When planning unforgettable summer adventures to exciting new destinations, a well-thought-out travel capsule wardrobe is essential. It's a process that can streamline your packing process, minimise excess baggage, and help create practical yet stylish travel outfits.
Wherever I go on a short trip or long vacation, I always create a travel capsule wardrobe. It helps make travelling simpler and more organised, allowing me to focus on making memories—not worrying about what to wear! Having a small selection of highly versatile clothing means I can pack less, travel lighter, and have a more enjoyable holiday.
Before you start packing, read this guide. It has everything you need to know to create the perfect summer travel capsule wardrobe for stress-free packing and effortless style—from how many pieces to include in a summer capsule wardrobe to the best clothing for staying cool in the scorching heat.
How do you make a summer travel capsule wardrobe?
Planning a capsule wardrobe for travel is all about practicality and versatility. You want to select items that can be easily mixed and matched to maximise the number of outfit combinations you can create. This will not only ensure you'll be comfortable for your entire trip, you'll be wearing outfits that reflect your personal style too.
How many pieces in a travel capsule wardrobe depends on where you're travelling and what you'll be doing once you get there. By choosing versatile clothing that's practical and comfortable to wear, you'll be able to create numerous outfits to suit any occasion or activity—regardless of the weather!
What clothes to pack for a summer trip?
Dressing for summer is all about keeping cool and staying comfortable without sacrificing personal style. A well-planned summer travel capsule wardrobe will cover you for all eventualities, from fluctuating temperatures to holiday activities.
Outfits need to be breathable and lightweight to keep you cool in the hot weather, while still being appropriate for both both the destination and the adventures that await. Keep reading to find out what to pack for a summer holiday.
What to Pack for a Summer Holiday
An effective travel capsule features outfits that are simple, versatile, and in-keeping with your personal style. With some careful planning, you'll end up with a flexible travel wardrobe that can be easily mixed and matched to create numerous outfits using only a small selection of clothes.
Remember to take into consideration the length of the holiday, what the weather will be like, and the activities you'll be doing when you get there. Plan outfits and try them on before travelling, and follow these travel tips to avoid overpacking!
Dress for Comfort
Comfort is key! Tailor your travel capsule wardrobe to suit the destination, the weather, and the activities you have planned. Whether you're exploring cities on foot, relaxing by the pool, or hiking in the wilderness; where you're going and what you're doing should guide your wardrobe choices. Be sure to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
Prioritise Breathable Fabrics
The most important factors when choosing what to pack for a summer travel capsule wardrobe is the fabric and style of clothing. Loose-fitting outfits made from natural fabrics will keep you cool in the heat. While tight-fitting clothing made from synthetic materials will have you roasting. Read more about what to wear to stay cool in the heat.
Pack Versatile Basics
Consider packing classic wardrobe basics, like oversized shirts, maxi dresses, and linen trousers. These pieces can easily be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits with very little effort. Carefully selected basics will maximise outfit combinations while minimising the amount of items packed—saving space without sacrificing style!
Embrace a Simple Colour Palette
A capsule wardrobe works best when it has a clearly defined colour palette. Rather than packing a suitcase full of statement outfits you'll only wear once, it's best to stick to the colours you usually wear. Neutral shades are easier to mix and match that bold patterns or colours, unlocking the ability to create a multitude of outfits from just a few items.
Accessorise Outfits
Accessories are the perfect way to keep travel outfits looking fresh without taking up too much space. A sun hat, statement earrings, sunglasses, and a few minimal chains are all you need to prevent repeated outfits from becoming too boring. Follow these jewellery packing tips to keep your accessories safe when travelling.
A Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe
As with all my travel capsules, I created this one from my existing wardrobe to prove you don't need a whole new summer wardrobe for your holiday. With good planning and a little creativity, it's possible to create your own travel capsule wardrobe using what you already own. Building a wardrobe with reliable clothing staples to wear again and again prevents overpacking and allows you to become a more sustainable traveller.
This is my 15 piece summer travel capsule wardrobe. It's intended as a guide for you to use when planning your own holiday outfits—not as a list of must-pack essentials! Hopefully you'll be able to create your own version that reflects your personal style, using mine as inspiration. Most of my wardrobe is second-hand, so if you do need to buy something for your next trip—try thrifting first!
- Loose Vest
- Oversized Shirt
- Embroidered Shirt
- Linen Trousers
- Swimsuit
- Maxi Skirt
- Jumpsuit
- Wrap Dress
- Midi Dress
- Sun Hat
- Sandals
- Bag
- Sunglasses
- Medallion Necklace
- Knot Earrings
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