Summer vacation is just about to start and so is getting your wardrobe travel ready! Dresses are an essential in my summer wardrobe, and I’ve rounded up my absolute favorite ones to share with you. Ones I own and pack (and that I just wore in Portugal!), along with ones that I am eyeing that I know you will love too.

My favorite summer dress! I bought this for our vacation to Portugal and it’s definitely my favorite purchase of the season.
When I’m packing for a summer trip, dresses are my secret weapon. They make me feel put together with zero effort, and love that they take up less space in my suitcase than jeans and tops. The best part is they’re so easy to dress up or down! I’ll wear one with sneakers or my Tevas during the day, then swap in a chic sandal and a cute purse for dinner. These women’s travel dresses were effortless and perfect for European summer outfits.
The Best Women’s Travel Dresses for Summer
Black Maxi Dress | A black maxi dress is the travel MVP. It works for sightseeing during the day, and with some gold hoops and a strappy sandal, it instantly becomes a dinner outfit. The one I pack is flowy but not too bulky, and the fabric doesn’t wrinkle easily (key). Plus, it works just as well with sneakers as it does with sandals or a dressier shoe. A black maxi dress is perfect for plane rides, cooler evenings, last-minute plans when you don’t know the vibe. Look #1 | Look #2
White Linen Dress | A classic for a reason. There’s nothing more summery than a breezy white linen dress. I like one with a little shape so it doesn’t feel too sack-like, like something that cinches at the waist or has a nice silhouette. Yes, linen wrinkles, but it’s part of the charm (or that’s what I tell myself) so don’t stress too much about it. Linen is ideal for warm destinations, market mornings, or strolling through beach towns. Look #1 | Look #2
Floral Dress | A floral dress always makes it into my suitcase because it’s nice to have something that’s a bit more of a statement. (It also hides sweat better!) I love a floral dress for afternoons wine tasting, rooftop drinks, or exploring a new city. Look #1 | Look #2
T-Shirt Dress | This is one you feel great in after a day in the sun and maybe a quick rinse and slick back bun. I usually go for something midi length, not too tight, and easy to pair with simple heels or slides. It’s also a great dress for a travel day paired with a sweater and cute sneakers for the airport. Look #1 | Look #2
Day to Night Dress | This is your versatile, no-brainer piece, and is unique to you! It’s a dress you can wear with sandals during the day and a crossbody bag. Then come evening swap your accessories (shoes, jewelry, and maybe purse), for something a little dressier at night. I always like a slip dress or something in a soft, light fabric. Look #1 | Look #2

Dress // Dagne Dover Purse // Tevas // Similar Sweater // Sunglasses
This dress is a perfect example of a day to night dress! I wore this in Portugal during the day for a causal, sightseeing, and a lot of walking day. When we headed to dinner we just stopped by the hotel and I swapped my Tevas for a pair of kitten heels, like these, and off we went!
The Perfect Crochet Dress | Crochet is having a moment, and I am 100% here for it. These dresses are fun, breathable, and surprisingly wearable, especially layered over a swimsuit or out to dinner. Look #1 | Look #2


This dress from Everlane was a bit of a splurge, but it’s something that honestly, made me feel beautiful! I really love the crochet look for something chic, yet totally wearable. This one in particular does snag easily, so be careful with your purse and jewelry!
Shop My Favorite Summer Travel Dresses
Traveling in summer means packing smart, and for me, that means relying on easy dresses that make me feel pulled together without trying too hard. Whether you’re heading to Europe, a weekend getaway, or a warm city escape, these dresses have you covered!
If you’re planning your European summer outfits or trying to find the perfect women’s travel dress that checks all the boxes – cute, comfortable, lightweight, and easy to wear – these are the exact ones I packed (and actually wore!) on my latest trip. These dresses are ideal for everything from coastal vacations to city exploring, and they’ll help you feel stylish without overthinking it.
Let me know which one is your favorite, or what dress you never travel without!
You Might Also Like:
Leave a Reply