Japan has an undeniable appeal for many travellers and planning that first trip can feel overwhelming. This country has sat on my bucket list for a very long time and I wanted to get it just right and create the perfect adventure for me, my husband and teenage daughter. Japan offers a magical blend of futuristic cities, ancient temples, and serene landscapes, making it ideal for those us seeking culture, food, and exploration.

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Japan Itinerary 

I wanted to tailor this guide for others just like me: first-time visitors who enjoy travel but appreciate planning and organizing their own trip. If you're looking for mid-priced accommodations—not too budget or luxury—and want to experience Japan’s highlights without falling into tourist traps, I have you covered.  This three-week Japan itinerary includes iconic destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, with side trips to Hiroshima and Miyajima, and Hakone which are well worth seeing. Plus, I've included some insider tips that will help your vacation go smoother! Tip #1: buy some comfortable shoes. You'll need them for this trip!

I do like a busy vacation schedule. If you prefer a slower pace, feel free to adjust the itinerary by excluding activities or adding in rest days to suit your needs!

How Long Should You Stay In Japan As A Tourist?

When deciding how long to stay in Japan, it depends on how much you want to explore. 

Just bring your own hot-weather travel essentials: a portable fan, cooling towel, drink lots of water or Pocari Sweat, and grab a UV-umbrella and stylish face towel while you're there (I grabbed a super cute one at the shops at Fushimi Inari Shrine!). And be sure to dress for the weather!

But don't let any of that dissuade you. The Japanese people are helpful and accustomed to having tourists from all over the world.

Week 1: Tokyo and Hakone Adventures

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo

After a long flight, the first thing you’ll want is a smooth transition from the airport to your hotel, so let’s start with some transportation tips. We flew into Narita Airport and took the Narita Express (N'EX). It will take you directly to central Tokyo in about an hour, with stops in Shinjuku (where we were staying) and Shibuya, two of the city's most convenient areas to stay in. Get a ticket for the N'EX online or at the JR East Travel Center in the airport terminal.

You can also pick up a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) if you need one, and a Suica card at the JR East Travel Center. It's a good idea to get a Suica card on your first day. 

The Suica card is a prepaid rechargeable contactless smart card that you can just tap to pay fares for train lines, subways, and can also be used as payment in some convenience stores. If you have an iPhone, you can also load a digital Suica card instead. Pasmo card is another card that operates the same as Suica.

Where To Stay In Tokyo

For your stay, consider booking a hotel in Shinjuku, Shibuya or Ginza. Shinjuku and Shibuya are both vibrant areas packed with restaurants, shopping, and easy access to Tokyo's top sights. Ginza offers higher end accommodations and walking distance to flagship stores of top brands from Uniqlo to Gucci.

Dealing with jet lag and time change, I always like to have a bit of comfort and familiarity on my first night so we stayed at the Hilton Tokyo. It was conveniently located with beautiful city views and a short walk to the subway.

Day 2: Tokyo - Explore Shinjuku

First time visitors should absolutely start their first full day with a visit to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. The free panoramic views are stunning and a wonderful way to be welcomed to Tokyo, the largest city in the world.

From there, hop on the subway at Shinjuku Station to the Asakusa District. I'll be honest - Shinjuku Station is massive and intimidating. It is one of the world’s busiest train stations, handling over 3.6 million passengers a day!! 

The Asakusa Tourist Information Centre offers fantastic views of the area, including the iconic Senso-ji buddhist temple and Tokyo Skytree. Take a stroll down lively Nakamise Shopping Street before reaching Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple. Don’t forget to follow temple etiquette, like bowing and purifying your hands at the entrance. For lunch, stop at Kura Sushi Asakusa, an authentic conveyor belt sushi spot where you can grab fresh plates as they pass by.

From there, you can walk to Kappabashi, Tokyo's kitchenware district, where stores offer beautiful Japanese cooking tools and high-quality knives. A quick subway back to the hotel leaves you time in the evening to explore Shinjuku. The famous 3D cat billboard, Godzilla head, and narrow streets of Omoide Yokocho are definitely worth seeing.

