Fact: we’re all overdue for a good vacation. Between last minute deadlines, midterm exams and everything else that’s taking up space in our date books, it can be tricky to find the time to plan a trip, let alone actually follow through with one. But once your vacation days are approved and your travel plans are finally booked, there’s still one last hurtle to clear — and it’s a big one: packing. If you thought finding a flight + hotel package that wouldn’t drain your savings was hard, just wait until you’re looking up and down from your open closet to your empty suitcase with no packing plan in place. Now that’s hard.
The secret to packing lies in the destination. Are you road tripping out west or heading off to the tropics? Is the plan to spend your week(end) hiking, swimming and getting lost somewhere or vegging out at the hotel spa? Spending time with your significant other or with your squad? Whatever it is, every itinerary involves a vastly different set of outfits. So to ensure that you don’t show up to your final destination with a suitcase full of everything but what you actually need, we’ve thrown together some travel-ready outfits for whatever type of trip your jetting (or cruising) off on.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Girls Trip
Everyone knows that when you travel together with your oldest girl friends, things are bound to get a little wild. Sure, you might have low-key wine nights back at home, but on vacation, prepare to travel back to your 20s: staying out late, wearing slinky dresses and lounging it all off the next day by the pool. So pack for the part: a trendy bikini (for the poolside pics, of course), a going out mini dress and some extra fun heels to match.
Zara Sequin Mini Dress, $49.9, available at ZaraPhoto Courtesy of Zara.
Couples Retreat
There’s a bonus in it for you if you can both fit your belongings in one suitcase! Pack light by bringing only the basics: a sexy one piece, a date night frock and something easy to throw on while you lounge around all day.
Solid & Striped The Nina Belt, $168, available at Solid & StripedPhoto Courtesy of Solid & Striped.
Road Trip
When it comes to road trips, whether you’re with a group or going solo, less is more when it comes to packing. Think about it, you’re jammed in a car for hours on end, possibly next to one to five other people. Keep your wardrobe comfortable, versatile and lightweight with jeans and t-shirts, bike shorts with a warmer pullover and some sneakers that’ll go with it all.
& Other Stories Mock Neck Tee, $39, available at & Other Stories
Spa Getaway
Whether your weekend of massages, wraps and facials involves a thirty minute cab ride to your local spa or taking the elevator down to the spa in your tropical resort, it’s important to dress the part. Bring along something airy, with a neutral one-piece just in case you want to take a zip post-treatment. Add to that a pair of strappy sandals and you’re good to spa out.
Mara Hoffman Plus Size Whitney Jumpsuit, $325, available at Mara Hoffman
The Great Outdoors
For some people (not me, but to each their own), the best kinds of getaways are the ones that’re made up of morning hikes, mountain biking and surf lessons. And just because you’re down in the dirt or up in the waves, doesn’t mean you have to get active in something boring. Actually, sports bra bikinis, Teva-like sandals and matching workout sets are anything but.
Girlfriend Smoke Topanga Bra, $38, available at Girlfriend
Girlfriend Smoke High-Rise Bike Short, $48, available at GirlfriendPhoto Courtesy of Girlfriend.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
The 29 Most-Wanted Goods This Month — According To You
These Luxury-Made Sharply-Priced Gold Hoops Have Sold Out Three Times
Here’s Every Pastel Dress You Need To Do Spring Right
Source: Refinery29 – Eliza Huber