Don't Forget to Pack These 6 Summer Outing Must-haves!

6 Essential Summer Items Everyone Forgets to Pack...
woman with backpack in summer sun

Whether you're going to a cook-out at a friend's house or going to the zoo with your family, it is important to always be prepared. Between the insects, the hot summer sun, and unexpected events, you never really know how your outing is going to pan out.

Now, we aren't looking to scare anyone into staying indoors all summer. However, the DIY team wants to promote summer safety for whatever outing you may find yourself on.

So, before you pack for your Grand Canyon road trip or romantic date under the moonlight, make sure you've packed the necessary items to prevent your outing from turning into a nightmare! 

1. Sunscreen
squeezing sunblock

When you’re planning out a fun day, you should always be sure to protect your skin. This is one of the most important things that you can do for your health.

Sunburns, blisters, and skin cancer are all consequences of not using the right amount of sunscreen. If you're swimming or doing other activities outside, you may not realize how much sun you're getting. But you need to think ahead and apply sunscreen ahead of time.

Also, remember that when you are sweating or swimming the spray is going to start coming off, so be sure to reapply whenever you get out of the pool or take a break in your hike.

2. Bug Spray
spraying mosquito repellent

With all the diseases that can be spread by mosquitoes, it's a wonder why people still forget to wear bug spray when going outdoors. For example, these pesky bugs can transmit West Nile virus, malaria, yellow fever, Zika virus, and more. These flying nuisances are both common and deadly, and it is important we remember them when going outside in summer weather. 

Mosquitoes make themselves known in warmer, more humid conditions. However, that doesn't mean they aren't around in colder regions—just scarcely seen.

Insect repellent can last for several hours, so you don't need to apply more than a few times throughout your day or night. However, if you notice you're getting attacked by mosquitoes, you should check the label on your repellent. 

If you don't like the idea of using harsh chemical repellents, try using lavender oil to keep these parasites away. Or, keep your yard clear of pests by growing some of the best container plants for repelling bugs

3. First Aid Kit
checklist for medical aid kit

People often think first aid kits are overkill, but people’s lives have been saved by just having a small bag of the essentials handy in an emergency.

A medkit should have the basics: adhesive bandages, medications for burns, items in case of a sprain or a break, allergy medications, over-the-counter pain medications, and any prescriptions you may need. In addition, if there is anything that you think that you may need, like extra water, snacks, or food to take on a trip, add that as well.

Remember, a first aid kit doesn’t do much good if you leave it in your car. So, try to take with you if you are planning on being out and about on a hike or away from civilization for a while. It’s important to realize that even though you aren’t planning to have an accident on your outing, having the stuff ready to go can save you time, money, and complications. In addition, if an accident occurs, it will merely be a bump in the road rather than something that will ruin your entire day.

4. Poncho
wearing disposable rain poncho

A disposable poncho is one of those multi-purpose tools that can be great on a day at the beach as well as on a morning hike up the Appalachian Trail.

A poncho is great for just about any kind of summer day because it is versatile and waterproof. You can unfold it on the fly and use it for a makeshift blanket on a lovely starry night, or you can use it during a rainstorm to keep your clothes as dry as possible. It can also keep the bugs off you in hot and humid weather.

Bringing along a poncho is a great way to make sure that you’re ready for any adventure, as well as any weather.

5. Flashlight
shining flashlight in dark

A flashlight is also a wonderful multi-purpose tool.  This is because it can not only light the way in the darkness, but also signal for people to see you and others when you’re out past dark. 

This is one of the few accessories that is easy to carry around with you no matter where you are going or what you are doing during the summertime. A flashlight is easy to carry in your pocket, as well as on your belt buckle or on your key chain. A flashlight is great because all it requires is a couple of batteries. Plus, by keeping a flashlight with you that is independent from your mobile device, you don’t have to worry about draining your phone or tablet's battery, which could be crucial in an emergency.

6. Pocket Charger
woman charging phone

In this day an age, a phone charger may seems like a no-brainer. However, an outlet-free charging device is great to have in case your phone is low on power. Simply charge it before you leave the house and bring it with you, ready to use when your battery gets low. These pocket chargers can now be purchased at many convenience stores.

Whether you are planning a day out or just a simple walk in the park, something as simple as not being able to communicate may not seem like a huge fiasco. However, in case of an emergency, a fully-charged phone not only can be helpful, but also can be life saving.