Day 3: Tokyo - Shibuya & Harajuku

Begin this day at Meiji Shrine, a tranquil oasis and Shinto shrine in the heart of Shibuya. The stroll through the peaceful grounds and seeing the traditional Shinto architecture was one of my favourite experiences.

Next, take a short walk to Harajuku’s Takeshita Street, known for its vibrant fashion and unique shops. It's a great place to find vintage clothing, affordable finds, and delicious sweet treats. Nearby Tokyu Plaza Omotesando is the main street to admire striking Japanese modern architecture.

Finally, make your way to Shibuya Scramble Crossing, one of Tokyo’s most iconic sights. Early evening is the best time to enjoy the famous Shibuya Crossing and lively atmosphere of the surrounding district.

📌 TIP: For fast, inexpensive, and easy ready-to-eat meals, visit the hot counter in most convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawsons, Family Mart) or the "Depachika" food halls found in the basement of Tokyo's large department stores.

Day 4: Tokyo to Hakone

After a busy few days in Tokyo, you can find respite in Hakone, a picturesque hot spring resort town known for its stunning natural landscapes including views of Mount Fuji. Hakone's relaxing hot springs and cultural attractions are the perfect place to rejuvenate and spend some time in nature.

Travel by Romancecar from Tokyo to Hakone, enjoying the quick glimpse of Mt Fuji along the route (be sure to sit on the right side of the train for the best view!) For discounted travel, make use of the Hakone Free Pass, which provides access to various attractions and transportation options.

📌  TIP:  Pick up your Romancecar ticket and Hakone Free Pass a day or two prior at the Odakyu Sightseeing Service Center in Shinjuku Station.

Every minute counts when you're travelling. If you don't have much time to go to your hotel, take advantage of the stress-free luggage delivery service at Hakone-Yumoto station. We had them transfer our carry-on luggage directly to the Hakone Hotel Kowaki-en which left us free to go sightsee. The Hotel Kowaki-en is a stunning, newly renovated hotel. I loved the traditional Japanese pajamas and slippers (everyone wore them to dinner and breakfast), the ample buffet with Western and Japanese food options, and free access to the Yunessun Hot Springs Park next door.

Your memorable experience in Hakone starts with taking the switchback Hakone Tozan Train to Gora Station. Known as the "Hydrangea Train", July is the perfect time to see the sides of the tracks blooming with colourful hydrangeas.

After a quick stop at Hakone No Mori for the fluffiest pancakes, you are ready to explore Hakone Gora Park with its beautiful gardens and tranquil atmosphere. Be sure to check out cultural activities like the tea ceremony or glass bead blowing. Our teenager absolutely loved this activity and it was a a fun way to make a unique souvenir.

Lastly, don't miss the Hakone Open Air Museum. I was blown away the Picasso museum and the impressive sculptures, all set in a spectacular outdoor setting.

Day 5: Hakone: Ropeway, Cruise, and Shrine Visit

A trip to Hakone wouldn't be complete without a ride on the cable cars of the Hakone Ropeway from Sounzan Station to Owakudani, an active volcanic valley known for its sulfur vents and hot springs. There you can try the famous black eggs (Kuro-tamago), which are boiled in the sulfuric hot springs and believed to add seven years to your life, or black ice cream if you're not as adventurous.

Torrential rains forced us to abandon our afternoon plans which included a scenic Hakone Sightseeing Cruise across Lake Ashi which offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Disembarking at Motohakone, our plan was to visit Hakone-jinja Shrine and stop to take photos at the Heiwa no Torii, the red gate that stands in the lake.

Luckily, Hakone is an onsen town and you can find many options to enjoy the area's natural hot springs, even on rainy days. We booked a private onsen at Hakone Hotel Kowaki-en, and it turned out to be an experience I will always remember.

Day 6: Hakone To Osaka

From Hakone, make your way to the bustling big city of Osaka. Our stay at Mimaru Osaka Shinsaibashi West was fabulous and I highly recommend staying at the Mimaru chain of apartment-style hotels. They're typically quite spacious and located near grocery stores and transportation.

