Packing for your Smith Mountain Lake vacation sounds simple, right? Swimsuits, sunscreen, flip-flops… done. Except …lake life has a way of humbling even the most prepared vacationer. One minute you’re cruising on the water, the next you’re desperately trying to open a your canned vegetables with a key because you forgot a can opener.
To save you from learning the hard way, here’s a funny but practical packing guide for your Smith Mountain Lake getaway including the stuff most people wish they’d brought.
The Obvious Stuff (But Don’t Skip It)
Let’s knock out the basics before we get fancy.
- Swimsuits (plural — lake days multiply faster than you expect)
- Cover-ups or quick-dry clothes
- Towels (even if your rental provides them… extra towels always win)
- Flip-flops or water shoes (because hot docks are no joke)
Pro tip: Bring a comfortable suit that you wouldn’t mind wearing on a three hour boat ride.
Sun Protection: The Lake Doesn’t Play Fair
The sun at Smith Mountain Lake reflects off the water like it’s personally offended by your skin tone.
Pack:
- Sunscreen (reef-safe if possible)
- Lip balm with SPF (sunburned lips are cruel and unusual punishment)
- Hats (the kind that actually stay on in the wind)
- Polarized sunglasses (your eyes will thank you)
Funny but true: You will not “just sit in the shade.” The shade moves. Always.
Boat Day Essentials You’ll Be Glad You Brought
Even if you’re renting a boat or booking a tour, these items are clutch:
- Dry bags or gallon-size zip bags (for phones, keys, and snacks)
- Phone lanyard or waterproof case (gravity loves expensive electronics)
- Floating keychain (because keys absolutely will try to escape)
- Snacks (lake hunger is a special kind of hunger)
And yes – bring a cooler, even if you think one will be provided. Coolers disappear at the lake like socks in a dryer.
Bug Defense: Because Mosquitoes RSVP’d Yes
Evenings at Smith Mountain Lake are beautiful… and occasionally bitey.
- Don’t forget:
- Bug spray (the good stuff)
- After-bite or itch relief
- Citronella candles if you’re staying dock-side
You will tell yourself “the bugs won’t be that bad.” They will hear you. They always do.
Rain-Day & Backup Plan Items
Lake weather likes to keep things interesting. Here are the things to pack for a rainy day.
- Light rain jackets or ponchos
- A deck of cards or board games
- Books or downloaded shows (Wi-Fi can be… moody)
- A small Bluetooth speaker (music fixes almost everything)
Rain at the lake usually lasts just long enough to make you regret not packing entertainment. For a list of rainy day activities, check out this post.
Random Things You’ll Definitely Need (But Won’t Think About)
This is the real MVP list because these items won’t be on your primary list, but they are good to have.
- Aloe vera (future you will be grateful)
- First-aid kit (band-aids + lake docks = inevitable)
- Reusable water bottles
- Paper towels (trust us)
- Trash bags (for wet clothes, muddy shoes, or mystery spills)
Bonus item: Extra chargers. Lake outlets are always just far enough away.
Shoes That Aren’t Flip-Flops
You’ll be tempted to pack only sandals and flip-flops. Don’t fall for it. You may decide to take a hike or may need close toed shoes for a water sport. Be sure to bring these.
- Sneakers or closed-toe shoes (for trails, marinas, and exploring)
- Water shoes if you plan to swim near docks or rocky areas
Flip-flops are great until they’re not. And they’re never great on gravel.
Food & Drink Must-Haves
Even if you plan to eat out, you may want to bring along these food items just so you don’t have to buy everything new.
- Condiments (lake rentals are condiment deserts)
- Coffee supplies (because mornings still happen on vacation)
- Reusable cups (for boat days and dock sunsets)
- Bottle opener / corkscrew (please don’t use your teeth)
You haven’t lived until you’ve watched five adults Google “how to open a bottle without an opener.”
Optional but Elite-Level Packing
Want to feel like a lake pro?
- Floating pool noodles or inflatables
- Fishing gear (or at least curiosity)
- Binoculars for wildlife watching
- Notebook or journal (lake mornings are surprisingly inspirational)
Final Thoughts: Pack Smart, Relax Hard
Smith Mountain Lake is all about easygoing days, sunshine, and making memories — not stressing over what you forgot. With this packing list, you’ll be prepared for boat days, rainy afternoons, surprise adventures, and everything in between.
And if you forget something? Don’t worry. The lake has a way of making everything feel like part of the story.
Now pack the sunscreen… and maybe an extra swimsuit. Just in case 😉
