15 Packing Essentails for a Summer Maine Vacation

As a travel writer, I’m often asked by friends and family for vacation-planning advice. I’ve helped plan everything from low-key European beach trips to quick weekend getaways from NYC. But since I grew up in a stunning summertime destination along the East Coast, no question comes up more frequently than: What do I pack for Maine?

When visiting my home state, it can be tricky to know how to pack. You plan the trip dreaming of sunny days on the coast, but the area can also get rainy days and chilly nights even during the summer—so you have to pack plenty of options when it comes to your travel wardrobe. Here are the go-to items that I always put in my suitcase for summer trips to Maine.

Best Maine Vacation Essentials Overall

Quince 100% Organic Cotton Fisherman Crew Sweater

Maine’s summertime weather is pretty idyllic. Never really reaching above the low-80s, it’s warm enough to hit the beach while remaining temperate. But that also means it can get a bit chilly when the sun goes down, so I always travel with at least one hearty sweater like this fisherman-style version from Quince. You’ll likely get some wear out of it on at least one evening spent outside—but even if you just throw it over your shoulders to create a coastal chic outfit, it’s worth the extra suitcase space.

Everlane Must-Have Shirt in Linen

I love all styles of Everlane’s must-have shirt, but I reach for the linen version when I go to Maine. It’s lightweight and breathable for humid days, while also offering some sun protection if you wear it as a beach cover-up. I also love how the traditional piece leans into Maine’s coastal aesthetic and it’s the perfect staple to have on hand to combat Maine’s unpredictable weather.

L.L. Bean Boat and Tote

L.L. Bean’s iconic boat and tote is really having a moment, but this classic wardrobe staple has always been a Mainer’s go-to bag for summertime adventures. Throw the medium-sized bag in the backseat and load it up with corn and the season’s best tiny blueberries during impromptu stops at roadside farm stands, or grab a small version for a cute purse. I also like the extra-large size because it has plenty of room for towels, sunscreen, and other beach day essentials for your entire crew.

Sea Bags Lobster Claw Wristlet

On a trip to Maine, you’ve gotta lean into all things lobster. This cute wristlet is a subtle way to honor the state’s famed crustacean. The bag is made by a Maine-born company that creates bags, home decor, and more out of recycled sails from local boats, so it’s a rugged and beautiful option for storing small essentials in your beach bag or carry-on.

Birkenstock Arizona EVA Essentials

Whether I’m wandering along the rocky coast or picking peak-season strawberries in a field that may be a little muddy, I’m wearing my Birkenstocks. Since my favorite pair is made with ethylene vinyl acetate, a rubber-like material that’s both waterproof and durable, they can take you through any Maine adventure you may have planned—and they’re easy to clean, whether you cover them in sand, soil, or sauces from your summertime barbecue.

Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T Pullover Fleece

Between mountains, thousands of miles of rugged coastline, and the beloved Acadia National Park, a trip to Maine isn’t complete without some adventurous outdoor activities. For those moments, I bring along a sportier warm layer. This pullover Patagonia fleece is lightweight enough to roll up in your suitcase (or act as a makeshift in-flight pillow) and will keep you warm if it cools down while you’re out on the hiking trail or open ocean.

Athleta Utility Rain Jacket

In Maine, you never know when a little summer shower will hit. That’s why it’s paramount to pack a waterproof jacket. I like this version from Athleta because it’s stylish enough that even if you never see a raindrop on your vacation (fingers crossed!), you may still want to wear it to dinner or on a morning coffee run when it’s still crisp and dew coats the grass.

Yeti Sidekick Dry Bag

Kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, and even surfing are all on the summertime agenda in Maine. So no matter how you plan to get out on the water, you need a bag that ensures your belongings are safe from water damage. This Yeti sidekick bag comes in multiple sizes, so you can take a small bag out on a sunset sail or opt for the larger version to fit snacks, a camera for capturing memories from your trip, and any other items you want to keep dry without worrying about space.

J.Crew Cotton Blend Pajama Set

A classic set of pajamas, like this short-sleeve set from J.Crew, is perfect for summer nights in Maine. The preppy style is totally on trend in this coastal destination, and the crisp cotton blend will provide just enough warmth to get you through the night.

Straw Lantern Hat

When I’m in Maine, I love nothing more than spending the day on the beach. But even though the temperature isn’t overwhelming, the sun is still strong enough to require some extra protection. That’s where this straw lantern hat from Madewell comes in. Its small brim protects you from the sun, but you can also wear it while shopping in charming beach towns or grabbing lunch from a waterfront seafood restaurant.

Quince 100% European Linen Skort

I’ve been living in this linen-blend skort from Gap all summer long, especially on a recent trip to my home state. With built-in shorts, you can easily take this piece from a long walk along the rocky coast to a late-afternoon stop for ice cream. Although the skirt I love is sold out, I found this similar one at Quince that also offers a light linen material will keep you cool when temperatures heat up and the humidity rolls in.

The Sidestroke Bathing Suit

Summersalt’s line of quick-drying swimwear will keep you comfortable and dry all summer. The suits are also made with fabric that offers SPF 50 UV protection so you don’t have to worry about a burn that will ruin your trip. And the faster dry times mean you can seamlessly transition from taking a dip in the lake or playing in the crashing waves to sitting down for a Maine lobster roll.

Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent

Maine has the ideal humid summer climate for mosquitoes. These pesky bugs love to hang out along the state’s lakes, ponds, and rivers—unfortunately, that’s where you’ll also want to spend time on your trip. So be sure to pack a trusted bug spray like this editor-tested version from Sawyer Products. It contains 20 percent picaridin, a powerful insect repellent that will make nights around the campfire much more enjoyable.

La Roche-Posay Tinted Sunscreen

You never know when your summertime plans in Maine will take you outside. That’s why I like to keep my makeup routine simple and start every day by putting on this lightweight tinted sunscreen from La Roche-Posay. This SPF 50 sunscreen protects you from the sun without leaving a white cast. Plus, the gentle tint provides light coverage for an effortless summer glow with a matte finish.

Polarized Acetate Sunglasses

Designed to reduce glare when looking out onto reflective surfaces like the water, polarized sunglasses are a must-have for any trip to Maine. Views from an iconic lighthouse or the top of Cadillac Mountain (the first place in the country to see the sun rise, by the way) will be that much more beautiful with the help of a quality pair of sunnies.

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