Stay-cations are soooo last summer. We here at INPT are ready to peace out and actually see another part of the world. In preparation, we of course have to do some shopping! So, here it is…your how to guide to packing for summer travel.
First, a little adventure-analysis. Decide which category your trip fits into and we’ll be able to give you hot tips on looking fab at your destination.
What’s on the itinerary?
1. A Tropical Oasis
2. A Bonafide City Escape
3. International Rendezvous
If the Clear Ocean and White Sand are in your future, follow these steps to a stress free suitcase showdown:
a. The point is to be next to naked while on this vacation. Pack a couple of
sassy bikinis and at least one for the “adventure” side of things– i.e. snorkeling, water-skiing, swimming with the dolphins.
b. Bring at least one easy to pack, easy to de-wrinkle (see supplex, jersey and silk jersey fabrics)
dress that will take full advantage of that killer bronze you’ll be sporting after a few days of sun and sand.
c. It is possible to dress for the destination without wearing flip flops and short shorts to the airport. I’m a firm believer in layers! A light cotton wrap or pashmina over your mini tank and a pair of sophisticated but casual
bermuda shorts and an easy off flat sandal or shoe is perfect.
You’re also going to want to visit INPT tomorrow as well for Jess’ guide on beach vacation essentials like sunscreen, beach reads, and the hottest accessories.
If the Bright Lights and Big City are calling you home, follow these steps to get the most bang for your buck:
a. Black will take you a long way– even in the summer. A black tank, dress & wrap are must-haves for your trip. Hate black? Try brown, not white (it gets too dirty too fast!)
b. A pair of
dark wash jeans hemmed for
flats or a low wedge perfect for sight-seeing and looking chic of course.
c. Add one accent color to the wardrobe because black gets a little old after day one. A great handbag that will do it all for you is a fantastic way to add color.
If you’re Escaping to an International Locale, follow these steps to avoid the dreaded travel faux pas of looking like a tourist:
a. No matter what your mom says, everyone wears jeans these days. Pack a pair for daytime in a dark wash to wear strictly with flats for sight-seeing.
b.
A dress. One that says I’m classy– don’t mess. Stick with sexy (not slutty) styles that can translate from day to night.
c. Gorgeous heels and gorgeous flat sandals. You need both. If you just can’t imagine touring the streets of Belgium without a
“walking shoe” here’s a great option to fill that need:
A few last items to grab before you jet out the door:
* Obscenely large sunglasses, the kind that you wear through the airport and people find themselves wondering if they’re in the presence of a celeb. Silly, maybe. But, it’s fun to pretend and what better time to really escape than on vacation!
* A
small clutch for nights out – this is another great way to add a splash of color.
Tips:
* With the ridiculous fees airlines are charging these days, if you’re spilling out of your suitcases definitely consider shipping your clothes ahead of you. Just make sure you get a tracking number!
* That said, you really can pack in one bag for your adventure. Lay everything out tops, bottoms, dresses and accessories and mix and match to see how many outfits you can put together. You’ll be surprised at some of the amazing new combos you can come up with.
* Bring a little
laundry soap so you can do laundry in the sink if you need to. Be careful with stain sticks, sometimes they end up just putting a nice little ring around the mess you already had to deal with.
* Bring along one or two pieces of jewelry that do it all and aren’t too precious.
Cheers,
Ashley
Would you ship your clothes ahead of time through the airline? Is it costly? I like what Ashley said about the Nike shoes for comfort. I also would suggest Arche shoes which just went on sale in NYC in their stores. I bought some yesterday and they have lively colors like hot pink, purple, olive green, besides the standard black, tan and brown.
Nina – Some airlines like United are now recommending that people ship their clothes ahead of the flight. Thanks for the tip on Arche shoes!
Hey Girlies!
Just wanted to chime in about shipping luggage. There are lots of external luggage shipping services available these days, Luggage Express and Luggage Free, just to name a few. My preference however would be old faithful Fed Ex . Re: Cost, depends on whether you are a light traveler or not. If you tend to go over the weight or bag limit, like me, then shipping is often cheaper than what you’d pay in excess baggage fees. Depending on the trip and your party, i.e. kids, elders, etc., the convenience of traveling without luggage is often worth paying a little extra.