Blog - Travelista

What I Packed for 12 Days in Europe This Summer in a Carry-On

I just got back from 12 days in Europe this summer, all in a carry-on. It was a wonderful trip to Europe that took me from Lisbon to Paris, with many points in between. Despite multiple packing needs for this trip I traveled carry-on only and relied on my Travelista capsule wardrobe method to get me through all kinds of travel scenarios.This was also my first cruise (with my experienced-cruiser mom), and it was a fantastic experience. In this post, I’m walking you through how I planned my capsule, why I added a mini capsule for the cruise, what I wore most, what[...]

Carry-On Capsules, Travelista Tips

Best summer travel sandals for europe

Table of Contents When choosing the best summer travel sandals for Europe, comfort can’t take a back seat to style. I just returned from a 12‑day trip where I averaged 10,000–20,000 steps a day, so I know firsthand how crucial the right shoe is for any travel capsule wardrobe. From Lisbon’s pastel‑washed hills to weaving through Paris’s arrondissements, I saw one style everywhere: Birkenstock’s Arizona style sandal. Tourists and locals alike couldn’t get enough of them. I’ve been a Birkenstock fan sinc[...]

Carry-On Capsules, Packing

The Only 12 Pieces You Need to Pack for Europe This Summer

2025 Summer Europe Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Packing for Europe in the summer doesn’t have to mean checking a suitcase or cramming your bag with “just-in-case” outfits. With the Travelista 12 formula, my signature 12-piece capsule wardrobe method, you can pack smart, look chic, and still be ready for everything from cobblestone streets to rooftop dinners. This summer version keeps the same structure, but with the flexibility to add more dresses, fewer layers, and pieces that thrive in hot weather.Let’s break down exactly what you need—and how to make it your own. Carry-on only packing method[...]

Travel Inspiration

Spring to Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe Guide for Europe

Spring to Summer transition travel capsule wardrobe for Europe

Spring is in full bloom, but summer travel plans are heating up—and so is the weather. This spring to summer travel capsule wardrobe guide will help you dress appropriately for rising temperatures, and the challenge of packing for unpredictable forecasts. This spring to summer travel capsule wardrobe guide is designed with European travel in mind, but the tips can be adapted for any warm-weather destination.You don’t have to overhaul your entire travel capsule wardrobe to travel smart.A few strategic swaps are all you need to keep your style, your vibe, and[...]

Carry-On Capsules, Packing

Your Spring Travel Capsule for Europe: Layered Looks for Every Forecast

Spring Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Europe

Packing for a spring trip to Europe can feel like a puzzle—one day it’s 48°F and drizzly, the next it’s sunny and pushing 80. That’s why a layered travel capsule wardrobe is the smartest way to pack.With weather that ranges from chilly mornings to warm afternoons (and a chance of rain in between), your travel wardrobe needs to work across the spectrum. Think: a packable puffer and cashmere sweater for those upper 40s mornings, and a tank top or short-sleeve tee for when the sun comes out and temps hit the high 70s or beyond.The key is versatility and laye[...]

Carry-On Capsules, Travelista Tips

How to Pack a Winter Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Cold Weather Trips

Table of Contents Why Winter Travel Packing Is Different Packing a winter travel capsule wardrobe for cold weather trips can feel overwhelming—bulky coats, unpredictable weather, and the temptation to overpack make it tricky to stay stylish and pack light. In fact, if it were not for carry-on restrictions I'd probably overpack outerwear. But with smart planning and a well-curated capsule, you can stay warm, travel light, and look effortlessly chic—whether you’re exploring European cities or visiting any big city destination in winter.This guid[...]