Begin exploring with a long stroll down Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, a bustling covered arcade filled with trendy boutiques, souvenirs, and local shops. 

In the evening, head to the Dotonbori area, famous for its bright lights (stop for a photo at Glico man!), lively atmosphere and street food, and check out the nearby Hozenji Yokocho. With its red lanterns, cobblestone paths, and the famous Hozenji temple, it offers a more traditional side of Osaka.

For a special dining experience, enjoy dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M Yokocho Branch, where you can the savor top-quality Matsusaka beef that Japan is known for grilled to perfection. Be sure to make a reservation and arrive on an empty stomach - we barely made it through the 8-course meal!

Week 2: Exploring Osaka, Hiroshima and Kyoto

Making the trek to the top of Osaka Castle will reward you with 360° views of the city. But be warned - the elevators were not in use during our visit so we had to walk up and down eight flights of stairs!

If you're ready to eat, head to Kuromon Market, a popular spot where you can sample fresh seafood, street food, and local delicacies. Osaka is known as the kitchen of Japan and I can see why - the shrimp tempura we had there was seriously the best I've had in my life!

For breathtaking views of the city, visit the Abeno Harukas Observation Deck, the tallest skyscraper in Japan. Or, explore the lush Namba Parks which has a spectacular rooftop garden and unique shopping. Wrap up your day with a hearty bowl of Ichiran Ramen. At this popular restaurant chain, you can customize your ramen and enjoy it in a cozy, private individual booth—a must-try in Osaka!

👉🏼 Special Note: Luggage Forwarding Service for Hassle-Free Travel in Japan

Day 8: Osaka to Hiroshima/Miyajima: A Day of Culture and Food

Travel from Osaka to Hiroshima, then take a scenic boat ride to Miyajima Island, famous for its floating torii gate and serene atmosphere. Our day there was rainy, which only added to the ethereal atmosphere. The island has an abundance of deer you can see up-close roaming the streets, so its a good alternative to Nara Park.

There are many hotel options in Miyajima, or return to Hiroshima. We stayed at Hotel Cla-ss Hiroshima-Tokaichi, which was a fine budget friendly accommodation, but I'd opt for a hotel closer to the Peace Memorial Park. For dinner, head out to enjoy Hiroshima’s famous layered style of okonomiyaki, packed with savory ingredients. 

Day 9: Hiroshima to Kyoto: History and Tradition

Start your day in Hiroshima with breakfast at Bakery Roti. They serve the most delicious French pastries and the owner is delightful! Then make your way to the solemn Hiroshima Peace Park, a moving tribute to the victims of the atomic bomb.   The Peace Memorial Museum is worthy of a visit, but I highly recommend spending time at the Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims. The Hall of Remembrance is incredibly moving, and along with the Atomic Bomb Dome, is something I will never forget. 

Before heading to Kyoto, grab an Eki-ben (a special bento box) at the train station, perfect for enjoying while on the bullet train. Upon arrival, check in at Mimaru Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo. Like the Mimaru hotel we stayed at in Osaka, the hotel rooms are well decorated and spacious. We loved the convenient location of this family-friendly hotel.

Spend the late afternoon exploring Shinkyogoku Shopping Street and the famous Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto's kitchen". End your night immersed in the rich culture of the nearby historic Gion district, known for its traditional atmosphere and chance to spot a geisha strolling the lantern-lit streets.

Day 10: Kyoto Temples

Every Japan travel guide will tell you that a trip to Kyoto must include a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha. This popular destination is famous for its thousands of red torii gates that wind through the forested mountainside. 

In the summer months, the paths are busy with a lot of people but grow less crowded the further up you go. Before leaving the area, we highly recommend poking into the many souvenir shops along the way. They offer lovely coin purses, fans, chopsticks, or small towels as a remembrance of your time in Japan.

📌 TIP: Japan is known for its high-quality burgers. A stop at Dragon Burger across from Fushimi Inari will reward you with absolutely the best burger you will ever have in Japan! Months later and I am still dreaming about their Yuzu burger and homemade ice tea.

Next, head to Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its grand wooden stage that offers panoramic views of Kyoto. 

