As I enter the final year of my 30s, I thought I s As I enter the final year of my 30s, I thought I share with you some pictures of mine at 9 months, 9 years, 19 years, 29 years  to today 39 years old of age. Looking back at each decade, I feel both ‘older’ and ‘younger’, I see the change in my features, the change in my way of life, the change in my personality and the experience itched on my face. I am grateful for the life I have lived thus far and excited for the life I am yet to live. 
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

2026 - 39, (Home, England), I am ready for this final year before my 40s but also ready for this next decade. 
2016 - 29, (Oslo, Norway), this decade was about self discovery and building the life I dreamt about. The life that I am super proud of and truly grateful to be living. This decade, I built my financial life and in later years choose to heal from the trauma gained in the last decade and now I feel well equipped for the future. 
2006 - 19, (Glasgow, Scotland), I thought I was grown (look at the cheekbones 🤣🤣) and ready for the world, chiiiild was I wrong, let’s just say, I am still resolving the trauma the decade brought me but I am grateful because I met my best friends and made decisions for the future I wanted to have. (Spoiler alert - I did better than I dreamed). 
1996 - 9, (Home, Zambia) this was my birthday but my little sister insisted she had to be the one in the middle. The only way we knew whose birthday it was, was by standing in the middle but this year I remember baby sister crying her eyes out and refusing 🤨
1988 - 9 months, (Chililabombwe, Zambia) although my mother looks tired and traumatised😟, I know I was loved and happy. 
#happybirthday #happybirthday❤️ #newera #39
Attended #ascotraces for the second year running a Attended #ascotraces for the second year running and I am glad to have experienced the ‘Village enclosure’ this year, whilst I loved ‘Windsor enclosure’ last year, it’s not for me. Next year, I want Queen Anne’s enclosure. 💕 #girlsdayout #girlslikeus #ascotfashion
How I missed you my love 🥰🥰🥰 #hertripsabroad #bla How I missed you my love 🥰🥰🥰

#hertripsabroad #blackgirlstraveltoo #maldives #neverstopexploring #welltravelled
Tried being a #touristforaday and we chose #london Tried being a #touristforaday and we chose #london because why not. My feet still hurt from the thought of how much walking we did, the fact that we walked from #bigben to #buckinghampalace is still fresh on my mind. 

#neverstopexploring
🖤🖤MARCH PHOTO/VIDEO DUMP🖤🖤 So much happened and 🖤🖤MARCH PHOTO/VIDEO DUMP🖤🖤 

So much happened and yet I can’t find the words.
It has been an amazing week here, definitely recom It has been an amazing week here, definitely recommend @iberostar in Agadir. 
#neverstopexploring #wanderlust #welltravelled #lifeofadventure #hertripsabroad
I spent a week in #dohaqatar and had the most rela I spent a week in #dohaqatar and had the most relaxing and fulfilling time of my life. Sometimes taking it slow and living in the moment is what the soul needs. 🥰🥰🥰
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 #hertripsabroad #solotravel #solotravelingisfun 
#blackgirlstraveltoo
I had such an amazing week in Doha, Qatar after no I had such an amazing week in Doha, Qatar after not visiting for almost 8years. 📍

#qatar #doha #qatarphotoinstagram  #solo travel #travelbug bestvacations igtravel travelpic travelblog beautifuldestinations tlpicks instatravel roamtheplanet traveldeeper travelgram travelinspo wanderlust instapassport exploretheworld travelpics travelmore passionpassport travelawesome lonelyplanet travelblogger travelphotography traveltheworld worldtraveler
Happy New Year, happy 2026 #firstpicture of the ye Happy New Year, happy 2026 #firstpicture of the year.
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A July Dreamer

A Travel & Lifestyle Blog

Tips and Tricks · July 31, 2018

Summer Staycation Essentials

Summer is well and truly underway and I thought I share the summer staycation essentials. Whilst most of us would love a trip abroad, the weather has been absolutely amazing calling for more staycations. The beauty about staycations is you’re not limited on how much you can take with you. This can be problematic as many people tend to overpack instead of taking only the essential must-haves.

Summer Staycation Essentials

Staycations are defined as holidaying in one’s own city or country rather than travelling abroad. Living in the UK, I have 1001 places I can staycation and have an incredible time. Over the last few years, I have enjoyed a lot of staycations including the top three places to vacation in the UK.

Our recent staycation was to the Lake District where we spent time as a family and reconnected with nature. Over the years I have become sort of an expert on what to pack for staycations depending on the season. In this post, I hope to share some tips on what are the summer staycation essentials.

Summer Staycation Essentials

Depending on how long your summer staycation is going to last determines how much stuff you will need. Often when I go for staycations they are short and sweet; 2 days and 1-night entire time to relax and recharge. As the aim is to get away from home but still be close enough to enjoy my own country, I focus on relaxing.

Summer Capsule – being in your own country has its perks, you have no limit on what to pack. But I propose packing only the summer essentials since you don’t need to pack too much. I would suggest packing a couple of shirts, a pair of jeans and some trainers. The important tip is to pack items you’re most comfortable in and not things you will not wear.

