Cottages always bring back nostalgic memories for me—swimming in lakes, going for hikes, eating ice cream, fresh corn and barbecuing (most of my good memories involve food actually). Living in the city, cottages are treasured as a place where you can find peace and quiet. 

This summer, continuing our list of essential travel items, take some time off and head to the cottage with these 10 pieces that are sure to help you make even more memories! 



1. Mesh Everything Tote (US$12.99): Much like the name suggests this tote is perfect for almost every occasion. Great for a family trip down to the beach, carting around your picnic goodies, or maybe to carry your nail polishes for a girl's spa night down by the lake.

2. Umbra Pongo Ping Pong Game (C$40.00): Everything Umbra does is genius so this portable ping pong game is no exception. The game can be played anywhere with a flat surface, no installation required! Let the tournaments begin!

3. Big It Up Panama Straw Putty Fedora (C$135.00): A great straw fedora is right on trend but also a functional piece for the summer. A fedora will help prevent sun damage to your skin while looking very chic with a cute summer dress.

4. For The Love of Salad Cookbook (US$19.95): Summer salads with fresh, homegrown ingredients are the tastiest after a long day at the cottage. This cookbook covers everything from leafy greens to pasta, and instructs you on how to change it up and experiment. Should make a great addition to the cottage kitchen!

5. Bodum Grill (US$60.00): Summer grilling has never been this cute. An adorable (and orange too!) portable grill is the right size to bring to the cottage!

6. Fred Dreamlights Flickering Lamp (C$34.95): This solar powered lantern flickers to imitate fireflies. The lamp would make a excellent night light for kids too- what a great way to fall asleep!

7. Anthropologie Hobnail Pitcher (US$78.00): Imagine serving lemonade in this! A vintage inspired aqua blue pitcher is perfect for picnics and family dinners.

8. Urban Outfitters Kaleidoscope Patchwork Quilt (C$149.00): Get a real 'cottage-y' feel with this patchwork quilt. Unlike the quilts that you found when you bought the cottage (you know, the faded blue or pink, scratchy and smelly ones?) this modern interpretation is totally chic.

9. Moxi Ivy Roller Skates (C$199.00): These leopard print retro roller skates were too good to pass up. Plus, look cute while getting some exercise too! I don't really roller skate, but if I had these skates, I would definitely reconsider. 

10. Urban Outffiters Drink Cooler MP3 Speaker (C$48.00): How cool is this speaker/cooler combo? What a great item to bring to the beach, a picnic, or even just to hang out in the backyard. Listen to your favourite music and sip a cold drink, there's nothing more relaxing!

Remember to check out our list of summer road trip essentials too if you liked this piece! And leave us a comment telling us what your summer cottage must-bring item is!