I'm Refreshing My Summer Travel Wardrobe With These 10 Packable, Vacation-ready Nordstrom Styles—From $23

Travel + Leisure

20-06-2025

Today marks the first official day of summer, which means my travel schedule is about to go into overdrive with trips to the Hamptons, Cape Cod, New Hampshire, and more on the calendar in the coming weeks. With so many beachy vacations on the lineup, I've been scouring my wardrobe for outfits to pack for my weekends away, and after a recent closet cleanout, I'm in need of a few fresh pieces to take my seasonal packing list up a notch.
Never failing to deliver the high-quality wardrobe essentials of my dreams, Nordstrom's summer sale section is currently overflowing with items I'm clamoring to add to my suitcase. However, since I'm working to exercise some self control with my shopping this season, I've narrowed down my list to the 10 pieces I'm eyeing for every one of my trips this summer. From maxi dresses to breezy linen pants, these versatile staples will prepare me for every occasion—and most importantly, everything is under $100.
Even on the hottest summer days, you'll rarely catch me wearing shorts, which is why I've been working on expanding my collection of loose-fitting, flowy pants to travel in. This pair from Zella has a stretchy, elastic waistband so I won't worry about it digging into my skin, and its wide-leg design won't stifle me in tight fabric or restrict movement. Plus, pleats down the front create a more dressed-up finish than other trousers in my collection, so I'll be able to style them for a fancy dinner or a day of sightseeing by simply switching my shoes and top. Best of all? They're currently on sale for 50 percent off.
I've had one too many vacations on which I packed the wrong footwear and was left with blisters as my only souvenirs from the trip—but not anymore. These strappy sandals are from Vionic, a podiatrist-approved brand, which instantly elevates their status in my travel wardrobe. They're open-toed and have a platform design that keeps my feet further from the ground. The footbeds are well-cushioned with essential arch support so I can comfortably spend long days on my feet. Uppers made from supple leather will only grow softer with time, plus the adjustable buckle closure means I'll be able to alter the fit when my feet inevitably swell in the summer heat.
I practically live in tank tops during the summer, but after a recent closet cleanout, I was faced with the startling realization that so many of my favorite tanks were in dire need of replacement. Since I've been a big fan of boatnecks lately, I was instantly drawn to this Free People ribbed tank top that hits at the hips and comes in my favorite deep blue shade. It's made from a super-soft cotton blend that will get increasingly more comfortable with every wear, and the simple cut gives it endless styling potential. It's on sale for 40 percent off in select shades, while plain colors like black and white are available for $38.
I've come to value maxi skirts as my go-to bottoms during the summer since they allow me a full range of movement, are undeniably stylish, and (in my opinion) are far more comfortable than mini skirts. The Topshop Techy Maxi Skirt has a forgiving elastic waistband that won't dig into my skin if I wear it during a flight, and it falls right at the ankles so I don't have to think about excess fabric grazing the ground while I walk. I can already see myself styling it with sandals and a mini tank during the summer, but it'll also remain a mainstay in my wardrobe well into the fall.
Even when I'm traveling, I still always make time for a quick run or long walk to stay active and maintain some semblance of a routine (can you tell I'm a type-A traveler?). So, since I try to keep my selection of workout gear fresh, I've been eyeing this sleek pair of Sweaty Betty leggings with an adjustable elastic waistband that's flattering and comfy. The thick waistband won't roll over while I'm sitting, and the stretchy polyester blend will flatter my curves without stifling me in the heat. The slate blue shade is on sale for 43 percent off right now, and they're so stylish that I could see them becoming my go-to for travel days.
If you take a quick scan through my latest style Pinterest board, you'll find it's filled with images of nearly identical sweater vest-style tops with buttons down the front and a distinct '90s-era charm. Of course, after I spotted the Madewell Knit V-neck Sweater Vest, I knew it was exactly what I needed to fulfill my summer style vision—and it's currently on sale for just $39 in the perfect ivory shade. The knit top displays gorgeous detailing, including ruffles around the pointed collars and delicate embroidery down the front, and it's made from a largely cotton blend that will remain in great condition well past this season. Whether I pair it with a maxi skirt or flowy trousers, I'm sure this will be the most reached-for item in my suitcase on my next trip.
If I could wear only one style of clothing for the rest of my life, there's no doubt in my mind I would opt for maxi dresses. With that in mind, this flirty and feminine option is a must-have in the most stunning dusty purple shade, and I'm already imagining myself strolling around the Hamptons wearing it on a bachelorette weekend at the end of the summer. The flowy, tiered skirt is simple but far from plain, and I'm especially enamored by the puff sleeves and ruched bodice detailing. Worn with an oversized tote bag and a pair of kitten heels, this 100 percent cotton dress will be a head-turner on my summer travel agenda—and it's under $100.
I love traveling in linen. It's lightweight, breathable, and offers the perfect drape that's easy to dress up or down. Luckily, this pair of wide-leg pants delivers all of that in spades. The adjustable elastic waistband makes these trousers glorified lounge pants, so I'm positive they'll be a comfy (and stylish) choice on long flights, and they'll also match everything in my suitcase. They're great for the heat, have deep pockets for storing essentials while sightseeing, and even come in three dreamy neutral shades, although it's the black pair I'm buying while they're on sale for $56.
With Cape Cod and the Hamptons on my travel agenda this summer, I'm obviously going to need to snag a new bathing suit to prepare for my beachside adventures. Lands' End is known for its high-quality garments, so naturally I'm adding this scoop-neck one-piece to my cart. It'll provide just the right amount of coverage while still looking timeless and chic. Adjustable straps will make it easy to achieve a snug and comfortable fit that won't leave me exposed if I'm struck by a rogue wave, and the fabric even provides UPF 50 sun protection which is a must for my sensitive skin. Plus, if I throw a pair of linen pants over top, this one-piece bathing suit can double as a fitted bodysuit, effectively multiplying its styling potential.
After recently retiring my favorite pair of ballet flats, I almost instantly added this wine-colored pair of Jeffrey Campbell flats to my cart. I've found ballet flats to be an ideal choice for summer travel since they're lightweight, versatile, and super comfortable—and while I won't be reaching for them during the more active days on my feet, they're perfect for dinner and drinks. I adore the minimalist design of this Mary Jane style, and best of all? They're an impressive (and far more affordable) alternative to this luxe pair from The Row.
Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.