Be sure to leave enough time to enjoy the long walk to the temple. From Gion, it's just a few minute walk along the picturesque streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka up to Kiyomizu-zaka. The narrow street is sure to be packed with western tourists looking for Japanese souvenirs, crafts, and matcha ice cream! You can also stop for your coffee fix at Starbucks Coffee - Kyoto Nineizaka Yasaka Chaya and sit on the traditional tatami mats!

Day 11: Gion Matsuri and Exploring Gion-Higashiyama

Our stay in Kyoto luckily coincided with Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s most famous festivals. The streets of Gion fill with colourful floats, lively parades, and traditional performances, offering a perfect chance to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. 

The Yoiyama night-festival which happens on July 16th should not be missed. Street stalls serve up delicious food and you can see many of the floats lit up and on display.

Outside of the festival, one must spend time exploring the Gion-Higashiyama area, starting with the iconic Yasaka Pagoda, a stunning five-story structure that stands out against the traditional wooden buildings. 

We took a stroll down the picturesque Shirakawa Lane, a charming street lined with willow trees, rivers, and old tea houses, but ran out of time to visit Kenninji Temple, Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, a popular place known for its serene gardens and beautiful artwork.

Day 15 & 16: Tokyo DisneySea and Exploring Tokyo’s Icons

One fun family experience we were looking forward to was a visit to Japan's theme parks. You have a few options: Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, and Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea in Tokyo. 

DisneySea offers a unique, ocean-themed experience, perfect for thrill-seeking teens and those looking for immersive attractions. Tokyo Disneyland, with its classic Disney charm, is ideal for families and anyone wanting to relive the magic of Disney.

Temperatures when we were in Japan in July were extremely hot so we decided to start our visit to DisneySea later in the afternoon and stay for the night time show. It was a great time to go: we avoided the crowds and with a few paid Premier Access passes and short lineups we were able to enjoy some of the best rides.

The next day, explore more of Tokyo. You can visit the Imperial Palace, home to Japan's royal family, and enjoy its beautiful gardens. For lunch, head to Tokyo Ramen Street in the underground of Tokyo Station, where you can taste some of the city’s best ramen. In the afternoon, find your way over to Akihabara, Tokyo’s hub for electronics, anime, and manga culture. It’s a must-visit for your anime obsessed teens.

Day 17: Shibuya and Roppongi: Starbucks, Shopping, and Skyline Views

One place we had to visit was the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Nakameguro, a stunning four-story coffee haven where you can enjoy artisanal coffee, tea, and pastries in a stylish setting. Even if you are not a coffee fan, you'll enjoy starting your day at the Roastery, one of only six in the world, with it's gorgeous architecture and peek at coffee bean roasting on-site.

For a final day in Japan, head to Shibuya for a shopping spree. TikTok favourite MEGA Don Quijote offers an eclectic mix of goods, from snacks and only-in-Japan KitKat flavours, to skincare and Korean makeup products, and fun souvenirs. 

Other shops I highly recommend in the area are Standard Products (a must stop if you love inexpensive, minimal design!), Hands, LoFT, Uniqlo and Muji (a great place to pick up extra luggage if needed!)

In the evening, make your way to Roppongi Mori Tower for the Tokyo City View, an observation deck that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. We arrived just before sunset and it was a wonderful way to say goodbye to this amazing city. 

Day 18: Travel Home 

With five carry-on luggages now to manoeuvre, we didn't really want to hop back onto a subway or express train back to Narita airport. The most convenient and inexpensive option was to take the Limousine Bus. 

Taking a taxi to the nearby bus terminal, we caught the Limousine Bus which offers a stress-free and comfortable way to travel from your hotel to Narita Airport or Haneda Airport. 

The bus also has multiple pickup points at major hotels throughout Tokyo, and we found the air-conditioned bus and their on-time service so enjoyable. It was a convenient, stress-free, efficient way to end this perfect trip - we wouldn't expect anything less from the wonderful Japanese people!

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Perfect for first-time visitors, it ensures you have all the essential details in one place, making your Japan adventure smooth and stress-free.

