When it comes to making plans for the perfect vacation, there’s nothing more stressful than figuring out what to pack. This can be especially true for long, extended stays at a cabin rental in Minnesota. It’s important to pack items that will actually be useful throughout your stay, so you’ll need to keep in mind the time of year you’ll be heading out. You won’t be packing your swimsuit if you’re going to the cabin for your family Christmas, after all! If you’re struggling with deciding what to pack, have no fear—we’ve put together the ultimate cabin vacation packing list, complete with the essentials for each season.
Packing for the Seasons
Going on vacation isn’t all fun and games—at least, not quite. Packing up your bags and heading off to the cabin requires some strategic planning. Each season brings different weather conditions, and you’ll want to be prepared for any bad weather that may come your way. Depending on the time of year you choose to vacation, you’ll need different types of clothing. If you can get away with stuffing more than necessary into your suitcase, do it—it’s usually better to be over prepared. But if you’re limited to the essentials, choose multipurpose items and clothing that can be layered to keep you ready to tackle any adventure.
Spring
Springtime brings beautiful, blooming flowers and fresh green landscapes that make for a wonderful time to head out to the cabin and escape the aftermath of the grueling cold Minnesota winters bring. During this time, be sure to pack rain gear. Melting snow creates muddy terrain, so waterproof boots would be a good option. The temperatures can be fairly changeable during the spring, as well, so pack a light jacket along with a few layers in case temperatures drop.
Summer
Some of the best fishing occurs in the early summer, as fish haven’t navigated to deeper water quite yet. Don’t forget to break out your fishing pole to take advantage of these lazy, warm days. But pack hats and sunscreen as well, because this time of year gets hot! Speaking of heat, don’t forget your favorite swimsuit to wear out on the boat or while building sandcastles with your kids on the beach. Consider packing a completely separate bag filled with your beach gear, such as shovel and pail, umbrella, and towels. When it’s time to head down to the water, you’ll have everything in one convenient place!
The summer is also a great time to go berry picking and hiking. Bring your favorite hiking boots or shoes and plenty of warm weather clothing like sweat-wicking shorts and shirts. Consider bringing along bug spray or a light long sleeve shirt to ward off insects. Lastly, pack a couple of reusable water bottles—hydration is key in warm weather, whether you’re out on the trail or splashing around in the lake.
Fall
Like spring, autumn brings chilly—but changeable—temperatures, so make sure you have a light jacket and plenty of layers that you can put on or take off according to the weather. This is the best time of year to catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis, so pack extra blankets to lay down on the ground at night when the sky is clear. During the daytime, bring out that trusty fishing pole to take advantage of this season when the fish start to fatten up for the winter.
Winter
Winter, of course, is the coldest time of the year. But that just makes a cabin vacation that much more charming and idyllic. Check the predicted temperatures before heading to the cabin, and pack plenty of hats, gloves, and warm sweaters to wear under your winter coat. Don’t forget about those snow boots and cozy socks, either! During the winter, you won’t likely be spending too much time outside at night when the sun goes down, so be sure to pack a few board games to play with your family and friends as you enjoy your cozy cabin.
Extras
Of course, remembering to pack the right clothes for the right season is crucial, but there are several other amenities that you should double check are in your bag before heading out.
Other items to pack:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Towels and washcloths
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Extra blankets
- Groceries and snacks for your stay
- Books, cards, games, or other entertainment
- Phone and computer chargers
- Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
- Any other personal items you may need
Pack Your Bags for Birch Forest Lodge
Once you’ve got your packing list figured out, it’s time to find your perfect cabin. Look no further! Nestled on over a thousand feet of gorgeous lakeshore, Birch Forest Lodge has twelve newly-renovated cabins of all different sizes to accommodate family and friends. Put on your swimsuits and head to the beach, or lace up those hiking boots and become one with nature. Whatever you choose to do on your vacation, make it one to remember. Contact us today to reserve your cabin and start making some memories!