Packing for Spring Trips Is Hard, so I Made a List of 8 Useful Things to Bring

As someone who has no less than three trips planned already for the upcoming months, I've been thinking a lot about my spring packing wardrobe and dressing for the season in general. The problem is that the weather can be wildly unpredictable this time of year in many places. It's not out of the ordinary for it to be chilly and raining one day and sunny and summer-like the next. Once spring hits, I no longer want to dress like it's winter, but I'm not ready to dress for summer yet either. All of this adds up to spring being a difficult season to pack and plan outfits for.

If you invest in a handful of versatile, travel-friendly items for every spring trip, I think you'll find that you have a much easier time packing. Keep scrolling to shop these useful pieces before your springtime vacations creep up on you.

Lightweight Jacket or Trench Coat

I admittedly shudder slightly when someone tells me I'll just need a "light jacket," as adequate ones can be so hard to find. Over the years, I've found that either a trench coat or something like a leather bomber jacket is perfect for travel.

Cream-Colored Jeans

I wear jeans a ton when I travel, but in the spring, a lighter wash feels more seasonally appropriate. I'm particularly fond of cream-colored jeans for daytime travel outfits.

Slingback Shoes or Mules

Slingbacks and mules are the ideal spring shoes. I'm not quite ready to wear sandals—especially in early spring—but I don't want to wear heavy shoes. Slingbacks and mules are the perfect solution. I recommend packing a heeled and a flat version.

Lightweight Crewneck Cardigan

Crewneck cardigans are great for occasions when you want to dress up a bit but still want to be comfortable. Not only are they trendy, but they're also the perfect weight for spring, and you probably won't even need a jacket.

Blazer

In lieu of a jacket, I'll often wear a blazer in the spring. It won't take up that much suitcase space, and it'll add polish to even just jeans and a tee.

Button-Down Shirt

I always pack at least one button-down (usually oversize) when I travel in the spring. It's great for the plane, throwing on over a swimsuit, etc. It's the perfect shirt for days when the temperatures are in the 70s.

White Midi Skirt

White midi skirts are quite trendy right now, but they also just make an amazing travel piece. They're comfortable, versatile, and chic. You can wear it during the day with ballet flats or at night with kitten heels.

Long-Sleeve Tee

Last but not least, perhaps the most important basic you'll need is long-sleeve T-shirts. They're great for layering, wearing on the plane, or just tucking into straight-leg jeans. If the temperatures are hovering in the 60s, you'll be comfortable in this.