Summer Accessories – I don’t know about you but I try not to wear too much during summer. Accessories can definitely make an outfit so I make sure to pack some pieces to complete my outfits. Depending on your outfit, you can either pack statement pieces or simple rose gold necklace or earrings.

Summer Staycation Essentials

Summer Essentials

Backpack or Tote Bag – As a frequent traveller, I often opt for backpacks as they are easy to carry. On staycations, I am known to take tote bags as well and pack all my essentials. What type of bag you take depends on how long your staycation is and what essentials you need to take.

Portable Power Supply – I don’t know about you but I always travel with a portable power pack. As a blogger, I am always ready to write down content as it comes to me and takes pictures. It doesn’t help if your phone dies at the most crucial time when it’s most needed.

Water Bottle – When the sun is high, it is important to have a water bottle handy to stay hydrated. Though am not a fan of water, I often have infused or flavoured water with me to keep me hydrated. If your staycation involves a lot of walking, make sure you always hydrated.

Apart from money and a cardigan, I often don’t take much else with me during summer staycations. As it is often said, less is more so don’t overload yourself with unnecessary things. Only pack essential items that you will need and will make use of during your staycation.

What are some of the items that you always pack during a staycation? What do you think of staycations? Are they worth the hype? Do you ever go on staycations whether locally or within your own country?

In: Tips and Tricks

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Comments

  1. Sandra says

    September 22, 2019 at 8:16 am

    It felt sad that I missed out on the Staycation I planned this summer. Writing these down for next year.

    Reply
  2. Kelly Reci says

    October 8, 2018 at 2:00 pm

    I really have to get myself a portable power charger. They’re so convenient to have and perfect for all of our road trips!

    Reply
  3. Louisa says

    October 8, 2018 at 2:00 pm

    I’m probably one of the few people who have not had a staycation. I hope I can go on a vacation or at the very list a staycation before the season changes. Love this staycation essentials.

    Reply
  4. Kathy says

    October 8, 2018 at 2:00 pm

    Staycations are the best. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have fun. I need to do this before summer is over. My kids will love a staycation.

    Reply
  5. Glenda Cates says

    October 8, 2018 at 2:00 pm

    I wanted to plan a Staycation with my son but Summer got away from me and it’s time for him to return to school so I think we will plan on during Thanksgiving when he is out for the Holiday. As it will give us both something to look forward to and a neat way to celebrate Thanksgiving.

    Reply
  6. Liz Cochico says

    October 8, 2018 at 2:00 pm

    These are great tips. We go on staycations whenever we can’t travel. This is a helpful guide.

    Reply
  7. Chubskulit Rose says

    October 8, 2018 at 2:00 pm

    Staying hydrated is very important especially if you will go outdoors and the sun is hot. Water bottles filled with water or juice is essential.

    Reply
  8. Carol Cassara says

    October 8, 2018 at 2:00 pm

    I love doing staycations especially during the summer when it’s simply too hot outside! I think these are all must haves to make sure you have the best time!

    Reply
  9. Sarah Bailey says

    October 8, 2018 at 2:00 pm

    These are some great ideas – I am awful for remembering all the essentials when I am heading away. I normally forget something really needed like a hairbrush or deodorant.

    Reply
  10. Melissa Chapman says

    October 8, 2018 at 2:00 pm

    I always have my charger with me to make sure I can stay connected with my phone. I am always home hydrating so I will remember this for when i am out and about.

    Reply
  11. Lisa Martin says

    October 8, 2018 at 1:59 pm

    I think staycations are a great idea. Lots of fun to play the part of tourist in your own back yard.

    Reply
  12. Amber Myers says

    October 8, 2018 at 1:59 pm

    Oh yes, I bring my portable battery pack everywhere. My phone tends to die quickly.

    I also have a backpack that I take when I travel. It holds a ton!

    Reply
  13. Jeanette says

    October 8, 2018 at 1:59 pm

    Usually our staycations we bring along food so that we don’t need to go out to eat because that saves us so much really. I am pretty sure I still overpack even though I am trying to cut that back.

    Reply
  14. valmg @ Mom Knows It All says

    October 8, 2018 at 1:59 pm

    I’ve improved at how badly I over pack over the years. About a year after my first son was born we spent a weekend away in the Amish community 2 hours away, it was as close to a staycation as we’ve had.

    Reply
  15. Alli Smith says

    October 8, 2018 at 1:59 pm

    Most of our staycations are at the beach a couple hours from my house so swimsuits and coverups are what I pack. I’m trying to get to that point where I stop overpacking. It’s hard but I’m making progress.

    Reply
  16. robin rue says

    October 8, 2018 at 1:59 pm

    My portable phone charger goes EVERYWHERE with me. I don’t know how some people get by without one!!

    Reply
  17. Tasheena says

    October 8, 2018 at 1:59 pm

    I can’t remember the last time I had a true staycation. I think they’re worth the hype. It’s nice to get out of your regular element.

