Summer Essentials List

It's time to embrace the spirit of summer and gear up for all the fun and adventure that awaits! Having the right essentials can make all the difference in enjoying a memorable summer vacation. From stylish attire to practical accessories, here's a curated list of must-have items to help you feel relaxed and fresh this summertime.

11 Summer Must-Have Items

1. Comfortable Slippers

Image Courtesy Of Archies Footwear

Comfortable footwear like Archies slippers is the perfect companion for all your summer adventures. Featuring patented arch support technology and cushioned footbeds, Archies footwear provides unparalleled comfort and support, allowing you to stay on your feet all day without discomfort. Plus, with stylish colors for men and women, Archies slippers with arch support can effortlessly elevate your summer style while keeping your feet happy.

2.  Sun Protection

Shielding your skin from the sun's harsh rays is essential for a safe and enjoyable summer. Invest in high-quality sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection (protects against UVA and UVB rays), sunglasses with UV protection, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself while basking in the sunshine. The American Academy of Dermatology Association’s sunscreen FAQs recommends water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

3.  Lightweight Clothes

Stay cool and stylish in the summer heat with lightweight and breathable clothing. Opt for flowy dresses, loose shirts, and shorts made from breathable fabrics to keep you comfortable all day long. Wear natural fabrics that you can wear in dry heat and humidity like cotton, chambray, and linen. Rayon and blended fabrics aren’t natural but they also resist heat well.

4.  Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is key to beating the summer heat. Dehydration and heat stroke are serious health risks during summer. John Hopkins Medicine (https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/dehydration-and-heat-stroke) says dehydration can lead to fatigue, weakness, dizziness, lightheadedness, confusion, irritability, and increased heart rate. Meanwhile, heat stroke’s symptoms include seizures, dizziness, headache, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, and loss of consciousness. To prevent these conditions, invest in an insulated water bottle that can keep your drinks cold for hours, perfect for those long days spent outdoors.

5. Beach Towel And Bag

Prepare for beach days in style with a colorful and oversized beach towel and a spacious beach bag to carry all your essentials. Look for quick-drying towels made from lightweight materials, and opt for a durable beach bag with plenty of pockets to keep your belongings organized. There are a lot of  fast drying microfiber towels in online stores. You can also find them on Decathlon, Aquadry, and Aquazorb.

6. Insect Repellant

Keep pesky bugs at bay during your outdoor adventures with a reliable insect repellent. Opt for a DEET-free formula that's gentle on your skin while effectively repelling mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects. The United States Environmental Protection Agency also recommends considering these factors when choosing a repellant:

• Do you need protection from mosquitos, ticks, or both?
• How long will you be exposed to the insects? Use a product with a protection period that fits your activity.

7. Reusable Straws

Did you know that plastic is one of the worst pollutants in the Philippines? A 2021 report from the World Bank says that the Philippines generates 2.7 million tons of plastic waste yearly, and around 20 percent ends up in the ocean. Yikes! Research by the Heinrich Böll Stiftung Foundation also shows that many Filipino consumers believe that plastic straws and stirrers need to be regulated in the country. Thankfully, you can reduce your environmental footprint while staying hydrated with reusable straws. Enjoy your favorite beverage without guilt by using straws made of stainless steel or silicone, which is durable, easy to clean, and eco-friendly.

8. Travel-Sized Toiletries

Stay fresh and clean on your summer travels with travel-sized toiletries. When your friends ask you to go on an instant vacation, you should be ready with your summer must-haves! Pack essentials like sunscreen, hand sanitizer, shampoo, conditioner, bath soap, and facial mist to keep you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated throughout your adventures. Health and beauty shops sell reusable travel-sized bottles so you can minimize waste!

9. Picnic Mat

Turn any outdoor space into a cozy picnic spot with a durable and water-resistant picnic mat. Look for a foldable and lightweight mat that's easy to transport and clean, perfect for impromptu picnics in the park or on the beach. You don’t even need to travel far to go on a picnic. Check out Metro Manila spots like La Mesa Ecopark, Quezon Memorial Circle, UP Sunken Garden, Ayala Triangle Garden, Paco Park, and Plaza Moriones.

10.  Sun Umbrella

Create your own shady oasis anywhere with a sturdy and lightweight umbrella. Look for an umbrella with UV protection and wind-resistant features to help you stay comfortable and protected from the elements throughout the day. To know if the umbrella can protect you from summer heat, take a close look not only at the fabric but also at the arc. It should be large enough to shield you from the dangerous effects of the sun.

11. Cooling Gel Sheets

Cooling gel sheets aren’t often mentioned in summer essentials lists, but they are an absolutely lifesaver in the scorching heat! These cooling pads are usually used for fevers, headaches, and toothaches, but you can use them to beat the summer heat too. You can buy cooling gel sheets like Koolfever or Bye Bye Fever in health and beauty stores or drug stores nationwide. Once you apply them, you’ll feel an instant cooling sensation!

Enjoy Fun, Sunny Days with Summer Must-Haves

With these essential summer items in tow, you're ready to make the most of the sunny days ahead. From sun protection to eco-friendly items, and comfortable footwear, these essentials ensure you're prepared for whatever summer has in store.

So, grab your sunglasses, slather on some sunscreen, and slip on a pair of Archies because summer is calling! Whether you're lounging by the pool, hitting the hiking trails, or enjoying a picnic in the park, having these summer essentials on hand ensures you can make the most of every moment. Get ready to soak up the sun and create unforgettable memories this summer!