Guide to Packing for your Summer Vacation
The world is finally re-opening to travelers, COVID restrictions are becoming less of a burden, making vacationing more appealing. Packing for any vacation, whether a short weekend away to the Hamptons or a month long sabbatical to Europe, can be a struggle for most. Often left to the day before, we usually cram in as many garments as possible to one large suitcase, only then to realize once we reach our destination we don’t have the right clothes.
I think overpacking is a predicament. We tend to convince ourselves of the worst case scenario, that every item will end up with some kind of stain after one wear, making it unusable for the remainder of your time away. Rarely that’s the case. Leaving you with a third of your suitcase clean upon your return home.
The key to your suitcase is packing versatile clothing - items that can be worn on multiple days. Ones that can also be mixed and matched easily with others, creating effortless outfits. I like to break my thought process up into four categories when packing:
Traveling
If it is a quick weekend away that doesn’t involve a flight, then this can be ignored. Longer trips usually involve half a day of traveling at minimum, so being comfortable on the journey takes priority over saving luggage space or weight. A tailored pair of sweatpants, t-shirt and a lightweight crewneck sweater is ideal. Wear your most comfortable pair of dress sneakers (not running shoes) that can also be worn during the day touring or with jeans at night.
Day
Depending on your destination some items may be redundant, but usually summer getaways always involve some form of beach or pool perusing. A pair (or two) of tailored shorts (I prefer linen or cotton shorts due to their breathability), swim shorts and a pair of light chinos incase of bad weather is a solid start. A few pairs of basic t-shirts (white, navy, grey, black), a linen button-down, and a short sleeve button-down will get the job done for your daily ventures. A pair of comfortable sandals or sneakers (same ones you wore on the plane) will work here.
Night
This can be the most difficult part of packing. Many people travel for events like weddings or birthdays, which call for a certain dress code. Therefore, if you are attending a black tie event, pack your tuxedo and all the trimmings, etc.
Mixing and matching your shirts and pants here is ideal. So packing a few of your favorite season appropriate dress shirts, two pairs of tailored trousers (a light and dark pair), jeans for a more casual evening and one blazer for any event that calls for it, should hold you in good stead. Your favorite pair of loafers will be a flawless and easy option for your feet each evening. Feel free to pack a pair of sturdy yet classic boots (i.e. chuckas or Chelseas) if the weather calls for it.
Essentials
Think underwear, socks or any sleepwear you use. This is something I always like to overpack for. So if your trip is 5 days, pack 7 pairs of underwear.
I always like to include a field jacket or other versatile yet lightweight jacket. That can be used to carry items I don’t want in my pocket or if the weather takes a turn for the unexpected.
If you plan on working out feel free to pack a set of workout clothes. However, a t-shirt and great pair of swim shorts can always be used to run or go to the gym in.
To recap, if we you are going on a 7 day vacation. Here is the ideal suitcase:
Four t-shirts
Three dress shirts
Linen button-down
Short sleeve button-down
Two pairs of tailored shorts
Pair of swim shorts
Two pairs of tailored trousers
Pair of chinos
Pair of jeans
Sweater
Field Jacket (or lightweight jacket)
Blazer
Nine pairs of underwear
Six pairs of socks
Pair of dress sneakers
Loafers
Sandals
Boots (optional)
Workout clothing (optional)
Toiletry kit
Charging cables
Passport
Remember, if you think you have packed too much. Then you are probably right. Everything should easily fit into a carry-on and checked suitcase for longer trip, and a small carry-on luggage for weekenders. Safe travels!