Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's. 1. A pair of drawstring linen blend pants that are comfortable enough for the plane (or car, or train, or boat), yet chic enough to see you through days of busy sightseeing.
Breathable, lightweight, and perfectly elegant, they go from I’ve-been-sitting-down-in-transit-all-day to I’ve-been-snapping-photos-of-the-Colosseum-all-day without missing a beat. Promising review: “I bought these pants for a trip to Italy and I must say that the only thing I had to do was get the length shortened. The material is lovely.
I just washed them for the first time with no shrinkage and cold water. I think I'll wear these pants for a long time to come. They are not transparent.
The pockets are sewn in. The weight is a perfect mid-weight fabric . The comfort is like wearing pajamas but looking totally put together.
The elastic waist with drawstring is a perfect size and quality. Excellent value.” — Deborah M.
White Price: $25.08+ (available in sizes XS–6X and in 11 colors) 2. A twist-front top tons of reviewers say goes with almost anything — a must for the fashion-forward who like to travel light.
Many note that it’s particularly good with high-waisted bottoms due to its cropped cut, but the possibilities for it are virtually endless. Promising review: “Cute little top! This top is so adorable. Before I buy more colors, I had to leave a review.
I wore this on a Miami trip and it was difficult to pick what I wanted to pair it with because it’s so versatile. This top can be dressed up or down. It’s comfortable, lightweight, and a great addition to any wardrobe.
I’m a 34DD and the medium fit perfectly.” — Toria B Price: $19.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 23 colors) 3.
A packable Panama hat to keep you shaded and cool during all your warm-weather adventures. Breathable, adjustable, and très chic , this pick is as hip as it is practical — and it rolls right up so you can tuck it into your bag when you’re out of the sun and don’t need it anymore. Promising review: “This is the perfect hat for traveling someplace sunny.
It’s beautiful, protects your face from the sun with its wide brim, and the best part? I rolled it up and stuck it in my suitcase and it didn’t lose its shape when I took it out! Bounced right back into shape for me to use on the beach. Also love the drawstring on the inside to make it fit my head perfectly!” — Ashley H. Price: $24.
99+ (available in two sizes and 22 colors) 4. A packable down vest for those times when your travels take you somewhere the opposite of tropical. For those of us who prefer to vacation in, uh, less toasty destinations, being able to layer up is key — and with this pick on hand, you’ll always have what you need to stay warm in ~style~.
Promising review: “Beautiful color, soft and light and warm! This is the all-weather vest. So warm and light at the same time. I bought it for a vacation where I only had a backpack to travel with in winter.
Boy, am I impressed. It looks so cute at Christmas time with a red sweater underneath!! Only small complaint is the little packing bag peeks out of the armhole from time to time but it can be easily removed. I don’t remove mine because I know I will lose it.
I’m back from vacation now and I have to say, I wore this vest under and over about 5–7 different styles. Sometimes I wore it under a coat and sometimes over a sweatshirt or fleece. The versatility was way better than expected.
Got lots of compliments from my vest-wearing family members who spend a lot more per vest.” — FelissBeShoppin Price: $22.40+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 12 colors) 5.
An anti-theft crossbody bag that provides plenty of space for all your sightseeing must-haves, plus loads of security features to keep it safe, all wrapped up in one fashionably versatile package. Travelon specializes in anti-theft gear; with its five-point security system — which includes lock-down straps, locking compartments, slash-resistant straps, and even pockets with RFID-blocking capabilities — this bag will help protect your belongings and look darn good doing it, too. Promising review: “Exploring is easy with this small but roomy travel purse! I just got back from a 12-day trip to Italy and this bag was perfect.
Before the trip, I did some research trying to find a purse that was small enough to be comfortable to wear all day, but roomy enough to hold a small sketchbook, pens, maps, my phone, wallet, as well as other purse essentials like Kleenex and hand sanitizer. This bag didn't disappoint and with its many compartments, crossbody strap, and clips for the zippers, I felt comfortable and secure wearing this bag as I explored Rome, Florence, and Venice. .
.. I was so impressed by this brand and I look forward to bringing my Travelon bags on future adventures!” — Artsy traveler Price: $36.
