Expert Advice

It’s Vacation Time! Here Are Our Travel Outfit Idea Must-Haves

Jun 6, 2024

The summer season is here! And if you’re anything like us, your calendar is probably packed with random day trips and maybe a vacay or two in there somewhere. Whether a weekend getaway with the boys or a cross-country road trip with your partner, you’ll need to plan out your packing list carefully to make sure you’re ready for what’s coming, whether it’s a hike in the Rockies, a day on the water or an overseas flight. 

While you’re worrying about your passport or your plans, don’t stress over your wardrobe. Here are a few versatile, must-pack travel outfit ideas.

Shoes

We’re starting with shoes because Toe to Head® style is kind of our thing. If you’re walking long distances at Disney or you have plantar fasciitis, you’ll need supportive shoes like Brooks or HOKAs. If carry-on space is an issue, wear a pair of retro-style New Balance shoes onto the plane, and pack a pair of black or white Converse for max versatility throughout your trip. Planning to spend time out at night in a restaurant, club or music fest? Prioritize style with Air Force 1s, any of the Air Jordan silhouettes or the adidas Gazelles. Need easy pool or beach-ready shoes? Add slides and sandals to your duffle.

Tops & Tees

Whether you’re jetsetting or road-tripping, set the tone of your travel looks with easy-to-wear tees and tops. An oversized graphic tee makes a perfect beach cover-up or lounge-around-the-house outfit. A cropped top with shorts or a skirt can be dressed up or down with jewelry and accessories. And moisture-wicking shirts will keep you on your game whether you’re camping or training in the early a.m..

Jackets

If you’re going to New Orleans or Jamaica, there’s probably little chance you need a lightweight jacket unless you get cold on planes or car rides. For cool mornings, choose an activewear zip-up that you can easily slip off during the heat of the day. If you’re planning on being outdoors and you’re not sure what the weather will bring, consider something that’ll keep you dry and protected during an afternoon shower. Heading to cooler climes? Pack a more substantial jacket.

Sweatshirts & Hoodies

There’s nothing cozier than slipping on a hoodie and leaning against the headrest for a semi-restful nap at 30,000 feet. When packing airport travel outfits, make sure you have a sweatshirt in your carry-on or on your person. And as an added bonus, it can double as a pillow when you’re inevitably stuck in the airport due to delays.

Pants

Making it to Paris for the French Open or the Olympics this summer? You’re definitely going to be bringing home some souvenirs — and maybe some skincare from a French pharmacy. Or maybe you’re going on a weeklong hike in the Pacific Northwest. Either way, you’ll also need to pack carefully, keeping travel outfits to a minimum. Keep denim pants or jeans for late-night dinners, museum tours and evening strolls, and make sure you have quick-drying pant options if you’re going camping.

Shorts

Forecasters are already calling it: sweltering temps this summer. And whether you’re staycationing at the pool, fighting traffic on your way to the Gulf Coast, or hanging out at the skatepark, you definitely need shorts. When looking for travel outfits for women, men or kids, think light and breezy athletic shorts or bike shorts for workouts and longer-length cargo shorts or denim anytime.

Dresses & Skirts

Tennis skirts aren’t just for tennis. They wick away moisture, pack without wrinkling and often have built-in shorts. Pack one in every color to pair with tees, tanks and sweatshirts. Plan on leisurely lunches or quick dinners while out West? Throw a tank dress into your luggage for an easy slip-on silhouette you can wear with sneakers and a denim jacket.

Now that you’ve got travel outfits pulled together, it’s time to make sure you have all those extras packed — from sunglasses and swimsuits to towels and toiletries. Oh, and before you head out, make sure you stop into Hibbett for duffles, backpacks and sneaker storage bags.

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