Ironically, packing for tropical destinations where fewer clothes are actually “required” is sometimes the hardest trip to pack for. This tropical destination packing list will help keep you covered without losing your edge. It shouldn’t surprise you that when I ask shoppers what they need the most help with in warmer months, their answers are the same. Here are 7 closet essentials that should be on your tropical destination packing list, but you’ll find yourself washing so that you can wear them on repeat when you’re home.
TROPICAL DESTINATION PACKING LIST
1. Flattering Swimsuit
With age comes wisdom. You are the expert in you. By now you should know your body well enough to know what will feel good and look the best on you. It’s a big misconception that that a solid black swimsuit is the most flattering. Prints do a better job of keeping the eyes moving and unable to rest on any imperfections.
Change Of Scenery
Change of Scenery is my go-to swimsuit brand for women over 40. The designer is in her 40s and has a great understanding of what works for a woman’s body. I love that all her collections have matching coverup options versatile enough to wear as casual outfits too.
These are a few collections my friends and I have. The black and blue animal dot is ON SALE right now. Use promo code JENCC10 to save on all orders over $100 now through April 30th.
If you want to wear an all-black swimsuit choose a style that has an obvious focal point. This one was an Amazon Fashion find under $50.
2. Denim in Disguise
If jean shorts aren’t your jam then try a pair of denim-inspired drawstring pants or tencel joggers. They are cool, comfortable, and go with everything!
3. White Jeans or White Skirt
White always looks fresh and stylish, but you can sabotage a good outfit if you force a fit. Instead, focus on flowy skirts and wide-leg white jeans. Balance oversized silhouettes with shorter tops or fitted tees.
Wide Leg White Jeans
Long or cropped lengths vary for all of us. This video will show you how long your cropped jeans should be. When you’re shopping check the inseam instead of the product description to know if you’ll have to hem your jeans. If you’re petite a jean described as “cropped” may work for you as a full- length style instead.
White Skirts
4. Summer Sweatsuit
If you don’t wear it as your travel outfit this will likely be the first thing you pack. A matching knit set is luxe loungewear at its best. In the summer I suggest a short pant and shortsleeve cape-like pullover. I just added this short sleeve sweater and matching pants to my casual monochromatic “moonstone” capsule. It also comes in navy.
Hot Sets
5. Oversized Button Up
I just included an oversized striped button-up in my Carryon Capsule Wardrobe because it is so versatile. Choose a classic white like this one with adjustible sleeves, a fresh Farm Rio print, or a color that makes you happy. You can’t go wrong with this versatile piece.
Kayla
This oversized style with adjustable sleeves was a Nordstrom 6 Drop pick last year and is still a fan favorite. So was Rag & Bone’s Maxine.
Maxine
Under $30
I have all of these and they’re great!
6. Large Scarf
A large sheer scarf is a key accessory in my European Travel Capsule and is also a key piece on this tropical trip packing list. This large size can be tied over a swimsuit in more than one way. It also makes a great shawl for your arms in the evening.
Rag & Bone
All of these oversized Rag & Bone scarves are great! I have this black one with pink and blue on in the styling video.
7. Day-Night Dress
Destination dresses like this should be a blog post on their own. Most of us do the best with a classic t-shirt dress or flowy maxi with sleeves. Here is a roundup of my current favorites from my Fashionable Black and White Vacation Capsule and my European Travel Capsule.
This blue one from Nordstrom for under $100 comes in 4 colors. It’s a flattering fit. No Spanx necessary.
