11 Things to Pack for a Mediterranean Vacation
- Tieneke
- Aug 21, 2018
- 5 min read
Updated: Jun 9, 2020
Raise your hand if you’re guilty of ridiculously overpacking...I know I am! It’s my middle name, and year after year I find myself making the same mistake. Did I need 3 white t-shirts and 5 pairs of shoes? No. I always end up with multiples of EVERYthing, and end up only wearing my most favorite and comfortable pieces, returning home with a pile of unworn items. Story.of.my.life!
This summer we will be traveling in Europe for 3 weeks, and some serious planning was in order to avoid my previous packing mistakes. We are spending most of our time in the Mediterranean, so I’ve made a list of the only summer essentials I’ll need, that are both practical AND spatially economical (And of course, on trend.)
Scroll down, and start packing!
1
The high-waisted trend is here to stay. This universally flattering style gives you legs for days (win!) and is a versatile accessory to your Mediterranean wardrobe. Pair it with sandals and a tucked in white tee for a day of exploring, or add a red lip and some gold hoops for a night out on the town. Levi’s has hit the spot with their 501 fit and is the only pair of denims you need.
Shop Levi's 501 denim here.
2
Spice up your wardrobe (and Instagram feed!) with a few of these trendy and easy-to-wear pieces that are light to pack and literally requires no effort at all. Just add a cute bag and leather slides and you’re good to go. Our go-to brands for these fashion necessities are Realisation Par, Faithfull the Brand, Zara and Asos.
3
This year I’m leaving my oversized sunnies at home and taking along my smaller-framed and trendy cat-eye sunglasses. This throwback style is a must-have for summer and will add a touch of cool to even the simplest of outfits. Le Specs sleek Last Lolita cat eyes are affordable and a retro statement piece that screams summer.
4
Our Mediterranean itinerary is packed with days of exploring and basking in the sun on white sandy beaches, so a must-have accessory is a summer hat. Not only will it block the harmful rays, but it will also keep you cool and looking fabulous. This frayed straw hat by Lack of Color is the accessory (and photo prop) I didn’t know I needed...until now!
Get your hands on this frayed boater hat by Lack of Color, or have a look at more affordable options here.
5
A classic white shirt is a summer essential and it’s the one shirt you can wear with literally everything. Tucked into your high-waisted denims or mini skirt, tied up in front over your bikini, or layered with a light denim jacket, you can’t go wrong (And it won’t break the bank either!) This affordable linen shirt is by Uniqlo, a Japanese brand known for making quality, yet affordable, clothing.
Add a classic white shirt to your Mediterranean wardrobe.
6
If you’ve been to Europe, you’d know that the best way to explore is to walk, so taking along comfortable shoes is essential if you want to avoid the inevitable vacation spoiler, blisters. Try narrowing it down to 3 pairs that are are both practical and versatile, and can be worn for a day of exploring or a night out on the town. White sneakers is always a good idea, and you can’t go wrong with a pair of tan leather slides and two-toned espadrilles. This pair by Zara is the steal of the season.
Splurge on a pair of Gucci white sneakers, or buy an affordable pair by Keds. The leather slides by Zara are available here.
7
One of the things I get most excited about when planning a beach getaway is my brand new swim wardrobe. Whether you’re planning to be relaxin’ poolside or taking boat trips along the Italian coast, you want to look (and feel) your best. Something bright and trendy (like this high-waisted Matteau bikini) is perfect for lounging beach side, but opt for a practical (yet stylish) one-piece for days out on sea, so you won't have to worry about tops or bottoms falling off at the touch of a wave.
Click here to add this flattering Matteau swimsuit to your collection, or opt for a classic one-piece by Jade Swim or Solid & Striped. Similar, more budget-friendly options are available here and here. (For some more swimwear inspo, have a look at our favorite swimwear for summer 2018.
8
Some days (and nights!) require something a little fancier, whether it’s for date night or going for dinner with a group of friends, you just never now when that dressy top will come in handy. A flowy polka dot blouse (like this one from Realisation Par) is a classic and easy-to-wear piece that can be worn over your swimsuit and easily transition your outfit from day to night.
9
The summer bag trends to be seen on your arm this year are net and wicker bags, both playful statement pieces that scream m-e-d-i-t-e-r-r-a-n-e-an. These trendy and budget-friendly bags are the perfect beach accessory or arm candy for a day or night out on the town, and goes well with EVERYthing. Staud's Moreau bag is the perfect Italian accessory, and the one bag I'll be sporting all vacation long. Add a net bag for beach days and a wicker bag to complement your other summer OOTDs.
Splurge on this it-bag by Staud, or save on a trendy net bag for days at the beach. Zara has a range of budget-friendly wicker and net bags available here.
10
Packing a lightweight jacket is ALWAYS a good idea, 'cause you don't want to be shivering when the temperature drops later in the evening (And in Europe, who knows what to expect?!) A denim jacket is a timeless and versatile piece that can be worn with, and over, any and every outfit. This light blue denim jacket by ACNE STUDIOS is the perfect fit and will look great over a floral summery dress or a printed romper. A more affordable and equally stylish option is Levi's classic Original Trucker Jacket.
11
Take your outfit from day to night by adding a few gold accessories such as classic hoop earrings and a coin necklace, which will instantly transform your outfit from casual cool to nighttime chic. You can also add these gold pieces to your swim attire for a glam beach look, perfect for lounging on the beaches of the Italian coast. The Baby Amalfi Hoops by LUV AJ is a steal and this summer's must-have accessory.
Buy these popular hoops by LUV AJ, or accessorize with a gold coin necklace by Reliquia or Bagatiba.
We hope this list has helped you and that you're packed and ready for your Mediterranean getaway. We'd love to hear from you, so comment below and tell us what else you'll be taking along on your Mediterranean getaway (And share your packing tips and tricks with us!)
If you need more help in organizing your travels, see our 10 Essential Airplane Carry-On Accessories, or have a look at Our Ultimate Airplane Carry-On Checklist.
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