I'm a Shopping Editor and This Is Everything I'm Eyeing for Summer Travel
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“What are your hobbies?” “I love to travel!” Not exactly a groundbreaking conversation starter, but what can I say? Whether I’m jetting off on a European excursion or packing a weekender for a few days at the beach, nothing excites me more than some time spent getting out of dodge. And now that it’s summer, I’m indulging in my favorite hobby a little bit more.
As a shopping editor, I naturally have my eye on quite a few travel outfits, along with useful gadgets and luggage to make my trips that much closer to seamless (because we all know TSA's packing rules are likely to throw a wrench in things no matter what). I’m also almost always traveling with my small pup in tow, so I have to keep in mind practical clothes that'll stay comfy and won't ride up when I inevitably end up carrying him through the second half of the day. I’ve already tested a few of these products, and relied on detailed reviews to vet the rest, resulting in 21 summer travel picks I won’t be leaving home without. If you’ve got any trips coming up this season, these may all be up your alley.
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My Top Summer Travel Picks at a Glance
1. Calpak Ambeur Large Luggage
After many years of stuffing my medium-sized suitcase full to the brim with everything I need for a weeklong trip (plus my pup’s food, treats, travel water bowl, etc.) only to have my last zipper finally give out on me, I’ve decided it’s high time to invest in a larger option—and I’m opting for this shiny bronze one from Calpak. Having scooped up the mini carry-on model earlier in the year, I was already impressed with all the thoughtful details on Calpak’s luggage, from the cushioned handles to the stand-out metallic hue that won’t get lost among the baggage claim crowd, so I have no worries that I’ll be just as impressed with this one when it’s time for my next vacay.
2. Madewell The Melody Dress
When it comes to dresses for summer travel, I’m all about versatility, comfort and breathability—and this smocked number from Madewell checks all the boxes. It’s made from 100 percent cotton with a crinkle texture that will hide any suitcase wrinkles easily. Plus, the top portion has stretchy smocking, so it’s sure to feel comfortable all day. And, of course, any dress that has pockets is always a must-buy in my book.
3. Eyebuydirect Safari Sunglasses
Since my summer travels tend to lean towards sunny destinations, I'm always in need of a good pair of sunglasses that will keep my eyes protected on long days spent exploring. This budget-friendly pair has such a versatile, classic look that will easily match all of my outfits—not to mention lenses that are completely customizable (even with a prescription). Shoppers also say the sunglasses hold up well over time—one mentioned they've had theirs for more than two years and they're still in great condition, so I'm totally ready to pick up a pair for myself, especially at a price this good.
4. Petal & Pup Val Knit Shirt
A good cover-up is another must for warm weather destinations, and the one I’m packing this year is this knit set from Petal & Pup. I already picked up the top, which is made from a sturdy, yet breathable, cotton and acrylic blend, and I was so impressed with its soft feel that I have the matching shorts ($49) in my cart right now. I’m not the only one loving it, either—one reviewer shared, “I love this set! Such good quality and great color scheme. Cannot wait to wear this in Hawaii next month.” With that in mind, it might be time to book that next flight…
5. Reef Lofty Lux X Sandals
I’m always on the hunt for innovative, eco-friendly products I can feel good about putting my money behind, which is why these bio-based mushroom leather slides caught my eye. Reef is one of my go-to brands when I’m looking for sandals with arch support, so it’s no wonder this pair has the same support I’ve grown to love from the brand, with added cushioning at the heel and forefoot for extra comfort—which I can confirm makes all the difference compared to your standard slides. I recently wore them out for a long beach day and my feet weren’t left aching at all.
6. Sunnylife Luxe Beach Chair
I’ve been in need of a good beach chair that I can prop in the sand and use for outdoor movie nights at the park, and I think I’ve finally found my match in the Sunnylife luxe chair. Yes, it’s a bit pricey, but the attached insulated cooler, backpack straps, six adjustable recliner settings, double drink holder and safety clip make it totally worth it. Reviewers think so, too. One shopper says: “This chair looks great but, even better, it’s comfy, practical and has lots of features…It’s also a nice, wide seat. It’s a bit more pricey than my last chair but they last such a long time I thought it was worth it!”
