Packing for a vacation can be a chore if your agenda is to wear comfortable clothes and accessories that also look trendy and stylish on your Instagram feed but don’t exceed the weight allowance for airplane luggage. The trick is to create a sort of ultimate travel wardrobe: lightweight, with the right key ingredients for your destination, allowing you to mix and match so you have a fresh outfit every time you head out.

We reached out to a few experts to help you create a vacation bag, depending on where you’re headed: the mountains, the beaches, or the plains. Their suggestions include familiar and practical options, as well as those inspired by current trends dictated by fashion houses and social networks, such as mixing streetwear with sportswear.

By sea

If the beach is on your mind, have a modern “beach bag” ready. “It’s the new trusted companion and now as sought after as the leather bag,” says stylist Sukriti Grover, recommending raffia, bamboo and canvas beach bags. “The Loewe basket bag and Prada raffia tote are all over social media right now, proving that these bags work just as well around town as they do by the pool.”

Now, let’s fill the beach bag. To get started, you need a resort mat, sunscreen, and a pair of sunglasses. “In addition to these three items, an ideal men’s beach bag should include shorts or swimming trunks, depending on the man’s comfort, and a relaxed silk vest and shirt, in case you decide to head out to a restaurant later.” suggests Shivan Bhatiya. , Chief Designer for Shivan & Narresh.

For women, she suggests, a set of leotards, trikinis, or bikinis, layered with a pantyhose (or can be mixed and matched with linen shirts or flowy skirts) for beach-to-bar hopping (remember the many beach looks from Tanya McQuoid in the white lotus?), a good way to reduce the luggage load. “A versatile shirtdress with a belt can also help turn that effortless morning into an evening look,” says Bhatiya.

Another easy way to add zing to a simple, casual beach outfit is a fun crew neck t-shirt, casual linen shirt, or cool beach dresses. “Just remember to bring light and breathable fabrics like linen and cotton. It will also help you reduce the weight of your luggage,” says Yuv Bharat Ram, creative director and founder of the Primal Gray brand. And experiment. Just because you’re at the beach doesn’t mean you can’t be stylish. Experiment with different cuts and silhouettes or patterns, patterns and colors for a tropical vibe. Add a hat, a comfortable pair of slippers, speakers or headphones, and a book to your beach bag.”

One last thing: a waterproof mascara. “And waterproof eyeliner, bronzer, brow pencil, lip balm, setting spray, makeup remover wipes, moisturizer. Keep your look relaxed,” suggests Esha Bhambri, co-founder and creative director of the House of Fett brand. “And sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen. Never go out without sunscreen.”

In the mountains

With rising temperatures, many people are heading to the mountains, in India or abroad. All you need are stylish layered pieces, including warm functional pants, pullovers with an extra layer of Merino wool and a statement jacket, and of course, moisturizer and sunscreen. “It can be a faux fur jacket or a hand-knitted woolen jacket. You can accessorize it with a faux fur scarf or shawl to draw attention,” says Bhatiya. “Essentials like sunglasses and gloves are a must.”

Keep a hat handy, too, suggests Ram. “It’s also a good idea to have a few extra layers to accommodate changes in temperature. Like long-sleeved shirts and puffer jackets, to wrap up or go to bed depending on the time of day,” he says. “Maybe even a raincoat, in case of unexpected rain. And good and comfortable shoes and bag.”

As Grover points out, a backpack is essential equipment when it comes to trekking in the mountains. You will have to carry it for hours when you go hiking. Comfort, capacity, size, padded straps, waterproofing, and durability are some of the factors to consider before buying one.

“You should invest a good amount of money and do your research on the one that’s best for you before buying a trekking backpack,” says Grover.

While flowy maxi and chemise dresses add that chic element to a vacation wardrobe, they aren’t the most comfortable for walking up and down hills.

Instead, pack joggers and t-shirts made from lightweight, breathable materials, like the ones you find at Uniqlo or North Face. You can amp up the look with sturdy yet stylish hiking boots or walking shoes. “Add layering options like a cardigan or lightweight jacket for that elegant look. For makeup, pack a tinted moisturizer, waterproof mascara, cream blush, SPF lip balm, brow gel or pencil, and setting spray,” suggests Bhambri.

on the plains

In case you plan to go to a landlocked city somewhere in Europe, don’t forget your shoulder bag. “Dedicated travel bags come in all different shapes and sizes, fanny packs, laptop backpacks, crossbody bags, work bags and more, but they typically feature multiple compartments to help you stay organized,” says Grover. “A bag that has a convertible strap, is comfortable enough to wear all day, and has anti-theft features is often a good choice,” Grover adds.

Just make sure it, and your wardrobe, has a pop of color, says Bhatiya. “Printed pants and shorts with solid-colored polos can make a big statement. For women, bold-colored silk shirts with paneled pants and dresses in vibrant hues would look chic on city streets,” she says, adding: “Pack a scarf, floral fragrance, and face sprays to feel fresh.” and hydrated while you explore the city.”

Maybe add some light, patterned shirts for that fun look, Ram says. In the meantime, keep your dresses short, if you’re comfortable in them, suggests Bhambri. “Long dresses are a great option if you’re looking for an easy, comfortable look, but shorter dresses are better for more active activities. Consider packing a few accessories, like a wide-brimmed hat or light scarf, to complement your outfits and provide protection from the sun. Have comfortable walking shoes for exploring, a pair of sandals or open-toe flats for warmer days. Slip-ons are also good for versatility,” she says.

A piece of advice from Ram, wherever you go: “Comfortable shoes and small bandages, in case of blisters.”