The Only 10 Things You Need to Pack for Summer Vacation (Trust Me)

The ultimate packing guide for effortless style, no matter where your summer takes you

We've all been there – staring at an empty suitcase the night before we leave, wondering how to pack light while still looking put-together. After years of styling clients for everything from weekend getaways to month-long European adventures, I've identified the 10 key pieces that form the foundation of any successful vacation wardrobe.

My biggest piece of advice is that each piece works overtime, mixing and matching to create dozens of different looks while taking up minimal precious suitcase space.

1. An Oversized White Button-Down

A crisp white button-down transitions seamlessly from beach cover-up to dinner attire. Choose one in a wrinkle-resistant fabric like cotton-poly blend or lightweight linen. The key is finding the right fit – not too boxy, not too fitted. You'll wear this over swimwear, tied at the waist with shorts, or tucked into trousers for evening.

Pro tip: Roll the sleeves and leave a few buttons undone for that effortless vacation vibe.

2. The Classic Summer Dress

This is your versatile workhorse – a timeless dress that effortlessly transitions from day to night and works for virtually every vacation scenario. Choose a simple, well-cut maxi or mini in a neutral color like navy, black, or a soft neutral that complements your skin tone. The beauty is in its simplicity – it should be a canvas that you can dress up or down with accessories.

Pro tip: Look for jersey, crepe, or a cotton blend that won't wrinkle and can handle being stuffed in a day bag.

3. The Versatile Blazer

A lightweight blazer is the difference between looking like a tourist and looking like you belong. Choose a neutral color like navy, beige, or classic black in a breathable fabric like linen or cotton blend. This piece instantly elevates any outfit and provides light coverage for air-conditioned spaces or evening breezes.

Pro tip: I love to wear a blazer for travel over top a casual set. I feel much more put together while still being super comfortable.

4. Your Favorite Relaxed Pant

Nothing says effortless summer style quite like a relaxed pair of linen/cotton pants. Choose a comfortable style in a neutral color like white, beige, or soft gray that pairs beautifully with everything else in your suitcase. The key is finding the right balance – relaxed enough to be comfortable in the heat, but tailored enough to look polished for dinner or sightseeing.

Pro tip: Linen is meant to have texture and movement. Choose a style that looks intentionally relaxed rather than sloppy, and remember that a few wrinkles add to the laid-back vacation aesthetic.

5. Two Perfectly Fitted Tanks

Invest in two high-quality tank tops in neutral colors like white, black, or navy. These aren't your basic undershirts – look for elevated versions with interesting necklines, subtle 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.

Pro tip: Well-made tanks hold their shape wash after wash and look intentional rather than like underwear.

6. Tailored Shorts

Find one pair of shorts that you absolutely love – the length, the fit, the color. Whether they're tailored bermudas, relaxed linen styles, or fitted high-waisted cuts, they should be something you feel confident wearing for walking tours, beach days, or casual dinners. Neutral colors like khaki, navy, or olive work with everything.

7. Your Go-To Swimsuit

Your swimsuit should make you feel like the best version of yourself. Whether it's a classic one-piece, a flattering bikini, or a trendy high-waisted set, choose something that is both comfortable and gives you confidence. Consider the activities you'll be doing – pool days with the kids, or more fashion-forward pieces for poolside lounging.

Don't forget the cover-up: A lightweight sarong, kimono, or that white button-down we talked about earlier.

8. A Comfortable Minimal Sandal

This might be the most important item on the list. Your feet will make or break your vacation experience. Choose a sleek, minimal sandal with good support that can handle hours of walking while elevating any outfit. Look for leather or high-quality synthetic materials in neutral tones like tan, black, or metallic that complement your entire wardrobe.

Pro tip: Make sure they're well broken-in (wear them around the house) before you travel, and consider styles with ankle straps for extra security during long walking days.

9. One (or two) Statement Accessory

This is your style differentiator – the piece (or pieces) that takes your basic vacation uniform and makes it unmistakably you. Whether it's bold statement earrings, a standout handbag, an eye-catching belt, or a beautiful scarf, choose one accessory that reflects your personality and instantly elevates any outfit. This single piece should be able to transform multiple looks throughout your trip.

Pro tip: A beautiful scarf can be worn around your neck, as a headband, tied to a handbag, or even as a beach cover-up.

10. The Do-Everything Outer Layer

Depending on your destination, this might be a light cardigan, a denim jacket, or a stylish windbreaker. Evening temperatures can drop unexpectedly, airplane cabins run cold, and some restaurants really crank the AC. Choose something that layers well and complements your color palette.

The Magic is in the Mix

Here's where the real styling magic happens – these 10 pieces should work together to create at least 15-20 different outfits. When choosing each item, consider how it works with the others in your capsule. Stick to a cohesive color palette of 3-4 colors that all complement each other.

Sample color palette: Navy, white, tan, and coral creates a classic, versatile foundation that works for most destinations.

Final Packing Tips

Before you zip up that suitcase, lay everything out and make sure each piece serves multiple purposes. If something only works for one specific occasion, consider leaving it behind unless your bringing it along for a specific occasion.

Remember, vacation style is about feeling confident and comfortable while looking effortlessly put-together. Don’t pack pieces you “think” you want to wear. And the goal isn't to pack your entire closet – it's to pack smart so you can focus on living in the moment and not worrying about what you are going to wear.

What's your vacation style? I'd love to hear about your go-to travel pieces in the comments below!

Ready to build your perfect vacation wardrobe? Here is a little travel edit to give you a jump start. For a more personalized packing list book a consultation here and we’ll get you started!