What to wear on vacation largely depends on where you’re headed, but as a general rule, look for comfortable, versatile and stylish items that pack down easily (and will stay wrinkle-free). We connected with deputy fashion editor (and in-house style expert) Kari Molvar to drill down into the specifics and find the best essentials to bring on your next trip. The list of vacation outfit ideas includes Quince’s breezyCotton Smocked Midi Dress, a relaxed sundress with a flowy skirt, J.Crew’s soft Tropez Linen Shorts and Rothy’s slip-on-and-go Weekend Slide.
When packing for vacation, look for comfortable, versatile and stylish garments.
Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailers
Whether you’re heading on a weekend getaway or a long trip to Europe, here’s our expert take on what to wear on your next vacation. For more inspiration, we also rounded up the most comfortable sandals for women and the best swimsuit brands to shop.
Editor’s Picks At A Glance:
This bright maxi dress from Abercrombie & Fitch is comfortable and stylish, with short sleeves, a v-neckline and a functional tie-waist belt. The tiered skirt with side slits adds extra movement to the bottom.
Crafted from 100% cotton, this easy shift dress is an excellent day-to-night option. It has oversized flutter sleeves, a relaxed fit and a slightly longer back hem. Wear it with comfortable flats during the day and accessorize with statement jewelry and strappy sandals when the sun goes down.
For a versatile dress that can be worn for various occasions, you can’t go wrong with the Quice 100% Organic Cotton Smocked Midi Dress. This A-line style has a tiered poplin skirt and a smocked bodice for added comfort, and the midi length is easy to dress up or down. Choose from seven cheerful colors.
This light and airy mini dress looks great for a day of sightseeing or thrown over a bathing suit after lounging at the pool. The tiered skirt is a flattering length, and the affordable price means you can stock up on a few different patterns. Keep in mind: Customers say the lighter hues are more transparent and work better as a cover-up.
This well-reviewed option is made from breathable and lightweight tencel lyocell, and its casual design is ideal for daytime wear. It has a slightly looser fit, thin straps and a midi length.
Don’t forget a long-sleeve tee for chilly nights—or whenever you want extra coverage. The boat neckline and soft, stretchy material make this number easy to throw on with jeans, shorts or skirts.
This tank top is a great base layer that’s long enough to be tucked into various bottoms. Although it’s designed to be fitted, some customers say it runs small, so you might want to size up.
A solid-colored t-shirt is a great basic that can be styled with almost anything, from maxi skirts to denim to shorts. This tee has a slim fit and ribbed neckline and comes in many neutral colors.
A cotton button-down is a wardrobe staple that can be worn year-round and in many different climates. This iteration from Mate The Label—a female-founded brand that focuses on well-made basics—has a relaxed fit, button cuffs and a front chest pocket. Pair it with the matching cotton poplin pants for an easy, monochromatic travel outfit.
Cut from sturdy Irish linen, this popular button-down is perfectly oversized and can be worn on its own or layered over a tank top or t-shirt. Reviewers say it runs large, so consider sizing down one to two sizes depending on your preference.
This crisp cotton skirt looks (and feels) light and comfortable, no matter the temperature. The wide elastic waistband adds to the overall comfort, and side pockets allow you to stash small essentials like balm and keys.
If you’re looking for a bright and cheery mini skirt, consider this whimsical option from H&M. The high-waisted design is cut from breathable cotton and features citrus fruits on a cream background.
Pair this pull-on linen skirt with tank tops, t-shirts and more structured linen options (like the matching sleeveless linen-blend top) for a stylish vacation outfit. It hits right above the ankle, and the waist of the back is elasticized for added comfort.
This color-blocked knee-length skirt is airy and bright, with an elastic waist that won’t hug the body too closely, which is helpful when traveling during the warmer months. Because the knitted design features several colors, pair this with a more neutral top and sandals.
Denim shorts are a summer wardrobe staple, and for good reason. They’re durable, have multiple pockets and can be styled with various tops. This popular style from Madewell has a 10-inch rise, two patch front pockets and a hint of stretch.
These wide-leg linen pants are a travel essential. They can be worn over a swimsuit or a more formal blouse for dinner and drinks. If the length is too long, Reformation provides free alterations in-store, and this style is available in petite and plus sizing.
Packing a soft pair of shorts is a good idea, as they can be worn during a day of travel and later dressed up with leather sandals and bold jewelry. Style details include a smocked waist, high rise and flattering drape. For a monochromatic ensemble, pair these shorts with the matching long-sleeve shirt.
If you’re not afraid to show a little leg, this mini skirt is polished and tailored yet surprisingly comfortable. It’s made from a wrinkle-proof polyester blend, so even if it’s stuffed in your suitcase or overnight bag, it won’t require an iron. The built-in shorts and elasticized back waist are nice touches, too.
A lightweight cardigan can be a welcome layer when the temperatures fluctuate in your hotel room or on public transportation. This under $50 option balances comfort and style with its soft material, deep v-neck and ribbed hemline and cuffs.
