A Cottage Vacation Checklist

By Author: Mark Cottager
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Taking a vacation anywhere can be tedious at times, especially when it comes to packing. Once you have decided that you are going to be staying in a cottage during your vacation you will want to be sure and plan a list of essential items and necessities to bring on the trip with you. Many cottages have most of the comforts of home and are equipped with all of the amenities and essentials needed for your stay. However, there are always going to be some personal items that you want to have on hand as well as other items that the cottage may not provide. For instance, if you are going to be bringing the children on this fun-filled trip, then you will definitely need a separate checklist for them and yourself. Here is a list of items that you may want to consider bringing.

For the children

It is almost always certain that children are going to need extra clothing while on vacation. They have a tendency to get dirty and can be picky about what they put on. You will need to be sure that they have an extra pair of almost everything that they wear like extra pants, underwear, socks, sweaters, shirts, shoes and pajamas. ...
... You should also pack them a nice outfit in case you are going be dining out anywhere. If you have girls, be sure to bring them other extras like stockings, fancy shoes and stuff for their hair. If you are going during the summer season, bring their favorite swimsuit, beach towel and sand toys for playing in the sand. If you have younger children be sure and bring an umbrella stroller for walks, a playpen and other items to keep them busy. If you have a toddler or baby, do not forget the essentials such as diapers, wipes, rash cream, bottles, toys, baby food, formula and bibs.

Since children also have a tendency to become bored very easily, you can solve that problem by bringing along a deck of cards, portable board games, puzzles and coloring books. Portable game systems can also be good for entertainment. Bring along extra snacks and drinks that are high in nutrition and can keep them from becoming dehydrated, things like Gatorade, energy bars, cut up fruit and veggies, and plenty of bottled water.

For adults

Of course, you will need to bring all of the normal essentials that are vital to any vacation like clothes, shoes and bath products but there are always some additional items that you might want to include. Some light entertainment for yourself is always good, like a few of your favorite tunes with a portable CD or mp3 player, magazines and books, a journal to write things about the trip, a still or video camera, extra film, some of your favorite flavored teas and coffee, a cozy blanket, slippers and a robe. If it’s the summer season be sure and pack other items like sunglasses, a sun hat, thongs, swim suit, beach blanket, sun screen and aloe vera in case you get sunburn easily.

First aid items

This is a vital part of any vacation packing list. You should always include different types of first aid in your bag, especially when you have children coming along. The possibility of someone being injured on the trip is slim but it is always better to be safe than sorry. Your first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic such as rubbing alcohol or peroxide, gauze, medical tape, antibiotic cream (polysporin) and splints. Be sure to include pain medication such as aspirin or Tylenol, cold remedies, muscle rubs and any prescription drugs that you are taking. Vitamins are also great for children and adults and can help you to maintain your energy while on your trip. For special threats in specific areas, like rattlesnakes in the desert, take the appropriate snakebite kit or other item.

Once you have reached the bottom of the checklist, you should go back through to make sure that you did not miss anything. It is always best to place a check mark next to each item that you have packed. A checklist is always the best way to be certain that you are not leaving any important items behind. If you follow this procedure each time you pack then you are sure to have a successful, peaceful and fulfilling cottage vacation.
About Author:
CottageCountry.com is the premier online destination for people looking to enjoy the great lifestyle of Cottage Country. With many cottage rentals available you’re sure to find the one you are looking for. Listings include Muskoka cottages, Stony Lake Cottages, Kawartha Highlands Cottages to name a few. Visit us online today and you will know you have come to the right place.