Summer is finally here, and with it comes the excitement of planning your next vacation. Whether you’re traveling to a tropical paradise or exploring a new city, packing the right cute summer travel outfits will help you make the most of your trip. With so many options for summer travel outfits, it can be overwhelming to decide what to wear. In this article, I’m sharing some of my favorite tips and ideas for creating a stylish and comfortable summer travel wardrobe.
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Summer Travel Outfit Highlights
- When packing for summer travel, plan for items that are easy to pack.
- Essential components of a summer travel wardrobe include lightweight fabrics, breathable materials, and versatile pieces.
- Consider saving space for destination-specific attire tips when planning your outfits to ensure you’re comfortable and appropriately dressed for the activities and climate.
Here are some of the pieces that make the best travel outfits whether you’re getting ready for a long flight or road trips, these will keep you comfortable during your travels.
These are favorites that I reach for when traveling to create quick to pack and easy to wear outfits!
Essentials of Summer Travel Wardrobe
When it comes to summer travel, comfort is key. You want to wear outfits that are lightweight, breathable, and easy to move in. At the same time, you don’t want to sacrifice style for comfort. The good news is that there are plenty of summer travel outfits that are both fashionable and practical. From flowy dresses to denim that is easy to wear, these ideas are perfect for any summer adventure.
Creating a Travel Capsule Wardrobe
When it comes to packing for your summer travels, creating a travel capsule wardrobe can help you pack light while still looking fashion-forward. A travel capsule wardrobe is a collection of versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple chic travel outfits.
Found in photo:
Gold Sunnies / Sweater Two Piece Set / Capri Two Piece Set / Necklace
Cream Pleated Two Piece Set / Straw Platform Sandals / Woven Bag / Earrings / Strap Sandals
To create a summer travel capsule wardrobe, start by choosing a color scheme that includes neutral colors like black, white, and beige, as well as one or two accent colors. This will allow you to easily mix and match your outfits.
Some essential pieces to include in your summer travel capsule wardrobe are a lightweight cardigan or jacket, a versatile dress that can be dressed up or down, a pair of comfortable walking shoes, and a swimsuit.
White sneakers are a trendy but classic item that will go with many outfits and are comfortable to wear. Tank tops can be worn under linen blazers or worn with denim shorts for a more casual look.
Choosing Versatile Pieces for Different Destinations
There are a number of options for versatile pieces that can be used in different types of outfits. If you’ll be visiting both a beach destination and a city, choose pieces that can be dressed up or down, like a sundress that can be worn with sandals or dressed up with heels. Or be worn with sandals and straw tote for a more relaxed beach look.
Found in photo: Pink Maxi Dress / Personalized Tote / Sandals
Light layers give you options to create different looks, and one of my summer travel staple items is a lightweight kimono cardigan. I love pairing these with a chiffon cardigan and wide-leg trousers to make one of my favorite summer travel outfit ideas. Mix and match the pieces with shorts, denim jeans, and use the kimono cardigans over dresses for a number of different looks.
Packing for Comfort and Style
While it’s important to look fashionable while traveling, comfort should also be a priority. Choose pieces that are lightweight and breathable, such as cotton or linen, and avoid packing items that are too tight or restrictive.
To make packing easier, plan ahead and create a packing list. This will help you avoid overpacking and ensure that you have all the essential items you need for your trip. Download our free packing list printable below to use at home!
Creating a summer travel capsule wardrobe, choosing versatile pieces, and packing for comfort and style are essential for a successful and stress-free summer trip. Mix together classic pieces with fun accessories for your ultimate summer look!
Key Summer Outfit Components
Top Summer Travel Outfits
When it comes to summer travel outfits, I love packing items that can be worn in multiple outfits and that can easily be rolled up in a suitcase to be able to pack light. A great outfit should allow you to move around easily while keeping you cool and protected from the sun. We headed to North Carolina for our own summer getaway this year, and I’ve selected the items below for easy to wear looks that work well for hot destinations.
Found in photo:
Lilac Dress / Lilac Purse / Rattan Slides / Cream Dress / Rattan Earrings / Rattan Bangle
Cream Purse / Navy Dress / Cream Slides / Rose Gold Ring / Rose Gold Earrings
A simple t-shirt or tank top paired with shorts or a lightweight layer like a cardigan or denim jacket is a classic combination that works well for casual daytime activities. For a more polished look, opt for a flowy dress or linen pants paired with a white t-shirt or blouse. My favorite is always a sundress with comfortable sandals. You’ll be ready for warm weather and a variety of activities!
Travel Day Essentials
On the days that you’ll actually be going from place to place, plan outfits that work in a variety of climates and have pieces that can be used later in the trip. Often when I’m flying, I will bring jeans that can be worn on multiple days of the trip. I especially love wearing Judy Blue jeans when I’m traveling, because they are lightweight, stretchy, and come in tons of great styles!
Leggings look great with a longer tunic and offer comfort if you’ll be spending a lot of time sitting. And linen pants make a great option this time of year as an option that can be dressed up or down during your travels. Below are some travel helpers to stay cozy and organized on your trip!
