What to Pack for a Vacation in 2023

Before taking off for vacation in 2023, pack the right items. Smart packing can take the stress out of travel preparation. Plus, with properly packed suitcases you’ll have everything you need to enjoy your destination—and the trip there—to the fullest. Keep reading to find some packing ideas for different types of vacations:

Packing for a Spring Lake Getaway

Spring break at the lake calls for layered apparel. Spring temps can swing cool or warm, so it’s good to prepare for both possibilities. While you’ll definitely want to bring a swimsuit for a dip in the lake or the lake resort hot tub, you’ll also want some versatile outfits for other occasions.

Watch the sun rise on the deck of a lakefront cabin in cozy flannel pajamas and a matching flannel robe. If you’re heading out for sightseeing or shopping, put together a weather-appropriate outfit that’s comfortable and stylish. For example, on cool days you could wear leggings, high-top athletic shoes with plenty of support, and your favorite lightweight sweater. Tunics are also great for wearing with leggings or skinny jeans. If it’s warm, slip into a jersey midi skirt and a Supima cotton tee. Walking sandals provide style and comfort, as they’re equipped with cushioned footbeds and an open design for plenty of airflow.

For him, there are men’s cargo shorts and graphic T-shirts perfect for grilling on the deck or exploring the town. On cool mornings, guys can stay cozy in fleece sweatshirts and sweatpants, then change into men’s jeans and a polo shirt for dinner at a semi-casual restaurant.

Packing for a Beach Vacation

Another reason to pack swimwear in your suitcases is if you’re going to the beach. Chlorine-resistant swimsuits are one of our top picks because they retain shape and color even after lots of wear. This is because they’re made with Lycra®XtraLife™, an innovative type of spandex with ten times the performance as other spandex.

Sun protective swimwear is another good idea for your beach vacay. There are kids, men’s, and women’s swimsuits with UPF 50+ to protect covered areas from UV rays. Top your swimsuits with rash guard cover-ups when you’re spending time out of the water. Rash guards also provide sun protection, although sunscreen is still essential for uncovered areas.

Whether you’re shopping for a one-piece swimsuit, tankini, or men’s swim trunks, you’ll find multiple colors and prints from which to choose. Although neutral tones such as navy and black are always stylish, we love bright patterns and prints for Summer 2023. There’s something for everyone, whether you like the modern color-block look, a swimsuit with classic stripes, or one adorned with a tropical motif.

Packing for a Fall Adventure

Just like with spring, fall is prime time for layering. If you’re going to a fall festival or on a fall foliage sightseeing tour, dress for the weather. Flannel shirts are great for fall, especially when you wear one over a tee or turtleneck, depending on how much warmth you need. If it’s cold, you can layer a fleece vest over your flannel. Fleece vests come in many colors, so you can coordinate one with the print of your flannel.

Women’s and men’s jeans are a must for fall. Whether you love straight-leg jeans or a high-rise style, there’s a pair to fit every body. Men can also opt for cargo pants for some of the more casual fall events. When it comes to jackets, slip into a women’s or men’s hoodie for cozy comfort. Jean jackets are also stylish for fall, especially when you wear them for date night over a fit-and-flare dress or maxi dress.

Packing for a Ski Trip

Winter vacations such as ski trips require clothing that’s super warm. Start with men’s or women’s thermals underneath your jeans and whatever top you’re wearing. Turtlenecks are a warm, stylish option for winter, and you can top them with a down vest and down coat. Packable down coats are a cold-weather travel necessity, as they fold up for easy portability and fit into most suitcases and overnight bags. You’ll also need women’s snow pants or a snowsuit for skiing, and insulated winter boots with plenty of tread for trekking through snowy conditions.

For winter evenings at the ski lodge, you can’t go wrong with men’s and women’s sweaters. Wear one with corduroy leggings or slacks, or with a skirt or dress pants for a dressier look. For a night out at an upscale restaurant, a cashmere turtleneck with a pencil skirt is a sophisticated combination you can dress up with your favorite accessories.

More Packing Tips for Vacation