There’s something about summertime that makes us want to hit the road. Whether you’re planning a local getaway, a long weekend escape, or heading off for a full-fledged Euro summer (we support your ambitions), wanderlust always seems to peak this time of year.
How to Pack Smarter for Summer Travel
Of course, travel also means packing. And if you’re someone who likes a lot of choices, prefers carry-on only, or simply wants to travel a little smarter, a few strategic wardrobe choices make all the difference. The goal? Pieces that work harder, wrinkle less, and still look polished in every vacation photo.
Summer Travel Wardrobe Essentials
Here are the travel wardrobe essentials we swear by for summer trips of every kind.
YES! I LOOK FORWARD TO #GROWINGYOUNGER
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE ME TO YOUR MAILING LIST.
Low-Maintenance Materials
If you want to look effortlessly put together while living out of a suitcase, fabrics matter. Look for materials that resist creasing and consider darker colors or subtle prints that camouflage the inevitable realities of travel days and overstuffed luggage. A low-contrast animal print dress or top (like this Boden option) is always a smart choice.
And nothing competes with a pair of streamlined black pants for versatility. This pair from Vuori works for flights, sightseeing, casual dinners and just about everything in between.
Travel Wardrobe Essentials: Triple-Duty Shoes
The real MVP of any summer travel wardrobe? Comfortable shoes that still look chic. Sneakers aren’t always appropriate depending on the destination, but a neutral sandal or polished flat can easily transition from daytime exploring to dinner.
These sandals from Rag & Co are true workhorses (the author has personally worn this exact pair through multiple countries and can confirm they’re comfortable enough for miles of walking).
If you prefer a closed-toe option, these Italian leather slip-ons from Banana Republic feel elevated enough for almost any itinerary event short of black tie galas.
Maximize Your Space
What you pack matters — but so does how you pack it. Packing cubes are helpful, but compression packing cubes are the real game changer, especially if you’re the type who ends up sitting on your suitcase to get it zipped shut (you know who you are). These compression cubes from Calpak are particularly good for maximizing carry-on space without sacrificing outfit options.
The Clutch x Wallet Hybrid
Few accessories work harder while traveling than a wallet that doubles as a clutch or wristlet. It keeps you from constantly switching bags and makes evenings infinitely easier. We especially like this Deux Mains wallet from Nordstrom because it tucks easily into a larger tote during the day but looks intentional enough to carry solo at dinner, around a resort, or while exploring a new city.
Scarves That Tie Everything Together
A large linen or cotton scarf is one of the most underrated travel essentials. Use it to cover your shoulders in churches or chilly restaurants, wrap it as a sarong at the beach, or fold it into an impromptu blanket on planes and trains. We especially love a neutral geometric print for maximum versatility, like this style from Mango, because it complements almost everything and won’t overwhelm your travel photos.
The Capsule Wardrobe Approach
You’ve probably seen the “Sudoku packing method” making the rounds on social media, but at its core, it’s simply a capsule wardrobe with clever branding. The concept is straightforward: choose three tops, three bottoms and three layering pieces that all coordinate, allowing you to mix and match endlessly.
Even if you love having a selection of pieces, there’s something freeing about packing less. Besides, the fewer items you bring, the more room you’ll have for vacation shopping, which might be part of the fun.
What are your travel wardrobe MVPs? Any packing tricks you absolutely swear by? Let us know in the comments or on our Growing Younger Facebook page!
–Jacqueline Zenn
You may also like to read Structured Dressing 2026: The Chic Way to Wear Sculptural Fashion Now and Vietnam Travel Guide: Visiting the Land of the Ascending Dragon.
This post contains affiliate links which may give us a commission at no additional cost to you.
Are you following Fountain Of 30 on Facebook, X, Instagram and Pinterest? We’ve got lots going on, so join in on the fun! Subscribe to our newsletter here. You don’t want to miss a post and promise not to bug you to death. Additionally Lauren hosts a bi-weekly podcast called Beauty is a Bitch!
Please pin!
