Celebrate the Season: Make a Summer Gift Bag for Your Kids (Yes, Even the Teenagers!)
There’s something magical about this time of year—the days stretch longer, the temperatures rise, and the promise of summer is finally here. In our house, one kid is already out of school and the other is counting down the final four days. But why wait? The unofficial start of summer has arrived, and I’m a big believer in celebrating the seasons with small, simple joys.
One of my favorite ways to kick off the season is by putting together a Summer Gift Bag for my kids. It’s a little tradition I started when they were younger, and I’ve kept it going well into their teenage years. Spoiler alert: they still love it. Honestly, who wouldn’t love a surprise bag filled with goodies chosen just for them?
Whether your kids are six or sixteen, this is a fun, affordable way to spark creativity, encourage less screen time, and add a little summer magic to the start of their break.
The Why Behind the Bag
As a mom and lover of all things seasonal, I try to find little ways to mark the moment. We do this at birthdays and holidays, so why not celebrate summer in the same way?
A summer gift bag is like a warm-weather care package. It’s also a great opportunity to shift the energy—away from endless scrolling and toward something hands-on, outdoorsy, or just plain fun.
Start with a Tote
First things first: grab a tote. I like to pick one in a fun summer color (bonus points if it matches their favorite shade), or even something simple like a clear beach bag or a canvas sack they can decorate later. The bag itself becomes part of the gift—and they’ll use it again all summer long for road trips, pool days, or just keeping their stuff together.
Fill It with Favorites
Here’s the fun part—filling it up! You don’t have to overthink it. I like to include:
Books or journals: Something to read under the sun or doodle in on quiet mornings.
Snacks: Think trail mix, dried fruit, or a few nostalgic favorites from when they were little.
Travel-size games: Card games like Uno or a deck of conversation starters work for all ages.
Creative tools: A mini watercolor kit, washi tape, markers, or even a disposable camera.
Outdoor fun: Chalk, a frisbee, or a hacky sack—anything that gets them moving.
Self-care: Lip balm, a face mist, or a mini sunscreen they’ll actually use.
A fun summer-themed item: Think watermelon socks, a cactus keychain, or a sunhat.
Want a peek at what I put in my own teens’ bags this year? I’ve rounded up my favorite finds right here in this post on my LTK shop .
The beauty is in the mix of practical and playful. Tailor it to what your kid loves—maybe it’s all about music and you include a portable speaker, or they’re into baking and you add a cute summer spatula and cupcake liners.
Add a Theme or Color
One year I color-coordinated the whole bag in shades of aqua and coral (my daughter’s favorites), and she loved how cute and intentional it looked. Another time, I did a “travel” theme with little things to use on our road trip—snacks, puzzle books, headphones, and a cozy pair of socks. There’s no wrong way to do it.
If you’re short on time, just aim for 4–5 little things and call it a day. Simple items go a long way—especially when they’re chosen with love.
Make a Summer Bucket List
Want to keep the fun going? Include a Summer Bucket List in the bag or sit down with your kids to make one together. We’ve done this for years, and it brings a little intentionality to the summer months. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a list of things to look forward to:
Watch the sunset at least 3 times
Have a picnic in the backyard
Try a new recipe together
Go on a road trip to a small town
Make root beer floats
Watch a classic summer movie
Do absolutely nothing for a day
Looking for even more ways to help your kids spend their extra time this summer? Check out this blog post with fun ideas to keep them busy and inspired.
Here’s to Making Summer Memories
Whether you’re headed on a big adventure or spending more time at home this year, this small tradition can bring some extra sunshine into your family’s life. You don’t need a big budget or elaborate plans—just a little creativity, a lot of heart, and a reminder to slow down and savor the season.
So go ahead—grab that tote, fill it with love, and surprise your kids with a Summer Gift Bag this week. You might be surprised how much they appreciate it—no matter their age.
Here’s to a summer full of connection, color, and creating fun memories together. ☀️