Found in photo:
Two piece set / Face Masks / Air Pods Pro / Neck Pillow
Slides / Evian Spray / Travel Bottles / Cosmetic Bag / Eye Masks
Your carry-on bag should be big enough to hold all of your essentials and if I’m on a shorter flight I love when I can pack everything into one smaller roller suitcase to bring on the plane with me. My laptop backpack is one of my travel staples that I bring with me on all types of trips – whether it is a road trip or flights. I can pack all of my makeup and personal essentials, along with my electronics that I need to carry on to the plane.
I’ve also shared my favorite budget luggage on the blog, to give you ideas of what to pack everything in if you’ll need some larger luggage.
Footwear for Comfort and Function
The right footwear can make or break a summer travel outfit. Comfortable shoes are a must-have for long walks or hikes, while flat sandals or leather sandals are perfect for more casual activities.
For a sporty look, try sneakers from brands like All Birds or Nike, or opt for cushioned sneakers or ballet flats that are easy to pack!
Accessorizing for Summer Travel
Accessorizing is the key to making any summer travel outfit pop. Jewelry, hats, and sunglasses are all great ways to add a personal touch to your outfit. Camera bags are a great accessory to bring that can be placed inside your carry on bag and then used as a stand alone purse when you get to your destination.
When it comes to choosing accessories, think about choosing accessories that can work with multiple outfits. Mix and match classic pieces to create different looks. If you’ll be going a date night in your travel destination, pack a special pair of shoes or dress to wear for the occasion!
Destination-Specific Attire Tips
One of the first things that I do when planning my summer travel outfits, is consider the locations I’ll be visiting and matching up the type of attire that best suits the location. Different locations call for different types of attire, so you can look stylish and feel comfortable while exploring. Here are some destination-specific attire tips to help you pack for your upcoming trip.
Beach Vacation Essentials
If you’re heading to a beach vacation, you’ll want to pack light and breezy outfits that can withstand the heat and sand. Opt for lightweight cotton or linen fabrics that are breathable and easy to move around in. A beach vacation capsule wardrobe should include a swimsuit, cover-up, sun hat, sunglasses, flip flops, and a beach bag to carry your essentials. You can opt for a classic black swimsuit, or have fun with lots of color with a patterned suit.
Found in photo:
Two Piece Suit / Crop Tops / Plus Size Suit / Moss Rose Coverup / Mouse Fan
Yellow Suit / Fringe Shorts / Havaianas Sandals / Swim Tote / Reef Sandals
Don’t forget to pack a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings. Items like straw hats and cover-ups can be double duty as both an accessory and to help shield you from the sun’s rays. Pack a pair of sandals that will work for both beach and lunch outings to save space in your suitcase for souvenirs!
A mesh beach bag is a great way to still be able to cart things to the beach without taking up tons of space inside your luggage.
Family vacations to the beach are a memorable summer vacation outing and if you’re looking for styles for the whole family – check out my Amazon storefront for even more travel essential ideas!
Exploring the City Outfit Ideas
When exploring a city, you’ll want to strike a balance between comfort and style. Opt for comfortable shoes, such as sneakers or flats, that can handle long walks. Pack versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down, such as a pair of jeans, a t-shirt, and a blazer.
Found in photo: Denim Jacket / Maxi Dress
Accessorize with a statement bag and sunglasses to add a touch of personality to your outfit. If you’re headed to a warm destination, you can experiment with bold prints and bright colors.
Countryside Getaway Attire
If you’re planning a countryside getaway, you’ll want to pack clothes that are practical and comfortable. Opt for loose-fitting clothes that allow for movement and layering, as the weather can be unpredictable. Linen trousers or blazers are a great selection that can be dressed up or down, and work well for hot weather.
In places like sighting seeing in a new country or visiting the vineyards, you can opt for sophisticated yet relaxed outfits, such as a midi dress or a maxi skirt, a straw hat, and a crossbody bag. A two-piece outfit is a great option to pack because you can use the items separately or together, and these outfits can typically be easily accessorized for upscale locations.
Off-Road Adventure
If your summer travels will be taking you someplace more adventurous, opt for light layers that are form fitting and offer sun protection. We opt many times for long-sleeve UV protection shirts that are lightweight and meant for outdoor activities in the heat.
Found in photo: Lilly Belt Bag / Dress / Sandals
These are a great way to be prepared for being in the sun and comfortable enough to be active in them. Pack a pair of hiking boots or comfortable sneakers for outdoor activities. In the image above, we had just a short hike (not even a hike really, just a short set of stone stairs) to get down to a waterfall viewing area, and my go to travel sandals worked out great.
Pair your shoes with athletic shorts, leggings, and comfortable tennis shoes to complete the look. A packable backpack that is light weight can carry all of your essentials if you’re planning on doing any hiking or nature activities. These items will have athletic adventurers ready for all contingencies!
Summer Getaway Planning
Let’s get ready for the best summer vacation ever! Remember to pack light by including versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched, and don’t forget to have fun with your outfits! There are lots of different types of travelers, so above all stay true to your style and make sure you’re comfortable!
If you’ll be visiting Asheville, Chicago, Nashville, or Huntsville this summer, I have a number of travel planning guides for these locations to help you plan what to do once you arrive! If you have a long weekend to spend in any of these cities, there are tons of things to do for both families and couples!
** All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. Being Mommy with Style is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
