This summer, I spent my days off soaking up the sun in St. Lucia, oceanside at Sugar Beach's Viceroy Resort, exploring Miami’s Wynwood Art District, and driving along the scenic coast of Kent Island, Maryland. You might say I've evolved into a seasoned traveler, and as a result, I’ve become skilled at assembling a well-rounded collection of vacation essentials.
With my streamlined travel capsule wardrobe, I’m not bogged down by overthinking—or overpacking. In fact, I have everything I might need for any type of trip. For upscale outdoor dinners, I can rely on a smocked white dress—like the one below from Veronica Beard—made from polished cotton fabric. Peaceful moments by the water call for Zara’s striped bikini set paired with J.Crew’s classic linen pants—a foolproof beach outfit that coordinates perfectly with quintessential summer accessories, like leather sandals, a woven raffia tote, and, of course, a bubbly Aperol Spritz in hand.
Since we still have over a month before summer ends, I’ve decided to share my top vacation essentials with you. So, before you say goodbye to the sun-filled season, add these 22 items to your shopping list—and finally plan that trip you’ve been wanting to take!
I can’t count how many compliments I’ve received while wearing Veronica Bead’s Kaela sundress. With a delicate ruched bodice and a flowing skirt, the silhouette of this lovely dress is so refined.
J.Crew’s linen pants are perfect for hot days in the sun. These pants are soft and breathable, so they won’t cling to your skin.
Whether you’re sightseeing around town or exploring your resort, it’s nice to have a crossbody bag that keeps your hands free. This one from Cuyana is my absolute favorite.
If you want to upgrade your vacation outfits, try Banana Republic’s crochet vest. With eye-catching stripes, this top is sure to make any look more lively.
According to Hailey Bieber, lemon yellow is this season’s most delectable color trend. Play into the cheery shade with Reformation’s linen shorts.
I'd argue that a white button-down is the most versatile vacation staple. Whether worn as a cover-up by the pool or styled alongside a maxi skirt for a cocktail hour, this style can do it all.
I'm leveling up my going-out outfits with these heeled raffia sandals. Not only are they elegant, but these cushioned shoes are beyond comfortable.
No travel wardrobe is complete without a little black dress. Consider this one from Aritzia, designed with airy poplin fabric and a roomy shape.
Ask me about this summer’s top jewelry trends, and I’ll wax poetic about cord necklaces. Yep, this ‘90s style is officially back in 2025. So, give it a go with this version from Jenny Bird.
I’m an outfit repeater, which means that my vacation essentials need to last for the long haul. Plastered with neutral-toned stripes, this Zara bikini top definitely ticks the “timeless” box. Buy now and wear for summers to come.
Here are the matching bikini bottoms to the top above top. This style falls in the middle of the spectrum between full-coverage and cheeky.
Assembling a sightseeing outfit? Slip into these Agolde Bermuda shorts and team them with a T-shirt, a pair of fisherman sandals, and a canvas tote bag.
If you have a packed travel itinerary, you’ll want to reach for vacation essentials that offer both function and style. Take this open-knit dress, for example, which can easily transition from the beach to a classy dinner.
Put a twist on the standard black skirt style with this alternative trimmed in fringe.
Seashell jewelry has been a top summer jewelry trend. I’ll be diving in with these earrings from Ettika, adorned with freshwater cultured pearls.
When temperatures are simply too hot to bear, swap your lengthy trousers for a breezy white skirt. Mango’s version features chic pleats.
I’m the type of vacationer who loves to keep my workout routine, so I’ve added Veronica Beard’s Ace tennis dress to my outfit rotation. While this piece is great for when I’m breaking a sweat, it’s also sophisticated enough to wear beyond the court.
The bow details on this Abercrombie & Fitch top are so dainty. I can easily picture myself wearing this shirt with satin shorts and flip-flops for a poolside lunch.
These red jelly sandals are effortlessly cool, but more than anything, they’re also practical. Woven with a mesh upper, these shoes can withstand any heat wave.
Allow me to introduce you to your new favorite beach bag. Ditch your tired old tote for this elevated accessory from Staud.
