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Where in the world am I? Well, that’s a question my friends often ask me. This year alone I’ve been to France and Denmark, and have two more trips to Europe planned for the fall. Not to mention my yearly summer trips around the U.S. Long story short: I’m always on the go, and I’ve become somewhat of a master packer when it comes to travel-worthy fashion and accessories.
Do I still overpack sometimes? Yes, but I have the basics down pat. Regardless of your destination, these are 17 fashion items you should never travel without. With these tops, bottoms, dresses and footwear, you’ll be the most stylish (and comfortable) person on your next vacation.
17 Fashion Staples I Can’t Travel Without
1. Frequent Flier Alert: I’m not one of those people that goes to the airport dressed to the nines. However, I still manage to look put together without sacrificing comfort, thanks to this elevated lounge set.
2. Convenient Crossbody: The best travel tip I have? Packing a stylish crossbody bag that will mesh well with your outfits. Pick pockets aren’t uncommon when traveling, but as long as you keep your belongings secure and close by, your vacation will go off without a hitch.
3. European-Looking: The first thing I pack for any summer vacation are these linen pants from Quince. The breezy fabric inherently looks sophisticated, and they’re my go-to exploring pants when I’m wandering around a new destination.
4. These Boots Were Made for Walking: I’ll always make room in my suitcase for my Palladium leather boots. These are the most comfortable, lightweight walking shoes I’ve ever owned, and I’ve trekked across the world in them.
5. Jetsetter: A comfy, casual dress can go a long way in your luggage. Pair it with white sneakers for exploration days or throw on a pair of heels for date night.
6. Tried and True: I’ve learned to never forget a plain black tee when I travel. This Quince top is a trusty fall back when you’re unsure of what to wear. Not to mention, it doesn’t easily dirty.
7. Go-to Denim: My advice? Choose one pair of jeans to bring on your trip and build a variety of outfits around it. I suggest choosing a style that’s stretchy and unrestrictive, like Abercrombie’s Curve Love jeans.
8.Comfy Kicks: When it comes to footwear, white sneakers are the most practical and adaptable shoes you can travel with. Prioritize designs that offer optimal foot support.
9. Trusty Travel Companion: A spacious backpack is an absolute necessity for the in-transit part of your journey. Few compare to the Dagne Dover Dakota backpack. It feels like Mary Poppins’ bag, has special pockets for valuable items and can be thrown in the wash after your trip.
10. Sporty Chic: When I travel to warm destinations, you’ll always find a tennis dress in my bag. It takes up minimal space in my suitcase and simply can’t be beat.
11. Effortless Elegance: The things that most often make it into my luggage are the simple, multi-purpose clothing items. Take a breezy button down top, for example. It works as a beach cover up, a relaxed top or even an elegant shirt you can wear out to dinner.
12. Throw on and Go: Even if I’m not headed somewhere warm, a designer-looking sandals always make it into my bag.
13. Dress It Up: Vacation may be about relaxation, but it’s a good idea to pack a fancier frock in your suitcase. I love this halter style for beach vacations — it gives me an instant confidence boost!
14. Bundle Up: You never know when the temperatures could drop, and this packable jacket always has your back — literally.
15. Lounge Around: Don’t forget to put a pair of leggings in your suitcase. After long days venturing around, it feels so nice to slip into your trusty loungewear.
16. Summer Staple: Jean shorts are a no-brainer in my book because they don’t take up much space and are a summertime staple, regardless of where you are in the world.
17. Sleep Tight! Take it from me: You don’t want to forget pajamas. I like to pack a matching cotton set to feel extra snug after a day of exploration.
