🌞 How to Build a Summer Self-Care Kit (on a Budget)

Summer is often depicted as this big, bold, sun-soaked season, but sometimes, the best part is slowing down, resting, recharging, and re-centering.

That’s where your Summer Self-Care Kit comes in.

And no, you don’t need to spend tons of money on fancy products or perfect aesthetics. You can build a kit that feels soft, supportive, and you—with what you already have (or can thrift, DIY, or borrow).

Here’s how to create your own unique version—on a budget.

Summer Self-Care Kit

🌿 Step 1: Pick a Cozy Container

Start with something you already own:

• A shoe box or gift box you can decorate

• A tote bag for grab-and-go summer days

• A thrifted basket or repurposed bin

Make it feel special by lining it with fabric, painting the lid, or labeling it “My Calm Space.”

🧴 Step 2: Include a Few Sensory Items

Self-care starts with soothing your senses. Add 2–3 calming, tactile items like:

• A small lotion or body oil (bonus if it smells like summer—coconut, citrus, lavender)

• A smooth stone, worry pebble, or squishy stress ball

• A roll-on essential oil or tea light candle

• A fabric scrap or bandana with a comforting texture

💡 Budget tip: Dollar stores often have mini wellness items that feel luxe without the price tag.

📖 Step 3: Add Something Reflective

Make space for your thoughts:

• A journal or a few folded sheets of paper stapled together

• Sticky notes with writing prompts (Ex: “What do I need right now?” or “What made me smile today?”)

• A favorite poem or quote card

💡 Print your own prompts or affirmations from the Shelf Care Daily resources!

☕ Step 4: Include One Treat Just for You

This part should feel like a hug:

• A tea bag you save for slow mornings

• A small snack (granola bar, chocolate square, etc.)

• A favorite pen, bookmark, or mini zine

It doesn’t have to be expensive—it just has to make you feel seen. Remember, self-care is about you, not the price tag.

🎧 Step 5: Make a Bonus Digital Side-Kit

This step is about creating a digital space on your phone that extends your physical kit, allowing you to access self-care resources on the go. Not everything fits in a box! Create a phone folder called Summer Self-Care and save:

• A calming playlist

• A few voice memos to your future self

• Screenshots of affirmations or book quotes

• A digital mood board or vision collage

💡 Try the “Soft Girl Summer” or “Colors That Feel Like Me” boards for inspiration!

🧺 What to Do With Your Kit

• Keep it nearby: your nightstand, backpack, or bookshelf

• Reach for it on days you feel off, tired, lonely, or overwhelmed

• Let it grow with you—swap items in and out as summer shifts

🌼 Final Thought:

Self-care doesn’t have to be big or bougie. It just has to be yours.

 And summer is the perfect time to build gentle rituals that make you feel whole.

If you make your own kit, tag @ShelfCareDaily or use #SummerShelfCare—I’d love to see what’s in yours.

Read well, be well. 💚