99+ (available in 12 colors) 6. Or, a lightweight anti-theft backpack for those days when you feel like you need to bring a little more with you. Also from Travelon, this day bag boasts the same security features as the crossbody bag, albeit with a bit more space (the main compartment can fit a tablet).
The best part? It doesn’t look like a travel backpack — that’s how sleek it is. Promising review: “ Cute and functional! I'm so glad I purchased this bag for sightseeing in big cities. The security features are subtle but effective, like the zippers that lock to the bag.
The inside features several sleeves for cards. It's the perfect size to pack two small lunches, a couple of plastic water bottles, an umbrella and a packable rain jacket. I like that this bag doesn't scream tourist.
It's minimalist in style and not flashy but still good quality. We spent a hefty amount of time in the pouring rain. The bag withstood the beating and the items inside remained mostly dry, which was impressive since this bag isn't marketed as waterproof.
” — Sam Price: $59.99 (available in four colors) 7. OR an anti-theft sling bag aka the ultimate in travel-friendly cool.
With two main zippered compartments, a zippered pocket on the front, RFID protection, and a reversible strap, it’s both eminently practical and eminently on-trend. And did I mention how many colors it comes in? So. Many.
SO MANY. Promising review: “I just got back from a two-week trip to Greece and used this every day! It was perfect to carry what I needed each day. I love all the compartments and it was big enough to carry my credit cards, change purse, lipsticks, medications, hand sanitizer, gum, plus so much more.
The wide strap is great so that I didn’t have to worry about theft (someone slicing the strap) and everything was nice and snug in front of me and easily accessible. This bag was well worth the money and I would highly recommend!” — jlb1987 Price: $29.43+ (available in 15 colors) 8.
A pair of slip-on sneakers from Dr. Scholl’s that tick the comfort, style, and versatility boxes. Neutral but not boring and with all the support and cushioning that busy tourist days demand, these sneakers will stand (har har) you in good stead no matter where you roam — from cobbled streets to beachy boardwalks and everywhere in between.
Promising review: “Versatile and chic walking shoe! I bought these shoes for my trip to Europe. I wore these nearly every day and walked 15,000–20,000 steps a day, through European streets, cobblestone, and even on the beach. I climbed lots of stairs and hills with steep inclines/declines.
I’m happy to say my feet survived! I always wore little no-show socks, as I don’t like to go without. These shoes are so versatile I was able to wear them with dresses, leggings, and jeans. I felt cute and comfy.
My one piece of advice is to break them in a little. They were tight on first wear and my feet felt a bit trapped during an 8-hour flight, but otherwise, no complaints.” — Christie Price: $30.
81+ (available in sizes 6–11, including wide fits, and in 12 colors) 9. A wear-it-with-anything denim jacket because it’s the easiest way to add some instant pizzazz to your ensemble, whether you’re taking in the great outdoors or running around a new-to-you city. Reviewers say it’s especially useful in destinations where the weather can be a bit.
.. let’s call it variable .
Promising review: “Comfortable, good quality, and stylish! I bought this for a whirlwind vacation and it was the perfect jacket. It was warm and comfy, but also tailored enough to look good. It also has two inside pocket which were great to keeping my phone and various museum tickets, etc.
easily accessible. Definitely recommend!” — Cecili Williams *Another* promising review: “Perfect for in-between weather! I bought this jacket because we were going on vacation in the spring and the weather was iffy. It was perfect! I could wear the jacket with a sundress or a top and shorts, and it looked great! I actually looked put together in my vacation pictures rather than standing in a lousy windbreaker.
There is a little stretch to the fabric, and the jacket is SOOOO comfortable. I can't believe I waited so long to buy one of these!” — Tkef Price: $33.59+ (available in sizes XS–XL and eight colors) 10.
A lightweight, three-quarter sleeve top with button detailing that’s as cute as it is easy to wear. You’ve got better things to do while you’re on vacation than worry about whether your ‘fit is staying in place — and this top will make that an absolute non-issue. Bonus points for the fact that wrinkles apparently just fall right out of it, according to several reviewers.
Promising review: “This is a ‘wear everywhere’ top! This top offers coverage and is cool in warm weather, packs for travel well, doesn’t stain easily, dress up or casual. I own five colors so far.” — Sue Price: $28.
