I’m only 3 weeks away from our big family vacation and I can’t wait!! While I’m still holding our destination close to the chest (I don’t want to jinx it) it’s a trip that none of us have done before. We are headed someplace warm with pools and beaches and lots of family fun stuff to do. Since we will need to take a plane I’m gathering all our essentials so that final packing will be easier.
I always look to Nordstrom when planning vacation outfits and essentials because they have an easy “vacation” tabs on their website for women, men & kids. It has really helped me check off my list of things we have and need. Also with their free shipping & returns it is so easy to grab a few options then return if something doesn’t fit or work out.

Tank | Shorts | Similar Bag | Sandals
Fit Tips: Tank size down if in-between, prefer L // Shorts tts, L // Sandals size up1/2
I always start my packing with staples like shorts and tanks. I love the Caslon tanks because they area thicker material and wider straps so wearing a regular bra is easy.
These linen blend shorts are also a great vacation picks because although they have linen they don’t end up too wrinkly and the pull on style is comfortable.

The shorts are a mid-rise and have a nice wider waist band making them cute for shirts tucked in or out. Plus with the pull-on style they are easy to throw on over a swimsuit.

Now I also try and bring a couple bag options for vacation. This one has a great size for heading to the beach or pool when I’m trying to stuff towels, sunscreen, flip flops and reading devices for the entire family.
Unfortunately this exact stripe has sold out but there are a bunch of new combos in this same size.

Fit Tips: Size up 1/2
The next on my essentials list are sandals! I like to bring one pair that I can dress up like the Tory Burch Miller sandals and a pair I don’t mind getting wet.

Tanks | Shorts | Flip Flops | Sunglasses
My go to casual flip flops are Havaianas since they have ha slight textured insole so that even wet feet don’t slip. Lightweight feel and great thin nude strap (yet let’s be be real I have these in 3 colors I love them so much!)

Another packing must have is sunscreen, while I didn’t show ALL the sunscreen I pack and love last year I fell for this great face sunscreen. It has the texture of a silicone based primer so it goes on super smooth without being too cakey or greasy. I’ve also tried the GLOW version that give just a bit of shimmer and tint while having a more mineral feel.

Tee | Shorts | Flip Flops | Sunglasses
Fit Tips: Tee tts, L // Denim Shorts size down if in-between, 12 // Flip Flops tts
Also in my must pack list is some cute tees and denim shorts. This casual outfit it perfect for just hanging out. The denim shorts have just enough stretch and loosen as you wear them so size down if in-between.

Finally add some sunglasses and a swimsuit and I’m just about ready! This Becca swimsuit is so stunning because it shows just enough skin without being too revealing. I like this new version with a bit thicker, adjustable strap and halter style.

Now that I’m packed and ready let’s be real even in March for Spring Break most places are still chilly at home so I wear a comfortable pair of leggings and coat tunic to stay comfy on the plane and while traveling.

Tunic | Zella Pocket Crop Leggings | Sneakers | Calpak suitcase
Fit Tips: Tunic tts, L // Leggings tts, L // Sneakers tts
This carry-on will not be big enough for our family Spring Break this year since we will be gone for 8 nights but it has been a great bag for weekend trips. I most likely will have my daughter use this one for all her stuff this year.

Hope you are headed someplace special, have all your flights arrive on time and stay healthy!! While we all want to get back to “normal” having patience with all the individuals in the travel industry is so important. Give your yourself extra time and pack a snack, I’m never a great traveler when I’m hangry!


Professional Photos by Audrie Dollins. This post is created in collaboration with Nordstrom and LTK, but all product selections, opinions and styling are my own.
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Great suggestions! Thanks
Great post!! Love a good linen short that does not wrinkle (so many of them do)! I also loved the reminder to be kind and have patience—also more snacks for all ;)!
Always on the lookout for cute, comfy shorts to break up all the denim ones. Love these linen blend, and the no wrinkle is a great bonus!
These are great!! I love the green pull on shorts and the tanks. Will have to look into getting those! The sunglasses are super cute too 🙂
Awesome ideas. Love the miller sandal!
I love the Miller sandals!! Classic piece for spring and summer.
I absolutely love the Goop Unseen Sunscreen. I use it as a primer everyday for my make up and it is the bomb!
I love the linen shorts and the tunic!
Lots of good tips! I love that beach bag😍
Love it all & can’t wait to hear about your trip! Also need the sunglasses!! 😎
Cute essentials! Love the black one-piece swimsuit!
We’ve been on over 20 cruises with kids and without…here are some of my cruise tips….FYI…there is never enough space in the room for kids and stuff!
Make sure you all have cruise lanyards…
Go to Dollar Store and purchase magnetic clips…the walls on all cruise ships are magnetic. They are great for your sea pass lanyards (hang right near door) as well as getting towels off the floor, wet bathing suits, and anything else.
Bring a ton of sunscreen. It is super expensive on the ship or in ports.
If you are not purchasing a drink package, make sure you all have water bottles. If you don’t purchase a package, you have to buy every single water bottle.
When you get to the ship, they will take ALL your luggage. Make sure you have have a carry on bag with you to keep bathing suits, and sunscreen for that first day. Sometimes you won’t get your bags until 7pm that night and the kids will probably want to swim right away!
Have fun!