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 travel capsule wardrobe is the perfect solution for all your packing woes.
A capsule wardrobe typically consists of 20-40 garments and accessories that pair cohesively to create a versatile range of outfits. People usually create them on a seasonal basis, but in this case, we're going to make one specifically for travel.
As someone who almost exclusively slow travels with a carry-on bag for months at a time, I've picked up some tips and tricks throughout the years. And 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, if you're headed on vacation and are stuck on what to pack, here's how to create the perfect summer travel capsule wardrobe for your itinerary plus some outfit inspiration for different destinations and aesthetics!
Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe Checklist
Just in case you're short on time, here's a quick packing list for what I would bring.
For two weeks of travel, 12 pieces should be enough. Feel free to amp up the accessories or bring another swimsuit as those tend to take up less space.
We'll dive into the reasoning, specific suggestions, and how to modify the capsule wardrobe for your needs later on.
Basic tee
Breathable tank top
Dressy tank top
Classic button-down (or gauzy blouse)
Wide legged pants
Long skirt
Dressy but comfortable shorts
Midi dress
Light outer layer
Sneakers
Sandals
Accessories + swimwear
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 and mix and match between styles, fabrics, and colors to get the most wear out of each garment.
I also like to pack a sports bra or bikini that can sometimes double as a top (but that depends on how conservative the country is 😅)
1. Basic tee
You can't go wrong with a basic tee. Layer it under a dressy top or pair it with some flowy bottoms for a versatile look that carries from cafe to nightclub.
2. Breathable Tank Top
3. Dressy top
This might be super millennial of me but a dressy top elevates any look. Now, it doesn't have to be all business casual; you can still wear something cute like an embroidered corset, but something with a little more color or texture is going to make your travel capsule that much more interesting.
4. Classic button-down (or gauzy blouse)
Whether it's coastal chic or old money aesthetic, a classic button-down just adds something to that quintessential summer vibe.
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 legged pants
I know it can be tempting to only pack shorts or leggings for your summer travel wardrobe, but wide legged pants are essential. They're the perfect blend of functionality and style and come in handy when you need something a little more formal. Whether you go for classic denim jeans or breezy linen slacks, you should pack at least one pair for your your summer vacation.
6. Long skirt
One of the most versatile garments in the world! A maxi skirt is so helpful when you need to make a quick wardrobe change on the beach or when you're visiting a more conservative establishment (like the temples of Thailand). Opt for a muted one if you already have colorful tops or choose something bold and bright if you want to channel that summer essence.
7. Dressy but comfortable shorts or leggings
This last garment depends on the activities that you have planned. If you're spending your summer holiday in the city, then a pair of dressy shorts will suit your needs better. If you're heading outdoors and doing lots of hiking however, it might be better to opt for leggings!
Personality-Driven Statement Pieces
This is where we really get to have fun now! Do your best to keep the above garments basic so that you can create a cohesive foundation but then spice it up with these personality-drive pieces.
8. Midi Dress
This is a 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
Truly one of the hardest parts of packing a travel capsule wardrobe. Shoes take up the most space and can be so hard to style! For this section, you'll think about the activities you have planned and how much walking you're going do be. Below are my two recommendations, but you can always swap them for more functional choices.
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 where I've wished that I brought nicer shoes.
12. Jewelry, Bags, Swimwear, + More
Never underestimate the power of accessories. A couple of rings and a nice statement earring can elevate a basic look to new levels.
Feel free to pack as many of these as you'd like because they add so much personality and take up so little space. Plus, you're on holiday, so make sure to pack some classic sunnies, your bathing suit, and maybe a wide brim hat.
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
How Many Items Should I Include In My Capsule Wardrobe?
It 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 three days lounging in Capri, Italy.
The longer you stay, the more you'll have to pack but the correlation isn't exactly linear.
For three weeks, I'd probably add an additional top and two bottoms and for a whole month, I might add two additional tops and two bottoms (with maybe another pair of shoes).
Questions To Ask Yourself When Packing:
As I mentioned previously, my capsule wardrobe is going to look completely different from yours depending on your vacation destination. Therefore, it's paramount for you to do a little bit of critical thinking and ask yourself these questions in order to create the best packing list for your holiday.
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?
A travel capsule wardrobe is one of the best ways ensure that you're not over or under packing. It's an essential part to traveling more mindfully and in general, thinking about the impact that our adventures might leave on the places that we visit.
So, where are you headed this summer? Share some of your favorite destinations and packing tips in the comments below!
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