PACKING SUCKS. But after years as a Style Editor who traveled with overstuffed luggage, I’ve figured it out: The Capsule Wardrobe. It’s a small lineup of reliable clothes that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits, so packing (or getting dressed) is less of a headache. In my experience, it’s a juggling act of clothes, sneakers, and accessories.
Rather than stuffing your luggage with trendy pieces that you’ll only wear once, focus on comfortable items you can rewear a few different ways without repeating the same exact fit. Whether you’re spending a weekend in Miami or traveling abroad to Italy, optimize your clothes for efficiency. My suggestion: Stick with basics that pair well with each other, and are stylish enough to wear for years.
Start with the Essentials
Every wardrobe should have its fair share of basics. Whether it’s a simple t-shirt or a classic pair of jeans, you want to bring tried-and-true items that you can easily dress up or dress down. You’re already familiar with their feel and fit as opposed to new items, so you don’t have to wonder how they’ll fare on your trip.
Select a Color Palette
A good rule of thumb: build your color palette around neutrals (i.e. black, grey, navy, white). The goal is to create as many outfits as possible while packing less. These shades will work seamlessly with other items in your suitcase. Start with neutrals, then gradually add in pops of color.
Choose Summer-Friendly Fabrics
When it comes to summer travel, you should look for breathable materials that will keep you from sweating bullets. Think linen, Tencel, organic cotton; these fabrics hold up in scorching temps and don’t wrinkle like crazy.
How to Pack a Capsule Wardrobe
Before you ask, the answer is yes: All of this really can fit in a carry-on—that’s the beauty of a well-built summer capsule wardrobe. You’re packing smart, not bulky, with pieces that mix and match without taking up a ton of space. Aim for two-three T-shirts, a tank top, a polo, one lightweight button-up, a pair of summer pants, two pairs of shorts, and a pair of swim trunks.
Throw in a watch and one pair of versatile shoes (like sneakers or loafers), and you’re covered for everything from beach days to casual dinners. You can even squeeze in a light layer, like an overshirt or linen jacket, for cooler evenings or flights. This list doesn’t include the obvious essentials like underwear, socks, or undershirts—because no one’s rewearing those without a wash.
Clothes
Tank Top
Perfect for beach days, workouts, or layering under an overshirt, the tank top is your go-to for maximum airflow. Opt for a fitted or athletic cut to keep it from feeling sloppy. Plus, it’s an opportunity to show off your gains.
SKIMS Mens Muscle Tank Top
Now 53% Off
Hanes Cotton Tank Undershirts Pack
Abercrombie Premium Heavyweight Cropped Tank
Polo Shirt
A polo bridges the gap between casual and dressed-up, making it ideal for client dinners, golf rounds, or city exploring. Look for airy fabrics like pique or performance blends to beat the heat. Also, knit polos have unique textures that are ultra-soft yet lightweight for blazing temps.
J.Crew Short-sleeve Cotton Seed-stitch Sweater-polo
Now 42% Off
SuitSupply Light Blue Buttonless Polo
Bonobos Hudson Sweater Polo
Now 23% Off
Polo Ralph Lauren Performance Polo Shirt
T-Shirt
A great tee anchors your entire capsule. Stick with high-quality cotton or a stretch-blend in a neutral tone that pairs well with everything else you pack. I’ve worn it solo as well as layered under a button-down and a light blazer for dressier occasions.
Mack Weldon SILVER Crew Neck T-Shirt
Uniqlo SUPIMA® Cotton T-Shirt
Gildan Crew T-Shirts, Multipack
Button-Up
A lightweight button-up (think linen or cotton poplin) instantly elevates your outfit without weighing you down. Wear it open over a tee or buttoned up for more polished occasions.
Buck Mason California Oxford BD Shirt
Wax London Didcot – Blue And White Textured Stripe Short-Sleeve Shirt
Banana Republic Luxury-Touch Pique Resort Shirt
Now 25% Off
Bonobos Riviera Cabana Shirt
Summer Pants
You’ll want a pair of breathable summer pants like linen trousers or cotton drawstring styles—for times when shorts won’t cut it. They’re perfect for travel days, dinner al fresco, or any setting that needs a little refinement.
Relwen Flyweight Flex Chino
Slim Straight SummerWeight Cargo
Todd Snyder Linen Beach Pant
Mango 100% Linen Regular-fit Trousers
Shorts
From the beach to the bar, shorts are a must. Choose a pair that hits above the knee with a tailored fit so they look dressier.
Mango Slim-fit 100% Linen Bermuda Shorts
Levi’s 468 Loose 9″ Men’s Shorts
Buck Mason Capitola Linen Carry-On Larsen Short
A&F Go-To Short
Swim Trunks
Chances are you’ll be spending time by the pool or at the beach, so a pair of swim trunks is a must-have. Versatile swim trunks can double as casual shorts when styled right. Go for a quick-drying pair with a refined cut, so you’re water-ready without sacrificing style.
Fair Harbor The Anchor Short
Now 25% Off
Bonobos Riviera Recycled Swim Trunks
OAS The Resort Swim Short – 4.5″ in Triangle Green
Shoes
Sneakers
Always pack a clean, solid sneaker that doesn’t make a lot of noise. One looks great and pairs with everything. You can even opt for a dress sneaker, which works in casual and semi-dressy settings.
adidas Samba Classic Soccer Shoe
Lululemon Cityverse Men’s Sneaker
Maison Margiela Replica Leather and Suede Sneakers
Summer shoes
Whether it’s a suave loafer or mule, these summer shoes are non-negotiables for the season. Just make sure whichever one you choose is comfortable enough for all your vacation activities (i.e. sightseeing tours, resort dinners).
Rothy’s The RS01 Sneaker in Hudson
H&M Coated Mules
Now 15% Off
Bruno Magli Prato
Now 34% Off
Vinny’s Full-Grain Leather Sandals
Sandals
Nothing screams summer vibes more than the perfect sandal. From cross-strap designs to open-weave fisherman styles, these will go nicely with your hot-day fits.
Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed
Nisolo Men’s Huarache Sandal
Now 21% Off
Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandal
Todd Snyder Nomad Suede Crossover Sandal
Accessories
Watches
A watch is like the cherry on top that pulls your summer look together. Select a timepiece that’s lightweight with a fabric or rubber strap. Something durable for daytime adventures, but polished enough to wear at night.
Timex Easy Reader 35mm Watch
Breda Virgil Bracelet Watch
Seiko 5 Sports SKX
Now 9% Off
Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical Mechanical
More of Our Favorite Summer Styles
Best Men’s Shorts | Best Linen Pants | Best Chinos | Best Jeans | Best Linen Shirts | Best Travel Pants | Best Swim Trunks | Best Summer Shoes | Best T-Shirts | Best Tank Tops for Men | Best Polo Shirts for Men | Best Knit Polos | Best Summer Pants | Best Sandals
As the Style and Commerce Editor for Men’s Health, Joseph covers all-things fashion and grooming. Previously, Cheatham was a commerce editor for Spy, and he has written for Travel + Leisure.
