Whether you’re off to trek through the mountains of Colorado or the streets of Paris, we’ve taken the stress out of packing.
Read on for our ideas on what to bring that’s both stylish and practical—after all, suitcase real estate is precious indeed.
Beachy Keen
Ocean getaways require more than a swimsuit and tanning oil. The key to this vacation style is color, color, color—and a few major accessories. For day, a packable sun hat and beach read are a must. Once you hit dry land for the night, throw on a Pucci-esque cover-up and an assemblage of brightly hued bangles (go for something made from plastic or resin, which won’t overheat in the sun or get damaged by water or sea air).
Trina Turk French Riviera Tunic Cover-Up, $137, Nordstrom
Helen Kaminiski Provence 12 Straw Hat, $178, Nordstrom
Hunter Boot “Thatch” Flat Sandals, on sale for $165.75, Bloomingdale’s
Angela Adams and Sea Bags Dipped Sail Bag, on sale for $139.99, J. Crew
Marc by Marc Jacobs Bangles, on sale for $38.90–$43.90 each, Nordstrom
Mountain-ista
Modern innovations in fabric and construction have given us sportswear that’s cute and practical. When hiking, lose the baggy tees and embrace your shape with a Tech Stretch Hoodie and sexy sports bra. Stay hydrated with a foldable Platypus water bottle, which packs easily once empty and is 80% lighter than a traditional plastic bottle. For nights at the campfire, a clip-on insect repellant keeps the mosquitos at bay without the nasty smell of bug spray. Finally, if you’re the artistic type, sketch gorgeous vistas in a leather bound journal—the drawings make a unique alternative to photographs.
Tech Stretch Hoodie, $89.99, Athleta
Marc by Marc Jacobs Resistance Backpack, $298, Saks Fifth Avenue
Lululemon Free To Be Bra, $42.00, Lululemon
Keen Targhi Hiking Boots, $130, REI
One of a Kind Santa Fe Leather Wrap Journal, $35.99, Jenni Bick
Platy-Plus Bottle, $14.95, Uncle Dan’s
80% lighter than a plastic bottle
Off! Clip-On Mosquito Protection, $7.99, Drugstore.com
Continental Tourist
Wherever your European travels take you—down the French Riviera, through the museums of Rome, or along the canals of Amsterdam—the best looks are simply chic while still being comfortable. With limited suitcase space, it’s ideal to be able to create several looks with just a few pieces. A convertible dress is the perfect way to satisfy whatever’s on your itinerary—go strapless when you’re wandering around in the hot Italian sun, then turn it into a short sleeve dress for tours through more reserved cathedrals. Bring a pack of white tees for even more versatility—pair with jeans and a colorful scarf for something casually elegant, or wear it with your dress tied as a long skirt. A pocket belt keeps your money and passport safe and close at hand, while comfortable wedges are made for walking, and won’t have trouble treading old-world cobblestone streets.
Twist Wrap Dress, $140, Dessy
Andre Assous Anouka Mid, $136, Lori’s Shoes
7 Hills Pocket Belt, $46.00, Piperlime
COOLPIX P500, $379.95, Nikon
Tagless Jersey Crew Tees, $10.99 for pack of 3, Hanes
Halogen Ombre Circle Scarf, $38, Nordstrom
City Maps, $7.95, Streetwise Maps
Eurorailways App for iPad, Free, iTunes
