Welcome to Summer 2021!
We’re already halfway through the year, but doesn’t everything feel like 2020 kept going on and on? Well, things are looking up. With more than half of Americans now vaccinated against COVID, we’re starting the see the light at the end of the tunnel, so to speak.
Travel will still be highly regulated, however. We’re still in the middle of a pandemic after all, and while going to a remote, unpopulated beach is one of the safer activities you can do right now, the risk of getting the virus is still very much present.
So what does this mean for this summer? Regardless of whether you can book that flight to an exotic island or just planning to set up an inflatable pool in your backyard, we’re here to help you assemble your kit for what could still be the best summer of your life!
Skincare? Check!
Summer means fun and sun, and while you should be wearing sunscreen all year round anyway, it’s never more important than during the season of sunbathing and outdoor activities.
But suncare is just one part of a good skincare routine. You need the right cleanser, a gentle but effective toner, and a good moisturizer for overall healthy skin. Remember that your skin is one of your body’s most important armors against disease, so protect it with proper skincare.
Outfit? Check!
Remember when we planned for our summer outfits for the big trip or party of the season? It may be wasteful to buy an entire outfit to spend your summer at home, but it doesn’t mean that you can whip up something nice from your closet.
The only sunbathing you’re doing this year might be on your balcony, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring out your favorite summer hat. Nobody’s going to see half your body in that Zoom call, but it’s wonderful to wear the summer dress you love and get all gussied up. Wear your sandals and tank top for your next grocery trip. It’s still summer, so find the fun where you can.
Soundtrack? Check!
What’s going to be a song that will define the summer of 2021? The song that’s going to play in your head when you browse through photos and videos of this time of your life in the years to come?
Building a summer playlist is a great way to make things more memorable. We may not be able to party the way we used to, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t play those summer beats to get you in a sunnier mood.
You may be accustomed to listening to your carefully curated Spotify playlists, but wouldn’t it be nice to go old-school and listen to the radio? It’s a great way to listen to the latest releases–hits that will come to serve as time capsules of this crazy year.
Picnic? Check!
Nothing says summer like a cool glass of sweet tea in the afternoons and barbecues on the weekends. Preparing classic summer food and beverages is a great way to remind yourself that, while things are different right now, it’s still summer, and you can still have fun.
Now would be a great time to prepare a summer cocktail, like a frozen piña colada or margarita. Or a nice dessert made from fruits in season, like berries and peaches. Keep things cool, chill, and fresh, and you’ll have yourself a perfect summer menu.
First Aid Kit? Check!
The first rule of fun is to be prepared. Each new season brings with it its own wave of bugs, allergies, and whatnot. Whether you’re spending your summer outside (following protocols, please) or at home, you’re going to need your medicine and first aid kit restocked and ready. Make sure you have your antihistamines, your bug spray, and maybe a soothing gel lotion for when you end up sunbathing for too long.
If you’re going on a trip this summer, apart from your summer kit, please continue following safety protocols regarding COVID. Keep your physical distance, wear your face mask, and wash your hands regularly. You can still have fun while staying safe.
If you’re staying at home for the summer, however, you can still recreate that beach vibe by cranking up your speakers, cracking open an ice-cold bottle of your favorite beer, and watching the horizon for that classic summer sunset. After all, some of the best summer memories are made at home.
