Packing Essentials the Perfect Summer Getaway

Summer is so close, I can taste it! And you know what that means! Time for weekend getaways galore! Whether you’re preparing for a romantic getaway, a girls weekend or a trip to your in-laws, there are several key items that should always have some prime real estate in your suitcase. Packing the must-have essentials allows you to mix and match in a way that you’re always looking fabulous yet aren’t weighed down with a 50-pound suitcase. Picking out the perfect mixable pieces are crucial when it comes to packing light.

Breezy Summer Dress

Whether it’s a maxi or a mini, having the perfect breezy summer dress (or two) is a must. Not only are they space-savers but they’re comfy and can easily transition from day to night simply by changing your shoes and adding an evening bag.

Bathing Suit and Cover Up

Let’s face it, what you wear during the day is what you’ll be spending most of your time in since happy hours during the summer tend to start at 3 and go until the sun comes up again. So I always splurge and bring a couple extra swimsuits since they don’t take up much space. Also, pair them with the perfect comfy cover up since you may end up wearing this for a long part of the day.

 Sandals and Sneakers

Whatever you do, don’t bring uncomfortable shoes. Most vacation destinations, especially in the summer don’t require formal footwear. I always make the mistake of taking an extra pair of fancy heels and I never wear them. Instead, in addition to some casual sandals for the day and perhaps a pair of sneakers (let’s at least pretend we might workout), bring a cute pair of wedges that are easy to walk in but add the perfect finishing touch to your outfit.

Accessories

Accessorizing is key when you’re hoping to dress up a minimalist wardrobe. And an easy way to make any outfit chic is with some costume jewelry or even a scarf. In fact, a scarf can really work overtime: as a blanket on the plane, as a sarong by the pool and even well, as a scarf tied around your neck!

Light Jacket and Cardigan

No matter where your travels may take you, the weather can be unpredictable and having a light jacket or cardigan to keep you warm is key to your happiness.

Sunscreen

It’s all fun in the sun—until it isn’t. Don’t skimp in the sunscreen department, people! Cover up and reapply often. Nothing ruins a vacation like a painful sunburn.

Entertainment

When you need a little downtime, it’s your tablet to the rescue! Load it up with your favorite books, movies, magazines. Also get the vacay mood going with an iPod packed with fun vacation tunes.

Haircare

Invest in a travel-size hairdryer or just opt to go au natural and rock the beach-tousled waves look. Give your hair a break. Try out my fave spray by Frederick Fekkai: Summer Hair Beach Waves–it’s all the rave amongst laid-back celebs like Kate Hudson.

Once you’ve figured out what it is that you want to bring, I am a big fan of rolling everything to save space. And I always leave a little extra room–just in case I squeeze in some impromptu shopping.

While this article was written by Travelingpanties, this post was proudly brought to you by our friends at Lisa Curran. Lisa Curran sells all your favorite luxe resort wear like bikinis, one-piece swimsuits, coverups and dresses. Lisa Curran caters to all different body types and anyone can contact their fit experts (Mon-Friday) who will be happy to advise you on what swimsuit will be most flattering and make you feel the most sexy. Lisa Curran has been featured in tons of national publications like Harper’s Bazaar, In Style, Glamour, and many others. It’s also been worn by celebs like Kate Walsh, Jenny McCarthy and Drew Barrymore.