You’re heading off for a romantic weekend with your person, and it feels good. Except, the minute you unzip your bag at the hotel, you realize you packed everything except your sanity and the only bra you actually like. Don’t let that happen. A little strategy goes a long way, and no, it doesn’t mean you need to pack your entire closet or every face mask you’ve hoarded. You want to feel confident, relaxed, and ready to enjoy your partner, not stress about your lack of outfit options or the fact that your phone charger is still on your nightstand.

Easy Dresses That Actually Work

You need a couple of dresses that won’t wrinkle in your suitcase and won’t make you regret your lunch. Think of them as your getaway uniform. A soft slip dress you can throw on for dinner or wandering into town, and a breezy midi that feels like vacation the moment you pull it over your head. It’s not about impressing anyone but yourself, though if it makes him do a double-take, even better. Pair with sandals you can walk in for hours, because nothing kills a getaway vibe like having to limp back to the hotel because your shoes are punishing you for wanting to look cute.

Leave the fussy stuff at home. You’re not here to win an award for Most Overdressed Person in a Coastal Town. You’re here to soak in late mornings, early cocktails, and let your shoulders relax for once.

Swimwear That Doesn’t Make You Swear

A romantic getaway almost always involves water, whether that’s a hot tub, a beach, or a pool you’ll only dip your toes in before deciding the water’s too cold. Don’t bring six random bikinis you don’t even like. Bring one that makes you feel fantastic and is actually comfortable when you’re sitting poolside with a drink in your hand or chasing down a cabana boy for more ice. This is where you’ll want to pack the plunge one piece swimsuit that makes you feel confident and ready to sun yourself without constant adjustments or worrying you’ll flash the family in the lounge chairs next to you.

It’s a simple truth: good swimwear can change your entire mood on a trip. It frees up headspace for better things, like deciding which cocktail to order next or actually getting in the water without hesitation.

Beauty Staples, Not Your Entire Vanity

Pack your skincare favorites but resist the urge to bring every serum you own. Think cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, and one serum if you really can’t live without it. If you’re worried about looking alive for dinner after a day in the sun, throw in a cream blush that doubles as a lip tint and a brow gel. Done. This is a vacation, not a YouTube tutorial shoot.

Don’t skip sunscreen, no matter how good that tan sounds in your head. Sunburn isn’t romantic, and you’ll regret it while trying to sleep in hotel sheets. If you’re wearing makeup, a tinted moisturizer with SPF will keep things simple. Hair-wise, a leave-in conditioner and a small travel brush keep your hair from turning into a salt-rimmed mess if you’re hitting the beach.

Perfume? Bring one scent that feels like vacation, not your workday. You’ll start associating it with the trip, and it’s a small luxury that feels worth it when you spritz before dinner.

Comfort Pieces For Downtime

Even the most exciting getaway has downtime, and you’ll want clothes that make you feel comfortable without looking like you’re in your worst “sick day at home” outfit. Pack a soft tee or tank and shorts you like, plus a lightweight sweater for chilly mornings on the balcony or late-night walks back from dinner.

If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchenette or even just a minibar, you’ll end up snacking in your room, hanging out in bed, and eating your favorite summer foods while talking late into the night. You’ll be glad you brought something cozy that doesn’t feel sloppy when you’re ordering room service at 10 p.m. because you couldn’t resist another dessert.

A good robe can also be a game-changer. It turns a basic hotel bathroom into your own personal spa, and you’ll thank yourself when you’re lounging with your coffee in the morning without having to get dressed right away.

The Extras That Make It Special

Pack a portable charger. Seriously, your phone will die in the middle of taking sunset photos, and you’ll be annoyed. A small crossbody bag is your best friend for walks, dinners, and shopping trips when you don’t want to lug a tote. Sunglasses that actually block the sun (and hide tired eyes) are non-negotiable, as is a hat if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors.

Bring a small bottle of your favorite wine or sparkling water if you’re driving to your destination. It’s a sweet way to start the weekend when you arrive. If you’re flying, consider packing a travel-sized candle for your room. It’s an easy way to make a standard hotel room feel like yours for a few days, and it can shift the energy from travel mode to getaway mode instantly.

You don’t need much, but the right extras can elevate your trip without taking up half your carry-on.

A Little Something For The Mood

If you want to keep things romantic, it doesn’t hurt to pack a small speaker for music in your room while you’re getting ready or winding down. Bring a playlist you both like, or keep it easy with a jazz or chill playlist that doesn’t feel like you’re in a dentist’s office.

And if you want to pack lingerie, do it for yourself first, not because you think you have to. A set you feel confident in, whether that’s something lacy or just your favorite cotton bralette, can add to your confidence and keep the mood light. But if you don’t want to, skip it and move on.

It’s about making the getaway feel easy and enjoyable, not adding stress or an obligation to “perform” for the trip.

The Wrap Up

Travel is about getting away from your day-to-day, not replicating the same stress in a prettier setting. Pack light, but pack smart, with things that make you feel good and allow you to be present. You’re not going to look back and wish you’d packed more shoes or your entire skincare cabinet. You’re going to remember the way the air smelled, the feel of your partner’s hand in yours, and how nice it was to wake up somewhere else for a bit. Travel well, enjoy yourself, and let the rest go.