A return to travel means reconnecting with the thrills and excitement of a summer getaway—as well as the hassles. And because packing remains, well, packing, we’ve enlisted the aid of Neiman Marcus Fashion Director Bruce Pask to provide his top packing tips and an edit of capsule wardrobes curated to your next escape.
“There is definitely a yearning for travel given the localized lives we had been living most recently,” says Pask. “Destination vacations are certainly high on summer’s to-do list, but there has also been a real amplification of local and regional travel as well; discovering areas both far and near.”
But before we dig into Pask’s selections (plus some bonus picks pulled from the enviable assortment at Neiman Marcus), we’ll share his thoughts on packing prep.
“I start a few days in advance and start putting things aside I know I’ll want and need: noise-cancelling headphones (recharged as well), passport, books and magazines, etc. I check to make sure my toiletry bag is refilled, download movies and TV series on my iPad (I never leave in-flight entertainment to chance),” he says.
In addition, Pask sticks to a strict routine.
“When packing clothing I start with the basics (socks, tees, etc.), and apportion amounts according to days on the road, then I put shirts and jackets aside along with trousers. To avoid overpacking I lay vague ideas of outfits for each day out. I follow this with whatever essential outerwear may be needed, with one coat always carried on.”
Now, without further delay:
What to Pack for a Beach Vacation
Prepping for a vacation activity that requires little clothing sounds easy—until you consider skincare, something to wear by the pool, a layer for cool evenings and other beach-adjacent concerns. Ease your mind and let Pask do the hard work instead.
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Officine Générale Men’s Eren Zebra-Print Camp Shirt
“A bold, graphic camp shirt like this one is great because it is perfect for poolside, but also dressy enough for dinner. Trade your wet swim trunks for some dry shorts or linen trousers and you’re ready for that sunset cocktail.”
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Orlebar Brown Men’s Bulldog Bora Swim Shorts
“These tailored swim shorts are another great versatile item that does double duty. Adjustable side tabs and front pockets give these trunks a functional, dressy look that works for a walk through town as well as splashing through the waves.”
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Dr. Barbara Sturm 1 oz. Sun Drops
“This light sun serum offers SPF 50 and promotes regeneration of skin cells.”
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Versace Men’s Medusa Cashmere-Wool Sweater
This cashmere-wool sweater in an open, breathable knit is just the thing to pull over a tee or—even a bare chest—for those breezy, after-dinner sunset walks on the beach.
What to Pack for an Escape to Nature
The great outdoors isn’t so great if you find your luggage wanting. Avoid that fate with Pask’s considered picks, ranging from utilitarian (but sharp) hiking boots to some face-saving moisturizer.
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Lanvin Men’s Suede-Leather Hiking Boots
“The rugged lug soles on this hybrid boot are great for hiking in the hills.”
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Holden Men’s Camo Down Shorts
“These quilted down shorts are a cool, fun piece and great when there’s a chill in the air.”
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Augustinus Bade 1 oz. The Cream
“It’s important to moisturize, especially when spending time outdoors. This smaller size of one of my favorites is perfect for travelling.”
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David Yurman Men’s Spiritual Beads Bracelet with Tiger’s Eye
You might want to leave your most precious timepieces at home, but a return to nature doesn’t mean your wrists must go bare. Instead, look to simple jewelry with a rustic appeal, like this beaded bracelet from David Yurman.
What to Pack for a Countryside Getaway
Escaping the city doesn’t mean escaping good style. Transport it to more rural climes with Pask’s best bets below.
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Brunello Cucinelli Men’s Snap-Front Quilted Down Vest
“An easy, packable layering piece like this vest is great for almost any getaway.”
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Loro Piana Men’s Summer Royal College Scarf
“A lightweight scarf is always a great piece to have packed for those evenings that can turn unexpectedly brisk.”
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Vince Men’s Wool-Cashmere Cable Sweater
“A comfy, chunky sweater is always great to have. This light natural color has a nice spring-y feel.”
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Bonus Pick: Clive Christian 1.7 oz. Crown Collection Crab Apple Blossom
Top notes of apple blossom and marine bergamot give this perfume based on a historical archive scent an instant country appeal.
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