A summer vacation should be easy. That's the goal, right? You book a beautiful vacation rental, head out with your bags, and spend a few days (or a week) relaxing, swimming, cooking, exploring, or doing absolutely nothing.
But that only happens if you pack smart. Because while most vacation rentals have the basics, they don't always have everything. And no one wants to run to the store because they forgot dish soap or a bottle opener. Here's a packing list for your vacation rental stay, with plenty of real-life context to make it more than just a checklist.
1. Clothing That Fits the Location
Start with the weather forecast. Then double-check what kind of outdoor space your vacation rental home has. Got a fire pit or a grill? You'll want a hoodie and sneakers, even if it's mostly hot out. Planning to spend a lot of time by the water? Flip-flops, swimsuits, beach towels, cover-ups, and a few dry outfits are must-haves.
People always forget a windbreaker or something for cooler nights. Bring one. Also, pack enough underwear. No one likes doing laundry on day three because they only brought two pairs. If there's a washer/dryer in the rental house, great, but don't count on it.
Also, think about footwear beyond flip-flops. Maybe sandals for town, sneakers for hiking, and something easy to slip on and off indoors. It's a small thing that makes a big difference, especially if you're in and out a lot.
2. Toiletries (And Then Some)
Yes, your vacation home probably has toilet paper. But not enough for your group for five days. So pack extra toilet paper, especially if you're staying more than a weekend.
As for all the essential toiletries, think toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, sunscreen, razor, face wash, moisturizer, deodorant, and whatever else you use daily. Oh, and bug spray. You may not think you'll need it, but summer bugs have their own plans.
If you're traveling with kids, pack a small first aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and allergy meds. A headache on day one is a great way to ruin your vacation rental experience. Add in a few extras like aloe vera for sunburns or nail clippers and cotton pads, stuff you won't miss until it's too late. Travel-sized bottles help you save space without skimping.
3. Kitchen Supplies They Might Not Include
This one depends. Some vacation rental homes are stocked like a real kitchen; others… not so much. It's not that they're lacking intentionally—some hosts just keep it super simple. Either way, bring a few cooking essentials to make life easier.
Salt, pepper, and olive oil are always good to have. You might also want to bring foil, resealable bags, paper towels, and maybe your favorite coffee or tea. Yes, the rental may have a coffee maker, but it might be one of those tiny ones with weird pods. If you're picky, plan ahead.
And don't forget dish soap, a sponge, and dishwasher tablets if your spot has a dishwasher. You'll be glad you did. These fall under basic vacation rental supplies, but not every property includes them.
4. Gear for Outdoor Adventures
Planning to hit the beach? Beach towels are a must. Some rentals provide them, but many don't. Same goes for beach chairs—if you've got the space in the car, bring them. A cooler and an umbrella can also be clutch for longer beach days.
If you're staying near hiking trails or lakes, pack accordingly: hiking shoes, water bottles, a backpack, and sun protection. If the rental property has hot tubs, don't forget extra swimsuits so you're not putting on a damp one every night.
For any outdoor space, consider how you want to use it. S'mores kit? Wine and a corkscrew? Card games? Bluetooth speaker? These small extras go a long way. It's also worth tossing in a picnic blanket or foldable cooler for spontaneous beach or mountain outings. They barely take up room, but come in handy.
5. Entertainment for Slow Days
Even if you're planning nonstop activities, you'll have downtime. Bring books, puzzles, games, or download a couple of movies in case the Wi-Fi's spotty. If the place has a TV, don't assume it has streaming services logged in (bring your own login info).
Families with kids: coloring books, toys, and some easy crafts can save the day if it rains or plans change. A simple ball or Frisbee goes a long way, especially if your vacation rental has a backyard.
And if you're traveling with teens or a mixed-age group, having a mix of analog and digital entertainment really helps. A few packs of cards, a Bluetooth speaker, and maybe even a travel board game or two can fill a quiet afternoon or a rainy evening with laughter.
6. Laundry and Cleaning Basics
We've mentioned a washer/dryer, but even if you're not doing laundry, a few things help keep the place tidy, especially for longer stays. Bring a laundry bag or even just a trash bag for dirty clothes. Throw in some stain remover wipes, just in case.
Also handy: paper towels, wipes, and a small cleaning spray. Not to do chores, but to clean up inevitable spills. If you're cooking a lot, extras like foil or zip bags will help you store leftovers. More often than not, these aren't included in your vacation rental supplies.
And honestly? A small dustpan might come in handy, especially if you're staying near the beach or hiking trails. Sand and dirt find their way in, no matter how careful you are.
7. Tech and Chargers
You'll want your phone chargers. Maybe a portable charger too. If you work remotely or need to take a call, pack your laptop and charger, and maybe a portable Wi-Fi hotspot if the place looks remote. Headphones are a good idea, especially in shared spaces. And if you're the designated DJ or movie person, a Bluetooth speaker or HDMI cable might come in handy.
Also, think about backup power. If you're going off the grid or somewhere more rural, a portable power bank could be your best friend. And if you're planning to snap a lot of photos, don't forget memory cards or your camera charger. Finally, bring a multi-port adapter if you've got a group. Outlets always seem to run out faster than expected.
8. Documents, Keys, and Plans
Keep a folder (physical or digital) with your rental info—address, access codes, emergency contact. If there's no cell service where you're going, screenshot everything. Have backup plans. If it rains, what will you do? If the grill doesn't work, can you cook inside? A little thinking ahead can save you hassle later during your week vacation.
Also helpful: printed directions or offline maps. Not everywhere has great GPS reception, especially in the mountains or rural areas. And knowing where the nearest grocery store or pharmacy is? That's useful, too. Bonus tip: check if any local spots require reservations or tickets in advance. You don't want to miss out just because you didn't know.
9. Snacks, Drinks, and Groceries
You can shop when you get there, sure. But a few snacks and drinks for the road (or to have on arrival) go a long way. Bring what you know you'll want right away: granola bars, fruit, water bottles, maybe a cold brew or two.
Check if your vacation rental has pantry basics. If not, bring a few. If you're staying a full week vacation, you'll want a stocked fridge. Just don't forget cooler bags if it's a long drive.
Bringing a few fun or comfort items, like your favorite spice mix, hot sauce, or coffee creamer, can make meals more enjoyable. It's the little things that turn "just a rental" into "this feels like home."
10. A Few Personal Touches
This isn't essential, but it makes a difference: your own pillow, a cozy throw blanket, your favorite mug. These small things make a vacation rental stay feel more like home.
And if you're traveling with others, bring something fun to share. Maybe a bottle of wine, a board game, or a few printed photos to leave behind. Hosts love guests who leave a little personality. Photos or notes from previous vacations, your go-to travel playlist, or even your go-to vacation hoodie? Toss it in. Nostalgia goes a long way in new places.
Make Your Summer Stay Smooth
Packing well doesn't mean overpacking. It means thinking ahead and making sure your vacation rental home feels comfortable from day one. Most vacation rentals give you the basics. But for the full experience? You'll want a bit more.
Keep this list handy and tailor it to your crew. And when you're ready to find your next vacation rental, skip the OTAs and book directly on Houfy. Because a comfortable stay starts with a great place and hosts who actually care.
