Summer Vacation Packing List
When it comes to traveling during the summer months, you really don’t need too much. So many summer pieces can be re-worn and styled in different ways. By sticking to a neutral color palette, you’ll be able to easily mix and match the pieces you pack, but you also won’t have to pack as much!
Beach Vacation Capsule Wardrobe
1. Button Down Shirt
A button down shirt is a wardrobe staple and the perfect layering piece to take with you on a beach vacation. They can be dressed up with a pair of tailored shorts or thrown over a bathing suit as a cover up. This oversized button down has been on constant repeat in my wardrobe this summer! I love finding new ways to style it. It’s also a great material so even on those hot days, you can pair it over a fitted tank for a little coverage.
2. Linen Tops
Linen is the material of summer! If you’re going away for a long weekend, pack two linen top options to give your vacation wardrobe some variation. I love the square neck of this one, it feels elevated and the cropped silhouette gives major summer vibes. If you’re planning any dinners out or will be somewhere that gets cooler at night, this linen top is stunning! The detailing is too good!
3. Sweater
I will never travel anywhere, no matter how hot it’s supposed to be, without a sweater. They’re great to utilize as a third piece thrown over your shoulders with a strappy tank or dress, but are also a must on cool nights! This one is a favorite of mine because it’s lightweight so it feels a little more summery and it has a great relaxed fit.
4. Knit Tanks
Knit tanks can be worn day or night and since they’re small, you can pack multiple without taking up too much space in your designated travel bag. This high-neck tank is a great option! It’s made from a linen-blend fabric so it’s great for those hot days. I’ve also been purchasing these ribbed tanks for YEARS! They have a built-in shelf bra so you can go braless, which is major on those extremely hot days!
5. Shorts
For any summer vacation, all you need is three pairs of shorts that are a mix of linen and denim. For daytime activities, and the beach, this pair of linen shorts is a great option. The elastic waistband is so comfortable and since they’re linen, they dry fast if they get wet or sweaty. For dinners out, this pair of tailored linen shorts go perfectly with a fitted tank and a third piece for an easy, weather-appropriate elevated look.
If denim shorts are more your speed (or you just want to have a pair with you to be safe), this pair and this pair are both really great options. I love that they have a looser fit and aren’t constricting!
6. Linen Pants
I’m such a linen pant girly so there’s no surprise that these are on my list of must-haves for a beach vacation. They’re one of the most functional pieces of clothing and can easily be styled up or down. I love this pair for during the day and throwing on over a bathing suit. For evenings out, this pair is a little more elevated.
7. Dresses
On those days that it’s too hot to function, especially on vacation, a good dress is a must. I recommend packing at least two dresses for a beach vacation to give you variety for daytime activities, lounging around, and going to dinner. If there’s one dress you pack, let it be this mini! It’s lightweight, so flattering, and can be styled so many ways.
8. Sandals
A comfortable pair of sandals is a non-negotiable for a beach vacation. I recommend packing 2-3 pairs, with one of those pairs being a good beach sandal like this pair. For day time activities or dinner out, this pair and this pair are great options!
9. Swimsuit
A bathing suit is a must-have for any summer vacation, especially if you’re going to the beach! Too often bathing suits don’t provide the support you’re looking for, but I’ve come to love J.Crew’s swimwear over the last few years. The quality is top notch and I never feel constricted. If you’re a one-piece girl, this one and this one are two of my favorites! They are both so flattering and elevate any beach look.
10. Sunglasses
The one item you absolutely do not want to forget to pack for your beach vacation is your sunglasses. These aviators from Aire are a fan favorite and look luxury for a fraction of the price. You can also never go wrong with a fun oversized pair like these.
11. Day/Beach Bag
When going on beach vacations, I always like to bring a bag that can be used during the day but can also be utilized as a beach bag. This straw tote checks off all of the boxes: spacious for traveling, can be used as a beach tote, is elevated looking. I also recently picked up this tote and it would also be a great for the beach!
