TIHWS | This Is How We Summer
Posted by Sophie Palmer | Alabama Outdoors on Jun 17th 2026
Summer is a time for relaxation—a break from the hustle and bustle of school or work life. A season where we can embrace a much-needed vacation. A time to welcome unwinding, the art of taking it easy, and breezy plans that can move as freely as you do.
Whether you are heading to the lake or planning a staycation, How We Summer is for everyone, not just the vacation coordinators.
Picture soft, linen fabrics by the beach. Losing track of how many hours you’ve spent laying out, and the quintessential cooler full of everyone’s favorite drinks and snacks.
So let us help with the hard part of Summer. We’ll take care of the dreaded packing lists, the beach bag essentials, and more, so that you can truly enjoy all that these warmer months have to offer.
What to Pack for Summer Trips
The Theme Park Edit
Whether you’re going to Disney or Universal, these looks will keep you moving through the vast parks. No matter if you’re taking it easy at Magic Kingdom or seeking adrenaline at the Islands of Adventure.
1. The Baggu Standard Small Nylon Crescent Bag
This bag is the ultimate option for the parks. Small yet mighty, all the essentials can fit without slowing you down. A bonus? It moves through security in a breeze, making the start to your day seamless.
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2. The On Cloud 6 (Men’s and Women’s)
Built with comfort in mind, the Cloud 6 is perfect for long days on your feet. A sock liner for easy step-in (and no blisters) with a Cloud Tec® cushioned feel, these are the best shoes for something as demanding as a theme park.
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3. The Rhoback Legacy Classic Hat
Easy on the eyes and easy on the sun, this hat from Rhoback will be your new favorite form of SPF at the parks. Reapplying sunscreen all day is tiring, especially on your scalp and face. But with this classic cap style, you can block the rays and enjoy all that the parks have to offer. This is a stylish option that does all the basic protection while adding a cohesive finish to your outfits.
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4. The FP Movement Women’s Carpe Diem Short
Airy and easy, these shorts will move with you from ride to ride at the parks. Boasting a quick dry feature, these shorts will be able to power any ride-- whether it's a rollercoaster or a log flume. They make the perfect park companion for comfort and movement that stays with you all day.
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The Beach Edit
The beach is the epitome of summer. We often feel its call as the days get hotter, yearning for some scenic views or tan lines. These pieces are perfect for a warm day by the water.
1. The AFTCO Men’s Flex Shorts
A fan favorite for a reason. These shorts make for the ultimate beach option. Built by fishermen, these are sure to stay sturdy—so you can have peace of mind if the waves get a bit choppy. Easy to clean and water-resistant, these will make your day by the shore even better.
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2. The Carve Women’s Fischer Compression Top
Perfect for the beach, this bikini top by Carve combines fashion with functionality to deliver your new favorite swimsuit. The compressing nature of the top ensures that you can do it all-- from tanning to surfing.
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3. Knockaround Mount Evans Sunglasses
These shades from Knockaround scream “cool”. Made for wide and narrow face shapes alike, these sunglasses provide UV400 protection for every summer look. Ideal for the beach, these can be worn when lounging, wading in the water, or playing volleyball with friends.
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4. Dock N Bay Quick Dry Towels
The Dock N Bay Quick Dry Towels are perfect for long beach days—from Bora Bora to 30A. These towels provide a chic striped pattern, quick-drying technology, and a large surface area coverage. Allowing you to summer exactly how you need.
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The Travel Edit
The journey is just as important as the destination—and summer travel is the epitome of that. Laughing with friends on the flight to your destination, getting coffee at the beginning of a road trip with your other half—the little things. All these options will make that journey even sweeter before you get to your final stop.
1. The Vuori Women’s Energy Tee
Made with Vuori’s signature fabric, this soft and buttery top will be your new travel buddy. Perfect for long car rides that demand comfort; this top is both chic and comfy—a combo essential for all types of travel.
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2. The Filson Medium Tin Cloth Duffel Bag
The Filson Medium Tin Cloth Duffel is nothing short of elegance in a bag. Premium leather meets a rustic vibe that will carry you from pit stop to destination. Featuring a removable shoulder strap, this duffel can be carried multiple ways, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
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3. The Rhoback Men’s Everyday Short
These shorts by Rhoback are perfect for long travel days. Easy to move around (or stay still) in, this piece will be your favorite option from the subway to the jet.
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4. The North Face Base Camp Duffel
A more relaxed duffel, the North Face Base Camp bag is spacious and durable, making it a must-have for those long days on the road. With the medium boasting a 71L capacity, this duffel was created for rugged expeditions, and is now a staple for all types of travel.
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Beach Bag Essentials
Nobody wants to lug around an overstuffed beach bag. That’s why we have a few essentials that belong in your bag, but won’t weigh you down as you travel to and from the sandy shores.
1. The YETI Rambler 20oz Tumbler
YETI’s tumblers are a staple for beach days. Keeping your drinks ice-cold and boasting fun colors, their 20-oz tumbler is our #1 pick for beach bag essentials.
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2. The Knockaround Palomas Sunglasses
Oversized and chic, these glasses by Knockaround are a must-have for your beach bag. The polarized lenses and glossy finish make these perfect for blocking rays as you tan.
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3. The Dock N Bay Quick Dry Towels – Signature
Fun, funky colorways meet prime beach day with the Dock N Bay Signature Towels. Soft and absorbent, these large towels will keep you dry and comfy as you make the most of these warm, sunny days!
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4. The Booe Waterproof Phone Case
Finally, the Booe Waterproof Phone Case. We cannot recommend this item enough for days on the water. Wanting to capture that perfect vacation pic in the water? Just bring this case with you for some extra assurance.
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Need more options or essentials for summer? Shop our summer faves here!















