Packing for Summer Vacation!

Hooray, it's officially Summer vacation season! I'm going to test out using Polyvore on my blog (and the start of an advice category!) and pack a virtual suitcase for all of you!

1. First and most important is the suitcase! The one show is only $99 at Target and comes in the shown silver as well as green, blue and pink.
   
2. I recommend bring at least two bathing suits, even if you're only going for a long weekend! This way you can fade tan lines from one suit to the other! I mean, you should be wearing sun screen!!! A bandeau suit is good for lounging in the sun and this pink one has sides that prevent muffin top that aren't as skimpy as side ties. It costs $170 at Net-A-Porter. The reversible halter is better for most active endeavors such as wind surfing and the like. Plus it's like two suits in one! It costs $194 at Couture Candy.
3. Don't forget a cover up too!
4. A sundress is key, which can take you from a stroll down the boardwalk to hitting the local club. This bright yellow one from Topshop is only about $71.
5. Shoes are usually the biggest space suckers in a suitcase. Whenever possible, I recommend wearing your largest shoes when traveling, and packing the smaller pairs up. So don some wedges in the car / plane / bus / train, like these silver ones that match almost anything. And they're only $104 at Nordstrom. As for your actual beach shoes, I actually recommend something with a decent sole so you can use them for tourist-y walking too. These Birkenstocks from eLuxury fit the bill perfectly!
6. Last year Juicy Couture came out with a beach bag that included a straw mat. Now Newport News has one for only $34! Though I admit, I do prefer a regular, absorbent beach towel, like this one from Old Navy.
7. Eek, we're running out of room in our suitcase, even if we do stuff some things in the beach bag separately! We should also bring a small purse, one that matches our nice shoes like this mini bag from from eBags, only $42!
   
8. You should also bring jeans (boot cut would be the most versatile) and either a pair of denim shorts or a denim skirt, depending on your plans. I usually prefer a skirt because it's easier to dress up in a pinch, like this dark mini from American Eagle.
9. As for jewelry, I love the idea of wearing jewelry on the beach, but it's not always the most practical. Plus, tan lines! I recommend wearing some studs in your ears and that's it.
   
10. Finally a few tops, including a long sleeved cardigan for brisk nights.
    

If you're run out of room, remember you can always use a hotel towel to lay out on! That should buy you at least four more pieces space-wise.
You can click on my image to get to Polyvore, which should how all the individual items clickable!