There’s nothing worse than pulling up to your weekend getaway, stepping out into that warm Texas sunshine… and realizing you forgot your swimsuit. Or bug spray. Or that charger you swore you packed.
When you’re headed to Texas Hill Country, especially to a place like Texas Hill Country Resort, what you bring can make or break your trip. It’s not just about remembering the basics—it’s about packing the right things for the scenery, the weather, and the kind of slow, easy pace that Hill Country is all about.
This guide’ll walk you through what to pack for a Texas Hill Country resort stay, including all the little items you’ll wish you hadn’t left behind.
Let’s get into it.
First: Know the Vibe
Before we dive into the list, let’s talk about what a typical day in Hill Country might look like. You wake up to birds and warm sun, walk to grab coffee or sit out on a patio, maybe take a slow drive into town or go hike a local trail. In the afternoon? Could be swimming, wine tasting, fishing, or straight-up doing nothing by the pool. Evenings might bring a BBQ, a campfire, or stargazing from a chair you pulled out onto the lawn.
That kinda trip needs versatile gear—stuff you don’t have to fuss over.
So here’s your packing cheat sheet, broken down by category.
Clothes: Keep It Light, Layered, and Easy
The key to dressing for Texas Hill Country? Be prepared for sun, shade, wind, and the occasional freak rain shower—all in the same day.
Comfy Casual Clothes
- T-shirts and tanks (breathable cotton or moisture-wicking is best)
- Shorts or lightweight pants (bonus points if they’ve got pockets)
- One pair of jeans (for the occasional cooler evening or casual night out)
- Swimsuits (yes, plural—nothing worse than putting on a wet one)
- Sleepwear you wouldn’t mind wearing outside
Layering Pieces
- Light hoodie or long-sleeve shirt
- Flannel or denim jacket
- Packable rain poncho or windbreaker
Evenings can drop into the 50s, even after an 80-degree day. And Hill Country winds? They’ll surprise ya.
Footwear: Don’t Overthink It, But Don’t Underdo It
Shoes to Bring
- Comfy sneakers or trail shoes
- Flip flops or sandals
- Water shoes
- Boots (optional, but fun if you’re feeling Texas-y)
What not to pack: Heels. You’ll regret it.
Toiletries: Don’t Count on the Mini Bottles
Most resorts—including Texas Hill Country Resort—offer basics, but the essentials are up to you. And the weather and landscape here will have you reaching for some things you might not usually use.
Hill Country Must-Haves
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Aloe or after-sun lotion
- Dry shampoo or leave-in conditioner
- First aid basics: bandaids, pain relief, tweezers
Pack it all in a sturdy bag you can grab and go with—especially if you’ll be bouncing between the pool, river, or a hike.
Pool and River Gear
This might be the most forgettable part of a packing list. And the one you’ll miss most if you get it wrong.
Water Essentials
- At least two swimsuits
- Quick-dry or microfiber towel
- Pool float or tube
- Dry bag
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Sunglasses (cheap ones you won’t mind losing)
- Hat (for sun protection)
Food and Drink Extras
Resorts often have great nearby food options. But snacks? Cold drinks? A few key items make a big difference in how relaxing your stay feels.
Food & Drink Basics
- Small or soft-sided cooler
- Ice packs or frozen water bottles
- Snacks: trail mix, protein bars, chips, jerky, fruit
- Reusable water bottles
- Coffee fixings (if you’re picky)
You don’t need to haul a full pantry—but even just a few basics will make you feel more at home.
Tech and Extras
Hill Country is meant to be unplugged… mostly. But you still wanna be prepared for photos, tunes, or unexpected weather.
Tech & Essentials
- Phone charger and portable power bank
- Bluetooth speaker
- Camera or GoPro (optional but fun)
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Travel fan or clip-on fan
You may not use it all—but when you need it, you’ll be glad it’s there.
Nice-to-Haves
These aren’t “essentials,” but they often end up being the MVPs of a good trip.
Optional, But Totally Worth It
- Travel journal or notebook
- Book or Kindle
- Games or playing cards
- Hammock
- Travel blanket
Anything that helps you chill a little deeper? Bring it.
Stuff People Always Forget (and Regret)
Every trip. Every time. Don’t let this be you.
- Nail clippers or file
- Extra socks and underwear
- Bug spray (again—yep, it’s worth repeating)
- Swim cover-up or dry clothes for walking back to your cabin
- Cash (some shops and roadside spots don’t take cards)
- Extension cord or power strip
- Trash bags (for wet clothes, muddy shoes, or unexpected messes)
- A laundry bag or plastic sack for dirty clothes
Write these down. Add ’em to your Notes app. Tape it to your mirror. Whatever it takes.
Final Thoughts: Pack Smart, Chill Hard
Here’s the thing about Hill Country—it’s not high-maintenance. You don’t need a massive suitcase or color-coded outfits. You just need the right things to enjoy the weather, the view, and the slow, quiet magic that shows up when you’re not rushing.
The better packed you are, the less you’ll have to think once you get there. And that’s the goal, right?
So throw that swimsuit in early. Double-check your sunscreen. And if you’re still looking for the perfect spot to stay, Texas Hill Country Resort puts you close to everything you want to see—plus a few things you didn’t know you needed.
Now go make your list. And then? Go enjoy your trip.
