Summer is here, vacations are approaching, and the famous question resurfaces: what to pack in your suitcase? Whether you're going away for a week or two, the idea remains the same: travel light, without forgetting anything, and stay stylish from the first day to the last. There's no need to overload your luggage.
Here are our simple, practical, and effective tips for packing the perfect vacation suitcase without compromising on comfort or style.
Essentials to pack for a one- or two-week vacation
What clothes should I pack for a week-long vacation?
The goal is to have clothes that are suitable for all situations: relaxation, sightseeing, dinner, beach, transportation, etc., without filling your suitcase with "just in case" items. For a week-long vacation, we recommend packing a consistent selection of items:
- 3 to 4 cotton T-shirts: lightweight, breathable, easy to wear.
- 2 short-sleeved polo shirts: to move upmarket without overdoing it.
- 1 long-sleeved shirt, ideally made of cotton or linen.
- 1 pair of cotton or lightweight canvas shorts.
- 1 pair of lightweight pants or chinos.
- 1 swimsuit.
- 1 sweater or zip-up sweatshirt for cool evenings.
- 1 lightweight jacket, such as a windbreaker or overshirt.
Adapt for 2 weeks without doubling everything
There's no need to double everything. The trick is to pack a few extra items only for things that get dirty quickly: T-shirts and underwear.
- Take 6 or 7 T-shirts, 3 polo shirts or shirts, 2 pairs of shorts, and 2 pairs of lightweight pants.
- Add a second swimsuit.
- For the rest, keep the same sweater and jacket.
The secret is to choose clothes that are easy to wash and dry quickly, so you can wear them several times while you're there if necessary.
Essential underwear and accessories
- 7 to 8 pairs of boxer shorts for one week (14 to 16 for two).
- Low-cut cotton socks.
- 1 belt.
- 1 pair of sunglasses.
- 1 cap or sun hat for protection from the sun.
Three well-chosen pairs of shoes
- A pair of sneakers for traveling, sightseeing, and commuting.
- A more summery pair: sandals, espadrilles, or loafers, depending on your style.
- A pair of flip-flops for the beach.
Materials, cuts, and colors: the right basics for smart travel
Choose breathable fabrics
In summer, comfort depends on your choice of fabrics. Natural, lightweight materials are your best allies:
- Cotton: soft, breathable, perfect for T-shirts, underwear, and socks.
- Linen: lightweight, breathable, dries quickly. Perfect for shirts and pants.
- Cotton piqué: used for polo shirts, retains its shape well even after repeated wear.
Avoid synthetic fabrics, especially on tops, which retain heat and odors.
Focus on easy-to-wear styles
The right garment is one that you don't feel you're wearing, but which makes you look good.
- Regular or fitted cut for T-shirts.
- Straight-leg shorts, mid-thigh length, for comfort and style.
- Lightweight pants with elastic waistband or drawstring, perfect for long walks.
A consistent palette that is easy to match
- Neutral base (white, gray, navy blue, beige) that goes with everything.
- 1 or 2 bold colors to break the routine (terracotta, olive green, pale yellow).
- Avoid overly bold patterns: think versatility.
What not to bring
- New, unworn clothing (beware of unpleasant surprises in terms of comfort).
- Pieces that are too flashy and difficult to match.
- Shoes you've never worn.
- Unnecessary accessories that you won't take out of your suitcase.
Pack your suitcase well for stress-free travel
Folding method and organization
- Roll up T-shirts to save space and minimize wrinkles.
- Fold the shirts flat.
- Organize by category or by outfit: it's up to you to decide what makes your life easier.
Compartmentalized storage bags can really make a difference. Some people even use airtight bags for dirty or wet clothes.
Choosing the right luggage size
- Hard-sided carry-on suitcase: perfect for a short trip or if you are flying with hand luggage only.
- Soft suitcase or travel bag: more flexible, fits easily in the trunk of your car.
- Large backpack: ideal for road trips or multiple destinations.
Additional practical tips
- Keep a complete change of clothes in your backpack in case your suitcase gets lost.
- Pack a travel-size laundry detergent for quick washes.
- Bring a few freezer bags: they are very handy for storing cables, jewelry, documents, or toiletries.
- Don't forget a lightweight tote bag for shopping or the beach.
Summer vacations are meant for relaxing, breathing, moving, and enjoying yourself. A well-packed suitcase ensures peace of mind when traveling. By choosing the right items, coordinating colors, and organizing your luggage intelligently, everything becomes simpler and more stylish.