An Unforgettable Journey Through Japan

Whether it's exploring the vibrant streets of Tokyo, soaking in the serene beauty of Kyoto's temples, or savoring local delicacies in Osaka, this 3-week Japan itinerary offers a perfect balance of modern adventure and rich cultural experiences. 

Back to school. Just saying those words conjures up memories of excitement and dread.

My daughter Chloe is headed into Grade 10 and we've got a few things to do to get her ready for the school year. High school students can be more particular about their school supplies, so back to school shopping is something we undertake together.

This guide is here to help you navigate the back-to-school shopping maze without the stress, offering practical tips to ensure you and your teen are ready when the first bell rings.

Setting A Budget

Creating A Shopping List

Basic School Supplies

Organizational Tools

If your home is anything like ours, back-to-school clothing is a delicate balance between current styles, school dress code guidelines, and parent and teen personal preferences.

Every school has its own set of rules, so before you hit the stores, it’s a good idea to review what’s allowed and what’s not. This can save you from having to make returns later. The key is to find new clothes that are trendy yet appropriate, allowing your teen to express their style while staying within the rules.

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1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10

As for wardrobe essentials, take direction from your teen. Do they prefer to wear jeans or do they live in sweatpants? Are they in hoodies every day or do they like layering t-shirts under sweaters. It's no use buying perfectly fine and functional clothing if your teen will absolutely not wear them. Trust me - I've bought way too many cute shirts that end up never worn at the bottom of the drawer!

Here's a few things we've bought (together!) for this year's wardrobe:

- Stretch low rise baggy jeans. The stretch fabric and low rise fit of these jeans make them super comfortable to wear all day.

- Knit baggy wide-leg sweatpants. With a comfortable waistband and wide fit, these are a stylish yet comfy choice

- Lululemon Define Jacket Luon. A trendy choice that looks great paired with leggings or short skirts

- Ribbed t-shirts. We have these shirts in a few colours. They're good quality, affordable, and great for layering.

- Women's Antora Jacket. Chloe has worn this jacket for a few years and it is indispensible. It's perfect for that in-between fall to winter weather - light enough to layer under, but warm and good protection from the elements.

- Oversized hoodie. In a must-have deep green colour, this oversized hoodie will get lots of use

- High-waisted leggings. These high-waisted leggings are a long-time favourite. Great quality and fit!

- UGG Women's Classic Mini II Ankle Boot. A popular choice that goes well with any outfit.

- Adidas Samba OG Shoes. The sneaker that you'll see every trendy teen wearing this season.

- 2 pairs hoop earrings. Simple hoop earrings have never gone out of style. These ones are easy to dress up or down.

- Striped Loop Apple Watch Band. An easy way to change up the look of the watch my teen wears every day.

With these key pieces, Chloe can create outfits that are comfortable and easy to wear. She can easily change up the look by adding in different tops or sweaters and give her the flexibility to dress up or down depending on the day.

The goal is to find items that are both practical and fashionable, helping your teen feel confident and ready for whatever the school year throws their way.

Shopping Online 

Hot tip: Sign up for an app like Coupert which helps you find discount codes and/or earn cash back while you shop. I installed the extension on my mobile and desktop so now it instantly finds discounts, wherever I'm shopping.

Preparing for the new school year with smart shopping and careful planning can make all the difference. By setting a budget, making a list, and shopping strategically, you can ensure your teen has everything they need for the first day of school. 

Personal experience has shown me that involving your teen in the process not only teaches them valuable budgeting skills but also makes the transition back to school smoother. 

If you found these tips helpful, share this guide with other parents or on social media to spread the word and help others get ready for a stress-free back-to-school season.

We are just weeks away from our summer vacation to Japan. We've got lots of activities planned so I've been giving a lot of thought to my packing list. 

I like to travel light (with just a carry-on bag if I can!) so I'm aiming to put together a summer travel capsule wardrobe that will have me looking stylish and ready for every occasion. That means the best travel outfits to get me through long sightseeing days or a short road trip, cute Instagram-worthy opportunities, and versatile enough to transition from a beach day to a nice dinner out.

