25 Lake Day Essentials You’ll Be Glad You Didn’t Forget
There’s nothing like a lake day.
I still remember my first one—blue skies, a quiet breeze off the water, and that perfect moment when I realized… I forgot sunscreen.
My shoulders paid the price for days.
That’s when I learned: lake days only stay peaceful when you’ve packed smart.
Whether you’re headed out for a solo float, a lazy afternoon with friends, or a full-blown family hang, this list covers everything you’ll wish you had on hand.
From comfort to safety to fun, here’s what to throw in your bag before you hit the dock.
1. Sunscreen That Actually Lasts
You’ll be in direct sun for hours, and the reflection off the water makes it worse.
Bring one that’s water-resistant and reapply often.
Your skin will thank you.
2. Reusable Water Bottle
Hydration sneaks up on you during lake days.
A good insulated bottle keeps your water ice-cold all day.
Don’t bring plastic—you’ll just regret it when it warms up fast.
3. Waterproof Phone Pouch
You’ll want to take pictures, change the music, maybe even check your GPS.
But dropping your phone in the lake? Game over.
This pouch gives peace of mind without losing touch.
4. Swimsuit You Can Move In
Choose one that stays put when you jump, paddle, or kayak.
Fashion’s fun, but function wins when you’re actually in the water.
You’ll be glad you didn’t go with the barely-there bikini.
5. Towel or Quick-Dry Blanket
You need something to sit on, dry off with, or wrap up in later.
Microfiber towels take up less space and dry fast.
Still, nothing beats the feel of a big beach towel after a dip.
6. Sunglasses You Don’t Mind Losing
Yes, bring your shades—but maybe not your designer pair.
The lake has claimed many a Ray-Ban.
A floating strap helps, or just stick with cheap ones for water days.
7. Foldable Chairs or Camp Stool
If you’re not lounging on a boat or dock, you’ll want somewhere to sit.
Folding chairs are perfect for shoreline chilling.
Trust me, sitting on damp grass gets old real quick.
8. Bug Spray or Wipes
Mosquitoes love lakeside shade.
You won’t notice until you’re covered in bites.
Pack a spray or wipes and apply before dusk hits.
9. Snacks You Can Eat With One Hand
Chips, trail mix, dried fruit—anything easy.
Avoid stuff that melts or needs utensils.
You’ll thank yourself when you’re half-soaked and starving.
10. Cooler with Ice Packs
Not just for drinks—coolers keep fruit, sandwiches, and cold compresses ready to go.
Bonus if it doubles as a seat.
Don’t forget the ice packs; lake sun melts everything fast.
11. Bluetooth Speaker
Waterproof is best, and keep it low so everyone enjoys it.
Some mellow background tunes? Perfect for lake vibes.
Just don’t be that guy blasting music across the cove.
12. Hat With a Brim
Sun overhead, water below—your face is getting roasted either way.
A good hat protects your skin and helps you see without squinting.
Wide brims beat baseball caps when it comes to coverage.
13. Life Jacket or Floaties
Even if you can swim, safety matters—especially for kids or long-distance paddling.
A life vest can literally save your life if you get tired.
Don’t skip it just because it’s “not cute.”
14. Floaties, Tubes, or Inflatables
Nothing screams lake day like drifting on a float.
Choose one that holds air well and isn’t hard to inflate.
Double points if it’s big enough for snacks and a drink holder.
15. Dry Bag for Your Valuables
Even if you’re not on a boat, lakes get messy.
A dry bag keeps your phone, keys, wallet, and camera safe from splashes or surprise rain.
One zip and you’re protected.
16. Change of Clothes
You will get wet. Or muddy. Or both.
Toss in a fresh tee, shorts, and dry underwear for the ride home.
Driving in a soggy swimsuit? Pure misery.
17. Water Shoes or Sandals
Rocks, shells, and slippery docks aren’t foot-friendly.
Water shoes protect your feet while you wade or launch kayaks.
Slides are fine too, just skip anything with a heel or slick sole.
18. Book or Kindle
Sometimes the best lake moment is just you, the breeze, and a few good chapters.
Choose something light—you’re not trying to read Shakespeare with kids screaming nearby.
Bonus if your e-reader is waterproof.
19. Portable Phone Charger
You’ll take more photos than you think.
And if you’re out all day, your phone will die by sunset.
A power bank solves that without needing to find a plug.
20. Wipes or Hand Sanitizer
Between sticky snacks, sandy hands, and muddy feet, you’ll want to clean up.
Wet wipes save the day when there’s no bathroom in sight.
Keep some handy in your bag.
21. Small First Aid Kit
Blisters, splinters, and bug bites happen fast.
A kit with basics—band-aids, antiseptic, allergy meds—is a smart backup.
You won’t need it… until you do.
22. Garbage Bags or Ziplocks
Leave no trace behind.
Garbage bags help keep your area clean and store wet clothes.
Ziplocks are great for snacks or sealing up your phone if you don’t have a pouch.
23. Camera (Or Just Use Your Phone)
The golden hour hits different over the lake.
If you’re into photography, bring a real camera—if not, your phone’s good enough.
Just make sure it’s protected.
24. Games or a Frisbee
A deck of cards, paddle ball, or floating volleyball net can turn downtime into fun time.
Just don’t bring anything that sinks fast.
Lake games are all about simplicity.
25. Your Chillest Mood
Okay, you can’t pack this—but it matters most.
Leave the stress behind, unplug, and enjoy what’s in front of you.
A good lake day starts with a relaxed mindset and zero rush.
