Headed to Prince Edward County? Here’s What to Pack and Prep
Posted on [Date] • By A+A
Headed to Prince Edward County? Here’s What to Pack and Prep
So, you’re thinking about a trip to Prince Edward County? Good call. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, PEC is one of those places that always delivers. Between the food, the views, the beaches, and all the wine you can handle, it’s got a little something for everyone.
But here’s the thing: to really enjoy your time there, you’ll want to come in a little prepared. PEC isn’t one of those places where you can just show up and hope for the best. The roads are rural, the cell service is spotty, and the best spots fill up quick. No worries though—here’s everything you actually need to know before you go.
1. Book the musts ahead of time.
If you're going during peak season (spring to early fall), some things fill up fast. Make sure to:
Reserve your stay: Hotels and cottages go quickly—especially anything on the water.
Get a day pass for Sandbanks: Book online through Ontario Parks or you might not get in.
Make winery or restaurant reservations: A few spots are first come, first served, but many now take bookings online. It’s worth it.
Heads-up: If you wait until Friday night to figure it out, you might be out of luck. PEC isn’t the kind of place where you can just wing it.
2. Pack for sun, wind, and surprise weather.
The County’s weather can flip fast. One minute you’re roasting on the beach, and the next you’re pulling on a sweater at a windy winery patio. Here’s a good packing list:
Light layers (T-shirt, hoodie, windbreaker)
Swimsuit & towel (even if you think you won’t swim)
Sunglasses & sunscreen (PEC sun is no joke)
Comfortable shoes (you’ll walk more than you think)
Rain jacket or umbrella (just in case)
You don’t need to dress up much—PEC is casual. Think “jeans and Birkenstocks” energy.
3. Don’t forget the basics (a.k.a. don’t rely on corner stores).
Depending on where you’re staying, the nearest grocery store or pharmacy might be 20–30 minutes away. Bring the essentials with you, especially if you’re staying at a cottage or Airbnb.
Stuff you’ll be glad you packed:
Bug spray (evenings near the lake = mosquitoes)
Coffee & snacks (some places don’t stock anything)
Cooler (for wine, cheese, market finds)
Phone charger for the car (some spots have no outlets)
Cash (some markets and roadside stands are still old-school)
And if you’re planning to cook, bring the food basics—or at least check what’s provided before you go.
4. Plan your route—and save it offline.
Here’s the thing about PEC: cell service gets patchy, especially the farther south you drive. And not all areas have GPS that keeps up. Before you head out:
Download your Google Map offline
Take screenshots of your reservation info
Write down directions to your stay (just in case)
Also, keep in mind that Uber and taxis are rare. If you’re drinking, have a DD or use one of the local wine tour shuttles.
5. Make space in the car—you’ll want to bring stuff home.
Between the markets, roadside stands, wine shops, and random local makers, you’re going to leave with more than you came with. Make a little room in your trunk and maybe bring:
An empty tote bag or two
A wine box or crate to protect bottles
Ice packs or cooler bag for cheese, charcuterie, etc.
You might show up thinking you’ll grab “just a couple things” and leave with half a kitchen's worth of goodies. It happens.
Quick Final Checklist:
✅ Accommodations booked
✅ Sandbanks pass (if needed)
✅ Dinner/winery reservations
✅ Layers packed (including swim gear)
✅ Food, coffee, bug spray, sunscreen
✅ Directions saved offline
✅ Room in the car for the haul back
Where to stay? Try The Lilac Lakehouse.
Now that you’ve got your prep covered, let’s talk about where to stay. If you’re looking for a place that’s actually peaceful, private, and just really comfortable, check out The Lilac Lakehouse. It’s a modern log-style right on the water—big deck, cozy bedrooms, and a kitchen you’ll actually want to cook in.
You can start your morning with coffee by the lake and end the day with a glass of wine as the sun goes down. It’s close enough to everything in PEC, but just far enough to feel like a proper break. If you’re going all in on the PEC experience, this is the kind of place that pulls it all together