Travel in Style with These 4 Go-To Packing Tips
Here at PinkTag, summer vacation has officially started! The kids are finally out of school for the summer, which means we’re gearing up for our annual family vacation. I don’t know about you, but nothing feels more like summer to me than breaking out my favorite suitcase and swimsuit!
When it comes to packing for our summer vacation, I never have to think twice about bringing my vacation mainstays — like my fave neoprene tote and trusty crossbody — but planning my vacation outfits can be admittedly difficult. I always have a hard time deciding between what to bring and what to leave behind (because I want to bring my entire wardrobe!) and planning an outfit for all the activities we’ll be doing on our trip. That’s why I decided to make perfecting my packing routine one of my goals for this summer!
If you’re like me when it comes to packing, you probably get out your entire wardrobe, try everything on a few times, and still end up bringing outfits that are uncomfortable or don’t make you feel confident. I’ve definitely been there! The right vacation wardrobe can change your entire outlook on your trip and streamline your morning routine — so you can spend more time on the things that really matter, like sightseeing, swimming, and quality time with your family.
Here are a few of my favorite vacation packing tips that really helped me make the packing process stress-free and seamless this year — along with some favorite PinkTag summer staples that made it into my vacation rotation this year! Let’s get packing!
ELEVATED CLASSICS
When it comes to packing for a vacation, never underestimate the potential of a few elevated basics. Though this may not be the first idea that comes to mind when you imagine the perfect vacay outfit — if you’re thinking flowy floral blouses and flirty tanks we’re with you — an elevated classic is the perfect versatile piece. Packing something like the Gina Top, a cute ruffled take on the classic tee, can easily take your outfit from sightseeing in the day to an evening beachfront dinner. Just pair it with a chic denim jacket or blazer to totally transform your look.
Any wardrobe basics that you can wear multiple ways are a win for the ultimate vacation wardrobe. Versatile colors and flattering silhouettes, such as our Mallory Crop Top and Just Dreaming Pants, look good with practically everything — so you’ll always have a stylish outfit on hand. Lastly, don’t forget the essentials! When you start each outfit with your favorite pair of jeans or shorts, you’ll feel confident no matter what you’re wearing.
LAYERING IS KEY
Whether you’re headed to the airport for a long-awaited destination vacation or you’re hitting the road for a cross-country road trip, both destinations have one wardrobe necessity in common — layering! When packing for your summer vacation, one thing you should never leave out is the perfect layering pieces. From chilly airports and long flights to evening cocktails on the beach, the wrong outerwear can totally break an outfit. For each outfit you bring, you should always pack a coordinating jacket, blazer, or cozy sweater to layer over top.
Personally, I always pack a couple versatile outerwear pieces that go with everything to save space in my luggage, like the Sandy Blazer or Avril Shacket. The Avril is the perfect laid-back layer for days when you have on a simple tank and shorts outfit, and it even looks cute tied around your waist once you start to warm up. When I want to feel a little more glamorous for an evening dinner, blazers are always on point. Something like the Aiden Blazer or the Power Moves Blazer adds a vibrant pop of colors to any outfit, especially if your vacay wardrobe is heavy on solids and neutrals. For long car rides, I can’t go without my favorite Gloria Fuzzy Jacket, as it looks just as good with leggings as it does with jeans and my favorite summer sneakers. When it comes to packing for your next trip, layering should be at the top of your list to ensure you’re always looking and feeling your best!
LOW MAINTENANCE FOOTWEAR
Another packing essential that always seems to get saved for last is shoes. I tend to pick out each outfit first, then find shoes to coordinate — which always leads to an abundance of footwear! As one of the bulkiest items in my vacation wardrobe, shoes were one of the first issues I tackled when perfecting my packing routine. This summer I decided to try something different and start with the shoes (trust me, it actually works!).
I knew I needed a comfy everyday shoe, like the Marcus Sneaker, or one of my fave throwbacks, the Priya Sneaker, so I instantly decided to pack these. When it came to sandals, I needed something stylish but comfy enough to walk around in, so I settled on the Kinsley Sandal. This summer espadrille sandal looks so good with everything, and the slight platform design makes it extra comfy for casual strolls after dinner. Lastly, I needed something beach-ready, so I packed the Bridget Sandal. As it turns out, once you have chosen your shoes, you can easily coordinate outfits that go with each — like my Scout Jersey Flare Pants with the Nadia Tank and sneakers. By starting with shoes first, I don’t have to take up space with extra sandals I only wear once, saving room for a cute boutique dress in case we’re able to squeeze in a date night!
VACATION WORTHY ACCESSORIES
If you’re trying to simplify your packing routine, like me, versatile solids and neutrals may take up the majority of your vacation wardrobe — but that doesn’t mean your outfit can’t pop! When it comes to bringing personality to your vacation wardrobe, accessories are the way to go. A true vacation staple, sunglasses definitely top my accessory list. I especially love a pair of statement sunglasses, like the Farrah Round Sunglasses or the Insta Fame Shades in blue. With bold frames and a pop of colors, these sunglasses can instantly brighten up any outfit.
When it comes to vacation accessories, the perfect bag can instantly upgrade any wardrobe. Not only are they an essential, but they also add a pop of color and sophistication to your look. For airport travels, you’ll never find me without a Neoprene Tote. I’m really crushing on the Stevie Neoprene Tote this year, and these bags are perfect to stash beauty essentials, a change of clothes, and snacks for the plane ride. When headed out for a night on the town, the Sol Ata Rattan Bag is a must! This bag has the perfect summery vibe you’re after, and its handcrafted details make it truly one-of-a-kind.
When it comes to packing for your upcoming summer vacation, outfits that make you feel beautiful and comfortable should be top priority! Feeling confident in your outfit not only makes your morning routine easier while on vacation, but it sets the right tone for the rest of your vacation — and with these simple tips, you’re sure to travel in style this year! Check out our new Summer Daze collection at PinkTag for all the styles you need for your upcoming vacation.
