Source: aanbetta/Shutterstock.com As summer approaches, it's time to plan your long-awaited vacation and pack your bags for a well-deserved break! Whether you're heading to the beach, exploring a new city or embarking on an adventure in nature, having the right essentials is key to ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable trip. From durable functional jewelry to first aid, here’s a list of essentials you should pack for your summer vacation! 1. Items to keep you safe from the sun’s harmful rays. Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is crucial during summer vacations. To reduce your risk of skin cancer or harmful sunburns, pack a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, along with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and lightweight, breathable clothing. 2. Swimwear to lounge in, either poolside or on the beach. You can’t have a summer vacation without at least a little time in the water! Whether you prefer a bikini, one-piece or swim trunks, pack your favorite swimwear before heading off this season. A stylish cover-up will come in handy when you're walking around the resort or grabbing a bite to eat. If cover-ups aren’t your thing, then a loose-fitting t-shirt and shorts are ideal. The best part? They’re ideal for all genders! 3. Clothing you can breathe in. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen to stay cool and comfortable in the summer heat. Pack a variety of shorts, dresses, t-shirts and tank tops that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Our selection of silicone rings go great with all clothing styles. No matter what you’re wearing, a piece from QALO will complement everything you bring with you on vacation. Source: BublikHaus/Shutterstock.com 4. Shoes for every occasion. Explore your destination with ease by packing comfortable footwear. Flip-flops or sandals are ideal for the beach, while a pair of sneakers or hiking shoes are the perfect workout accessory for outdoor activities or city exploration. And for those more formal nights or evenings you go out for a fun party? Remember to pack a pair of dressier shoes for any formal occasions that may arise. Make sure you break in any new shoes before your trip. There’s nothing worse than trying to navigate an unfamiliar area in shoes that have given you blisters or haven’t been broken in. 5. Toiletries you can take with you everywhere. Minimize the hassle of packing by investing in travel-sized toiletries. Opt for compact versions of your favorite shampoo, conditioner, body wash and skincare products. Don't forget essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste and any necessary medications. It’s important to opt for travel-sized items because you should always bring your toiletries with you on your carry-on in case you get stuck at the airport or your checked luggage gets lost. Many airlines have specific rules about what you can and cannot bring on your carry-on, so consider getting yourself travel-sized items so you can travel with ease. This includes things like contact lens solution, floss and even lotion or body spray. Workout In Style: Shop Our Silicone Rings 6. Something to do while you wait. To make those long flights or road trips more enjoyable, bring along some entertainment options. Pack your favorite books or download movies, TV shows or podcasts onto your phone to listen to even when you don’t have cell service. Don't forget to bring headphones, chargers and power banks to keep your devices running. A travel adapter is a good investment so you can ensure that your devices will get charged no matter where you are in the world. Source: Alliance Images/Shutterstock.com 7. A first aid kit for accidents. Be prepared for minor emergencies by packing a travel-sized first aid kit. Include band-aids, antiseptic ointment, pain relievers, motion sickness medication, insect repellent and any other medications you might need. If you’re traveling by road, you might be able to just bring along full-sized items, but air and sea travel might require you to bring smaller versions of these items. 8. A water bottle you can fill up. Stay hydrated throughout your summer adventures by carrying a reusable water bottle. It's not only eco-friendly but also saves you money and ensures you have access to clean drinking water wherever you go. Look for a bottle that is easy to refill and leak-proof. Stainless steel water bottles are great investments. You can bring a reusable water bottle with you on a plane, but you should make sure it’s empty before you go through security. Then, once you’re through, you can easily fill it up at a refill station! Packing the right essentials can make all the difference in having a fun summer vacation. Make a checklist, tick off each item as you pack it and get ready for an unforgettable summer getaway!