Shopping·5 min read

What to Pack for Every Type of Destination

outfit ideas for every type of vacation
Design: theSkimm | Images: Madewell, Abbott Lyon, Zappos, Anthropologie
September 8, 2024

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If you have vacation plans on the books, we think you should spend less time thinking about what to wear and more time basking in the excitement of getting out of here. Ahead, we’ve put together a few outfit formulas to take the guesswork out of packing. Whether you’re going to the beach, the mountains, or a far-flung city, here’s how to dress for a successful (and stress-free) trip. 

Looking for more affordable, stylish clothes? Here’s what to wear when working, traveling, playing, and expecting.

Tropical Getaway

tropical outfit
Design: theSkimm | Images: Lulus, Revolve, J.Crew, Nordstrom, Ray-Ban, Sephora

Heading to a beach vacation? Pack this floral-print maxi in a tropical color palette. You can wear it over your swimsuit during the day, then with some statement earrings and metallic lace-up sandals for sunset cocktails. Layer on the glowy highlighter to complement your tan. 

The outfit:

European City

european city outfit
Design: theSkimm | Images: Bernardo, Charles & Keith, Tecovas, Quince, Madewell, Abbott Lyon

When you’re gallivanting around Europe, keep it simple and sophisticated. A pair of booties are a little more elevated than sneakers, but they won’t stop you from clocking your 10,000 steps. Finish it off with a classic wool coat, an expensive-looking (but not flashy) watch, and a designer-inspired saddle bag with subtle gold hardware. Trés chic.

The outfit:

Outdoor Adventure

hiking outfit
Design: theSkimm | Images: Finisterre, Lululemon, Zappos, Patagonia, Athleta

Just because you’re hiking doesn’t mean you can’t look stylish. We like this insulated, padded jacket and convertible pants (you can zip off the bottom if things start to get sweaty). Finish it off with some pro-level hiking boots that would survive the apocalypse, but wouldn’t look out of place at a café for a celebratory post-hike drink. Fashion 🤝 function.  

The outfit:

Aprés-Ski

apres-ski outfit
Design: theSkimm | Images: Tuckernuck, Skims, Nordstrom, Anthropologie, H&M, Mejuri, Le Specs

Even if you’ve never touched a ski in your life, you can still have a great time with the aprés-ski crowd. Keep cozy in a fuzzy Fair Isle turtleneck, knit leggings, and our favorite beanie of all time. Then throw your Kindle into a sherpa tote and head to the spa. Spiked hot chocolate in the jacuzzi, anyone?

The outfit:

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