Vacation packing: Yellow striped caftan | Gold sandals | Gold diamond bracelet | Heart bracelet
The Ultimate Vacation Packing Guide
I’m very excited to share The Ultimate Vacation Packing Guide, created exclusively for So Susie subscribers. This is a collection of all my best tips and tricks, so you can pack like a pro for your next trip!
As a former Nordstrom Buyer and Personal Stylist for over 25 years, I was lucky enough to travel extensively for work. I also took many flights to visit family in fun places like Italy, England and Brazil. The more I travel, the more I learn the ins and outs of exactly what to pack. So, I put my top recs in this guide so you’ll have everything you need. The goal? To look and feel great on every single trip you take! I hope you enjoy it and find it to be helpful. Happy travels! xx
ICYMI: other recent travel posts
Here’s A Checklist For Your Next Sunny Vacation
The Ultimate Vacation Capsule Wardrobe: Italy-Inspired
Hotel Review: Hôtel La Ponche, Saint-Tropez, France
The Things I Bring on Every Single Trip
Left: Spanx crew | Spanx wide-leg pant | ATM t-shirt | Sandals | Tote
Right: Black blazer | Tank | Baseball hat | Sunglasses | Denim jacket | Jewelry case | Luggage | Weekender bag | Sneaker | Sandal | Denim dress | Scarf | YSL tote | Denim
#1 Weekender bag: The Béis Weekender Bag is incredible, but I recently switched to the mini version, which I prefer. The Convertible Mini Weekender bag has a padded laptop sleeve for a computer and several zip pockets. It’s really ideal for shorter trips; it’s easier to carry by hand, and the pass-through trolley sleeve (like the original) makes it easy to wheel through the airport. Love.
#2 Scarf: This black scarf is a non-negotiable — it comes on every trip. It’s lightweight, but keeps you warm on cold airplanes and cool evenings. Goes with everything, obvi. Don’t leave home without this one.
#3 Speaker: Bringing along this little speaker feels like a luxury when staying in a hotel room! Music gets you going in the morning and helps you relax at night. It’s a must.
#4 Blazer: This Rag & Bone blazer is another travel item that is essential for every trip. It’s super comfy, and it elevates every outfit. Runs TTS, use code SUSIE15 for 15% off!
#5 Denim: Denim travel favorites include this all-time favorite dress and this best-selling jacket. Two essentials that I always have with me.
3 Vacation Outfits That Work Every Time
#1 Daytime Dresses for Lunches and Shopping
Left: Tuckerneck crochet dress | Sandals | Lady Dior bag | Right: Cardigan | Frank & Eileen dress | Tote | Bracelet | Sandal | Sunglasses
Comfortable dresses are a go-to on any trip you take. They look great with denim jackets, cardigans over your shoulders, flat or heeled sandals … and the list goes on. They can be dressed up or down, and you’ll always feel polished and put together.
#2 By the Pool
Left: Coverup, similar | Tote | Right: Swimsuit | Straw hat | Sarong | YSL tote | Sandals | Necklace | Vacation perfume
If you’re going somewhere warm, a stylish coverup is one of the most important pieces to bring — since most of us don’t go wandering around in a swimsuit! Make sure to also get a stylish hat and glamorous sunnies!.That way, you’ll feel a little extra around the pool or strolling the beach.
#3 Stylish Dinner Outfits
Left: Slip dress | Sweater over shoulders | Right: Sequin top | Green dress | White clutch | Green Manolos
It’s always a good idea to pack one black dress, just in case. I guarantee you’ll end up wearing it! It hardly takes up any space, and is an easy go-to piece for dinner. I can never decide which one though, so I usually bring this Norma Kamali and this one by Anthropologie. Dress them up or down depending on the event using the accessories you brought along. For undergarments, this Wacoal Red Carpet Strapless bra is hands down a favorite.
✦ Check out 5 Vacation Outfits Everyone Will be Wearing for more ✦
Don’t Leave Home Without This One Essential!
Left: Tank | Sweater | Skirt | Nike sneakers | Tote
My #1 essential: A lightweight, crewneck cashmere sweater! Whether you’re in Palm Beach or St Tropez, it can get a little chilly — even in the summer! This wardrobe essential is super versatile, and no matter where you’re going, it deserves a spot in your suitcase. Wear it alone, over a tank top, or tied around your shoulders (adding extra warmth like a scarf). You’ll be glad you brought it, trust me.
A Packing Tip That Works For Every Trip
You’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner …
Left: Frame dress | Gold sandals | Gucci sweater | Loewe tote | Right: Linen vest | Farm Rio skirt | Necklace | Straw bag | Sandal
Stylist Pro-Tip: Lay out your clothes by activity! This is the easiest way to make sure you have everything you need, and it also helps you make outfits as you pack. This is my Number 1 packing tip — you’ll be covered for every occasion if you pack this way.
Travel Gear That Actually Works
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Left | Cashmere wrap | Eileen Fisher black pant | Gucci bucket bag | YSL sandals | Beis Weekender
Right | Top row: Jewelry travel case | Paravel luggage | Scarf | Middle row: Cosmetics bag | Air tag case | Beis Weekender | Bottom row: Packing cubes | Passport case | Luggage tag
#1 – These packing cubes – when you’re getting ready to do your vacation packing, these are essential fo staying organized. They are my top must-have while traveling! I thought these pink ones were a nice change from basic black.
#2 – Beis Weekender Bags sell out almost instantly and for good reason … they’re amazing! I use mine as a carry-on (it has a special trolley strap to slide on top of your suitcase), or for a quick weekend getaway.
#3 – This is my favorite makeup organizer. I pack it for every trip because it’s easy to carry, and it keeps all your makeup and skincare products in one place and easy to see.
#4 – You’ll love these monogrammed jewelry cases and travel tags by Mark & Graham. They come in many different colors, and you can customize them to your liking. (They’re great for hostess gifts, too.) And these days, everyone should get an Apple AirTag. When you’re doing your vacation packing, throw it in your suitcase. You never know when you might need it!
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