13 Things to Always Pack If Looking Like a Tourist Is Your Worst Nightmare

As we gear up for the spring and summer travel season, now is a great time to think about your travel wardrobe before you're faced with a last-minute shopping scramble (I've been there many times, and it isn't pretty). The thing that guides me when shopping and packing for a trip is looking like I live in the city I'm visiting (or at least like I spend a lot of time there). Not that there's anything wrong with being a tourist or dressing like one, but I prefer to blend in with the locals as much as I can. And I find that there are a handful of items that I always gravitate toward to help me achieve this.

Obviously depending on where you're traveling to and what time of year it is, there will be variances in what you pack, but in general, the items I've listed below work for a number of locations and seasons. They're wardrobe staples that will make you look polished and feel comfortable (and that you'll also wear when in the city you do live in). Keep scrolling to shop some of my favorite versions of the chic suitcase-friendly essentials in advance of your future trips.

Loafers

A pair of comfortable flats that aren't sneakers is something I pact for every single destination. Your outfit will never look sloppy when wearing them.

Black Blazer

For chilly evenings especially, a black blazer is my go-to "jacket", and you can opt for one in linen or wool (or anything) in between, depending on the climate of the city you're visiting.

Tailored Shorts

My advice? Skip the cut-offs and instead pack tailored shorts that'll look appropriate for a wide variety of activities—even chic restaurants if paired with the right shoe.

Silk Skirt

If you pack just one skirt, make it a silk slip skirt. It can easily be dressed up or down and takes up barely any space in your suitcase.

Trench Coat

For city trips especially, a trench coat is a no-brainer. it'll instantly make whatever you're wearing look posh.

Black Bikini or One-Piece

I rarely travel without throwing at least one swimsuit in my suitcase, and 9 times out of 10, it's an elegant black bikini or one-piece.

White Button-Down Shirt

Pair it with the slip skirt for night, the tailored shorts for day, and the swimsuit for the beach—it's that versatile.

Stovepipe Jeans

If you're going to pack just one pair of jeans (and oftentimes that's all you need), make it a pair of stovepipe jeans. They're timeless and work with every type of shoe.

Lightweight Crewneck Sweater

It's always good to have a sweater on hand—even in the summer. A lightweight crewneck one is all you need.

Minimal Sneakers

I hate to say it, but the sneakers someone wears can be a dead giveaway that they're a tourist. If you want to play it safe, opt for a sleek, minimal pair.

Linen Dress

A linen dress will make you look elegant, keep you cool, and won't require much suitcase retail space. Plus, it can easily be taken from day to night.

Kitten-Heel Pumps or Mules

You never know what terrain you're going to dealing with when traveling, so if you're going to pack a pair of heels, go with kitten heels. Mules or pumps are my go-tos.

Solid-Colored Boxy T-Shirt

Skip the oversized tees and baby tees and opt for a simple boxy one if you want to blend in with the city's fellow chic residents.