Summer Vacation Packing List: What to Wear
A refined approach to packing: effortless summer style, anywhere you go.
We’ve all had that moment - standing over an empty suitcase the night before a trip, trying to figure out how to pack light without sacrificing style. Over the years, whether I’ve been packing for quick weekend escapes or long European holidays, I’ve found that it always comes down to a handful of essentials.
These 10 pieces are the foundation of a chic, versatile vacation wardrobe. The key? Everything should mix and match effortlessly, giving you countless outfit options without taking up too much space in your suitcase. If you prefer to go brighter with more color, that’s entirely possible as well with this method, as long as you stick to a consistent color palette (i.e. colors that play well together.)
I have put together some packing lists on my personally curated Revolve Store to make it easy for you to shop for whatever you’re missing before any upcoming trips. The best part? Revolve offers fast, free 2-day shipping!
1. An Oversized Button-Down
A button-down is one of the most versatile pieces you can pack. It easily goes from beach cover-up to dinner-ready with just a few styling tweaks. Look for a lightweight, wrinkle-resistant fabric like a cotton-linen or cotton-poly blend, and focus on the fit, something relaxed but not too oversized. You can wear it over a swimsuit, knotted with shorts during the day, or tucked into trousers for an elevated evening look.
2. A Classic Sundress
This is your ultimate go-to: a timeless dress that works for just about every vacation moment, from daytime exploring to dinner out. Opt for a well-cut maxi or mini in a neutral tone like white, beige, or a soft pastel shade that flatters your complexion. The beauty is in the simplicity - it should act as a blank canvas you can easily elevate with accessories.
3. A Versatile Blazer or Cardigan
A lightweight blazer or cardigan is one of those pieces that instantly pulls a look together. It’s the difference between looking like a tourist and looking like a local. Stick to a classic neutral like white, beige, or black, and choose a breathable fabric like linen or a cotton blend. It adds just the right amount of polish to any outfit, while offering light coverage for cooler evenings. Wear it over your shoulders or over your outfit.
4. A Relaxed Trouser
Few things capture effortless summer style like a relaxed pair of linen pants or cotton trousers. Choose a soft neutral like white, beige, or black, that works seamlessly with the rest of your wardrobe. The key is in the cut: easy and breathable for warm days, but tailored enough to feel refined for dinner or city exploring.
5. Timeless Tank Tops
Invest in two to three high-quality tank tops in neutral colors like white, black, or beige. These aren't your basic undershirts – look for elevated versions with interesting necklines, delicate details, or luxe fabrics like silk or modal. They'll serve as the foundation for countless outfits and layer beautifully under everything else in your suitcase, in summer and beyond.
6. Classy Cover-Ups
Whether your destination is a beach or city, if it’s summertime, you will most likely end up at the beach or pool. There is nothing worse than being somewhere and realizing you don’t have the right piece to throw on over your swimwear for the walk to the pool. I’ve been there… the last thing you want is to wear your nice dress or stiff pants to the pool. Bringing one to two cover-ups that can take you from the pool to beachside lunch on the sand is key.
7. A Flattering Swimsuit
A swimsuit should make you feel like the best version of yourself - confident, comfortable, and chic. Whether you gravitate toward a classic one-piece with more coverage, a flattering string bikini, or a high-waisted set, choose a style that suits both your body and your plans. Think about what your days look like, will you have active time with the kids, or laid-back lounging by the pool? Choose your swimsuit accordingly.
8. Minimal, Neutral Sandals
This might just be the most important piece on the list - because nothing ruins a trip faster than uncomfortable shoes. Invest in a sleek, minimal sandal with proper support, something you can walk in for hours, but that still looks polished with every outfit. Opt for high-quality leather in versatile tones like tan, black, or a soft metallic to pair effortlessly with the rest of your wardrobe. I also love packing a nude heel for evening, which can go with everything.
9. Statement Accessories
This is your summer style signature - the pieces that take your versatile vacation staples to the next level. Whether it’s a pair of statement earrings, a fun standout bag, or a beautifully patterned scarf, choose accessories that reflects your personal style and instantly elevate any look. They should be versatile enough to go with multiple outfits throughout your trip, light for packing, and easy to throw on with minimal effort.
10. An Outer-Layer
Depending on your destination, this could be a light cashmere sweater, denim jacket, or a linen jacket. Evening temperatures can dip unexpectedly, airplane cabins tend to be chilly, and some restaurants really blast the AC. Choose a layer that complements your color palette and works well with your other outfits.
Where the Outfits Come Together
The goal is to mix and match your 10 or so pieces into 20 or so outfits. As you choose what to pack, think about how each item pairs with the rest. Sticking to a unified color scheme of 3 to 4 complementary shades will make putting outfits together much easier.
Here are some example color schemes/combinations if you prefer color over neutrals like beige, white, and black.
Final Packing Reminders
Before you close your suitcase, lay everything out and double-check that each item can be worn in multiple ways. If something only fits a single occasion, it might be better to leave it out - unless it’s for a specific event you’ve already planned for.
The key to great, stress-free vacation style is feeling comfortable, confident, and effortlessly put-together. Don’t bring items you hope to wear - bring the pieces you know you love. You’re not trying to pack your whole wardrobe; you're packing strategically so you can enjoy the moment instead of wasting time figuring out what to wear every day!
