You Only Need to Pack This 1 Dress Style for Summer Trips—and It's $21 at Amazon

Travel + Leisure

17-06-2025

I'll be honest: When I travel, I consider my vacation wardrobe just as important as anything else. Not only do I want to relax and have fun, but I want to look good doing it. That's why I often find myself packing multiple summer dresses for each trip, including options that can be styled for day or night.
A couple of years ago, I purchased a vintage Gap dress that single-handedly solved my overpacking problem. It could be dressed up or down to suit every occasion, and it took up almost no space in my suitcase. Although the dress is no longer available, I recently discovered a nearly identical version that I can now recommend to friends, family, and T+L readers—and it costs just $21 at Amazon.
I've worn this versatile style on casual coffee runs, to fancy dinners, and while sightseeing. I love that it can be paired with comfy sneakers, casual sandals, or even dressy heels, depending on the occasion, and it never looks out of place. It's ideal for travel, since I can wear it multiple ways throughout a trip. In fact, one reviewer even wore this dress to a wedding in Italy.
Another shopper said they 'never would've guessed a T-shirt material would look nice enough to even go to a wedding, but this dress does.' That same reviewer added that the soft jersey fabric packs well, thanks to its wrinkle resistance.
I love that the sleeveless neckline is flattering while still accommodating just about any bra, and the side slit adds a touch of style while ensuring a breezier fit that's perfect for warm days. I've paired the style with cardigans, jean jackets, white button-downs, and more layers, so the dress can easily transition to chilly nights and transitional weather.
If you're looking to refresh your travel wardrobe with a new black dress, keep scrolling for eight more stylish options at Amazon—all under $50. These maxi dresses and LBDs are ideal for traveling, and they suit any destination.
This maxi dress practically screams 'summer vacay.' The smocked bodice offers a casual, beachy look, with adjustable straps that ensure a perfect fit. The flowy, tiered skirt is as breezy as it is trendy, and the fabric is 'soft, flowy, and breathable.' Pair this dress with sneakers to keep things casual, or dress it up with wedge heels for a party-ready ensemble.
In addition to a black maxi, I recommend that every summer wardrobe include a little black dress. Over 1,000 shoppers just bought this $24 option—and I'm adding it to my cart next. I love that the high neckline and A-line silhouette are modest enough for wear throughout the day, yet the dress is still flirty for nighttime outings. One reviewer called the cotton-bend fabric 'soft, lightweight, and comfortable,' so it's perfect for upcoming summer trips.
Over 3,000 shoppers purchased this highly-rated dress in the past month, and it's easy to see why. This breezy dress is so easy to style, with a laid-back look that's perfect for vacation. It's thoughtfully designed, with a flattering side slit and patches in the armpit area to ensure modest coverage. Snag it in black for a wardrobe staple you'll wear again and again, or opt for one of 42 other colors that are just as stylish.
Here's another LBD worth snagging—and I can't believe it's just $13. This dress is so flattering, with a wrap-style bust and cinched waist. One shopper wrote they 'took this dress to Hawaii as a cover-up and ended up wearing it every day,' whether out to dinner, heading to the beach, or shopping. Plus, it features the same lightweight jersey fabric as the maxi dress style I always reach for.
Some destinations call for a bohemian-inspired packing list, and this summery dress fits the bill. Despite its long sleeves and maxi length, one shopper calls it 'comfortable and cool for hot days.' The tiered skirt is breezy, while the flowy puff sleeves offer plenty of airflow. This dress can easily be dressed up or down depending on the day's itinerary, and it's available in 26 patterns and colors to suit your style.
If you prefer something more modest, this Merokeety maxi is a great option. It has elbow-length sleeves that provide generous coverage, plus a flowing silhouette that won't cling to you. One reviewer says they purchased three of these 'flattering and comfortable' dresses, adding that 'they are all [they] want to wear this summer.'
This dress is a more fitted version of my go-to dress style. It has a deeper neckline, plus a cinched waist and flattering ruching. One reviewer calls it 'perfect for travel,' thanks to its wrinkle resistance, while another shopper says it's 'the best dress to travel in' and suitable for 'humid and tropical weather.' I'd pair it with simple sandals for vacation lunches and dress it up with a clutch and heels at night.
Black dresses are timeless, but you might want to switch things up with a trendier silhouette. This one features one of summer's biggest trends: the bubble skirt. It gives the dress a playful vibe that's so fun for summer trips. It can be styled with sneakers or heels, depending on the occasion, and shoppers love that it's cooling enough for hot weather.
Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.