My Spring Break Essentials
What I packed for our recent getaway to Watercolor, Florida.
We just got back from a week in WaterColor, Florida…one of our favorite places to escape Chicago at the tail end of winter. I’ll link a post below that explains why we love going there so much, because it truly is a special spot for families.
While we were there, my DMs were full of questions about what I packed—sandals, hats, beach bags, luggage, all of it. And since spring break is on the mind for many of you right now, I thought it would be fun to round up some of the things we brought and loved.
Rory’s spring break is next week, and Ellis’s is two weeks after that (the joys of kids in different school systems), so I’ve got spring break on the mind.
Here are some of our favorites from the trip.
Travel & Packing Favorites
Away Suitcases
We’ve been longtime Away fans and have a few of their smaller carry-ons. Durable, simple, and the compartments make it easy to stay organized.
Large Checked Suitcases (Finn’s Research Pick)
Finn went deep on luggage research (as he does) and found these larger checked suitcases that we’ve been really happy with. They’re sturdy, roll smoothly, and have lots of smart compartments that make packing for a longer trip easier.
Bright Luggage Tags
Every suitcase looks the same these days, so I bought bright luggage tags with a big “F” and our contact information. My old ones attached like a belt and would fall off constantly. These are much more secure and much easier to spot at baggage claim.
Packing Cubes
OMG, how did I ever pack before these things? We ended up getting four different sets in four different colors. That way, everyone in the fam has their own when traveling. We used to just buy cheap ones from Amazon, but after too many broken zippers, we decided to get these.
Lo & Sons Backpack
This has become my go-to travel bag. I used a Lo & Sons shoulder bag for almost a decade and loved it, but switching to a backpack with kids is a game-changer. It holds my laptop, water bottle, snacks, and all the random things that accumulate when traveling with kids. Yes, it’s a bit of a splurge, but it’s one of those items you’ll use forever.
Owala Water Bottles
We always travel with our own water bottles. I’ve learned that if I don’t have one nearby, I somehow forget to drink water all day because I have to go find a cup somewhere. We’re big Owala fans in our house. Rory and Ellis use the smaller sizes, and Finn and I have the larger ones. We bring them on the airplane, to the beach, everywhere.
Beach & Vacation Essentials
STATE Waterproof Beach/Pool Bag
This bag is so good. It’s completely waterproof (which is ideal for the beach and pool), but it also looks really chic compared to most beach bags. It easily holds towels, sunscreen, snacks, and all the random kid items you inevitably end up carrying. Use code DIYPLAYBOOK15 for 15% off.
Packable Sun Hat
I’ve had this hat for years, and it’s one of my travel MVPs. It packs easily without getting crushed and still looks great when you pull it out of your suitcase.
Summersalt Swimsuits
I love Summersalt because they offer long-torso sizing, which can be hard to find. The suits are flattering, supportive, and hold up really well after lots of swimming. Use code DIYPLAYBOOK10 for $10 off.
Quince Two-Piece
Mama got a little wild this year and packed a two-piece from Quince. These bottoms and this top. Super cute and great quality for the price.
Quince Sandals
These were brand new, and I took a bit of a risk bringing them on a trip without breaking them in first. Thankfully, they ended up being incredibly comfortable. I basically wore them nonstop.
AirTags + Wristbands for the Kids
Our kids were running around constantly, so we had them wear AirTags in little wristbands. They call them their “watch,” and it gave us a little extra peace of mind.
Supergoop Sunscreen Stick
Our go-to for the kids’ faces. The clear stick makes it really easy to reapply sunscreen throughout the day. Use code DIYPLAYBOOK10 for 10% off.
Appaman Kids Swimsuits
We love this brand for kids’ swimwear. Rory wore a long-sleeve suit almost every day, which honestly saves so much sunscreen and protects her fair skin.
What I Wore on Repeat
Dudley Stephens Button-Down
This ended up being one of the pieces I wore the most on the trip. It’s made of nylon and spandex, so it’s not your typical stiff button-down. It’s super lightweight and comfortable.
I sized up to a large and mostly wore it as a swimsuit cover-up. It’s the perfect throw-on piece for walking to the beach or grabbing lunch after swimming. I basically lived in it all week.
Rag & Bone Faux Jeans
These were the only jeans I packed for the entire trip. They look like denim but feel much more comfortable, which makes them perfect for travel days.
Flowy Drawstring Pants
These were such a win. They’re those easy cotton drawstring pants that somehow feel casual but still look elegant and put together. Perfect for beach towns where you want to look polished without trying too hard.
Belt Bag
This is basically my vacation purse. When we’re traveling with kids, I like to be completely hands-free, so this holds just the essentials—phone, sunglasses, and a credit card.
A Few Other Favorites
Merit Tinted SPF
I always wear sunscreen, but if I’m putting on a little makeup during the day, I’ll add this too. It gives my skin an even tone while still feeling lightweight, and it has SPF in it.
Kindle
I always bring my Kindle and load it up with a few books before we leave. It’s perfect for reading by the pool or on the beach. While away, I finished Theo of Golden and oh my gosh, I loved it! I posted about it while we were there and heard from so many of you who also read it and adored it.
It’s heartwarming, inspiring, and one of those stories that just makes you believe in humanity again. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a great spring break read.
TOMS Slip-On Sneakers
These arrived right after we got back from the trip, so I didn’t bring them, but they’re so good I had to include them. Super comfortable slip-on sneakers that are easy to throw on with jeans or shorts. I grabbed the leopard because it felt fun and a little different.
Heeled Mules
Another new favorite. If you’re heading somewhere where you might wear sundresses to dinner, these are perfect. Easy to slip on, comfortable, and just dressy enough.
If you’re heading somewhere warm soon, I’d love to know:
What’s one thing you always pack for spring break?
I’m always looking for new travel favorites.
An always-in-the-bag item for any warm destinations or summer days: a hand fan! It’s usually small enough to fit in any purse and I’ve never said no to a little breeze. I stick to the foldable ones because I never want to worry about batteries or charges.