What to Pack for a Chesapeake Bay Vacation: Complete Checklist

The Property Provides

Before you pack, know what's already at The Bayside Escape:

Full linens, pillows, and comforters for all beds
Towels (bath and hand) for all guests
Complete kitchen (pots, pans, utensils, dishes, glassware)
Two washers and two dryers
Hair dryer in the master bathroom
Coffee maker and waffle iron in the kitchen
Binoculars for wildlife watching
Basic first aid supplies
WiFi and charging cables

Pack light. You don't need to bring towels, linens, or kitchen gear.

Clothing: What to Bring by Season

Essentials & Toiletries

The property has basic first aid and cleaning supplies. You should bring:

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) — Essential. You'll be on the water and decks all day. Bring more than you think you need.
• Medications — Prescription and over-the-counter (ibuprofen, allergy meds, stomach relief)
• Toiletries — Shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, deodorant, any skincare products you prefer
• Bug spray — Especially for spring and early summer. Mosquitoes are real near the water.
• Lip balm with SPF — Sun damage happens fast on reflective water
• Feminine hygiene products — Not always available locally
• Glasses/contacts & case — If needed

Water & Outdoor Gear

The bay is your playground. Bring or rent:

• Swimsuit(s) — 2–3 if you're staying a week (one always in the wash)
• Water shoes — Bay bottom has shells and rocks. Protect your feet.
• Rash guard or swim shirt — Extra sun protection and comfortable for water activities
• Towels for swimming — Separate from bath towels (property provides the latter)
• Waterproof phone case — For shoreline photos and emergencies in the water
• Cooler — For beach and shoreline trips. Optional; you can also use the house fridge.

Kayaks and paddle boards are not provided but can be rented locally. Ask the owner for recommendations.

Crabbing Supplies

You don't need to bring crabbing gear — you can buy or rent it locally. But if you're serious about crabbing:

• Work gloves — Crabs pinch. Bring heavy-duty gloves.
• Bucket or bushel basket — To hold your catch (Rippons Brothers Seafood sells these)
• Sunscreen and lip balm — You'll be outside for hours
• Polarized sunglasses — Better for seeing into the water
• Hat — Essential for time on the shoreline

Crab lines, bait, and nets are available at Rippons Brothers Seafood (5 minutes away) and The General Store. You don't need to pack these.

For Kids

The property has a backyard playset. Bring your own beach toys and sand buckets — we don't stock those. Additional items that help:

• Floaties or swim aids — If your kids need them
• Favorite books or tablets — For downtime
• Snacks they actually like — The rental is in a small community; specialty or allergy-friendly options may be limited
• Insect repellent safe for kids — Especially for dusk outdoor time
• Light rain jacket or poncho — Kids want to play even when it's drizzling
• Change of clothes in the car — Kids get wet constantly

Electronics & Adapters

• Phone chargers and cables
• Laptop (if working remotely)
• Camera or GoPro (optional but great for capturing memories)
• Power bank for long shoreline or boat days
• Headphones or earbuds

The property has reliable WiFi and plenty of outlets. You don't need power adapters (standard US plugs).

Optional Comfort Items

• Favorite pillow from home — Some people can't sleep without it
• Reusable water bottle — Stay hydrated while exploring
• Portable bluetooth speaker — For deck/porch ambiance
• Deck/porch game — Cards, badminton (a cornhole set is already in the barn)
• Journal or notebook — The bay is inspiring

What NOT to Pack

• Beach towels — The property provides plenty
• Kitchen linens or serving utensils — All provided
• Formal clothes — This isn't a dressy destination
• Heavy luggage — You won't need a lot
• Extension cords or power strips — Outlets are plentiful
• Pets (unless explicitly pre-approved)

Packing Strategy

Use a rolling suitcase or backpack. The property has two washers and two dryers, so you can pack 3–4 days of clothes and wash mid-week. This saves luggage space and keeps laundry from piling up.

Rough packing list by person for a week:

• 5–6 t-shirts or casual tops
• 2–3 shorts and 1–2 pairs of pants
• 1–2 light layers (cardigan, lightweight jacket)
• 2 swimsuits
• Underwear and socks (5–6 days)
• Sleepwear
• 2–3 pairs of shoes (sandals, water shoes, sneakers)
• Toiletries and medications
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat

Final Note

Pack light. The Chesapeake Bay is about simplicity and slowing down. You don't need fancy clothes or tons of gear. Comfortable layers, sunscreen, and water shoes will cover 90% of your week. The property is well-equipped, and the local community — though small — can supply most essentials.

If you forget something, ask the owner. Nine times out of ten, they have it or can point you to the nearest store.