    Reply
  18. Peter says

    October 8, 2018 at 1:58 pm

    I do need a starvation! This full time SAHD stuff is hard! Wouldn’t trade it for the world though: great tips

    Reply
  19. Heather says

    October 8, 2018 at 1:57 pm

    Staycations are my favorite! It’s so much easier when the travel time is next to nothing, especially when you have kids.

    Reply
  20. Kelly says

    August 18, 2018 at 8:56 am

    I love staycations, and with little ones it’s much less stressful knowing you can pack all their ‘essentials’ in the car without worrying about luggage allowance…or tantrums on airplanes.

    Reply
  21. Mellissa Williams says

    August 17, 2018 at 9:34 pm

    I’m going to the Lake District in October and i can’t wait. Where do you recommend to visit?

    Reply
  22. Mellissa Williams says

    October 8, 2018 at 4:02 pm

    I’m going to the Lake District in October and i can’t wait. Where do you recommend to visit?

    Reply
  23. Heather says

    August 2, 2018 at 4:38 am

    All great items to have while you’re away from home! I usually stick to just one set of accessories unless it’s a special occasion.

    Reply
  24. Heather says

    August 2, 2018 at 3:35 am

    Staycations are my favorite! It’s so much easier when the travel time is next to nothing, especially when you have kids.

    Reply
  25. Heather says

    October 8, 2018 at 1:13 pm

    All great items to have while you’re away from home! I usually stick to just one set of accessories unless it’s a special occasion.

    Reply
  26. Peter says

    August 1, 2018 at 8:05 pm

    I do need a starvation! This full time SAHD stuff is hard! Wouldn’t trade it for the world though: great tips

    Reply
  27. Kelly Reci says

    August 1, 2018 at 3:30 pm

    I really have to get myself a portable power charger. They’re so convenient to have and perfect for all of our road trips!

    Reply
  28. Kathy says

    August 1, 2018 at 2:36 pm

    Staycations are the best. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have fun. I need to do this before summer is over. My kids will love a staycation.

    Reply
  29. Chubskulit Rose says

    August 1, 2018 at 10:48 am

    Staying hydrated is very important especially if you will go outdoors and the sun is hot. Water bottles filled with water or juice is essential.

    Reply
  30. Louisa says

    August 1, 2018 at 9:06 am

    I’m probably one of the few people who have not had a staycation. I hope I can go on a vacation or at the very list a staycation before the season changes. Love this staycation essentials.

    Reply
  31. Liz Cochico says

    August 1, 2018 at 4:05 am

    These are great tips. We go on staycations whenever we can’t travel. This is a helpful guide.

    Reply
  32. Lisa Martin says

    August 1, 2018 at 4:04 am

    I think staycations are a great idea. Lots of fun to play the part of tourist in your own back yard.

    Reply
  33. Carol Cassara says

    August 1, 2018 at 3:47 am

    I love doing staycations especially during the summer when it’s simply too hot outside! I think these are all must haves to make sure you have the best time!

    Reply
  34. Sarah Bailey says

    July 31, 2018 at 8:53 pm

    These are some great ideas – I am awful for remembering all the essentials when I am heading away. I normally forget something really needed like a hairbrush or deodorant.

    Reply
  35. Tasheena says

    July 31, 2018 at 5:30 pm

    I can’t remember the last time I had a true staycation. I think they’re worth the hype. It’s nice to get out of your regular element.

    Reply
  36. Glenda Cates says

    July 31, 2018 at 4:53 pm

    I wanted to plan a Staycation with my son but Summer got away from me and it’s time for him to return to school so I think we will plan on during Thanksgiving when he is out for the Holiday. As it will give us both something to look forward to and a neat way to celebrate Thanksgiving.

    Reply
  37. Jeanette says

    July 31, 2018 at 4:34 pm

    Usually our staycations we bring along food so that we don’t need to go out to eat because that saves us so much really. I am pretty sure I still overpack even though I am trying to cut that back.

    Reply
  38. Melissa Chapman says

    July 31, 2018 at 4:01 pm

    I always have my charger with me to make sure I can stay connected with my phone. I am always home hydrating so I will remember this for when i am out and about.

    Reply
  39. Amber Myers says

    July 31, 2018 at 3:55 pm

    Oh yes, I bring my portable battery pack everywhere. My phone tends to die quickly.

    I also have a backpack that I take when I travel. It holds a ton!

    Reply
  40. valmg @ Mom Knows It All says

    July 31, 2018 at 12:24 pm

    I’ve improved at how badly I over pack over the years. About a year after my first son was born we spent a weekend away in the Amish community 2 hours away, it was as close to a staycation as we’ve had.

    Reply
  41. robin rue says

    July 31, 2018 at 11:52 am

    My portable phone charger goes EVERYWHERE with me. I don’t know how some people get by without one!!

    Reply
  42. Alli Smith says

    July 31, 2018 at 10:53 am

    Most of our staycations are at the beach a couple hours from my house so swimsuits and coverups are what I pack. I’m trying to get to that point where I stop overpacking. It’s hard but I’m making progress.

    Reply

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I'm Miranda. Travel-Addict. Blogger. Moscato Addict. Weekend Escapist. Homebody. Countryside dweller residng in Oxfordshire.

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