This post will guide you through selecting the best summer travel outfits, offering practical tips on essential clothing items, footwear, and accessories to ensure you accentuate your personal style and feel your best. 

Choosing the right travel outfits is crucial for a hassle-free vacation. With the right outfits, you can focus on making unforgettable memories rather than worrying about what to wear.

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Key Considerations for Summer Travel Outfits

Climate and Weather

Before packing for your summer trip, one of the first things you'll want to check is the weather forecast for your destination. Knowing what to expect can help you avoid overpacking or bringing inappropriate clothing. 

For example, a trip to a New York City might have you melting in the sun during the daytime and feeling chilled in the indoor air conditioning, while a beach vacation might require options to cover up from the sun's hot rays. The last thing you want is to arrive with luggage full of shorts when your European vacation is calling for rain and a dramatic drop in temperatures!

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Even if your destination has warm weather year round, you may need to deal with varying temperatures at night so consider packing layers. 

A comfortable lightweight cardigan or light denim jacket can be added over tank tops or removed as needed. A midi skirt or wide leg pants can be worn over a swimsuit to have you looking chic at the pool bar. 

Also, think about bringing clothes made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, which can help you stay cool during the day and comfortable at night.

Activities and Itinerary

There are different types of travelers. There are those who love nothing more than to lounge on the beach or pool at their tropical paradise. There are those who grab their crossbody bag, comfortable shoes, and set off for a day of adventure. 

Different activities require different types of clothing, so it's important to plan accordingly. If your trip includes a lot of sightseeing, you'll need comfortable walking shoes and outfits that allow for easy movement.

I like to pack mostly pants and dresses for walking around. One comfortable choice is wide-leg trousers or linen pants paired with white sneakers and a short-sleeve top. This is a great option for travel to a new city where you might be visiting museums, parks, and religious or cultural centres and want to look pulled together and dressed appropriately for the right places.

Similarly, a two-piece outfit with a matching set of top and skirt or shorts (they're on trend these days!) or a flowy dress will have you looking cute and comfortable. As a tourist, have a bit of fun with your summer capsule wardrobe and wear outfits you might not normally wear at home. 

I love to wear dresses in brighter colors in the summer time and accent with simple jewelry. A sleeveless midi dress will keep you cool. Opt for a breathable cotton and top it with a cropped cardigan or shrug for an extra layer.

Comfort and Practicality

When it comes to the world of summer travel outfits, comfort and practicality should be your top priority. There is nothing that ruins a vacation faster than feeling hot, sticky, and uncomfortable, am I right??

Breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking materials are perfect for keeping you cool and comfortable in hot weather. These fabrics allow air to circulate, reducing the risk of overheating and making long days of walking or exploring so much more pleasant.

I'm a huge fan of moisture-wicking clothing like the AIRism collection from Uniqlo. The material feels smooth and silky and it works quickly to absorb or disperse sweat. Adventure brands like Mountain Warehouse and Columbia also carry pretty breathable dresses and shorts so you can stay cool and not compromise on style.

Airplane Travel Outfit

You'll also want to consider what you'll be wearing on the plane or on long travel days. For short flights, shorts or skirts with bare legs might be fine. But we are creatures of comfort so a long flight requires clothing that is loose, cozy, non-restrictive. The longer your flight, the more comfortable you'll want to dress. That doesn't mean you need to look dumpy. Fashionable fliers know that stylish athleisure wear is the way to go.

Even in summer, planes can get cold so you'll want to have layers to keep you warm. Soft pants, socks, a comfy t-shirt, and a long-sleeve zip-up hoodie or open-front cardigan for when you're feeling chilled are a great choice. Leave the high-waisted pants or tight fitting shirt for later in your trip - you'll want clothes you can sleep and sit in comfortably for those long-haul flights. Leggings, joggers, pants with a bit of stretch or comfort waistbands are well suited for travel days.

Essential Summer Travel Clothing Items

When it comes to curating the perfect summer travel wardrobe, selecting the right clothing items is key to ensuring comfort, versatility, and style throughout your trip. Essential summer travel clothing items, such as versatile tops, comfortable bottoms, chic dresses, jumpsuits, and practical swimwear, and practical footwear can make packing a breeze and outfit planning effortless.

