Planning a romantic trip away with bae and not sure what to bring? We get it, whether it's a weekend getaway or full-blown week or two on honeymoon, the vibe is a little different than a friend or family trip to Disney. We want to look sexy but also have functional staples in our suitcases and carry-ons for all activities.
From wineries to theme parks to tropical beaches and/or trendy and walkable towns and cities, items like flowy dresses for daytime or for nights out and the footwear to match will come in handy. You'll need some accessories, too, for all of the above. Look no further than this list for your packing essentials. Bon voyage!
Sheer Crochet Swim Cover-Up
If water is involved in any way, even if it just serves as the backdrop for a sweet Instagram photo, then a cover up should be, too. This sheer crochet one from Lulu's is super popular as it's doesn't leave the body completely exposed, but is still both sexy and airy. It would be perfect for a romantic trip to a place with a pool or a tropical destination with a beach.
Packable Braided Straw Hat
Hats are another getaway or vacation piece work for both fashion and sun protection purposes. This braided straw hat from Madewell would work for any type of sunny romantic backdrop — a beach, pool, touring a winery, or at a restaurant for brunch. It's also soft enough to fold, which makes it easy to pack in a bag or suitcase.
Baseball Cap
For the trips that have a little more adventure, or for people who love a more sporty look but still want to wear a hat, we recommend a classic baseball cap. It will add that extra element to any outfit, whether it's a dress or shorts and a tank. A cap also comes in handy for picnics, hikes, or walking around town or a park. This hat from Ten Tree is made from sustainable material, so you can feel better about wearing it.
Plus Baby Blue Shorts
Looking cute is the goal on romantic getaways, but it's sometimes hard to do that while staying cool and comfortable. Having a non-denim pair of shorts to break out for more adventurous parts of the trip, like walking, hiking, or biking, will come in clutch. These ASOS blue striped shorts are designed for running, but would work for any type of activity.
Mom Denim Shorts
Of course, if it's going to be warm during the trip, then stylish jean shorts are a must. High-waisted and vintage style jean shorts are big right now and these mom-style ones from ASOS hit both of those items on the list. Pair them with a cute white tee or a crop top and sneakers or sandals. Denim shorts are classic for a reason.
LA Hearts Short Sleeve Bodice Linen Top
We can't make mention of all the cute tops to pair with shorts without making some recommendations, so we have a few to suggest. This short-sleeve crop bodice option in a romantic light yellow is super cute. It's one of those pieces that can be dressed up with a cute skirt or worn with jeans or shorts.
Free People Love Letter Cami
$38
from
Free People
Camis are great to have on a trip because they're comfortable but also cute. This one would work so well for warmer days and can be paired with a skirt or jeans to add more style options on a romantic trip (yay for packing light). This would also work under a jacket or cardigan for cool evenings. A cami is a little more dressed up than a T-shirt, but still comfortable to wear.
Tie-Strap Ellora Top
$98
from
The Reformation
For a more dressed-up look while still being cool on hot summer nights, we like having pieces with tie straps like this Ellora top from Reformation. It would also pair well with any style of shorts or pants. Or, wear it with a skirt for dinner or for hitting up the bars for a drink or dancing later in the evening.
Floral Midi Dress
from
ASTR the Lab
Florals are big right now, and it's easy to see why. The pattern is soft, romantic, and cute. It looks great on the midi and maxi skirt and dress styles trending this season, including this Gaia floral midi dress from ASTR the Label. It can be worn at a wedding but would also be perfect for a romantic dinner for two or a night out.
Spring Fields Linen Blend Maxi Dress
Day dresses are good to pack for romantic getaways as they're not only fashionable but comfortable. This strappy dress has a romantic frilly top with a skirt that cinches at the waist and flares out. The pastel floral pattern lends itself for a great dress to wear walking around. That being said, this dress can be worn any time.
Black Tencel Utility Shirt
$65
from
Banana Republic
There's something about casual, throw-on button-up shirts that scream vacation to us. Maybe because they add an extra layer of coverage to the outfit, but keep things breezy, like this black one from Banana Republic. It can be thrown over a crop top for a more casual look or knotted for a fun twist.
Satin Cami Pajama Set
Now, let's be honest, most of the time at home, pajamas look like whatever old T-shirt is in a drawer, and if one wants more coverage, shorts or sweats for bottoms. But a romantic getaway is a bit different. That's why we recommend packing "elevated" nightwear, like a cute two-piece set like this cami and shorts set from Macy's.
Crochet Maxi Skirt
$52
from
12th Tribe
Nothing screams romantic fashion like a midi or maxi skirt, either a flowy or straighter style. It's why we love this cream colored crochet maxi skirt that has full-leg coverage but is still form-fitting for a sexy, romantic vibe. It can be worn for a casual dinner or as a cover-up during a pool or beach day, paired with a bathing suit or crop top.
Kara Braided Block Heel
Full disclosure: This writer went to an event recently where this brand, Maurices, had a booth set up and these block heels were featured. Well, she loved them. The braid adds a layer of texture different from plain strapped sandals or low heels, and makes them perfect to wear with a day or evening outfit.
Go-To Flatform Sandal
We're all about comfort and want to stress again that cuteness and comfort can go hand-in-hand, especially if these "go-to flatform leather sandals" are involved. "Go-to" in the name is fitting as these sandals can be worn with just about any outfit and are great for walking or showing off. They come a range of neutral shades, too.
Haize Ivory Stella Sandals
$90
from
Dolce Vita
For fancy nights out where the clothes are a little more elevated, this sandal works. It's dressy, thanks to the delicate textured straps, but the low heels mean the feet don't hurt and we feel like the getaway is a true vacation. These are great for everyone, but might just be the perfect choice for those expecting a proposal to go down during the trip.
White Allbirds Sneakers
Sneakers, white ones at least, are like the little black dresses of footwear. They can provide major comfort for adventures on the getaway, and even just during the travels to get to the destination. And you can dress them up or down. They can be worn with dresses, skirts, or rompers as well as shorts and leggings. They should definitely make the packing list.
Rome Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a must during the warmer months, heck even when it's sunny in colder months. But trips are a great time to explore fresh styles and try them with different outfits. Thinner sunnies are a fashion "do" right now and we think this Rome style from Revolve fits the bill.
Lululemon Belt Bag
A fanny pack or a belt bag used to be a nerdier item to wear, but they've become hot fashion items this season. They're a great hands-free alternative to a purse and can be worn across the waist or across the chest. Definitely a handy place to store the phone, the wallet, some lip balm, and maybe some gum for right before smooches.
Canvas Crossbody Bag
You can't go wrong with a super cute purse. This canvas cutie from Zara is a crossbody that has a half-circle shape to change things up for the vacation. Its colors of green, cream, and dark brown will pair easily with a lot of outfits. This one would work for day or night. Our favorite feature: the trendy strap style.
*Psst: if you choose to purchase an item from this post, Cafemom may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
