Pack These 15 Pieces and You’ll Have a Full Vacation Wardrobe That Fits in a Carry-on

I’ve been on more planes than I can count — my frequent flier status has reached multi-platinum — yet I never check a bag, no matter how long the flight. I’ve become an expert at traveling for long stretches of time with just a carry-on. Trust me when I say you don’t need a ton of items for week-long vacations. In fact, as long as you have the following 15 items, which include dresses, tops, footwear and more, you’ll be good to go anywhere in the world and look stylish while doing so.

Keep reading to find the 15 fashion items I take on every trip. With these, you’ll see just how easy packing light can be.

Dresses 

1. A Daytime Dress: A simple smocked midi, like this trendy gingham dress, can be worn while exploring and easily dressed up for fancier dinners. It’s a total no-brainer to pack.

2. A Little Dressier: Every vacation includes a night where you dress to the nines. This floral ruffled puff-sleeve dress is perfect for the occasion because it’s elegant, timeless, and will make you feel like your best self.

3. Lounge Around: When you’re relaxing at the hotel in between activities, stay comfortable in this casual t-shirt dress. Consider it your recharging outfit.

Shirts

4. Ready to Go: Plain black or white t-shirts have their time, but on vacation I like to play with color. That’s why I pack a striped shirt, like this Polo Ralph Lauren design, that can be worn with shorts, jeans, skirts…anything really.

5. Tank It: Regardless of whether I’m traveling to the tropics or to Europe, a ribbed tank is a cornerstone piece of any travel wardrobe and works as a standalone shirt as well as a key layering item.

6. Packing Hero: Most button-downs immediately wrinkle in your bag — wrinkle-resistant fabrics have changed the game, especially this striped blouse, which I own in multiple colors.

Bottoms

7. Travel Savior: My flight uniform always includes these stretchy and soft 100% linen pants from Quince. Beyond keeping me comfortable while in transit, I find that they’re easy to style and wear at every destination.

8. Solid Denim: Jeans are one of the most versatile pieces you can pack. I refuse to travel without these low-rise Levi’s because they’re effortlessly stylish and help me look put together even when jet-lagged.

9. Vacay-Ready: Denim shorts might be the one item you reach for again and again during your trip. Selecting a pair that perfectly hugs your curves — like this affordable Walmart pick — is key to confidently dressing while traveling.

Shoes

10. Comfy Kicks: The number one thing you should pack for any trip? White sneakers. I prefer leather — like this footwear — because they’re easy to clean.

11. Sturdy Sandals: Some people like slides, but in my expert opinion, it’s always a good idea to pack sandals with adjustable straps to ensure they stay securely attached to your feet.

12. Simple Heels: For formal evenings, pack a reliable nude pair of heels that are easy to walk in. Kitten heels are always the best bet.

Swimsuits/Coverups

13. One for Fun: If you plan on spending time in the ocean doing rigorous activities, like snorkeling or jet skiing, pack a one-piece. The high cut leg holes on this slimming style make you look model tall.

14. Another for Lounge: Save the two pieces and bikinis for some lounging in the sun. I like how this one offers tummy control without being too high-waisted.

15. Cover It Up: The best coverups are useful beyond the pool or beach. I opt for crocheted designs that can double as a fun dress or top for nights out on the town.

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