99 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 24 colors and patterns) 11. Or, a short-sleeved jumpsuit so comfortable, you’ll never want to take it off, no matter where in the world you are (literally). Nothing beats a one-and-done outfit when you’re off on your own Grand Tour, and this soft jersey off-the-shoulder pick is about as good as it gets.
It looks great. It feels great. Everybody wins.
I own this jumpsuit, and I love it. It is astonishingly easy to wear, and I never cease to be amazed at the fact that every time I put it on, all I really need to do is add shoes and I look like a proverbial million bucks. It is basically socially acceptable pajamas, and I am 100% Here For It.
Promising review: “I bought this in black, medium (off-the-shoulder version) for a capsule wardrobe for traveling Europe with only a duffel. I need it to be able to multi-task, dress up, dress for the evening, not wrinkle, and be super comfortable. IT IS ALL THAT AND MORE! At first, I was hesitant because it felt like joggers or sweatpants material, but after I put it on, I realized it had potential.
I’ll dress it up with a cute unstructured blazer (leopard print I also got on Amazon) and wedges or for daytime touring, just flip-flops or Keds, and maybe a scarf or sunhat. On long train or plane days, just it with no extras! Super comfy!! The light elastic at the bottom is not noticeable and actually makes it look more tailored. I already ordered another in wine to wear with a black blazer or cardigan! I’m in love with this!” — msladybugzz Price: $36.
99+ (available in sizes S–3X and in 32 colors and patterns) 12. A seamless cropped tank that makes for the perfect flexible addition to any suitcase-friendly capsule wardrobe. Whether you’re looking for something comfy and supportive to see you through a day of transit or a sleek basic to pair with your most Capital-F Fashion looks while you traipse around Milan, this pick will fit the bill.
Promising review: “Love these tops! For reference: I am 5’3” tall and weigh about 145 pounds and wear a size 36B and the large fit me perfectly, so I would say they run a little small. I’m fairly small chested so I can get away with not wearing a bra or just wearing nipple pasties with no problem. The material is nice and thick and soft like athletic wear, but as you can see, it looks nice with a skirt.
I have this top in different colors and I love them. Wore them non-stop on my Hawaiian vacation and mixed and matched them with different bottoms .” — Renee Price: $14.
99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 23 colors) 13. A pair of wide-leg linen blend overalls as ideal for relaxing at a resort as they are for flitting down cozy, cobbled alleyways. They’re extremely in .
They’re ridiculously comfortable. They’re stupidly easy to wear. What’s not to love? FYI, you’ll want to line dry these after you wash them; if you put in the dryer, they might shrink.
Promising review: “This jumper is absolutely stylish and comfortable! I wore it to Lake Tahoe for a family trip. I felt good in it and was very easy to walk around the resort and the beach with my kids. I’ve worn it to work in the classroom and received many compliments.
Also, people keep asking where I got the jumper from.” — CHAMEE Price: $32.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 21 colors) 14.
A travel scarf with a sneaky hidden pocket, so you can stay comfortable in a whole host of ways. This cozy infinity scarf from Waypoint Goods offers warmth, style, and peace of mind; wrap it around your neck to achieve the first two, and stash your most important gear in the zippered pocket to achieve the third. Promising review: “This scarf has become a travel basic for me, home and abroad! Traveled around India and Nepal and found this scarf to be indispensable.
It did double-duty as a warm and attractive wardrobe addition as well as a handy, hidden place to carry my passport and money. Wear it with the zipper low, keeping the weight of the contents at the bottom, and adjust the drape to conceal the fact that anything is in there. It was comfortable and very handy to get into.
Good looking and high quality; I was surprised at the level of quality, and the zipper and stitching stayed completely intact. Would buy again and maybe as a gift. Shipping was great.
” — avm Price: $44.95 (available in seven colors) 15. A five-pack of V-neck T-shirts in a plethora of solid colors because your vacation wardrobe can never have enough basics.
The beauty of a plain tee is that there are almost infinite ways to style it — so you can pack light and still look like a million bucks everywhere you go. Promising review: “Traveler’s dream wardrobe! I bought these for my trip to Taiwan and China where it was going to be HOT. I also wanted something I could easily wash in hotel sinks, quick drying, and I didn't want my wardrobe to stick out like a tourist any more than I already am.
