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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Aingeru Zorita

Carry-On Essentials

Our Editors’ Guide to Packing the Perfect Carry-On

Travel in style. We've partnered with Splendid to bring you the effortless pieces you need to pack for every Summer vacation.
There's nothing like an upcoming Summer getaway to get you pumped — until you realize that you need to pack. Whittling down your wardrobe is hard enough, but cramming it all into one carry-on? Impossible. Luckily, our editors have mastered the art of packing light. Their approach? Creating a capsule travel wardrobe with essential pieces they can easily mix and match while on the go. Ahead, we spilled their bags — and their secrets — to show you exactly which versatile staples to bring whether you're headed on a short weekend trip or an extended vacation. Keep reading to discover their tips on how to travel in style.
Marina, assistant editor, Fashion

Marina's travel outfit

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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Aingeru Zorita

Escaping to a dreamy destination like Greece? Follow in Marina's footsteps with resort-ready pieces that are femme and breezy, starting with a tie-strap romper and chic leather slides.

"When I travel, I always pack a one-piece, like a printed romper, because it's easy to throw on and style. Did I mention rompers are also super comfortable? Instead of sneakers, I'm opting for a pair of brown slides and layering on a light denim jacket just in case I get cold."

Marina's carry on

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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Aingeru Zorita

For the rest of your wardrobe, bring in details like ruffles and textures like chambray and straw that channel that romantic vacay feel, but remain extremely wearable when anchored by clean silhouettes.

"When I feel like being feminine and trendy on vacation, I’ll reach for a one-shoulder ruffle dress and an off-the-shoulder crop top. Then, on my more laid-back days, you’ll find me in a simple striped tee and blush espadrilles — no heels for this gal!"

SHOP MARINA'S LOOK

Zareen Siddiqui, associate, audience development

Zareen's travel outfit

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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Aingeru Zorita

If you're exploring a hip, urban city like Austin, take notes from Zareen, and build your travel ensembles around bold prints. First up? A camo jacket and striped tote.

"When I travel, I tend to get cold so I always have some kind of oversized jacket with me. This camo-print jacket is perfect for Summer: it's lightweight and goes with any outfit. I combined it with distressed jeans, a cheeky tee, a striped tote, and minimal slides for a look that works just as well on the plane as it does for a day of checking out local watering holes."

Zareen's carry on

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Throw in graphic stripes and a batik print for a wardrobe that will help you feel right at home in the quirky metropolitan.

"I like to pack pieces that make an impact but are still versatile, cute, and, most importantly, comfortable for the hot Texas sun. A striped T-shirt dress, camo shorts, and a flowy printed dress all fit the bill — along with a pair of black lace-up sandals to wear with everything."

SHOP ZAREEN'S LOOK

Becky Kirsch, senior director, content strategy

Becky's travel outfit

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For a few sultry nights in New Orleans, take Becky's lead and opt for carefree basics that perfectly capture the Big Easy vibe. Start with a dress in a loose shift silhouette and strappy slides in a neutral hue.

"For me, comfort is key when I'm traveling (or really, at any time). This twist-sleeve dress is perfect for sightseeing and eating out at restaurants and could also double as a cover-up for a swimsuit. As much as I love heels, flats are essential for any trip where I'll be walking around a lot, and these slides are great for exploring the French Quarter during the day and going out on Bourbon Street at night."

Becky's carry on

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Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Aingeru Zorita

SHOP BECKY'S LOOK

Round out your slip-on-and-go essentials with layers that all work well together.

"Whenever I'm trying to pack light, I stick to classics, like basic T-shirts and denim that are easy to dress up or down with the right accessories, jewelry, and shoes. Even though New Orleans is ridiculously hot in the summer, I always bring at least one long-sleeved layer, and this striped pullover is perfect for the plane or in an air-conditioned restaurant or museum. The brown espadrilles are versatile for shorts or dresses — I especially love them with the olive dress."

MORE FROM SPLENDID

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Image Source: Splendid
Shop these destination looks and more at Splendid.com. Their new arrivals include everything you need for pool-lounging, plane-hopping, and summer-ing in general.