departure using the home’s laundry facilities.
Remember to bring your linens home when it’s time to check out, too, because some visitors accidentally leave them behind when they exit the property.
Don’t Worry Too Much
The great thing about South County is that although some spots feel entirely private and secluded, you’re never more than a few minutes from a town and its amenities. If you forget an item on your packing list, you’ll have the opportunity to buy a replacement, and you’ll only have to go a few minutes out of your way to find it.
South County is one of the East Coast’s most accessible and beautiful vacation spots and is sure to become one of your top destinations once you give it a try. Book your vacation rental for the upcoming summer as early as possible so you can begin creating your packing list and planning your visit to coastal Rhode Island.