A good packing list for a group trip makes all the difference. Packing for yourself is one thing; packing for 16 or more people is a team sport. Whether you’re heading to Lake Harmony for ski season or lake season, this list will help your group arrive ready for anything (and avoid five people bringing the same thing).
Divide and conquer
Before anyone packs, set up a shared list in your group chat and assign categories: one person handles breakfast supplies, another the games and speakers, another the first-aid kit. It saves space in the cars and avoids last-minute store runs.
Winter essentials (December to March)
- Ski or snowboard gear, or plan rentals in advance (check the Jack Frost Big Boulder website for rentals and conditions)
- Waterproof jackets, snow pants, gloves and hats, plus a spare pair of gloves
- Thermal base layers and warm, moisture-wicking socks
- Goggles and sunscreen (snow glare is real)
- Indoor shoes or slippers for cozy evenings by the fireplace
- Swimsuit for the hot tub. Yes, even in January.
Summer essentials (June to August)
- Swimsuits, quick-dry towels and water shoes for lake days
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and hats
- Insect repellent for evenings by the fire pit
- Hiking shoes for Hickory Run and the Lehigh Gorge
- A light layer, as mountain evenings can get cool
Spring and fall
Layers are your friend. Pocono weather can swing from warm sun to chilly rain in a single afternoon. Pack a waterproof jacket, a fleece and comfortable walking shoes.
Packing list for a group trip: shared items
- Groceries and a shared meal plan, especially for the first night
- S’mores supplies for the fire pit
- Party extras like decorations, a cake or matching T-shirts if you’re celebrating
- A Bluetooth speaker and a shared playlist
- Your karaoke song list. You’ll need it.
- A basic first-aid kit and any personal medications
What you can leave at home
Don’t pack board games and entertainment for an army. Both homes already have a game room with pool, foosball, a poker table and a karaoke stage, and the Mountain Getaway adds a golf simulator. If you’re unsure whether something is provided, just ask Eric before you go. He’s usually just a text away.
Don’t forget the small stuff
- Phone chargers and a multi-plug extension for shared rooms
- Earplugs and an eye mask for light sleepers in a full house
- Reusable water bottles for every person
- A small daypack for hikes and ski days
- Name labels or colored tags for water bottles and cups
- Cash for small purchases and tips
Packing tips for families
Traveling with kids? Pack each child’s clothes in a separate bag or packing cube, labeled by day. Bring a few favorite toys or books for downtime, and a change of clothes in the car for the drive. Bunk rooms are great fun, but a familiar blanket helps little ones settle on the first night.
Share this packing list for a group trip in your group chat and assign items. The less you double up, the more room in the car for snacks.
The night before you leave
Charge everything, download your playlists and maps for offline use, and pack snacks for the car. Put the grocery list, the address and the group schedule in one pinned message in the group chat. With everything in one place, you’ll arrive relaxed and ready to start the weekend. Finally, double-check that every driver has the address, and that whoever is bringing the groceries knows they’re on duty for the first night’s dinner.
Check availability for our Lake Harmony homes →
Questions? Call or text Eric on (215) 932-8300 or email managment@staylakeharmony.com.