A Summer Capsule

Traveling for over a month, all in a carry-on. Easy, elevated, effortless pieces that will be on repeat for summer.

I’m heading out on a month-long trip with only a carry-on. Am I a little crazy? Maybe. But I’m deeply committed to my carry-on (and equally committed to avoiding baggage claim at all costs), so I’m staying the course — and bringing just the essentials for the longest trip I’ve taken since studying abroad in college. (Back then, I fit an entire fall semester’s worth of clothes in a hiking backpack, for the record.)

Thankfully, it’s summertime, which makes packing light much easier — no big coats, boots or heavy layers required. We also have access to laundry, which is always great, but especially for a long trip like this. That said, I’ll be visiting multiple destinations in both the U.S. and Europe, with a range of activities from casual family hangouts to nice dinners out. With that in mind, I’ve made sure to pack smart: warm-weather staples, a few key layers, and some strategic layering pieces for chilly evenings near the coast.

The last time I did a long summer trip with just a carry-on, I went to Paris, the French Riviera, and New England — you can find that packing list here. I still stand by that one and am re-wearing several of the same pieces this time around.

So whether you're building a summer capsule wardrobe or planning your own big trip, let this list be your minimalist, effortless summer style guide.