Pack Smart & Travel Light: Build A Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Your Next Road Trip

Struggling with overpacking for road trips? You're not alone. Many eco-conscious and long-trip travelers face this issue. Enter the "capsule wardrobe"—a minimalist packing strategy that simplifies travel. Learn how a capsule wardrobe can transform your packing, offering tips and examples for smarter, lighter travel.

What is a capsule wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is a curated collection of timeless, versatile staples that can be easily mixed and matched. Since the 1970s, the concept has evolved, but the core principle remains—less is more.

Advantages of adopting a capsule wardrobe

• Saves time and money: Investing in quality pieces means fewer shopping trips and less spending on trendy but short-lived items.
• Reduces decision fatigue: With fewer options to sift through, getting dressed becomes a breeze.
• Promotes sustainable fashion: By choosing timeless pieces over fast fashion, you're making a positive impact on the environment.

Benefits of a capsule wardrobe for travel

Save space

A travel capsule wardrobe saves significant space. Instead of cramming your suitcase with countless outfits, you can fit all your essentials into a single compact luggage piece. This leaves more room for souvenirs and less time spent lugging heavy bags.

Simplify decision-making

When traveling, the last thing you want to worry about is what to wear. A capsule wardrobe simplifies decision-making by ensuring all your pieces go well together. This means less time planning outfits and more time exploring.

Exclusive discounts for AAA Members

For AAA Members, creating a capsule wardrobe is now more affordable and accessible. maurices offers exclusive discounts to members, making it easier to invest in quality pieces without breaking the bank. AAA Members save an extra 5% on all purchases at maurices retail stores and online.

How to create a travel capsule wardrobe

Step 1: Assess your needs

Consider the destination, weather and activities you'll be doing to determine the clothing you'll need.

Step 2: Choose a color palette

A cohesive color palette ensures all your pieces complement each other. Opt for neutral colors like black, white, navy and gray as your base, adding a few pops of your favorite colors for variety.

Step 3: Select versatile pieces

Choose items that can be dressed up or down and worn in multiple ways. Look for clothing that serves multiple purposes, like a top that can be a beach cover-up or part of a night out outfit.

Step 4: Limit your choices

Limit your travel capsule wardrobe to 10-15 items, including tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear and shoes, to simplify packing and stay within capsule wardrobe guidelines.

Outfit Examples

Travel Day

• Shorts: High-rise comfy athletic shorts are best for traveling and spending a long time in the car.
• Casual top: An oversized graphic tee.
• Shoes: Comfortable slip-on sneakers.

Night 1

• Chic over-the-shoulder blouse: Adds a touch of elegance.
• Versatile white jeans: Perfect for any occasion, especially in the warmer months.
• Cork block heel: Stylish, comfortable and light on the foot.
• Dangly floral earrings: Elevates the entire look.

Day 2: Sightseeing

• Staple black bodysuit: Versatile and stylish.
• Jean shorts with pockets: Handy for your wallet or phone.
• Comfy knit sneakers: Ideal for plenty of walking.
• Sunglasses: Essential for sunny days.

Night 2: Night out

• Same black bodysuit: Now elevated with a patterned silk maxi skirt.
• Block heel: To offset the length of the skirt.
• Crochet pullover: For cool nights.
• Faux pearl necklace: For a stylish touch.

Day 3: Hiking

• Athletic shorts: The same comfy athletic shorts from the drive, comfortable and flexible for movement.
• Graphic tee: A tank top for hot weather, keeping you cool and comfortable.
• Knit sneakers: Comfy knit sneakers suitable for the terrain.
• Baseball hat: To block out the sun, sweat and bugs.

Night 3: Casual dinner

• Jeans: Classic dark wash skinny jeans to balance the oversized shirt.
• Button down top: Cool cotton, relaxed fit button-down shirt.
• Shoes: Bringing out the block heel again.
• Accessories: Bringing back the pearl necklace from the other night.

Day/Night 4: Beach day, night bonfire

• Bright colored one-piece bathing suit: Comfortable and a bit more polished.
• Jean shorts and an oversized button-down top: Acts as a cover-up if you need to grab lunch.
• Flip flops: Stylish yet comfortable shoes, easy to slip on/off or rinse off.
• Baseball hat and sunglasses: For added style and sun protection.
• Crochet pullover: Perfect for when the sun goes down.
• Claw clip: And for when the wind picks up.

Day 5: Winery

• Black bodysuit: The go-to classic for any occasion.
• Oversized boyfriend jeans: Comfortable yet stylish.
• Heels: Elevate the look with added sophistication.
• Pearl necklace: Adds a touch of elegance.
• Sunglasses: Perfect for that chic finish.

A capsule wardrobe of timeless, versatile pieces offers a sustainable alternative to fast fashion. Focusing on quality over quantity simplifies mornings, reduces decision fatigue and benefits the environment by minimizing waste. A well-curated capsule wardrobe ensures you have suitable outfits for various occasions while traveling, from casual sightseeing to elegant dinners. Happy packing!