Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.
Traveling to new places is a joy like no other. But it can also be intimidating, especially when you’re not familiar with the climate. To help, we put together the ultimate packing cheat sheet for every type of climate — even the ones that tend to fluctuate dramatically throughout the day.
For more affordable, stylish outfit ideas, click here.
If you're headed to the beach...
A pair of square-toed flip flops…
Behold: the beach sandal of 2026. The square toe adds a current touch to our favorite basic flip-flop. We love these for their fun color options and under-$30 price tag.
A one-piece bathing suit that smooths and sculpts…
We wrote about Miraclesuit last year and are pleased to report our positive reviews still apply. This suit is like chic shapewear that happens to be waterproof, but thanks to its soft material, you won’t feel like ripping it off at the end of the day. We’re obsessed.
Striped shorts you’ll reach for every day…
A pair of comfortable shorts will go far on any beach vacation. We love this twill pair for the high-waisted fit and coastal striped print. Wear them with your bathing suit and an oversized white button-down and sandals, and you’re set for the day.
A tunic you can wear on and off the beach…
Is it a shirt? Is it a dress? Is it a cover-up? It’s all of the above. This one-and-done beach shirt is one of our favorite packing hacks since it's basically three garments in one. If you want to wear it out, layer it over a bodysuit and add a belt and statement jewelry.
An eye-catching dress for a beachside dinner date…
If you’ve got a special event or evening planned, you’ll want to pack this gorgeous dress from FARM Rio — the brand does vacation dresses like none other. It’s a compliment magnet, thanks to its intricate, yet sophisticated print.
If you're off to explore a new city...
A cropped cardigan to have on hand at all times…
When in Rome (or anywhere the temperature can fluctuate), be sure to pack a light cardigan. This one from Quince is made of a cotton-waffle knit that won’t make you overheat. The design is elevated and simple enough to pair with everything else you packed.
Wide-leg jeans that fit just right…
Every travel wardrobe needs a pair of jeans, and you simply can’t go wrong with Abercrombie denim. They have endless styles, cuts, lengths, and washes and we can’t help but bring them up again and again. These high-rise wide-leg jeans are our latest fixation. Wear them during the day with sneakers, at night with kitten-heel sandals, and (seriously) on the plane if you want to feel put-together.
A breezy maxi skirt you can dress up or down…
For days when pants aren’t an option, reach for this tiered maxi skirt. It’s equal parts comfortable and versatile. We’d add a T-shirt and sneakers for a casual outfit, or with a going-out top and strappy heels for a night on the town.
A cropped tee you’ll want in every color…
We basically own this top in too many colors to count — it’s just that good. The cropped length hits just below your waist, so you can tuck into high-waisted bottoms but it won’t bunch up (the worst). It comes in over 30 colors and patterns, and the brand adds new ones seasonally.
The only pair of sneakers you’ll need…
If you only have room to pack one pair of shoes, make it these Adidas Barreda Lo sneakers. The taupe and brown colorway is a little more elevated than your typical bright white sneaker, so you can wear them to casual dinners.
If you're going to the great outdoors...
Lightweight cargo pants you can also wear to dinner…
For athleisure we’d wear out and about, we turn to FP Movement. These cargo pants are so lightweight, you’ll forget you have them on. Their barrel shape gives them a modern edge that makes them appropriate to wear off the trail.
A tank you don’t need a bra for…
This tank from Embrace is so good, we gave it an award. The ribbed material is insanely soft and stretchy, while the built-in bra offers a ton of coverage and support. We especially love the higher neckline, which gives it a more sophisticated touch.
A hiking shoe that will last you years…
No matter how arduous the terrain, how dusty the air, how muddy the trail, Merrell hiking boots are built to last. You can’t go wrong with any of their styles, but we have a soft spot for this light blue color combo.
A windbreaker that doesn’t look like a plastic bag drifting through the wind…
An outdoorsy trip is a great excuse to invest in a high-quality windbreaker. Lucky for us, windbreakers happen to be trending. This cropped, mock-neck option is full of functional details — like a ventilated back and stowable hood — but you could also wear out with jeans and heels.
If you need to brave the cold...
Compression leggings designed for low temps…
If you’re heading into the cold, bring these instead of your regular workout leggings. Designed specifically for winter weather, they have a brushed interior to keep you toasty without making you sweat.
A chunky sweater that doubles as a blanket…
When in doubt, wear a chunky sweater to the airport. This one will keep you warm on the flight and feel like one big knitted onesie. When you get to your destination, you can wear it out with leggings and your favorite boots.
Heavy-duty boots that are actually chic…
These insulated boots are the gold standard for winter boots. They’re insulated and waterproof to shield your feet from the snow and ice. They also have a fairly minimalist look, so you won’t feel like you’re clomping around everywhere.
A thermal first layer…
A good thermal base layer is as important as any winter coat. This one is made of a breathable, buttery soft fabric with built-in moisture-wicking properties. It’s also available in petite and plus sizes.
A colorful jacket that won’t weigh you down…
This jacket is fleece-lined, water- and wind-resistant, and won’t take up too much room in your suitcase. With 14 eye-catching color options to choose from, it’s a great option if you’re looking to add a little pop to your monochrome outfits.
Breathable cashmere socks…
These socks may feel light and airy, but they’re actually warmer than wool. In other words, they're a great pair to stock up on when you’re traveling somewhere frigid. The ribbed, marled fabric is cute enough to peak over your ankle boots.
If you're headed somewhere that can't decide...
A maxi skirt that will take up little to no room…
For changeable climates, you need reliable, versatile pieces like this black maxi skirt. It’s made of soft, double-layered jersey that keeps your temperature regulated and can be dressed up or down — and it can be easily rolled up into your suitcase. We especially love the high slit on the side, which makes it an ideal beach or evening piece.
An elegant long-sleeve tee…
If the weather at your destination is a little all over the place, your capsule wardrobe will really shine. This long-sleeve shirt is layerable and works well with any bottoms. We love the boat neckline for its sophisticated touch. Add a pair of gold hoops, jeans, and heeled booties, and the night is yours.
Chic barrel pants…
These have to be the most sophisticated pair of utility pants we’ve ever seen. The slight barrel shape, cuffable legs, and warm hues make them the ideal day-to-night pants when you’re traveling.
A sweater for all kinds of weather…
With its subtle puff sleeves and gold button details, you don’t need to add any accessories to this sweater. It’s a great option for business trips, family gatherings, or traipsing around Europe. It’s classic, comfortable, and under $30.
A leather jacket that’s always in style…
Like LBDs, leather jackets are always in. We love this bomber style for its range of cool tones and oversized fit, which makes it ideal for layering. It’s on the pricey side, but you’re guaranteed to keep it for a while.
A pair of mesh Mary Janes…
The ballerina trend is here to stay, and these are one of our top picks for walkable, blister-free ballet flats. These have tractioned outsoles (read: they’re actually functional), and they can fold in half for easy packing.