The trip you’ve been looking forward to all year is finally here! Packing for a vacation can be an exciting, but sometimes overwhelming task. It takes a village to pack for vacay strategically. This week, we’re sharing our travel favorites whether you’re lounging in the cabana OR sipping a martini in a high-rise. Bookmark this blog to help you pack must-have’s and would-be-nice’s for your trip! Here is our travel masterlist:
First Things First: Check The Weather.
Research the weather conditions at your destination for the duration of your trip. This will help you determine what types of clothing and accessories you'll need to pack, such as jackets, umbrellas, or swimwear.
Staff Pick: Balios Double Fold Canopy Umbrella
Consider Your Activities.
Think about the activities you have planned for your vacation and pack accordingly. If you're going hiking, for example, pack appropriate footwear, outdoor gear, and comfortable clothes. If you're attending a formal event, include dressier outfits. Are there exercise or pool facilities you’re planning on using? Will you be going out at night? Make a short list of tentative plans you have for travel time, and use that to inform your packing decisions.
Staff Pick: FP Movement, Way Home Packable Jacket
Choose Versatility.
Choose clothing items that can be mixed and matched easily to create different outfits. Have a little try-on session and try some different pairings. Remember our Capsule Wardrobe? This is a great opportunity to practice this philosophy (Here’s a link to our Capsule Wardrobe Blog). Opt for neutral colors and pack clothes that can be layered to accommodate changes in temperature.
Staff Pick: Reformation, Will Oversized Satin Shirt
Staff Pick: Everlane, The Relaxed Chino Pant
Let’s Talk Luggage.
Zipping your luggage bag smoothly in one go? Less likely than you think. We’ve all been forced to zip up our bag while sitting on it at least once. Here’s our method to the madness: To maximize space in your luggage, consider rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This technique helps reduce wrinkles and creates more room for other items. You can also use packing cubes or compression bags to save space. A great luggage bag can be very underrated, don’t be afraid to select your luggage carefully - those extra zipper pockets and compartments come in handy. Keep in mind any baggage restrictions and guidelines of your airline or mode of transportation so you can plan even better.
Staff Pick: BEIS, Hardsided Luggage Bag
Essentials, Essentials, Essentials.
Exactly what it says on the tin: grab your basics. No one wants to run to the corner shop at 7:00 in the morning because toothpaste was left behind. Pack travel-sized toiletries, including toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and sunscreen. Remember to include any medications you may need, as well as any necessary travel adapters or chargers for your electronics.
Staff Pick: Anker, PowerCore Slim Power Bank
Staff Pick: Supergoop!, Sun Skincare
Don’t Underestimate Accessories.
Since you might be in relaxing mode, you might be wanting to play it low key with your accessories. Not so! Even on a vacation, brainstorm some stylish and weather-appropriate accessories. Going to the beach? Consider sunglasses, hats, open-toed shoes, or a tote bag. Getting away to the city? Remember your watch, a clutch purse, or even a refillable water bottle for long days out and about!
Staff Pick: Melissa, Kick-Off Sandal
Staff Pick: Elegancia Tropical, Jungle Notte Fine Silk Bandana
Staff Pick: Louis Vuitton, Onthego MM Bag
Leave Space for Souvenirs!
Let’s face it: you’re gonna get a little trinket. If you’re thinking of getting a little trinket, this is your sign. It’s better to plan for impulsive purchases ahead of time than to have to make difficult packing decisions later. If you plan on buying souvenirs during your trip, leave some extra space in your luggage or consider packing a foldable duffel bag that you can use for the return journey. For an adventure, look up some antique stores, and find special trinkets local to the area. They’ll be packed with unique items full of history and meaning!
These vacation essentials will allow you to truly unwind this traveling season. Also, remember to check any baggage restrictions and guidelines of your airline or mode of transportation so you can plan even better. Packing efficiently will not only help you stay organized, but also make your vacation more fabulous by having everything you need at your fingertips - no emergency convenience store run required. Follow us on Instagram @thisstylefiles to join our conversation and get extra styling tips this summer!