One of the best things about summertime is taking a fulfilling vacation, making memories with your partner or loved ones that will last a lifetime – priceless. While the whole point of vacation is relaxing and forgetting your responsibilities back home, planning and packing for your trip can feel stressful or overwhelming. By packing the following essentials, you’ll stay looking sharp on your vacation and have one less thing about which to worry. Some you may already own, others you may need to add to cart, but they’re all pieces you’ll get a ton of wear from and will last a lifetime.
Layering Pieces
Whether you’re taking a road trip or hopping on a trans-Atlantic flight, layers are key to staying comfortable en route and once you’ve arrived at your destination. Light layers like a windbreaker, a cardigan, or a sports jacket are all great choices depending on your aesthetic. The great thing about wearing your layers while you travel is they free up space in your luggage. Wear one extra layer than you might for the weather; at the minimum, you could roll it up as a pillow while you’re flying, and best case, you stay warm when the captains got the AC blowing too hard.
Boots
You don’t have to be an outdoorsman to benefit from a solid pair of boots. Boots are essential travel items as they’re easily dressed up or down depending on what you get into. While hiking boots are great for exploring more rugged terrain, we’re talking about Chukkas or desert boots here. Pack a pair to make sure you meet the dress code at a more refined restaurant but still look cool in your casual outfits.
Breathable Fabrics
From linen pants to 100% cotton tees, making sure you pack along clothing made of breathable textiles is a must. Natural fabrics are the more sustainable choice, and they keep you worlds more comfortable than blends with synthetics. Not to mention, they’ll last you longer, fit you better, and feel luxurious. Investing in a Supima cotton tracksuit or sweatsuit is excellent for a trip where you know you’ll be lounging a lot or if you’re headed on a long flight. Basic tees are more affordable, so they may not be worth the splurge.
Accessories
For many people, traveling like a minimalist has become second nature. The key to getting the most out of a capsule wardrobe while traveling is to come strong in the accessories department. From different sunglasses styles, hats, and even scarves depending on the climate, you can switch up the same clothing into a multitude of looks. A lot of guys tend to sleep on how important the right accessories are in their wardrobe, don’t be one of them. When it comes to sunglasses, it’s wise to take a backup pair as they’re one of the easiest items to lose while traveling.
Who Wears Short Shorts?
We wear short shorts. Just like the straight-leg jean cut is the most universally flattering cut of denim, so is the shorter short for men. Whether you’re 5’7″ or 6’8″, shorts with a shorter inseam look great on everyone. Think Magnum P.I. shorts when shopping in person or online for your vacation shorts. A 5 to 6-inch inseam is the sweet spot. If you prefer the shorts style of swim trunks over a brief Speedo look, make sure you go with the same shorter inseam with your swimwear too.
It’s in the Bag
One of the best parts of travel is eating local food and shopping. Make sure you can do all the exploring and street eating you want by keeping your hands free with a travel bag. Whether you go the route of a fannypack, backpack or tote is up to you and your style, but make sure you bring a bag along. You can also use the bag to store any souvenirs you pick up along the way.
Traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures and demands your undivided attention. Don’t let the stress of what to pack take away from that, or get caught without the essentials you need to make your trip a breeze. By including the items mentioned earlier on your packing list, your trip is bound to be a breeze. Happy Trails!