7. Kora Organics Silky Sun Drops
After a few close calls at the dermatologist, I never step outside without sunscreen on my face (especially while traveling and spending a ton of time outdoors), and this recently-launched mineral blend from Kora Organics will be the next one I add to my collection, most notably for its unique serum formula that you almost never find with SPF.
Here’s why you’ll want to pack it, too: The Silky Sun Drops sunscreen serum has SPF 30, so it’s a perfect amount of coverage for everyday wear, and the ingredients are 100 percent natural, with the majority coming from organic farming origins, so you won’t be subject to any nasties like oxybenzone—a common ingredient in many other sunscreens. It’s also formulated to protect against pollution and blue light, so your skin will be totally covered.
8. Twelve South AirFly Duo
Anyone who’s traveled by plane knows the struggles of connecting your headphones to in-flight movies to keep you entertained on the way. Yes, some airlines offer disposable options (which always feels wasteful to me) and you might be able to dig out your wired headphones your first iPhone came with, but if you’re a regular AirPod user, this pocket-sized device will be a game-changer. The AirFly adapter is made to plug into the headphone jack of any seat-back screen and connect via Bluetooth to your AirPods. Plus, this duo option can connect up to two sets, so if you’re traveling with someone and want to watch a movie together there will be no more struggles to press play at the *exact* same time.
9. Everlane The Linen Easy Pants
Linen pants are another wardrobe necessity for me when it comes to putting together my travel outfits, and this pair I picked up from Everlane has earned a spot in my bag. The pants feel super light and hit at a full length on my short legs, so I feel like I can easily wear them anywhere from sightseeing to a museum to a patio dinner. They also have both front and back pockets that create a flattering shape, while the elastic waistband is comfy enough to wear for hours on end. Plus, according to reviewers, the white shade isn’t see-through, so I might have to add a second pair to my collection.
10. Women's Everyday Compression Socks Pack
If you, like me, often arrive at your destination with ultra-swollen feet, allow me to introduce you to the magic of compression socks. Before I started wearing the specially designed socks on flights, it could easily take a full day, or even two, for my feet to return to their regular state, but with socks like these, my recovery time is significantly reduced.
Up until now, I’ve always just picked up the cheapest pair I could find, and while effective, they’ve never been particularly comfortable. So after recently converting my regular socks to Bombas’ quarter-length styles and being seriously impressed with the way they made my feet feel, I invested in this pack that not only has a medium level of compression, but arch support, strategic cushioning and stay-up technology built-in. Sayonara, swollen feet!
11. LSPACE Jess Bikini Top
LSPACE has been on my radar for a while for their chic swimwear designs and sustainable fabrics, and this year I’m eyeing the sporty Jess bikini top and matching bottoms ($106). I love the textured ribbed fabric and subtle strappy cutout on the back. Plus, the bottoms have moderate coverage, so I won’t feel overly exposed if I want to wear them on a busy beach or for a pool day with my family. Some reviewers do mention the top runs small, though, so you might want to consider sizing up.
12. Monos Metro Weekender
Earlier this year I tried the Monos Carry-On Backpack ($230), Metro tote ($230) and Carry-On Pro Plus ($315) and was *so* impressed with the quality and thoughtful design of every piece (with details like tons of organizational pockets, laptop sleeves and more) that I’m on a mission to swap over all of my travel bags to the brand—starting with this sleek weekender. It’s made of the same super soft, yet sturdy, water-resistant vegan leather as the pieces I’ve previously tried, so I know it will stand up to frequent use. It also has a trolley sleeve that can be converted into an extra pocket, in addition to a plethora of internal pockets, and—the real standout, IMO—a separate shoe compartment at the bottom.
13. Alo Seamless Ribbed Shorts
Yes, I do happen to be one of those people who likes to squeeze in a workout or two while I’m traveling, particularly after a long flight or many hours stuck in the car when my muscles need stretching, which is why these ribbed shorts are making my packing list. They have a seamless style and 5-inch inseam that feels long but not *too* long, and I love that the style can work whether I wear them with the Muse hoodie ($108) to hit up a hiking trail or pair them with the Wellness tank ($48) for some early morning beach yoga.
