2024 Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe
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If you're taking a vacation this summer and need some inspiration on how to pack a practical yet stylish wardrobe, you've come to the right place!
Whether you're taking a quick weekend getaway to Montreal or embarking on a two-week trip through Thailand, a capsule wardrobe is the perfect solution for all your packing woes.
A capsule wardrobe is traditionally a collection of 20-40 garments and accessories that pair cohesively to create a versatile range of outfits. It's usually created on a seasonal basis (think spring capsule, autumn capsule, etc) but this concept can be applied to travel as well.
A travel capsule wardrobe saves you luggage space and makes traveling easier. Rather than stressing about what to wear, you can trust that you've packed all the essentials for cute outfits that span a large range of activities.
Despite all the myths surrounding capsule wardrobes (like they need to be completely neutral or that they're boring), they can actually be quite flexible and fun! So here's how to create the perfect summer travel capsule wardrobe and some outfit inspiration for different destination aesthetics.
Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe Checklist
Here's a quick packing list of what I would bring. We'll dive into the reasoning, specific suggestions, and how to modify it for your needs later on.
Basic tee
Breathable tank top
Dressy tank top
Classic button-down (or gauzy blouse)
Wide leg pants
Long skirt
Dressy but comfortable shorts
Midi dress
Light outer layer
Sneakers
Sandals
Accessories + swimwear
How Many Pieces Should I Bring?
This really depends on your plans. But generally, I'd say 12 pieces for two weeks is appropriate.
A capsule wardrobe designed for a month-long adventure through Vietnam is going to look completely different from one that's built for lounging on the Tyrrhenian sea in Italy for a week.
Ask yourself the follow questions to help create the best packing list for your holiday.
What To Ask Yourself When Packing:
How long are you traveling for?
Are you checking your luggage or only taking a carry-on?
What's the weather like where you're traveling to?
Are you going to be able to do laundry?
Are there any cultural dress codes that you have to consider?
What activity-specific gear are you going to need to bring?
What To Pack:
Versatile + Breathable Linen or Cotton Tops
I recommend four tops for two weeks of summer vacation. Stick with breathable natural fiber garments for the summertime. Mix and match between styles and colors as well as how dressy they are. I also like to pack a sports bra or bikini that can sometimes double as a top.
1. Basic tee
2. Breathable tank top
3. Dressy tank top
4. Classic button-down (or gauzy blouse)
Flowy Bottoms
For the most flexible wardrobe, I've included three bottoms: one pair of wide leg pants, one long skirt, and one pair of shorts. Fun bottoms are all the rage now so this is a great place to add color and prints to your wardrobe.
5. Wide leg pants
6. Long skirt
7. Dressy but comfortable shorts
Personality-Driven Statement Pieces
8. Midi dress
This is garment that sets your wardrobe apart! Pick the midi dress that works best for your vacation. For example, if you're spending your summer in Paris, then maybe you pack a sleek, black, midi dress. On the other hand, if you're going to an eco resort in Tulum, maybe the best choice is a colorful sundress.
9. Light outer layer
Regardless of your destination, you're going to want to bring a light outer layer (even if you only end up wearing it on the plane ride). Outerwear adds a twist to any basic outfit and can be extremely functional as well.
Sensible Shoes
10. Sneakers
The idea here is to pack a pair of walking shoes. I usually go with white sneakers because they're the easiest to pair, but you can really go with any shoes. I've even swapped these out for Doc Martens on a couple of hiking-intensive trips!
11. Sandals
You're on vacation, so let those toes breathe! It's completely up to you on whether you pack dressy sandals or flip flops. I usually bring my trusty Tevas but there have definitely been instances when I've wished that I brought nicer shoes.
Accessories + Swimwear
Example Travel Capsule Wardrobes
I don't know about you, but I'm a visual planner. So here are some destination-specific examples of travel capsules that you can pack for this summer's vacation.
Summer On The Mediterranean
Coastal Chic Capsule Wardrobe
Lazing In The Caribbean
Luxury Resort Capsule Wardrobe
Road Tripping Through Our National Parks
Outdoor Travel Capsule Wardrobe
A travel capsule wardrobe is one of the best ways to ensure that you're not over or under packing. So where are you headed to this summer? Share some of your favorite destinations and packing tips in the comments below!
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