Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
Style

How To Pack Instagrammable Vacation Looks With Just A Carry-on

Okay, raise your hand if you hate packing. I’m raising my hand real high, right now. No matter the type or length of a trip, I never know what I need to pack, so I always end up over-packing. From too many tank tops to way too many pair of shoes, I somehow always end up bringing a bag full of stuff I don’t need. 

What can I say, I like to be over-prepared. You never know when you’ll need your sneakers because you decide to go on a spontaneous hike or if you’ll need an extra pair of jeans because the only other pair you brought ripped. (It happens.) But, most importantly, if you are like me and always on the hunt for an Instagrammable moment, then I need to make sure that every piece of clothing I bring is camera ready. 

It’s a lot to pack in just a carry-on! But luckily, I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks from friends and social media over the years about how to pack some of the essential pieces you’ll need on vacation for your perfect Instagram shots. 

Get Yourself Some Cute Sandals

Whether you are headed to a tropical destination or exploring a new city this Summer, there’s one item you don’t want to forget to pack: cute sandals. These multifaceted shoes are perfect for so many occasions and match with pretty much everything—jeans, skirts, dresses, and so much more. All you need is one or two pairs that you can mix and match with any outfit, and still fit in your carry-on bag.

Bring Your Trusty Denim Jacket

A denim jacket is the best travel companion that you can always count on. Add a cute hat, some funky sunglasses, and your favorite pair of shoes, and you are ready to snap your jet-set Insta post. 

Co-ord Two-Piece Sets Are Your Friend

I can’t live without a co-ord two-piece set that matches from top to bottom. If you want something that mimics a summer dress, but also want the option to pair it with some denim shorts or ripped jeans than this is your best option. You can mix and match depending on the occasion or what you want to post on the ‘gram that day. Wear the top with a denim skirt during a casual shopping moment, and change to the matching floral skirt or pant piece at night for a dinner at a trendy restaurant or cool party in the tropics. You’ll save space in your carry on, while also having a style moment on your Insta this vacation. 

Don’t Forget Your Fav Dress

Strolling in the town for brunch? Walking down by the water? Dancing the night away at a local bar? Whatever you’ve got planned for your summer vacay, pack a couple of dresses that will keep you stylish, but cool on your trip. Everything from a mini to maxi dress silhouette will do, and you can even dress this look up for the night with the accessories you have packed. And yes, they’re totally IG-approved! 

 Bring Only The Accessory Necessities 

Complete your travel outfits with some practical but super chic accessories. Accessories are a make or break, and they can make any plain outfit more dressed up and Instagram-worthy. You’ll definitely need a cute bag to hold all of your things, a cute hat, and jewelry (gold hoops, layered necklaces, scrunchies, or belts). Add some cool shades that show off your personality to any outfit, and you’ll be Insta gold! If you are worried about fitting all of this into your carry on, wrap them into your clothes or pack them in a makeup bag. It’ll save room for you to add more outfit or shoe options. 

You can officially stop stressing about what to pack for your next vacation. It’s all about the essentials that can fit into your carry-on, but that’s also ready-to-go for any Instagram moment. But honestly, no matter what you bring, you’ll totally end up looking absolutely amazing. 

Carissa Dunlap is a Her Campus News X Social Intern for Summer 2018. She is a current Publishing major and Journalism minor at Emerson College (Class of 2020). When she isn't perusing the YA bookshelf at the bookstore, she can be found watching dog videos on Facebook, at her favorite coffee shops, or relaxing on the beach. Follow her on Instagram @dunlapcarissa or Twitter @Caridunlap.