How to Pack for a Smooth & Fun Family Summer Outing

Ah, the summer day trip—just enough adventure to make memories, instead of needing a hotel. Packing for Ontario Day Trips will help make the most of your summer travels.  It doesn’t matter if you are heading to the beach, a theme park, hiking trail, or splash pad, day trips with kids can be magical… as long as you pack smart.

Check out this no-stress guide to packing everything you need (and nothing you don’t) for a perfect summer day with the fam.

Pack Light, But Pack Smart

Firstly- be smart!  You’ll be carrying your stuff all day, prioritize essentials. Instead of bulky choose a lightweight backpack with plenty of pockets to grab things quickly for your kids.  The backpack should be comfortable to wear for the day and big enough for everything that you need.  Keep in mind the heat!  Walking outside all day in the heat can make you hot enough, ensure your bag is not too heavy.

Most Important Day Trip Essentials

Here’s what you definitely want to bring:

✅ Sunscreen (apply before leaving + reapply every 2 hours)
✅ Water bottles (insulated ones stay cold longer)
✅ Snacks (think easy, non-melty: fruit, granola bars, crackers, apple sauce pouches)
✅ Wipes & hand sanitizer (because mess is guaranteed)
✅ Mini first-aid kit (band-aids, pain reliever, allergy meds)
✅ Hats & sunglasses
✅ Towels or picnic blanket 
✅ Change of clothes for kids (accidents or surprise splash zones happen)
✅ Plastic bag for wet/dirty clothes (or surprise sickness- ziplock bags work best for this)
✅ Phone charger or battery pack
✅ Cash/card & IDs

 Customize by Destination

• Beach trip? You certainly need swimwear, beach toys, beach wagon, shade (umbrella or pop-up tent).

• Park or zoo? Bring bug spray, comfortable shoes, and a stroller or wagon.

• Hike or nature day? Bring a trail map, bug spray, and maybe a small cooler for lunch.

• Theme park? Reusable water bottles (some parks let you refill), cooling towels, and maybe a small fan or misting bottle.

Entertainment On the Go

For car rides or downtime, pack a few small activities:

• Coloring books or sticker pads

• Audiobooks or a family playlist

• Travel games or cards

• Bubbles for waiting

Prep the Night Before

Have bags packed, snacks portioned, clothes laid out, and the cooler in the fridge.  Have the activities for the ride in the vehicle all ready to go.  You’ll thank yourself when you’re trying to leave the house without losing your cool the next morning.

Final Thought

Family day trips are all about fun and flexibility. By packing intentionally and staying just a little bit ahead of the chaos, you will enjoy more sunshine, fewer meltdowns, and all the memories that make summer so sweet.

So load up that bag, wrangle the kids, and hit the road—adventure awaits!

For more family travel ideas and tips check out Blog – Together We Can Travel.