We know the drill: you’ve booked your summer holiday, but are travelling so light that only the bare minimum is required.
As airline luggage restrictions become ever miserly, knowing what to pack when flying exclusively with hand luggage has become increasingly important. We want upbeat clothes that make us feel good, but that will also work hard for us. If you’re travelling with a carry-on only, every item in your case has to count. Each needs a USP that makes it both useful and fun. We’re talking pieces that can be reworn different ways, but that still feel special when styled differently. We’ve rounded up the 10 best styles that denote joy (you’re going on holiday after all), but that are also adaptable, light and compact.
Our final tip? Roll and roll some more; a carry-on suitcase is no place for perfectly folded clothes. Rolling is not only a space-saver, but also helps prevent creasing. You could do a Joey Tribbiani in Friends and wear as many layers as possible on the flight – or you could follow our guide instead.
The Sporty Swimwear
Swimwear with sleek, athletic energy has become big news this summer, presumably on account of its versatility. A sporty swimsuit or two-piece can be easily adapted from the beach to that picturesque lunch spot you’ve been eyeing up. Look for bikinis with rectangular tops that can be worn under shirts, or a pared-down one-piece that could moonlight as a bandeau or top (Seafolly has a great monochrome option I recently invested in). Hunza G is a forever favourite on account of its fit and timeless design, but Danish brand Wallien offers really durable, stylish options that are meant for movement. Turn to M&S for more budget-friendly options.
The Fun Day-To-Night Dress
Packing light doesn’t have to equate to a suitcase full of austere, functional basics. This is your holiday, a sacred week or two that you’ve been looking forward to for months, your wardrobe should reflect the fun and joy you’re about to have. A playful dress that you can wear day and night is a key tool to have in your arsenal. Wiggy Kit specialises in feminine do-all dresses that still feel special, like this red checked dress with an elegant scoop-neckline. DÔEN, Faithfull and Zimmermann all offer similarly desirable summer styles that you’ll wear for years to come. If you want to save space, leave behind dresses with too much volume and stick to understated shapes and light fabrics.
The Wear-Anywhere Shirt
An unsung hero of capsule wardrobes, a summer shirt is a great staple that you can wear on the flight, and also to the beach as a cover-up, or in the evening with a pair of relaxed, wide-leg trousers. Yaitte is a go-to for high-quality shirting in vibrant colours and breathable fabrics. This burnt orange short-sleeved style, which was hand-embroidered by artisans in India, has such sun-drenched energy. You’ll wear it on holiday and at home with high-waisted denim. I also like a striped shirt as a timeless holiday classic.
The Denim Cut-Offs
There is a lot of talk about how denim cut-offs shouldn’t be worn after the age of 35, but ignore all that. Choose styles in a darker wash with roomier fits that cinch the waist for a more grown-up take, then pair with the aforementioned shirt or a tank top. Crucially, denim cut-offs roll up easily in your case so won’t take up too much room.
The Classic Leather Sandals
Shoes are natural carry-on space-hoggers, so consider packing just one really great pair of flat sandals and wear them onto the plane. A chunky pair will give you lift and bring a hardier modernity to feminine looks. Wear them in before you leave and invest in a leather style; a holiday is no time for blisters and limping. They should be easy to put on and take off, and flat is better – after all, your feet deserve a break too.
The Oversized Shades
Sunglasses trends come and go, so unless you have a hankering to mix it up (in which case futuristic mirrored shades are your friend), then stick to the classics. A slightly oversized style in a rectangular shape has an instant 90s’ New York edge – and will slide neatly into your hand luggage. Channel your inner Carolyn Bessette Kennedy in this pair from Le Specs.
The Beach Necklace
Details matter, so don’t forget to pack jewellery that references the far-flung shore you’re about to arrive at. Of course bring the pieces you wear everyday, but a necklace or bracelet made from colourful beads, or a shell or starfish pendant is such an easy way of giving a sun-ready air to your outfit. Monica Vinader’s spring/summer 2025 collection is full of designs that are perfect accessories for beach-basking. Also look out for Alighieri’s new collaboration with J Crew for gold-plated pieces infused with a coastal spirit.
The Tank Top
The Nightie That Can Be Worn To Breakfast
A well-chosen nightie can also be styled as daywear, just add a pair of sandals and jewellery. Follow in the footsteps of Harling Ross Anton and her recent If Only If collaboration and embrace the relaxed ease of migrating your sleepwear outside of the bedroom. Australian brand Desmond & Dempsey has made playful pieces to lounge in its USP. I’m a big fan of its pyjamas, but also its printed nighties that can be worn to the hotel’s breakfast room or to the beach.
The Throw-On Trousers
Wear a pair of airy, high-waisted trousers to the airport and enjoy their benefits when you arrive at your destination. Perfect for daytime sightseeing and also as a relaxed eveningwear look, vacation trousers are an elegant alternative to the more obvious summer dress. Consider a vibrant, mood-boosting print to enhance that holiday state-of-mind.
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Lead picture: Courtesy of Matteau
Any Questions or Tips to add?