These ‘plain’ colors were anything but plain, they looked so nice with the varying shades of the color but still kept things subdued and ‘solid,’ great for capsule wear and mixing/matching. My favorite was the dark purple. I used these with capris and jeggings and it was perfect.
They were quick drying and didn't overheat me on hot days. The V-neck was perfect for keeping fabric off my chest where I tend to overheat the most, too. All around fantastic.
Pretty true to size. I'm 5'5 and about 143 and they fit slightly loose and very comfortable without looking too big. Are they super high luxury quality? No.
But they are soft, look great and worked great! I will definitely be buying more for future travel!” — Xtina Price: $34.99+ (available in sizes S–3XL and in 16 color combinations) 16. A pair of paper bag shorts , so you can elevate your warm weather vacay look in the most comfortable way possible.
(After all, comfort is key when you’re on vacation, right?) They’re soft; they’re breathable; and you can even leave your belts at home — no need for ‘em with the eye-catching bow on these babies. Promising review: “These shorts are perfect for travel! I ordered them in both black and green because the price was so awesome. I took them to sweltering Vietnam and was so glad! They are super lightweight to pack and do not wrinkle! They were cool and looked great for photos.
If you’re on the edge, BUY THEM.” — Samantha H Price: $27.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 20 colors) 17.
A versatile bodycon midi dress that’ll have you covered during both daytime sightseeing and nighttime reveling — without requiring an entire wardrobe change in between the two. This sleek piece will take its cues from whatever you style it with, making it a true travel wardrobe hero. Promising review: “Great dress! I love it.
I bought it for a summer trip to Europe and it went with EVERYTHING. You need to wear the right underwear for the color white, because the dress is thin fabric and will show anything you have under it. It goes great with a denim jacket, crossbody bag, flats, sneakers, high heels.
.. I already ordered another one in black.
” — LP Price: $36.99 (available in sizes S–XL and in 29 colors and styles) 18. Or a T-shirt dress with a fun, flared skirt perfect for twirling around in as you dance across the globe.
Both exceptionally versatile to style and exceptionally easy to wear, it also has — gasp! — pockets. (Shouldn't everything?) Promising review: “This dress is perfect for my travels! It's soft, comfortable, and easy to dress up or down. And it has pockets! I want more in other colors!” — KindMind Price: $29.
98 (available in sizes L–4XL and 34 colors and patterns) 19. A two-piece knit lounge set that’s the epitome of Loungewear-But-Make-It-Fashion. Make it your in-transit lewk and you’ll be the envy of everyone on the plane with you — and you’ll look so put together when you deplane that no one at your destination will ever know you just spent hours all scrunched up in a tiny metal tube soaring through the air.
The set includes a cap-sleeve knit top and a pair of high-waisted tapered bottoms. Promising review: “Oh my word! This last-minute purchase to travel on an overnight flight was the best purchase ever! My struggle is always, I don't want to look like I am in my coziest outfit, and not like I woke up and put old sweatpants and a T-shirt on! Get this cute outfit! You can look polished, and I had to stay in it for 16 hours! Ordering in another color as I just returned and wore it home too!” — KE Price: $42.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 25 colors) 20.
A pair of cargo-style capri pants durable enough for hiking but also chic enough for ~fashion~. They’re comfy. They’re practical.
And they’re also endlessly styleable. The perfect travel pants? Maybe! Promising review: “Fit well and are very comfortable! I bought these for a trip this summer and are very happy with them. They are very comfortable and pack well.
The very few wrinkles when unpacked came right out as I wore them. I’m definitely going to buy more in different colors. Highly recommend.
” — M&M Price: $21.20+ (available in sizes 4–18 in four colors and 14–24 in eight colors) 21. A casual-cool button-down , because there is never NOT a time where you’ll want one of these within reach.
Beach cover-up? Button-down. Extra layer? Button-down. Waist-tie styling piece? Button-down.
The humble button-down will see you through thick and thin on any and all adventures you might have. Thanks, button-down. Glad to have you aboard.
