Whether you’re traveling cross-country this summer or headed just to the lake for the weekend, you needn’t go without handy gadgets to make your vacation a little easier and more luxurious.

Grilling out at the beach or while camping is easy with Mesh Grill-Top Pans from Williams-Sonoma. There’s no excuse not to eat your veggies when you’ve got these cleverly designed pots and pans that grill food to perfection. Made of heavy-gauge stainless-steel mesh with deep sides and an attached lid, the pan allows you to brown and sear large quantities of food on all sides without losing it to the fire. The long stainless-steel handle affords a secure grip for shaking the pan to ensure even grilling. Clean up is easy- just throw them in the dishwasher and you’re done! The stainless steel baskets stay shiny and new use after use. www.williams-sonoma.com

Packing family favorites in a traditional picnic basket offers generous capacity and sturdy protection. Worried about smashing your cheese straws? Williams-Sonoma offers a clever solution that prevents delicate foods from being crushed- a tray separates stacked items, while a slatted rack is useful as a serving stand at picnics and potlucks. Made to look like the traditional “Little Red Riding Hood” style baskets, this one is hand-woven from sturdy strips of American white ash and fitted with comfortable handles. The cotton twill liner buttons in place and is easily removed for machine washing. www.williams-sonoma.com

If you’re headed to the lake or just going for a swim in your own pool, don’t forget to take refreshment! The Beach Comber floating cooler holds up to eighteen canned beverages and boasts six cup holders that allow you to enjoy the water while staying hydrated. www.beachcomber.com

Kids spilling in the car won’t be a problem anymore! Nalgene (known for their virtually unbreakable water bottles) now offers a Tritan Grip-N-Gulp twelve-ounce water bottle for kids. The side indents make it easy for tiny hands to grasp and the easy clean spill-proof cap eliminates messes. The lid loop can be clipped to a backpack, diaper bag or stroller so you won’t have to fish around to find it. Dishwasher safe. www.campbound.com

If you’re like Vera and have to have your hot tea, check out the Pacific Cornetta Tea Brewing Travel Mug. You never have to miss your coffee or tea fix with this translucent tumbler that steeps and brews your favorite hot beverage. Just add water and bagged or loose tea. www.outdoorcooking.com

Don’t skimp on luxury! Have your favorite wine from something a little more sophisticated but still a convenient as a plastic cup- travel wine glasses! Made of General Electric's virtually indestructible Lexan Resin, the Travel Wine Glass travels without worry. The stem unscrews at the base of the bowl for easy packing and storage. The durability and elegant shape will make a picnic under the stars seem even more romantic.