The White + Warren Essential Cashmere Crewneck is another layer to consider for your next getaway. We love the wide range of vibrant summer colors, including Bright Tangerine and Pink Lemonade. (This pick also earned top marks from our tester in our review of the best cashmere sweaters.)
This short-sleeve polo is a fun option that adds a bright pop of color to your vacation wardrobe. It has a slightly cropped hemline and textured knit for visual interest.
This one-piece swimsuit has a scoop neckline, adjustable straps, removable soft cups and compressive fabric that provides light support. There’s a wide range of sizes and colors, including several textured options that can add interest to your poolside look. Plus, it’s available in a long torso fit.
If you prefer a more classic two-piece bikini, this under $40 swimsuit is an excellent choice. The top has a twist-front design with adjustable straps, and the bottoms are high-waisted and provide a good amount of coverage.
Anthropologie’s Short-Sleeve Button-Front Midi Dress helps you look pulled together with minimal effort, if you’re just reading or lounging on the beach. Style details include a collar, front buttons and oversized cuffed sleeves.
This lightweight cotton cover-up has a mini length and cutaway armholes, allowing more of your swimsuit to be visible underneath. The crocheted fabric also allows for better air circulation on hot, humid days.
A longer-length cover-up provides sun protection and transitions well from the beach or pool to dinner. This option has an oversized fit, side pockets and an adjustable tie belt. Despite its longer length, the side slits and gauzy material allow plenty of airflow.
Whether strolling around a new city or doing a walking tour with friends, bringing a comfortable pair of flats is a smart choice. Everlane’s Day Glove is cut from soft, flexible leather and has a cushioned insole for all-day support. The side vents also enhance the shoe’s breathability.
If you’re looking for a versatile pair of walking shoes, you can’t go wrong with the Allbirds Tree Runners. The uppers are made from eucalyptus tree fibers (also called tencel lyocell), known for being light and breathable. What’s more, the shoes are machine washable and have a contoured midsole for superior comfort.
If you’re headed somewhere warm, don’t forget to pack a pair of slides to wear with shorts and sundresses. With two crisscrossing knit straps and a thick, contoured footbed, these sandals are stylish and comfortable for walking. Like Allbirds sneakers, this pick is entirely machine washable for easy cleaning.
These cool sandals are available in two neutral colors and feature thick buckle straps and shiny gold hardware; the padded footbed adds to the cushioned feel. Reviewers say these sandals are well-made and instantly elevate any outfit.
A straw hat can shield your eyes and face from the sun while making a style statement. The crocheted material allows for easy airflow, and the hat flattens and folds down when you need to pack it in your suitcase.
Ray-Ban
Ray-Ban Wayfarer Oval Sunglasses
Ray-Ban’s Wayfarer sunglasses are a classic style that looks stylish with everything from bright sundresses to more tailored pants. The oval shape is a modern update to the more traditional square-shaped frames, and there are six colorways to choose from.
When traveling, it’s a good idea to bring a small bag that allows you to go hands-free while sightseeing and exploring. Despite its small size (7.5 x 5 1.7 inches), this pick has three interior compartments for holding essential items like your phone, passport and wallet.
This article was overseen by deputy editor (and in-house style expert) Kari Molvar, who holds a certificate in fashion styling from the Business of Fashion.
Katherine Louie, the author of this piece, is a lifestyle editor with extensive experience covering fashion and lifestyle topics.
This article is regularly updated to ensure all of the above brands and products continue to meet our criteria for the best summer dresses.
What Should I Wear On Vacation?
What you wear on vacation largely depends on where you’re headed and your personal style. Make sure to check the weather of your destination before you begin packing, and write out what you plan to wear so you can visualize each item and make changes to your list ahead of time. If you’re headed somewhere warm, pack a swimsuit, cover-up, sandals, sunglasses, and wardrobe basics like denim shorts, linen pants and several dresses. Focus on lightweight, breathable materials like cotton, linen and Tencel. If you’re traveling somewhere a bit colder, bring warm layers, an insulating jacket and cozy accessories like a hat, gloves and scarf.
What Is The Perfect Clothing For Traveling?
Anything soft, comfortable and stretchy is perfect for traveling. For example, loose-fitting separates like cotton joggers or wide-leg pants paired with a tee, tank or pullover are helpful. It’s also beneficial to wear clothing that’s machine washable and easy to layer, as the temperature can fluctuate in your hotel room or on public transportation. If you’re going to be flying, wear shoes that are easy to remove when you go through security and compression socks to help relieve aches and pains.
How Do You Look Chic On Vacation?
You can instantly elevate your vacation look with the right accessories. Pack a few pieces of jewelry that pair with different outfits, fun sunglasses and comfortable yet stylish shoes. If you’re traveling during the summer, the Banana Republic Molded Outsole Sandals are a great option, as these shoes have fashionable straps and shiny gold hardware. Still, the padded footbed adds to the overall comfort. J. Crew’s packable Summer Straw Hat, Ray-Ban’s classic Wayfarer Oval Sunglasses and Cuyana’s textured leather Phone Bag are all stylish accessories that can help you look chic and polished on your next getaway.
