IT’S STILL SUMMER – THE END OF SEASON PACKING LIST

I have plenty of friends who look at September as the ideal time to travel. Most are empty nesters so school schedules have no impact. The crowds have thinned and the weather is still fantastic. I was told the month is referred to as Retiree Season in the travel world which makes sense.

With that said, I’m rounding up an end of summer packing list. It’s geared towards European travel in urban areas. That seems to be the most popular destination for readers. I’m sprinkling in resort attire too at the bottom of this post for those adding a beach vacation to their trip. Wish I were going!

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My Packing for Paris post from last summer is still relevant and the starting point for what to pack now. Silhouettes are similar with a few variations. I’ll also refer readers back to My Top 10 At Home Or Away based on observations from June in Copenhagen.

Packing for Paris

Top 10 At Home or Away

WHAT TO PACK:

SHOES: Mandatory comfortable pair of sandals to withstand miles of walking. Birkenstocks are my go to and appear to be everyone else’s too based on my observations abroad. A pair of sneakers is the next must. Practicality trumps all. Women were wearing them regardless of age the last few times I’ve been to Europe. Next, I’d pack a pretty pair of low heeled or flat sandals to wear in the evenings.

BAGS: A cross body style that’s not too big, and not too small, preferably understated. I also always pack a smaller bag to carry to dinner or when I want a little more polish. Any that have optional straps to be worn as a clutch or shoulder bag are good.

PANTS: Comfortable jeans – for me that means a high waist, wide leg style lately. They’re easier to dress up or down and look more of the moment. A second pair of pants depending on location would be either white jeans, or lightweight trousers both easy to style for day or night. If the pant has an available matching vest or jacket, I’d pack them both.

TOPS: One or two button front shirts, oversized to double as a beach cover up. I layer them over sleeveless pieces when I want a little coverage and often tie them at the waist. They’re indispensable for me. I also pack an additional shirt that’s somewhat special and completes a look. A couple of tees, maybe one striped and one plain and a white tank is a must.

DRESSES & SKIRTS: For this time of year, dresses that are loose and lightweight is still important. I like those that have the option to belt or wear unstructured. On the other end of the spectrum, it’s always nice to have a piece that’s a little more sophisticated for going out like a slim tank dress – even if it’s in a casual cotton. SKIRTS are an optional item for those who love them. I’d style them just like any other bottom. Again if you find a set, like this one, that’s ideal.

JACKETS & OTHER TOPPERS: I love having a blazer to instantly pull together a look. Style is a personal preference from a shrunken school boy to an oversized (on trend) style. I’ve packed both depending on the trip. A cardigan to layer or be worn on it’s own is another good piece to pack. If in need of a rain type topper the Moncler Wete is my personal favorite. It looks both sporty and stylish with the option to cinch the back for more shape.

ACCESSORIES: Keep it simple. For jewelry – pearls are my favorite option. A hat is a must – probably two different styles and a scarf – both a cashmere wrap and a silk or cotton square to tie at my neck.

RESORT OPTIONS: The rotation will always revolve around flat sandals, a cover up, sarong, swimsuit, and beach bag.