Summer Vacation Packing Checklist

Vacations are fun. Packing is a nightmare. Every year you say you aren’t going to overpack. LIES! It never happens. Instead of throwing EVERYTHING into your suitcase and potentially getting into an argument with the TSA, which isn’t exactly difficult to do under any circumstances, just look at this list instead. If you are in need of any vacation essentials you don't have already, don't worry, I've provided some suggestions. And if you scroll to the bottom of this post, I have a little present you for. A checklist you can print out or screen shot for easy reference. I'm the best! I know! 

A Unique Suitcase

Everyone has a black suitcase, which can lead to baggage carousel confusion from hell. I don’t care if you have a cute ribbon on yours. So does everyone else. That trick is so five years ago. Do you really want to risk someone accidentally taking your bag home, ruining your vacation and potentially your life?

Luggage Tags

Not the ones you get for free because they easily tear off. Buy real ones. You can thank me when your lost luggage is found in less than seven hours.

A Large Tote To Carry On

Keep your sanity by keeping everything in one place. 

A Laundry Bag

Don’t be that person who mixes their cleans and dirties. It’s unsanitary. Laundry bags also help keep your bedroom or hotel room neat(ish) and cleaner.  

Shoe Bags

There is nothing more gross than putting dirty shoes on clean clothing. If your shoes didn’t come with a bag, buy yourself a set. Even use plastic bags if need be, but do SOMETHING!

A Luggage Scale

If you’ve ever had to open your suitcase at Check-In to stuff your clothes into your carry-on while having a panic attack or have been ripped off with overweight luggage fees, you need this. And airlines, if you are reading this: You charging me an extra $75 because my bag weighs 51lbs instead of 50lbs doesn’t make the flight any safer, so start calling the fee what it is-- The Executive Prada Bag Fund.

Underwear

You can never bring too much underwear, especially if you are planning on having as much sex as humanly possible. It takes up like zero space. MORE! MORE! NOT KIDDING-- MORE! 

Stylish Shoes You May Or May Not Be Able To Walk In

If you are trying to pack less, you only really need two pairs. One strictly for night and one for day/night. But let’s be honest, you will bring at least three pairs, probably four, most likely five. 

Pool Shoes

Because sand and water are not stiletto friendly. Wear them to the airport so you aren’t that a-hole in heels.

A Hat

Not to sound like your mom, but sunburns suck and make you look older. Protect yourself before you wreck yourself.

Sneakers

If you don’t bring sneakers, you definitely won’t workout on vacation.

Socks

You can’t wear sneakers without them. Unless you want to be gross and destroy your feet. Don't forget grippy socks, if you plan to do Pilates. 

Sleepwear

Even if you sleep naked on the reg, you might not want to in a cold hotel room or if you are visiting friends.

Swimwear

Don’t rely on the hotel gift shop. More is more!

Gentle Cycle Wash

You don’t want your cute new bikini to fade or get ruined. I’m big on clothing care, so I always bring gentle cycle wash, either in packets or in a travel bottle. Hotel shampoo also works in a pinch.

Caftans

I love caftans because they can take you from the pool to brunch. They are also great for passing out mid-day.

Maxi Dresses

I love maxi dresses because they look cute during the day and easily dress up at night with jewelry and accessories.

Fun Jewelry

I love traveling with costume jewelry because you don’t have to worry about it getting stolen. I’m also not entirely sold on the safety of hotel safes. This also dresses up casual clothing so you can wear the same dress more than once, if need be.

A Clutch

Nothing screams tourist more than schlepping your entire life in a large handbag. Let it go and downscale.

Cute Tops

Consider your destination when choosing even basic clothes. You probably won’t wear the same style in The Hamptons as you would in the Pacific Northwest.

Versatile Bottoms

Jeans, linen pants and shorts are all you need.

Activewear

You don’t need to go crazy, but two or three outfits should suffice. Remember, you can get away with wearing leggings twice if you don't swaeat too much in them.

A Classic Denim Jacket

Sometimes it gets cold at night or you have one lousy day. Be prepared.