Southern belle-turned-California-dreamer Kathleen Barnes considers her Orange County abode a jumping-off point for warm-weather adventures. We caught up with the Carrie Bradshaw Lied blogger to talk summer day trip essentials, from favorite on-the-go beauty products, to sun-shielding floppy hats.

1. Which beauty products are essential for your summer excursions, and why?

It’s really important to protect your face with an SPF product free of harsh chemicals, even better if it’s tinted or gives you a little glow. I love Dr. Jart+ Illuminating BB Brush SPF 30 because it provides easy application for targeted highlighting, has skin-care benefits, and SPF protection. The brush makes it super easy to touch up on the go, and the formula, infused with goodies like nordenau water and rose fruit extract, is super-hydrating.

Foundation can be heavy and cakey in the warmer summer months. I switch to a lighter coverage makeup routine like Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Instant Radiance Sun Defense SPF 40. It’s available in two shades, and it’s perfect for a summer day trip to protect your face from the sun, while still offering coverage to even out your skin tone.

Bottom line: Tinted moisturizer or a BB cream with SPF is essential in the summer, no matter where you live!

2. When it comes to summer day trips, what are your top three favorite activities?

I would have to say hitting the beach, wine tasting in Temecula, and visiting the desert.

Even after three years of living in California, being so close to the beach still feels incredible –like a mini vacation. I love to bring a picnic lunch and a good book, and just spend the day relaxing on the sand. Laguna and Newport beaches are also prime spots for yoga, especially in the early mornings, or just before sunset.

Temecula is another favorite summer adventure – there’s a pocket of really gorgeous wineries to explore, and it’s a totally doable day trip from where I live. The desert also tops my list: Coachella Valley is striking, and it’s full of amazing resorts to visit.

3. What’s your approach to dressing for a summer day trip? Tell us your top three tried-and-true wardrobe go-tos for a summer adventure.

I think first and foremost, you need to feel comfortable. When you’re trying to be adventurous, nothing can cramp your style like a too-tight dress or a scratchy top. You want to feel confident, but effortless. I usually toss in a pair of flip-flops and some inexpensive sunglasses; you never know what might lie ahead! And, be sure to bring a few layers for chilly evenings.

My top three would probably be a white sundress, a wide-brim hat, and a pair of shades. I always feel like myself in a white sundress — even better if it has some linen. A great wide-brim hat is essential, and I’ve been wearing this Brixton hat that I purchased last year for less than $50. Lastly, I’d say a fun pair of sunglasses. Depending on the trip, I’ll often choose an inexpensive pair because I’ve been known to drop sunglasses and scratch them … no one wants to ruin their sunnies on a fun trip!