14. Case-Mate Waterproof Phone Pouch
After one too many near-misses keeping my phone near the edge of the pool, I knew it was finally time to grab a waterproof pouch. I’ve opted for this fun soap bubble style from Case-Mate. The certified waterproof pouch is designed to keep your phone protected from water up to 3.3-feet deep, and it has a clear front that’s touch-responsive, so you can still scroll TikTok while it’s enclosed. Not to mention, the transparent window at the back allows for underwater photos—just make sure it’s fully locked before you submerge it.
15. Vuori Performance Joggers
Comfort is key when it comes to travel days, and ever since trying these performance joggers from Vuori, they’ve become my first choice for an airport outfit. They have a super soft touch, but the fabric is so lightweight that it won’t leave me sweaty when I’m inevitably rushing to my gate or waiting on the crowded boarding bridge. There’s also a matching lightweight crewneck ($96) that I’ll definitely be bringing to layer on when the air conditioning is blasting mid-flight.
16. Fable Pets Magic Link Leash
As I mentioned above, I’m almost always traveling with my pup, and I’ve been on the lookout for a convenient, lightweight leash that can easily be wiped off after trudging through the airport or exploring a new city all day (because, germs)—and this one from Fable Pets totally fits the bill. The magic link design can be used as a conventional leash, worn around your waist or across your body—a huge plus while you’re juggling other luggage or souvenir shopping bags.
17. Conair 3-in-1 SteamStylist
No matter how I pack, my clothes always seem to get wrinkled in my suitcase, so I’m planning on bringing this 3-in-1 steamer on my next trip to get them back to looking smooth. The compact device works as a steamer, iron and press, so it should work nicely with a variety of fabrics and, according to the brand, it can be used both horizontally and vertically to easily reach every spot. It also has a turbo steam setting to tackle particularly deep wrinkles, so it sounds like a lifesaver to me.
18. Chillhouse Chill Tips Press On Nail Kit
Inevitably, by the time I arrive to my destination, my perfectly polished manicure (that I likely spent upwards of $50 on the day before) gets chipped, so this year I’m sticking to press-on nails. This affordable set from Chillhouse nails the beachy vibe I’m looking for. I’ve found the key to getting them to stay on securely is by applying a couple of coats of glue (I like this one, $7, because the applicator makes it super easy to put on) and holding them down firmly for at least 30 seconds. Plus, the kit comes with extras, so if you do happen to lose one while you’re swimming in the ocean, you don’t have to try to track down a salon—just pop on a new nail and you’re good to go.
19. Stoney Clover Lane Getaway Tote
A roomy tote that can carry everything from a spacious towel to my water bottle and current beach read is another item I’m not leaving home without, and how cute is this embroidered one from Stoney Clover Lane? It has both top handles and an adjustable, removable longer strap, so it can be worn it a variety of ways, plus the nylon material should be super easy to wipe down when it gets sandy. Shoppers do note that there aren’t internal pockets, so I’ll be snagging some of the brand's cute pouches, too, for added organization.
$295; $207 at Saks Fifth Avenue
20. Kintion Travel Makeup Mirror
Hotel lighting can be unpredictable, but this slim, portable mirror will ensure I have the brightness I need to apply my makeup perfectly. The touch screen mirror has three different light settings including natural, warm and white, and each setting has three different brightness levels. Shoppers confirm it’s easy to travel with, and one buyer calls out its long battery life: “This is a great travel mirror. It is a decent size. The variety of lighting options is helpful. The battery life lasted eight days in Tampa—granted I don’t use a ton of makeup—but it was still going strong when I had to pack it away.”
21. Rahua Hydration Travel Duo
There’s nothing worse than getting stuck with bad hotel shampoo for a week (OK, there are *a lot* of worse things, but you get what I mean), so I’m making sure I grab a travel sized pack of my current go-to shampoo and conditioner from Rahua before I head out. This hydrating formula leaves my strands feeling smooth and moisturized without weighing them down, and it’s made from nourishing natural ingredients like mango fruit extract, aloe, and green tea extract, along with protein bonding sugars that help the hydration really sink in. It’s at least one way I can prevent bad hair days ruining my vacation photos.
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PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
