Summer is here, vacation is approaching, and the famous question resurfaces: what to pack? 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. No need to overload your luggage unnecessarily.
Here are our simple, practical and effective tips for preparing the perfect vacation suitcase, without compromising on comfort or style.
The essentials for a one or two week vacation
What clothes should I pack for a week's vacation?
The goal is to have clothes that adapt to all situations: relaxation, sightseeing, dinner, beach, transportation... without filling your suitcase with "just in case." For a week's vacation, we recommend you start with a consistent basis:
- 3 to 4 cotton t-shirts: light, breathable, easy to wear.
- 2 short-sleeved polo shirts: to upgrade without overdressing.
- 1 long-sleeved shirt, ideally cotton or linen.
- 1 pair of cotton or light canvas shorts.
- 1 pair of pants or light chinos.
- 1 swimsuit.
- 1 zip-up sweater or sweatshirt for cool evenings.
- 1 light 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 layers just for items that get dirty quickly: T-shirts and underwear.
- Upgrade to 6 or 7 t-shirts, 3 polos or shirts, 2 shorts, 2 light pants.
- Add a second swimsuit.
- Otherwise, 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 on site if necessary.
Essential underwear and accessories
- 7 to 8 boxers for one week (14 to 16 for two).
- Low cotton socks.
- 1 belt.
- 1 pair of sunglasses.
- 1 cap or bob hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Three well-chosen pairs of shoes
- A pair of sneakers for travel, sightseeing, and trips.
- 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
Favor breathable materials
In summer, comfort is all about choosing fabrics. Natural, lightweight materials are your best allies:
- Cotton: soft, breathable, perfect for t-shirts, underwear and socks.
- Linen: Light, airy, dries quickly. Perfect for shirts and pants.
- Cotton pique: used for polo shirts, offers a good fit even after several wears.
Avoid synthetic fabrics, especially on tops, which trap heat and odors.
Focus on easy-to-wear cuts
The right clothing is one that you don't feel on, but that enhances your appearance.
- Regular or fitted cut for t-shirts.
- Straight, mid-thigh shorts for comfort and style.
- Lightweight pants with elasticated or drawstring waist, perfect for long walks.
A coherent and easy-to-match palette
- Neutral base (white, gray, navy, beige) that goes with everything.
- 1 or 2 strong colors to break the routine (terracotta, olive green, pale yellow).
- Avoid overly bold patterns: think versatility.
What not to bring
- New, unworn clothes (beware of unpleasant surprises in terms of comfort).
- Pieces that are too flashy and difficult to match.
- Shoes you've never worn.
- Superfluous accessories that you won't take out of your suitcase.
Organize your suitcase well for stress-free travel
Folding method and organization
- Roll up t-shirts to save space and reduce wrinkles.
- Fold the shirts flat.
- Sort by category or by outfit: it's up to you to see what makes your life easier.
Compartmentalized storage bags can really make a difference. Some even use airtight bags for dirty or damp clothes.
Choosing the right luggage size
- Hard-shell cabin suitcase: perfect for a short trip or if you're 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 outfit in your backpack in case your suitcase gets lost.
- Add a travel-size detergent for express washes.
- Bring some freezer bags: very practical 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 you'll travel with peace of mind. By choosing the right pieces, cohesive colors, and organizing your luggage intelligently, everything becomes simpler and more stylish.