Spring break season has arrived! It’s no secret that I always jump at the chance to travel — especially when it’s with family. Last year we took the boys to London over spring break, and this year we’re heading to Italy. While we’re not traveling to a tropical destination this time around, I know many of you are, so I couldn’t resist putting together a fun roundup of tropical vacation outfits. Plus, we’ll be heading to Guatemala in May, and it’s never too early to start dreaming up my looks!
Today I’ll be sharing everything I’d pack for a tropical getaway, along with vacation outfits perfect for all of your warm-weather activities. But if you’re heading somewhere a little cooler, be sure to check out my Italy packing list as well!
What to Pack for a Tropical Getaway
Before diving into outfit ideas, I always like to think through the practical side of packing. I have several blog posts that can be wonderful resources when it comes to trip preparation, including my personal travel tips, travel essentials for women, and the 17 must-haves everyone should pack in their suitcase. I highly recommend giving these a read before you begin packing.
Next, you can start setting items aside. When it comes to a tropical destination, lightweight, breathable fabrics are key, as well as pieces that can easily transition from daytime activities to dinner. I also try to stick to a cohesive color palette so everything mixes and matches effortlessly. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a lightweight layer for chilly indoor air conditioning are absolute musts.
With those essentials covered, you can focus on building vacation outfits that are both stylish and functional.
Tropical Vacation Outfits Worth Packing
Now it’s time for the fun part — putting together your vacay looks! I browsed all of my favorite retailers for everything from swimwear to evening attire and did my best to narrow it down to the top styles for mixing and matching. I also always like to remind my friends to keep in mind the pieces they already have at home. While it’s often tempting to buy everything new, you can likely find some great basics already in your closet and build upon them with a few fresh pieces to update your tropical wardrobe.
Here are the vacation outfits I’d pack for a tropical getaway, from poolside looks to travel-day essentials.
A Chic, Sun-Safe Pool & Beach Look
Let’s kick things off with a beach and pool look, since you’ll likely be spending the majority of your time in one of these spots. If you’re someone who appreciates full sun coverage but still wants to look chic, this outfit is for you. I adore this long-sleeve swimsuit — the front zipper is such an elegant touch!
And I own this beautiful pareo in multiple prints. It’s an incredibly versatile piece that can easily be worn as a cover-up during the day and transitioned into a skirt for dinner. Add a classic sunhat, fun sunnies, and sunscreen, and you’ll be set to go!
A Stylish & Comfortable Morning Walk Outfit
I try my best to do some type of physical activity when traveling, as I’ve found I always feel better when I do. One of my favorite ways to do this is with a morning walk — meandering about, taking in beautiful views, breathing the fresh tropical air, and getting my steps in. It’s a win-win!
This yellow active dress and coordinating pullover are both styles that I own in multiple colors. The quality is wonderful, and I love how they fit. You can use code STUCKER20 for 20% off each.
I also own and love these Veronica Beard sneakers. Not only do they look great with activewear, but they also pair perfectly with casual everyday outfits. And you know I don’t go anywhere without my Teleties hair ties!
Beautiful Vacation Outfit for a Night Out
One of my favorite things to do when traveling is get all dolled up for a fun night out. There are always so many beautiful vacation outfits to choose from for dinners, shows, and more, so this category was especially tough to narrow down. But you can never go wrong with an ASHA matching set. Their designs are always stunning and incredibly well-crafted.
Complete the look with a pair of statement earrings, this beautiful embroidered clutch, and these heeled sandals, which are both elegant and fun at the same time!
A Cute & Easy Pool or Beach Look
This is one of those vacation outfits you’ll throw on again and again for days spent poolside or relaxing at the beach. I think this is one of the best bikinis for moms who want to feel comfortable and confident, as it features a flattering high-rise waist and great back coverage. And how beautiful are the details on this cover-up dress? It makes it incredibly easy to stay comfy, yet still put together.
Grab a woven tote, toss in your sunscreen, and slide into some comfortable sandals for a day of fun!
A Relaxing Night In During Vacation
As much as I love a day in the sun, I also love a relaxing night in. Sometimes, after a full day out in the heat, you just need to unwind with the family, dine in, and watch a movie or play a fun game.
I always pack a pair or two of LAKE pajamas when traveling. They’re incredibly soft and keep me nice and cool. These undies are also extremely comfortable for everyday wear.
If my skin needs a little extra post-pool pampering, this after-sun lotion bar is incredibly soothing. And my all-time favorite eye patches now come in a handy mask! It feels amazing after a long day in the heat — especially if you chill it in the fridge first.
Beachside Dinner Vacation Outfit
Another category of vacation outfits that I love playing around with is dinner looks. Dresses are always a great option, but I also love packing a nice pair of pants to switch things up. These gorgeous aqua linen pants would be perfect for a beachside dinner. I’m a Julia Amory super fan and even have an entire blog post dedicated to reviewing her pieces and their sizing, so be sure to check it out if you’re considering these pants.
They would look beautiful paired with a timeless white button-down shirt, woven mules, and a fun statement accessory — either this gorgeous shell scarf or a bold shell necklace.
Elevated Poolside & Beach Look
If your goal is to feel polished and put-together, this pool and beach look is for you. The belted swimsuit is incredibly flattering and such a timeless style. Throw on a stylish cover-up, classic sun hat, elegant sunglasses, and neutral wrap sandals for the perfect vacation outfit.
Vacation Outfit for a Day of Shopping & Lunch
While most tropical vacation days are spent waterside, it’s always nice to sneak away and spend a day exploring. Whether you’re shopping, sightseeing, or enjoying a leisurely lunch, this matching set is the perfect combination of easy, elevated, and comfortable. You could also layer a simple white tank underneath and remove the blue top if you get too warm.
Once again, you can mix and match some of the other basics featured here to complete the look.
Effortless Sightseeing Outfit
Every vacation capsule should include a trusty pair of denim shorts and a favorite white tee. It’s such a foolproof combination, whether you’re running errands at home or sightseeing on a trip. You can easily elevate the look with fun accessories like this shell scarf — wear it around your neck or tie it onto a straw tote bag.
Classic Travel Day Outfits
Lastly, be sure to think through your travel day looks prior to your vacation. I always like to wear layers when flying, as I tend to fluctuate between hot and cold with different climates, air conditioning, long walks, and more. My personal goal is to feel elevated and put together while still staying comfy. Be sure to check out my roundup of comfortable airport outfits that would be perfect for a tropical vacation.
Vacation Outfits You’ll Reach for Again and Again
Whether you’re headed somewhere tropical or just starting to dream up your next getaway, I hope these vacation outfits make packing feel a little easier (and a lot more fun). I always try to bring pieces that are versatile, comfortable, and special enough to make the trip feel extra memorable.
No matter where you’re traveling this season, I hope this post helps you feel prepared, confident, and excited for the adventures ahead. Happy travels, friends!
For additional vacation outfit ideas, be sure to check out these posts:
