There’s nothing more rewarding than taking a trip to relax and recharge. Whether you’re exploring or spending time on the beach, you’ll feel even better if you vacation in style. This clothing guide for men makes it easy to plan your travel wardrobe so you can get on “island time” as quickly as possible. With the help of these tips, you’ll pack light while always having something fresh to wear. 

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Pack Your Men’s Style Essentials 

One of the easiest ways to pack for vacation is to prioritize your men’s style essentials. First, pack your tees and polos, as well as tanks and socks. If you’re looking for style inspiration, a men’s white crew neck shirt pairs perfectly with everything from khaki chinos to swim trunks. Layer it under polos or jackets for stylish nighttime ensembles and dinner wear. The black v-neck shirt is another brilliant choice for vacation because you can dress up bold colors and understated prints with it. It also elevates other men’s style essentials like button-down shirts and joggers. 

Use your men’s basics to add different shades of neutrals like heather grey or oatmeal. Sage green and light blue are shirt colors that look great with white and tan shorts. If it’ll be breezy or cool in the evening, you can wear long-sleeve crew necks or hooded long sleeves. A soft, well-fitting black crew neck gives off a surfer vibe, while fresh white hoodies match well with blue and green. 

Some of the best polo colors for a warm-weather vacation include navy blue and pastel pink. Finish the outfit with a crisp white pair of linen pants and a brown belt. Colors like ivy and light blue are perfect for a tropical setting. Try pairing neutral shirts with vibrantly colored pants for a look that is worthy of a memorable trip. 

Choose Pieces to Transition from Day to Night 

The best men’s vacation clothes will let you pack light while still making it look like you put effort into your outfit. The key is to choose items that you can wear anywhere — like light-colored shorts and pants. Chinos are among the best pants to pack for a trip because they look good with any shirt style. 

Button-down shirts can be worn open during the day with sandals and shorts. At night, you can button them up or choose to wear them with boat shoes and a pair of crisp slacks. Denim jackets and chore coats are stylish at any time of day, especially when you pair them with light vacation fabrics and colors. 

Invest in Eye-Catching Swimwear 

Swimwear is a simple way to add fun to a classic vacation wardrobe. You may prefer a more traditional look while you’re out and about, but your swimming trunks can be bolder and more festive than your other clothes. Some of the most on-trend men’s swimwear styles include eco-friendly polyester trunks with mini seasonal prints and jewel-toned colors. You’ll also find grey and cream-colored shorts that look just as good in the water as they do while you’re exploring the boardwalk. 

Checkered prints and patchwork styles are popular this season, especially in a shorter length. If you like bright colors, you’ll find both short and long swimming trunks in peach-pink and lime green. Color block board shorts incorporate colors like black and grey for a classic look that’s attractive while you’re body surfing or kayaking. 

If you’ll be in the sun for a while, look for swim shorts and rash guards with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) fabric. This material was designed to block against the sun’s harmful rays that can lead to skin damage. Accessorize your bathing suits with matching shirts and neutral-colored hats. Complete your look with aviators or black wayfarer sunglasses.  

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Pack Stylish and Functional Footwear 

When taking in some sun, choose classic slide sandals or strap sandals with non-skid soles and vibrant colors. Camping sandals are made with thick leather straps, and supportive footbeds pair well with shorts or cargo pants. If it’s time to cruise the streets or eat at a restaurant, you can wear everything from loafers to wingtip Oxfords. Espadrilles and slip-on sneakers will elevate your fashion while keeping you comfortable. Driving shoes in colors like navy and pastel purple will make a statement. 

If you’re shopping for stylish footwear by material, look for those made with canvas or genuine leather. These materials help to protect your feet against moisture. They’ll also keep your feet cool and tend to feel flexible, even if you’re walking a great deal while sightseeing. Searching for on-trend vacation styles? Tropical prints and neon colors look great with white pants and shorts. 

Choose Breathable, Comfortable Fabrics 

Hot and humid temperatures call for airy, breathable fabrics. The modal t-shirt is a popular choice for men this season because it’s made with ultra-soft, breathable material. While these shirts tend to keep you cooler, they also drape the body well. They look just as good as the most fashionable crew neck shirt, with details like a reinforced neckline and a pre-shrunk fit. 

While modal fabric and organic cotton can get you through any vacation, you’ll also love the comfort and breathability of linen. You can find everything from henley shirts to shorts and button-downs in this fabric. Other spring- and summer-friendly choices include chambray and seersucker. 

If you plan on jogging or playing team sports during your vacation, consider breathable performance gear. For one, it will dry your sweat faster than mainstay fabrics like cotton. As a bonus, it will make you look more stylish at the resort gym.  

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Vacationing in Comfortable, Classic Style 

Dressing for vacation is one of the best parts of taking a trip. While you can show off your unique look, you can also try more adventurous styles. If you follow men’s fashion rules, there’s no right or wrong way to create your spring or summer look. Whether you’re shopping for an entire week’s worth of clothing or updating your closet with a few new pieces, just be sure you have classic neutrals and fresh men’s basics with a few pops of color. 

The right fabrics and footwear can also help you stay relaxed and comfortable. What matters is that you feel and look great on your trip. Putting thought into your vacation wardrobe can help make your time away even better.