Summer Packing List
The Ultimate Summer Ranch Packing Guide
A summer stay at Alisal Ranch is all about embracing the rhythm of ranch life, from mornings on horseback and afternoons by the pool to evenings gathered around the fire. To help you arrive prepared for every adventure, we’ve rounded up a few ranch-ready essentials, many of which can be found at The Mercantile, our on-property boutique featuring thoughtfully curated apparel, accessories, and gifts.
Summer Packing Checklist
✓ Cowboy boots
✓ Comfortable walking shoes
✓ Swimsuit and cover-up
✓ Activewear for fitness classes, hiking, and yoga
✓ Jeans or casual pants
✓ Shorts and lightweight tops
✓ Sundress or elevated dinner attire
✓ Sport coat for gentlemen ages 16+ dining indoors
✓ Lightweight sweater, jacket, or denim overshirt
✓ Hat or cap
✓ Sunglasses
✓ Belt
✓ Simple jewelry for evening wear
✓ Tote bag or day pack
✓ A favorite book or journal for quiet moments by the pool, on the porch, or beside the lake
✓ Camera for capturing ranch memories
Start with a Great Hat
If there’s one accessory that defines ranch style, it’s a great hat.
A classic straw hat from Stetson, Resistol, or Charlie 1 Horse offers both sun protection and timeless Western style. Prefer something more casual? An Alisal Melin hat is perfect for afternoons on the golf course, lakeside adventures, or exploring the ranch.
Perfect for horseback rides, golf outings, and afternoons under the California sun.
Pack Boots You’ll Actually Wear
Cowboy boots aren’t just part of the look, they’re part of the experience.
From horseback rides and rodeos to evening cocktails and dinner, a comfortable pair of boots can take you almost anywhere on property. We love styles that blend Western heritage with everyday wearability, such as The GREAT. x Stetson collaboration boots or timeless classics from Frye.
Easy Layers for Cool Mornings and Evenings
Summer days in the Santa Ynez Valley are warm and sunny, but mornings and evenings often bring cooler temperatures.
Men may gravitate toward lightweight shirts from Howler Brothers or Poncho Outdoors, while women often reach for a favorite denim jacket, cotton sweater, or oversized button-down. These versatile layers are ideal for breakfast rides, lakeside mornings, and evenings gathered around the fire.
Effortless Dinner Attire
Evenings at Alisal Ranch strike a balance between relaxed sophistication and Western tradition.
For women, flowing dresses from Doen or The GREAT. pair beautifully with cowboy boots and understated accessories. Gentlemen dining indoors will need to bring a sport coat, in keeping with ranch tradition.
The result is a look that feels polished, comfortable, and perfectly suited to an evening at the ranch.
Poolside Essentials
Long summer afternoons often lead to time spent by the pool.
Pack a swimsuit, cover-up, sandals, sunglasses, and your favorite summer read. Timeless swimwear styles and sun-ready accessories help make the most of every sunny afternoon.
Activewear for Adventure
With 10,500 acres to explore, comfortable activewear is always a good idea.
Whether you’re heading out on a hike, joining a yoga class, trying paddleboard yoga, or simply exploring the property, breathable layers and supportive footwear will help keep you comfortable throughout your stay.
One Last Tip
Leave a little extra room in your suitcase. Between ranch-ready apparel, Western accessories, gifts, and memorable finds at The Mercantile, many guests head home with a few new favorites.
