Summer Holiday Packing List: What Women Really Need on Vacation
We've all found ourselves in that frantic situation—sorting through our holiday pack list with less than 12 hours to go before we’re supposed to be at the airport. It's a whirlwind of panic, with underwear flying across the room as you try to figure out just how many bikinis are too many. And let’s be honest, you often end up calling a family member to help you sit on your suitcase while you wrestle it shut. But now the heat is rising, meaning that it’s finally time to spread our wings and jet off to some exotic destination—with air conditioning, of course. While we're all set for sun, sand, and sea, the stress of packing? That’s something we could definitely do without.
Fortunately, we’ve anticipated that your adventurous spirit might leave you a bit stumped on what to pack for the holiday at the last minute. So, we’ve taken the initiative to help you out. Gearing up for an 18-hour flight to Indonesia or heading to a fabulous hotel in Greece, we’ve got your vacation essentials sorted.
Let’s dive in! We’ve created our packing guide for a general week-long getaway, so feel free to adjust it if your trip is a bit longer or shorter.
Midi dress
While separates offer more practicality, we absolutely adore a daytime midi dress while on vacation. Whether it's crafted from printed cotton or airy linen, this style is perfect for warm weather. Elevate it with a silk scarf and oversized sunglasses, carry a chic leather handbag in the crook of your arm. You'll look fantastic no matter where your adventures take you—be it exploring the charming streets of Palermo, spotting birds in the lush garden, visiting the ever-stylish Milan.
Each woman usually has a perfect dress or two among her Summer clothes, but if you are looking for a refreshment, check out these pieces—the V-neck flared linen midi dress by 120% Lino is a classic floaty style, the Sleeveless belted midi dress by Erika Cavallini is an almost tailored silhouette that combines shirt and wrap designs.
Wide pants
Tight pants on holiday—that’s a no from us. Wide trousers are undoubtedly the main part of the capsule holiday wardrobe for women who want to move freely—from winding market alleys in Barcelona to unexpected dance floors in Ibiza. Choose breezy fabrics like linen, lightweight cotton, polyester blends that won’t stick to your legs or your schedule. The ideal pair feels relaxed for a beachside stroll, yet polished to order a negroni at a rooftop bar without changing. Because on vacation, comfort should never cancel out style—and neither should your pants.
The Straight-leg linen trousers by 120% Lino are a reliable pair for any adventure—made of pure linen in white, they fit perfectly numerous outfits and styles. The Fluid crepe trousers from House of Dagmar—the black pair made of a viscose blend—are a fashion-forward piece, great for urban explorations and rooftop parties.
Sandals
If vacation had a dress code, sandals would be top of the list. They’re the real holiday essentials—easy, breathable, pretty, perfectly suited for everything from cobblestone strolls in Lisbon to beach clubs in Bodrum. A good flat pair will carry you from sunrise espresso to sunset spritz without a single blister. But if you’ve got the suitcase space—and the dinner reservations—add a pair of kitten-heeled sandals. Just skip the skyscraper stilettos—nobody wants to limp home from paradise.
Hereu’s sandals have our deepest love and admiration for their handcrafted designs and Mediterranean soul. The Padded fisherman sandals in brown and the Woven slingback sandals in black are both versatile and are ready to accompany you on your delightful trip.
Linen shirt
Next on your holiday packing checklist is a linen shirt—arguably the MVP of vacation dressing. It's not just a top, it's your beach cover-up in Santorini, your breezy jacket in Rome, your shade-provider in Tulum. Roll the sleeves, wear it loose, tie it at the waist—whatever the mood, it shows up cool, crisp, and chic. It is your all-access pass to staying cool while looking hot.
The white linen shirt is a no-brainer, such as the Long sleeve linen shirt by 120% Lino—fits every mood and destination. But you can always spice up your look with subtle stripes, as we have here on the Striped linen shirt from Beige Brown.
Skirt
A skirt earns its spot high on the list of things to bring on holiday. Mini, midi, maxi—length doesn’t matter as long as it catches a breeze. Opt for linen or cotton if you’re strolling through the souks of Marrakech or heading for lunch in Porto. But don’t rule out denim—it’s sturdier than it looks and might become the low-effort hero of your suitcase. Pair it with anything, wear it everywhere, twirl dramatically whenever the vacation mood strikes.
Linen takes up little space and gives you a lot of styling options, so our first recommendation would be the Linen buttoned skirt by Erika Cavallini in white. For those who want it more playful, Agolde’s Denim maxi skirt in light wash is another great option.
Knit
Knits on a summer holiday? Let’s say not every sunset stroll in Amalfi or breezy dinner in Copenhagen comes with warm air and clear skies. A lightweight cashmere pullover or soft cardigan can be your best travel companion when the ocean breeze decides to turn moody. No one’s asking you to pack a ski sweater—something cozy enough for the just-in-case moments. Because while the forecast says 28°C, your table on the terrace might disagree.
The Fine-knit V-neck top by Lisa Yang made of pure lightweight cashmere in a pastel lilac hue is our fave. Want something more neutral—the Striped cardigan-jacket from FTC Cashmere is at your service.
Tank top
Add it to your holiday prep list and thank yourself later. The humble tank top is your behind-the-scenes hero—more reliable than a travel adapter and way more stylish. It goes with everything—shorts in Valencia, linen trousers in Catania, under an open shirt in Athens. It layers, breathes, doesn’t complain when you spill gelato on it. It’s the one piece that earns its seat on every flight.
The main question is the color of your tank. If you lean towards a light palette, the ivory Racer top from FTC is a great option. For the fans of darker shades, we suggest the black Ribbed tank top by Erika Cavallini.
Tote bag
The right swimsuit and sun protection are essential, but don't forget the accessories! A pair of sunnies and a brimmed hat are vital for shielding your eyes, face, neck from harsh sunlight. But a spacious beach bag that can accommodate all your belongings is another absolute must-have.
Stylish Hereu bags are on our holiday accessories list, like the Slouchy shoulder bag made of woven raffia and the Canvas tote bag designed with leather inserts.
Shorts
Practical shorts with pockets and a water-repellent finish will be your everyday go-to as you explore picturesque valleys. Lounging by Lake St. Moritz, gearing up for a morning windsurfing session, or renting an electric mountain bike to ride over to Maloja, they’re perfect for the occasion. But if you are up for more versatile Resort wear, denim and linen pairs could become a stylish alternative.
Agolde’s High-rise shorts with distressed hems are a summer staple that will never fail. The white Elasticated-waistband linen shorts by 120% Lino, on the other hand, are ideal for hot weather and seaside escapes.
Swimsuit cover-up
If your travel essentials checklist includes spending half the day in swimwear—and it should in places like Nice or Mykonos—a cover-up is a must. And no, it doesn’t have to be a pareo you’ve had since 2012. Tunics, sheer knits, oversized shirts, crochet pieces that look like they belong in a beach club and an art gallery work equally well. It’s what you throw on when you’re not quite ready to change—and why should you be, when you’re poolside in Capri?
Want something light and flowing—the white Linen tie-waist tunic by 120% Lino is your best bet. Up for something more fashionable? Check out the Crochet poloneck top by House of Dagmar.
Light jacket
The current weather is getting more and more unpredictable, which means a jacket is always essential—even in the height of summer. A cotton or linen workman’s style jacket will serve you particularly well, as will a funnel-neck bomber or a denim jacket.
Denim jackets by Agolde are among the best for summer vacations, such as the Denim jacket with a bomber silhouette and the Shrunken denim jacket in white with distressed detailing.
