Pack food that's not only easy to cook but also does not spoil easily. Take various kinds of food such as canned goods and bread as well as chicken, steaks, burger patties, cereal, snacks and condiments. If there's no fishing nearby, also bring fish. Don't forget to bring cooking oil, cooking and eating utensils as well as barbecue implements, a bottle and can opener, pots and pans, plates, napkins, zip-lock bags, ice, drinking glasses, drinking water and other beverages.
Although the cottage you're staying in may have a refrigerator, you have to consider that it may not be working when you get there so bring a cooler for backup. If you're bringing your dog, don't forget to bring the pet food and pet bowl.
A first aid kit is important. Aside from medication that you currently take, you can prepare a first aid kit with bandages, antihistamine, antibiotic ointment, blister protection and a first aid instruction booklet. Include cough and cold medicine, aspirin, a hot and cold compress, sterile gauze pads, tweezers and a thermometer. Keep other items handy such as insect repellent, after-bite ointments or sprays as well as sunblock and after-sun lotions.
Pack based on weather conditions to avoid over-packing or packing the wrong things. If you'll be packing for cold weather, take along your long-sleeved shirts, coat, gloves, scarf, socks, thermal underwear sweater and pants. If you'll be going skiing, take your ski clothes too. On a summer vacation, pack your sandals, t-shirts, shorts, wide-brim hat, swimming attire and flip-flops. Of course, don't forget to pack your underwear and pajamas as well as all-weather items such as hiking boots or running shoes.
Stay fresh and clean on your vacation by bringing toiletries such as your toothbrush and toothpaste, dental floss, brush or comb, deodorant, soap and small bottles of mouthwash, shampoo and conditioner. You may also want to bring a razor, tissue paper, styling products, a hair dryer, lotions and a nail clipper.
Some other items you may need to bring are dishwashing and clothing detergent, towels, bed linens, a sewing kit and blankets. For entertainment, brings a few board games, toys, sports equipment and books. In case of a power outage, take a battery-powered radio, matches, lanterns, candles and flashlights and bring a few extra light bulbs in case the ones in the cottage don't work. Other items include extra batteries, maps, a portable heater, hiking sticks, garbage bags and a dog leash.
