It was so exciting taking a last minute trip to the mountains. The cabin was beautiful, the weather was crisp and cold, and the room had a fireplace. As a child I visited the Great Smoky Mountains but that was many moons ago. This trip I was packing for my husband, child and myself. Unsure of what to bring and we only had so much room in the car, I opted for the small pack this trip.
Naturally me being a Southern girl, I have the warm weather vacation packing down but this cold weather stuff is a whole different ball game. As you know, I thrive on lists and organization which alleviates stress and confusion for me. Arriving at the cabin I realized fairly shortly I was unprepared. Immediately, I started a Cabin Rental Packing Guide. I used the notes app on my phone and utilized the talk to text feature. This list was compiled and I wanted share it with you. Here are things you might consider when going to the Smokys…
- Firewood : Firewood is sold at the main offices but the bundles are small and pricy. Try picking up some along the roadside from private sellers before you reach your destination.
- Blankets: Cabins are equipped with many things but extra throw blankets to use while snuggling on the couch is not one of them so push one down inside your pillow from home.
- Bedding: Pull-out couch bedding is not supplied. Make sure to bring sheets and blankets
- Laundry Detergent: Washer and dryer provided but you will need to bring your own washing soap
- Light food and drinks: Once you get to your cabin you will want to settle in. Bring enough food/drink to get you through the first night and next morning. If they have a wet and dry bar, it is serious change to use!(cha ching!)
- Swimsuit: Most mountain cabins have a hot tub or heated pool so come ready to dive in.
- Toilet paper: Depending on your stay duration you might need to pack tp. The cabins only supply you with one roll per bathroom. You can request more but by the time you schlep through the snow… Uh! hum!
- Paper plates, cups & utensils: Who wants to do dishes on vacation. Items are provided but you will be required to clean and put them away before departure
- Bug Spray: You may not need this so much in the winter but more so in the summer
- Sunscreen: You should place sunscreen on any of your exposed skin all year long
- Coffee essentials: Coffee pot provided but you will need to bring filter, coffee, sugar, creamer
- Trash bags: The cabin will provide you with one large trash bag
- Napkins: Only one paper towel roll is normally provided
- Hair dryer: most cabins do not provide hair dryers or curling irons. You want to look your best. Right?
- Toiletries: a small bar of soap is normally provided but no shampoo or conditioner
- Salt & Pepper: I found some rental companies leave a few items from previous guest but most do not
- Portable Highchair: We have the Lobster and really like it
Although our Smoky Getaway was nice & relaxing having these few extra items would have been helpful. These are the things I will pack next trip. It will not only save money and time but relieve a little stress which is unnecessary while on vacation.
Happy Cabin hunting!
Katie Girl
