Many of us will be planning a holiday this summer, even if it's a short getaway or a local adventure. Beach holidays and coastal stays are particularly popular at this time of year. But how do you pack light while still being prepared for all the summer activities your holiday brings? I hope my packing lists and travel capsules will help guide you!
Whenever I search for travel packing lists and capsule wardrobes, I often find generic style advice with outfits that lack creativity. Over a decade ago, I started sharing my own capsule wardrobes to offer realistic and re-creatable travel outfits that can be easily adapted to suit your personal preferences.
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I recently spent a delightful few days in Kent, staying with my family to celebrate my birthday. The plan was simple: enjoy the summer sunshine by relaxing in the garden, eating outdoors, and visiting the local coastal towns.
Having grown up in South-East England, I moved away to the West Midlands several years ago. I visit often to see family and to enjoy the coastal towns I grew up in. Kent is especially beautiful in summer with all the castles, gardens, and beaches to enjoy.
This summer capsule wardrobe for a coastal holiday is inspired by what I packed for my own trip. I hope it provides you with inspiration for your own travel packing lists! Here’s how I packed for this perfect summer getaway.
A Travel Capsule for a Coastal Holiday in Kent
This capsule wardrobe was created for a coastal holiday in the UK. It was made using the clothes I already own because I don't believe in buying a whole new wardrobe for every holiday. I hope you can use this travel capsule as inspiration when putting together your own using your existing wardrobe.
Wherever the location, whatever the weather, having enjoyable clothing to wear makes travelling a whole lot easier. A well-curated travel capsule wardrobe should be versatile and stylish. This is especially important for a coastal holiday, where comfort is essential. Choosing items that can be mixed and matched in a variety of combinations will help maximise luggage space without compromising outfit options.
My Packing List for a 5-Day Coastal Stay
With just six items of clothing, I created seven outfits perfect for a variety of seaside activities, including casual family barbecues, local sightseeing, beach walks, and relaxing in the garden, on the beach, or at wine bars. During this trip, I made visits to Margate, Broadstairs, and Canterbury.
- Midaxi Dress
- Maxi Skirt
- Sleeveless Dress
- Cardigan
- Fitted Blouse
- Cropped Shirt
- Messenger Bag
- Swimsuit
- Sandals
- Sunhat
- Sunglasses
- Necklace
This compact travel capsule offered enough variation so I never felt stuck for outfit ideas. The key was picking items that could be dressed up or down and were comfortable for both the garden and the beach.
Outfits for Every Occasion
When putting together a travel capsule wardrobe, I always focus on comfortable clothing that makes realistic outfits for the destination, weather, and activities planned. An easy way to maximise outfit options is to use single garments to create multiple looks.
Dressing for Garden Relaxation and Outdoor Dining
For lazy afternoons spent lounging in the garden and dinners outdoors, I opted for a sleeveless maxi dress paired with my wide-brimmed sun hat and sunglasses. This combination kept me cool and comfortable while providing enough coverage to protect me from the sun. The addition of a light cardigan provided more coverage as the sun set.
Exploring Margate, Broadstairs, and Canterbury
Day trips to Margate, Broadstairs, and Canterbury called for versatile outfits more suited to walking. A breezy shirt and maxi skirt paired with comfortable sandals were perfect for enjoying the walk from Dumpton Beach into Broadstairs. For a stroll through the Westgate Gardens in Canterbury, followed by dinner out in Margate, I opted for a smart yet comfortable midaxi dress.
My coastal stay in Kent was the perfect blend of relaxation, family time, and exploring historic towns. By packing a stylish yet practical capsule wardrobe, I was able to enjoy every moment without worrying about what to wear. If you’re planning a holiday this summer, remember: versatility and comfort are key.
Traveling Slow and Packing Smart
Travelling light with just one bag might be a daunting for anyone who is used to packing a whole suitcase full of clothing. But it all comes down to planning outfits and picking practical, versatile items.
The items I share in my travel capsule wardrobes can be switched out for ones that are more appropriate for your personal preferences and holiday activities. Swap the maxi skirts for shorts, switch out the sandals for trainers, skip the button-down shirts and pack t-shirts instead.
The purpose of these packing lists is to help you discover new ways to style your existing wardrobe to suit your holiday plans. I hope my style guides show that it’s possible to have a small wardrobe with a big personality, no matter where you travel!