4 Spring Travel Outfit Formulas for Every Itinerary

Call me type A, but I’m always looking for ways to make my travel experience as seamless as possible, whether by using clever travel gadgets or packing comfortable walking shoes that allow me to be on my feet all day. Most recently, I’ve found myself wasting time before a long-haul flight trying to pick the perfect travel outfit when I could be getting some extra sleep, so I’ve created four travel-friendly outfit formulas I can apply to just about any trip. 

With a few getaways on tap this spring, I know that I’ll be reaching for these rotating outfits again and again. And since I’m not one to gatekeep, I’m sharing my four go-to looks that are perfect for every itinerary, from a warm-weather vacation to a work trip, along with the exact items I’m shopping to create them, from wrinkle-free trousers and an expensive-looking tote bag to polished two-piece sets and comfy espadrille flats. Below, find a breakdown of each look, with prices starting at just $9.

Spring Travel Outfit Formula Essentials

Comfy and Cozy

Comfort is my top priority when choosing my travel outfit for a long-haul flight, but there is a fine line between cozy and looking sloppy. My solution is always a two-piece set. The easy-to-wear outfit, like this Prettygarden lounge set, feels like pajamas, but it still looks polished when you hop off the plane. It also comes in a shade that’s nearly identical to the Calpack travel tote I’ve been eyeing for months, for a monochromatic moment. Compression socks are another one of my long-haul flight essentials, and this surprisingly stylish pair from Kindred Bravely is both functional and fashionable. The only other thing I need is to slip on my favorite Dr. Scholl’s Time Off sneakers (now marked down to $75 at Zappos), and I’m ready to go. 

Business Casual

While I haven’t personally been in a situation where I’ve had to hop off a flight and go straight to a meeting, I have plenty of friends who have, and I’d recommend this comfortable, yet put-together look to anyone who needs to be ready for anything. These ultra-stretchy trousers “don’t wrinkle,” and “feel like sweatpants,” according to Amazon shoppers. I’d pair it with this best-selling J.Crew classic oversized shirt, which is breathable and non-constricting, and these playful leopard-print loafers from podiatrist-approved brand Vionic. Also, you can’t go wrong with a sleek carry-all bag for personal items, and you can snag this luxe-looking option for just $30 now at Amazon.

Sporty Vibes

I’d consider this outfit formula a sister to my long-haul flight look, but with a more sporty, adventurous flair. Even if I try to fight it, black leggings, like this pair from Crz Yoga, will always be a constant in my travel wardrobe, and that’s okay. They’re also great to have on-hand for an early-morning stroll or a low-impact hike, paired with this Lululemon Scuba hoodie. Speaking of hiking, I’ve been wearing my favorite Salomon sneakers on rotation lately, and not just for hiking. The supportive, durable sneaker is great for hitting the city streets or long travel days when you know you’ll be on your feet for long periods of time. Complete the look with a practical crossbody bag, and voila, you’re adventure-ready.  

Vacation Mode

I’ll be wearing this linen two-piece set on repeat throughout my warm-weather vacations this year. And, as someone who cannot bear the thought of wearing open-toe shoes at the airport, these Rothy espadrille flats feel like breathable sandals, while still keeping feet protected and supported. No vacation look is complete without a woven beach bag, and this option from Gap makes an ideal personal item for flying, too, thanks to its fully lined interior and sturdy vegan-leather handles. Plus, it has enough room to hold all of my beach essentials, from my Kindle to these stylish sunnies from Amazon.  

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