There's a few rules I abide by when selecting the pieces that make it into my suitcase:

1. Stick to 3 or 4 colors so you can mix and match pieces. Having lots of color in your wardrobe may lead to overpacking. By bringing fewer pieces in black, white, and a neutral beige or grey, you can easily create enough different outfits for a two or three week trip.
2. Avoid dry clean only fabrics. Chances are you might have a clothing mishap or spill something on yourself while you're off on your adventures. You don't want to ruin a blouse early in your trip and not be able to wear it until you get to the dry cleaners - back home.
3. Don't bring a one-time use outfit (unless you have a very specific occasion you need it for). While it would be wonderful to wear a two-piece satin dress, your favourite stilettos, and sequin clutch purse for a romantic dinner along the Seine, those items will just sit in your luggage for the majority of the trip. Conversely, women's sweatsuits might the comfiest choice for the plane ride but will prove to be a bulky outfit you don't want to lug around. Save the luggage space for versatile clothing that can be used for different looks.

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Packing List for a Two Week Vacation

Planning on a two-week vacation? Your itinerary might include a mix of of sightseeing, dinners out, a beach day, and museum visits so you'll want a versatile wardrobe that offers both comfort and style. Here's a suggested packing list to help you cover all your activities without overpacking:

Tops

• 3-4 Lightweight T-Shirts: Keep these neutral and easy to mix and match.
• 2-3 Tank Tops: Great for layering under a cardigan or wearing alone in hot weather. I also like tank tops with built in bras for even fewer layers
• 2-3 Blouses or Dressy Tops: Suitable for dinners out or more polished looks. Wrinkle-resistant fabrics are ideal.
• 1 Lightweight Cardigan: For layering in cooler evenings or air-conditioned places.

Bottoms

• 2-3 Pairs of Shorts or Capris: Comfortable for sightseeing and casual outings.
• 1-2 Skirts: Versatile for both day and night, especially in breathable fabrics.
• 1-2 Pair of Pants: Linen or cotton pants are great for cooler days or more conservative settings.
• 1 Pair of Jeans: For cooler weather or casual evenings.

Dresses and Jumpsuits

• 2-3 Casual Dresses: Sundresses that can be dressed up or down.
• 1 Dressy Dress or Jumpsuit: For dinner out or special occasions.

Swimwear

• 2 Swimsuits: One for beach/pool and one spare.
• 1 Cover-Up: Lightweight and stylish for transitioning between beach and other activities.

Footwear

• 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for sightseeing and long days. My favourite for extended walking or running is the New Balance X880 - you feel like you're walking on a cloud!
• 1 Pair of Sandals or Heels: For dinners out or dressier occasions.
• 1 Pair of Casual Shoes or Flip-Flops: For the beach and casual outings.

Make sure all of your shoes are cushioned, supportive, and broken-in well before your trip!

Outerwear and Accessories

• 1 Lightweight Jacket: For cooler evenings or unexpected weather.
• 1 Hat: For sun protection.
• Sunglasses: Essential for eye protection.
• 1 Crossbody Bag: Practical for day trips and sightseeing.
• 1 Tote Bag or small backpack: Great for the beach or shopping.
• 1 foldable duffel bag: For those instances when you absolutely need to bring home a souvenir and have no room left in your luggage

Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Bringing a minimal capsule wardrobe of summer travel essentials is a great way to ensure you have a variety of outfits and you're not overpacking. Ready to see some cute summer travel outfits? Here's a travel capsule wardrobe for summer that I've used to create 10 different outfits. I hope these ideas get you inspired for your own summer getaway!

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Having the right clothing can make all the difference in your comfort and confidence. By focusing on essential items that can be mixed and matched, you'll maximize your wardrobe options without overpacking. Remember to consider the climate, your activities, and the importance of comfort and practicality when choosing your outfits. 

With these tips in mind, you'll be ready to embark on your next road trip or family vacations, looking great and feeling prepared for whatever comes your way. Bon voyage and happy packing!