If there is one thing this team knows well, it is how to properly enjoy a weekend by the water; after all, Minnesota is deemed the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Although I was born and raised in Chicago and #lakelife wasn’t exactly second nature, I have spent my fair share of weekends “up north” (which in Minnesota that means: at a cabin on a lake). In fact, a short TWELVE years ago this weekend, I decided to make my move to Minneapolis after a truly memorable weekend camping lakeside with college friends. I came back a little sunburnt, most certainly hungover, and very much in need of a shower, but something inside me told me I had found a wonderful new place to call home. Summer often brings out the best kind of nostalgia, and this weekend there won’t be a shortage of memories made. So, whether your trip is for a family reunion, a girl’s trip, or a romantic getaway, let’s keep the packing simple and only bring the essentials. This way you’re always ready for an impromptu trip (the best kind in my opinion). So here she goes! A packing list of all my favorite summer-at-the-cabin essentials.

A Comfy Swimsuit
The kind that you can spend all day in. The perfect cabin swimsuit is one that you can jump in the water in but then throw shorts over (hello, bodysuit!) to cook dinner in. I’m loving these two from Diane Von Furstenberg. Try this Classic One-Piece or this Deep V-Neck One Piece.

Sun Hat
The beauty of this Women’s San Diego sun hat is that it goes with every outfit you’ll wear at the cabin. You can pair it with your swimsuit, jean shorts or a sundress.

A Citronella Candle 
No matter how perfect the campfire and company is, those pesky bugs will always be there to drive everyone absolutely crazy. Citronella candles, however, are a way to repel them at least a little bit after the sun goes down. I’ve found that they work best if you spread them around about 6 feet apart. Another trick? Look into the ingredients before you buy – a lot of the candles are the just citronella scented, but the actually essential oil is what will actually keep the bugs away.

Sun Screen
If you’re the gal who isn’t too keen on sunscreen, try Glossier’s Daily SPF 35. This will shield you from the sun while still giving you that summer glow, all the while, not clogging your pores!

Picnic Blanket 
If you’re looking for a blanket to wrap up in, I like The White Company’s gray and alabaster soft wool picnic blanket. I love that it comes with straps which makes it easy to carry. Because it’s soft wool, it’s perfect for when it gets a little chilly by the water or while basking under the stars at night.

Polaroid Camera
If you are looking to capture the summer moments in nostalgic style, I love the Mini Stax 9 Polaroid Camera. It’s fun to share these cabin moments on the fridge or string them in a line in your office.

Campfire Sweatshirt 
Everlane’s 100% Human sweatshirt is the perfect pull-over to bring to the cabin. A must-have to throw on over your suit when you head out on the boat or to reach for by the bonfire at night.

W&D Big Idea Book
If you are looking to journal, jot down any ideas, make a list, play a game or keep track of game scores at the cabin – the W&D Big Idea Book is perfect for all of the above!

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