I Refuse to Check a Bag This Summer—so I'm Only Packing These Capsule Wardrobe Basics That Work for Any Trip

Travel + Leisure

17 hours ago

After too many jet bridges spent gate-checking a bulging roller bag and one too many hours waiting at a luggage carousel, I've officially downsized my overpacking ways, at least for my trips to Europe. This summer, I challenged myself to pack smarter, lighter, and more intentionally. The result? A carry-on-friendly capsule wardrobe that's stylish enough for rooftop dinners in Barcelona, breathable enough for sweaty museum hops in Florence, and polished enough for feeling like a local in Paris.
Built around versatile silhouettes, natural fabrics, and neutral tones that play well together, this edit is proof that less really is more, especially when every piece earns its place. Below is the wardrobe I'll be wearing on repeat from now through September, no matter the destination. Bon voyage, baggage fees! Credit: Quince Credit: Amazon Credit: J.Crew Credit: Old Navy
Linen dresses are my ultimate travel lifesaver. Whether I'm sweating it out chasing my daughter through the crowded streets of Florence or dressed up for a captain's dinner on a Mediterranean cruise, they keep me comfortable and looking good. The breathable fabric lets my skin breathe during those hot, busy days, and the natural texture gives off that effortlessly chic vibe that feels perfectly at home across Europe. Plus, they are slightly more resistant to wrinkling, which is a game changer for people who are constantly a bit of a stressed-out hot mess (like me). Credit: Rothys $149 $119 at Nordstrom View on Rothys.com Credit: Amazon Credit: Birdies Credit: Vionic $130 $60 at Amazon View on Vionicshoes.com
When my itinerary involves everything from racing through airport security to wandering cobblestone streets and making business dinner appointments, my shoes have to be up for the challenge. I'll never forget sprinting to catch an almost-missed flight in Madrid, and my Rothy's slip-ons saved me at security, letting me slide them off and on in seconds without fumbling with laces or buckles.
Generally speaking, slip-on shoes are lightweight and easy to pack, yet comfortable enough to carry me through long days of sightseeing. Best of all, their sleek design means I never have to sacrifice style for practicality, whether I'm darting through terminals, strolling historic city centers, or stepping into a cozy neighborhood trattoria; these shoes effortlessly transition from day to night without literally no fuss. Credit: Abercrombie & Fitch Credit: Amazon Credit: Buck Mason Credit: Amazon
Matching sets have become my entire identity, and it's because they're so darn easy (to both wear and style). They take the guesswork out of packing and dressing, lightweight and breathable, they're perfect for sunny afternoons wandering markets or casual dinners in a new city. I wore my Buck Mason linen set while strolling through Paris and actually got compliments from locals (it was all in French, but she was smiling). As an American, I took that as the ultimate win.
For beach days or poolside lounging, a set that doubles as a swim cover-up and a statement piece means less to pack and more versatility. And when it's time to relax, cozy yet chic matching loungewear keeps me comfortable without sacrificing style during downtime or travel days. Credit: Summersalt Credit: Amazon Credit: Quince Credit: Athleta
When I'm packing for Europe—or literally anywhere these days—the oversized shirt is non-negotiable. It's light, breathable, and perfect for those unpredictable days during travel when you start with a morning museum visit and end up at a sunset terrace. I love wearing it unbuttoned over a linen dress for that effortlessly cool, layered look that's so quintessentially European. It's also my go-to for breezy mornings along the Seine or wandering cobblestone streets in Rome. Plus, it doubles as a beach cover-up, which is a double win in my opinion. Credit: Quince Credit: Nordstrom Credit: Amazon Credit: Amazon
As you can probably tell, linen is one of my favorite fabrics for summer, and there are a lot of reasons why. It's an ultra-breathable fabric that keeps me cool when I'm running around the sun-soaked cities of Barcelona, Santorini, and Rome. I also love how linen pants are endlessly easy to style. Although I often pair them with a tucked-in tee or an oversized shirt, they're just as cute with a breezy silk blouse or cropped cardi. As someone trying to live out of a carry-on, I also adore how they fold down small and get that coveted worn-in, wrinkled-in-the-best-way look, so they're a dream to pack. Credit: Tuckernuck Credit: Vineyard Vines View on Vineyardvines.com Credit: Amazon Credit: Quince
I've always loved dresses—maybe a little too much, considering I have over 125 in my closet. But when it comes to packing light for Europe, a floral maxi dress always makes the cut. It's effortlessly versatile: easy to dress down with sandals for wandering art galleries or dress up with heels and delicate gold jewelry for a night out in Italy. The ones I love move with me, and fit and flatter, even after an extra plate of pasta or extra glass of wine. The floral prints just feel right everywhere, from the lavender fields of Provence to the vibrant streets of Lisbon, and the lightweight fabric keeps me cool in the hottest temperatures. Plus, since it's all in one piece, it takes up less space in my suitcase than a full outfit would, making packing way easier. Credit: Vuori View on Vuoriclothing.com Credit: Quince Credit: Amazon Credit: A&F
Like jeans, tailored pants are one of those pieces that instantly upgrade any look, but they don't add bulk to an already-crammed carry-on (or weigh it down). What I love most about these wardrobe staples is how easy they are to dress up or down. Throw on a crisp white tee or crop top for a casual daytime vibe, or pair them with a sleek vest and delicate gold jewelry for something sharper when you want to turn heads. They strike the perfect balance between polished and relaxed. Plus, they're seriously on-trend right now: clean lines, high-waisted fits, and a modern silhouette that's both timeless and fresh. And, as an almost 40-year-old who works alongside that generation, a nod from them always makes my day. Best of all, tailored pants help me blend right in with locals in Italy and France, where effortless 'clean girl' chic is basically a lifestyle. Credit: Gap Credit: Amazon Credit: Quince Credit: lululemon
I'm an old lady in the sense that I always need a cardigan (or a sweater). Especially in Europe, where it goes from 95 degrees Fahrenheit in the day to 55 degrees Fahrenheit at night, depending on where you are. These cute crop styles give me just the right amount of warmth without feeling bulky, perfect for layering over dresses or pairing with jeans for a casual but put-together look. I love how the shorter length keeps things modern and flattering, so I never feel swallowed up by fabric. Plus, it's lightweight and folds easily into my suitcase, but is still cozy enough to keep me comfortable on planes when it's often Arctic cold. Credit: Quince Credit: Tuckernuck Credit: lululemon Credit: Amazon
Whenever I'm traveling abroad, a crossbody bag is non-negotiable, and not just for the hands-free convenience but for the added security against pickpockets. When in Paris with my mom, the crossbody bag was what saved my mom from losing her entire bag (wallet and passport included) to thieves. I love how these bags work with just about any outfit, whether I'm in tailored pants and a blouse or a breezy linen dress. Despite their compact size and minimal suitcase footprint, they surprise me by fitting all the essentials: wallet, phone, sunglasses, and even my small Sony mirrorless camera.
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