In a perfect world, a getaway to the cottage wouldn’t require more than a cooler, a pair of flip-flops, and a good book, but our frantic Friday packing sprints beg to differ. With opening weekend on the horizon, we’ve got even more than usual to pack for that first spring weekend at the lake.
A spacious vehicle, like the all-new, rugged and bold Hyundai SANTA FE midsize SUV, will help with transporting your opening weekend essentials. But you’ll also want to create strategic packing lists, employ organizing hacks, and carefully arrange everything for the long drive to cottage country.
Here are seven tips for packing like a pro this cottage season.
Get started early
“Never pack at the last minute as you will always forget something,” says professional organizer Michele Delory, adding that it might be challenging to buy certain items in a rural or remote area. Even though you’re only going to be away for a short while, you’ll want to start planning and packing at least a few days in advance.
Having most of your bags packed earlier will also give you a chance to see in advance how much stuff you have, and how it will all fit in the car. The redesigned 2024 Santa Fe, for example, features multiple seat configurations and more cargo capacity than ever, so it might just be a matter of pre-arranging the seats in a way that will best fit your bags.
Check the forecast, and your plans
You want to “ensure you’re bringing weather appropriate clothing as well as suitable activities,” says Helen Youn, a Master KonMari consultant. “If it’s going to rain all weekend, do you still need to bring water toys? Or should you pack some board games for entertainment instead?”
Youn also suggests taking some time before you start packing to envision your ideal weekend trip. “What activities will you be doing? How will you be spending your time? What are you wearing?” she says. This will help you clarify and refine your packing list.
Make some lists, and check them twice
“Before packing, create a comprehensive checklist of items you’ll need based on the length of your stay, activities, weather, and any meals you intend to cook,” says professional organizer Marie Potter. “Checklists are the key to a successful packing experience.” You don’t want to overpack and clutter up your car with unnecessary items.
Youn suggests creating one list for shared items such as sunscreen and bug spray, and separate lists for each member of the family that you are packing for. “Think about your day from start to finish, and jot down all of your must-haves such as basic toiletries and any medication you take,” says Youn. “If you’re bringing any electronics like your phone and Bluetooth speakers, make sure you bring their chargers as well.”
Remember the opening weekend essentials
To open up the cottage for the year, you’ll need to bring some essential items for cleaning and basic maintenance, advises Youn. “This includes new furnace air filters, batteries for the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, tools for basic repairs and maintenance, cleaning supplies, and emergency supplies.”
Do some meal planning
Potter suggests planning meals in advance using a meal planner (many free versions are available online). “Prepare and freeze main courses to ease meal prep and use them as ice packs on the drive to the cottage,” she says. “And always have the arrival meal prepared ahead.”
To save space in the car, she also recommends getting rid of any bulky packaging, and packing portions in smaller containers or resealable bags. Pack spices, pantry staples and what you really need for the first weekend, and you can always buy fresh produce at farms along the way.
Keep key items for the drive close at hand
For the drive to the cottage, especially if you have kids, you’ll want to have items they’ll want for the ride close at hand. The all-new Hyundai SANTA FE comfortably seats up to seven passengers and comes with a dual-hinged centre console, which can be opened from the front row and the middle row, and features like dual charging pads and a built-in UV-C sterilizer mean that you won’t have to pack as many cords or wipes for the drive.
To keep other in-car must-haves organized, Delory suggests using a hanging shoe organizer or shower caddie to store small items like toys, sunscreen, and snacks for the kids.
Leave room for comfort
As tempting as it may be to cram as much as possible into your vehicle, Delory advises leaving a bit of room to ensure a comfortable drive. “The most important thing is to bring less so that you can spend less time packing the car and have more comfort for the family,” she says. “A roof rack is great for storing beach chairs and umbrellas, or any outdoor items you plan to use.”
The latest SANTA FE comes with a standard bridge-type roof rack, and you can also get a hidden C-pillar assist handle to make it easier to load and unload items from the roof.
Learn more about the all-new, completely reborn Hyundai SANTA FE at hyundaicanada.com.