High temps and long days can only mean one thing: summer has arrived and we’re ready to head outdoors. At Urban Market Bags we like to bring what we need while traveling as light as possible. Here are a few ways to get the most use out of your handy packs of Urban Market Bags and prepare for summertime adventures.

Beach
Sandy feet and salty hair is a blissful feeling we crave all year. Beach days call for a whole host of supplies that need to be carted back and forth. Start by packing a natural sunscreen that is chemical free and biodegradable—your body and the water will thank you! Pick up some children’s toys that are made from recycled materials and without Phthalates or BPA, like this set made from milk cartons. Don’t forget reusable water bottles for the crew and skip the prepackaged food items since the tiny wrappers and straws often end up in the ocean. Relax, unwind and take a dip. When you’re ready to head home, reserve one Urban Market Bag for wet, sandy shoes and bathing suits and tie it up before you pack it in the car. This makes for a stress-free trip back and the bag can be easily rinsed off and hung to dry with the suits.

Picnic
Outdoor entertaining is a joyful way to celebrate summer with family and friends. With proper planning, you can arrive with a feast and leave with very little. Try sticking to finger food to reduce the need for utensils and utilizing lightweight eco-friendly packaging wherever possible (pro tip: make this DIY hand sanitizer to keep things clean). Start by assembling several sandwich options and wrapping them in biodegradable parchment paper. We like taking advantage of seasonal produce whenever possible, such as this summer squash sandwich with spicy sun-dried tomato & herbed ricotta or this heirloom tomato, avocado and burrata sandwich. Pack colorful crudite in reusable stacking plastic containers that are also perfect for housing homemade hummus or a lighter take on classic ranch. For dessert, double down with hearty oat cookies that not only taste good but are packed with nuts and seeds to fuel the rest of your day. This classic picnic blanket will be the perfect backdrop for your summer spread and it gets extra credit for being made out of recycled plastic bottles and reclaimed cotton.

Festival
Long summer days and a stacked lineup are the key components to music festivals. Preparing for midday heat and cool nighttime temps calls for smart layering and multi-functional accessories. Pack a light jacket, collapsible water bottle and some snacks in your Urban Market Bag. As the day comes to a close, fold up your empty bag and water bottle and tuck them in a pocket while you make the trek home. Bonus tip: if the grass is barefoot friendly, carry your shoes around for a bit or use your bags as a seat.

Camping
Setting up camp amongst the tall trees or near a softly singing stream can be one of life’s greatest pleasures. Getting to that special spot and managing the return home can require a bit more work. Pack non-perishables in Urban Market Bags for lightweight storage to and from the car and easy access when hunger strikes. Tote shower supplies around the campground and easily hang them up on bathroom hooks to keep your items clean and dry (don’t forget to bring biodegradable soap). Send the kids off to collect kindling for a roaring fire and reward them with a creative take on the classic s’more. If you’ve done it right, chances are your bags will be covered in dirt and fond memories. Stick your Urban Market Bags in the wash, lay out to dry (or pop them in the dryer) and start planning your next trip.