Promising review: “Great shirt for travel! I bought this shirt for my trip to hot and humid Thailand. It fits true to size and the fabric is perfect. Did not shrink when washed in cold water and hung to dry, but does need ironing .
I wore it all around muggy Bangkok and when hiking in the mountains of Thailand. It looked great even after being rolled up in my backpack. This may be the single best shirt I’ve ever purchased!” — AnAvidReader Price: $26.
99 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 31 colors and patterns) 22. An elegant satin cami so multi-functional, it might help you finally embrace the art of packing light. It pairs with jeans or shorts for an elevated casual look, sure — but it also looks dynamite with a fun skirt for an eye-catching nighttime ensemble.
Wear it on its own; layer it; the sky’s the limit! Promising review: “Heart quality! I bought six of these for a recent trip. The fabric feels wonderful. They don’t cling.
You can hand wash them in Woolite when traveling and they dry quickly.” — Christine Remington Price: $17.84+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and in 21 colors) 23.
A pair of super comfortable sandals , because the last thing you want when you’re on vacay is aching feet. These guys, though? They boast a cork footbed that conforms to your own tootsies, so they’ll be a perfect fit once you’ve broken them in. Add to that the veritable rainbow of colors they come in, and, well.
.. they might just be the travel sandal of your dreams.
Promising review: “The best! I bought these for a few different vacations this summer. I’ve worn these up and down hundreds of steps in Italy, on the beaches in Greece, and walking miles around Havana, horseback riding, etc. My feet have never hurt, no blisters or adjustment period with these.
I am so impressed. You can also dress then up or down. I will be buying another pair.
” — Maria Price: $14.99+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide fits, and in 21 colors) 24. A bright and breezy floral layering piece that’ll boost any outfit instantly — while still keeping you cool (literally and figuratively!) in the process.
This pick is lightweight and perfectly packable, as well as super easy to just pop on top of whatever else you happen to be wearing. Your travel adventures will never be the same, mostly ‘cause you’ll be so darn comfy. Promising review: “A workhorse on my most recent trip! This girl does it all.
Swimwear cover up. Chic evening wear shawl. Wispy casual top to elevate a tank and jeans.
It was almost a daily wear for me in a variety of ways on my most recent cruise. I definitely will be looking at this brand to add more color options to my wardrobe but the black and white is a win for sure.” — lmewzikgirl Price: $14.
99+ (available in sizes S–5XL and in 45 colors and designs) 25. A tiered midi skirt ideal for holiday destinations that can get so hot that even shorts feel uncomfortable. Floaty and fun, it’ll keep you cool in more ways than one.
Promising review: “This skirt is lightweight and flowy and you can easily dress it up or down. I wore this everywhere on my vacation in very hot/humid weather and it was perfect, kept me cool. I think I’ll buy a second skirt in a different color.
” — HSF Price: $25.74+ (available in sizes S–XL and in 14 colors) 26. Or a pleated A-line skirt if your travel aesthetic is more vintage chic than cottagecore.
This piece looks quite structured, but reviewers say it’s surprisingly easy to wear — making it an ideal pick for the globetrotter who likes to be comfortable and cute while they’re literally taking the world on by storm. Promising review: “Fun summer skirt! I bought this skirt in two different fabric prints to wear on a trip to Paris . They were perfect for wearing everyday or night, everywhere.
I wore short or long sleeve white T-shirts. Perfect to look put together with a little jewelry and comfortable and no fuss. Would recommend!” — Thomas Deutsch Price: $24.
99 (available in sizes S–3X and in 29 colors and patterns) 27. And lastly, an oversized cardigan , because it always, always, always pays to have an extra layer on hand — particularly when you, uh, only have access to a teeny tiny part of your closet. This open-front cardi drapes beautifully and transitions between different climates with ease.
Say hello to your new travel wardrobe MVP. Promising review: “My go-to sweater! I was headed for AZ for a week's vacation and this sweater arrived two days before I left. I threw it in my suitcase, just in case I needed something to keep the chill off.
It was so comfortable, fit well, looked good and it was exactly what I needed! So happy that I had it with me! Perfect!” — betty Price: $35.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and in 35 colors) Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity..
