Trips to the lake offer family-friendly adventures filled with days of boating and sitting around the campfire. When packing for a lake trip, try to keep images of lounging in a sun-filled canoe at bay. You’ll need all the focus you can muster when packing so you don’t forget anything. If you’re taking your car to the lake, pack as many bags as you need. It’s better to bring everything you want rather than leave some things behind. At the same time, don’t fret too much about your list. You can buy most forgotten items at a local store.

STEP 1
Pack both cool and hot weather clothes, no matter what season you’re headed to the lake. Even during the summer, lake temperatures sometimes cool during the evening. Warm clothes help you stay toasty on chilly nights.

STEP 2
Take shoes appropriate for all the activities you’re planning. Sneakers, flip flops and hiking boots will be useful. Also pack socks.

STEP 3
Check with the cabin’s management to see what kitchen supplies they stock, if applicable. A knife sharpener may come in handy, as well as containers for leftovers, paper towels, coffee filters and a sponge. Also consider bringing a colander and a basket for packing picnics.

STEP 4
Bring first-aid supplies to fix minor injuries from boating accidents or wayward twigs from the surrounding forest. Bandages, cotton balls, rubbing alcohol and pain medication make good additions.

STEP 5
Pack toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner shaving cream, razors, toothbrush, toothpaste and any other personal care item you want while on vacation. Wrap any items that may leak in a sealable plastic bag.

STEP 6
Bring things to fill your down time, such as books, musical instruments, playing cards and CDs.

STEP 7
Remember miscellaneous items, such as batteries, bug repellant, your fishing pole and any related supplies.

STEP 8
Make a list of all the items you want to bring. Cross each item off as you pack it to decrease the likelihood that you forget something.

STEP 9
Line the bottom of your suitcase with shoes and other heavy items. Wrap the shoes in plastic bags to avoid getting your clothes dirty.

STEP 10
Fold clothes and place them over your shoes. Fill the smaller compartments of your suitcase with underwear and other delicate items.

STEP 11
Wrap toiletries, such as shampoo, in plastic bags so they don’t leak. Place the plastic bag in your suitcase on top of the clothes.

STEP 12
Pack kitchen items and other lifestyle gear in a separate bag.