Look at the calendar, folks. We’re halfway through August and sadly, summer is winding down. But if you haven’t made it out of town yet, or you need just one more weekend in the sun before summer is over, there’s still time to plan a quick getaway. Places like Ocean City, Charlottesville, Annapolis or Harpers Ferry offer plenty to see and do and you won’t be in the car for more than a few hours.
The Monticello Wine Trail’s website is a great resource for planning a trip to wine country. You’ll find a list of vineyards, upcoming events and even a route generator that will help you plan your road trip. If you’re planning a picnic while you’re gone or you’d rather head to the beach, pick up a few Turkish towels from Red Barn Mercantile. They’re available in several colors and won’t take up a lot of space in your bag.
When packing, do so lightly and simply. Grab your overnight bag and clothing that doesn’t wrinkle easily. Ladies, a breezy dress and some sandals are perfect for any daytime exploring you might be doing. And look for classic, casual jewelry to wear while you’re out and about. Curated’s Jones Market necklaces are made of cotton and wood, so you don’t have to worry about anything getting tangled in your bag. But for dinner, trade the necklace for a shawl. Bishop Boutique carries a beautiful lavender Julie Collection shawl that will add a pop of color to your outfit and keep you warm as the evening temperatures drop.
If you’re bringing the kids, don’t forget some entertainment for the car. Stop by 529 Consign where you’ll find coloring mats and flash cards that can be put in a basket for some fun backseat activities. Add drinks and snacks and they should have all they need. S’well bottles are perfect for keeping everyone hydrated because they come in a variety of sizes and keep drinks cool for 24 hours. You can find several colors and patterns at the Shoe Hive. Bag up some trail mix and (hopefully!) you’ll have a car full of happy travelers.
Roadtrip Trail Mix
2 cups Virginia peanuts
Half cup of sunflower seeds
Half cup of dried fruit, like cranberries or blueberries
Half cup of something sweet, like chocolate chips or M&Ms
Mix all ingredients and package in an airtight bag or portion out individual servings in small mason jars.