Wild and Sweet

Let’s face it: Moms are expected to have it all, do it all, and be prepared at all times so everyone else in the family can coast by, right?? Especially in Summer!!

Most of the (school) year, I like to use small bags. I absolutely love the packing challenge of my Coach Nolita 19 or wristlet… only the essentials can fit. I can also throw it in a bigger tote when we go to activities like karate and I need to bring more items such as a tablet or book.

Even though my boys are 6 and 8 and well past the need of a diaper bag, in the Summer we are out and about most days and I find I need to carry more when they’re around (of course!). Even if we don’t head to the movies (and sneak in a few snacks) I do carry one granola bar for each of them and sometimes I’ll throw in a juice box or mini water bottle. I find that this can avoid meltdowns and help us stay where we are longer (and avoid buying pricey snacks when on location).

I absolutely have more needs in the Summer as well. I like to have my sunglasses, tiny umbrella, and SPF handy. Sometimes I’ll even squeeze in my hat!! My typical crossbody purse just isn’t big enough for this season.

All of this to say, in the Summer my main purse is a small backpack. Perfect for long walks, playdates, the park, museums, the movies, day trips, and basically all of our adventures. This one from Amazon is great because it’s water resistant and the beige goes with all my Summer outfits.

If you prefer a leather backpack, I like the brand Fossil. Their products are super durable, have just enough pockets, and can be affordable when they run a sale. Amazon has a couple of leather options as well, like this one below.

What to bring in your Summer Mom Bag?

• SPF
• lip balm with SPF
• wallet (I love my RFID blocking one)
• cell phone (here is my affordable case)
• hair tie, pen, keys
• one snack per kid
• one small water bottle or Capri Sun per kid. If there will be a sink or water fountain, sometimes I’ll stack two small empty cups in my bag!
• hat for surprise sun exposure
• tiny umbrella
• tylenol and bandaids, other first aid items
• I like bringing a small compact mirror
• small emergency activity, like a mini play-doh
• hairbrush or comb

The backpack option also lets me throw in random things acquired on our adventures. I began carrying one last Summer and it’s been a great thing for our family!! We don’t do tablets out of the home unless its a vacation, but check the bag dimensions if that’s a need for your fam.

What are you guys doing this summer??

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