As a travel writer and Floridian, I can pack a summer suitcase in my sleep. But when it comes to fall, I have to think carefully about versatile pieces that aren’t too bulky and that fit well (I’m eternally cold). A minimalist fall wardrobe may seem simple in theory, but it faces the challenges of unpredictable weather and drastically fluctuating temperatures. Packing for fall means considering practicality, light layers, and appropriate footwear.
Many of these travel writer-approved finds also come recommended by hundreds of other Amazon shoppers. With plain white t-shirts, basic buttonsand comfortable travel pantsThese fashion staples are the foundation of the perfect fall capsule wardrobe and start at just $12.
Best Overall Picks
Tailored pants
Baleaf Wide Leg Travel Stretch Dress Pants
Amazon
The pants are no longer the rigid, structured pants of the past. Today’s comfortable pants look stylish but feel as comfortable as your favorite pair of sweatpants. Pack a pair that you can dress up or down, like These stretchy, wide-leg Baleaf pants They come in versatile shades like black, brown, and navy, which tend to be ideal for preventing light stains if you accidentally spill them mid-ride. To complete your selection of pants, I suggest adding leggings and comfortable jeans to your suitcase.
quilted jacket
Eddie Bauer Cirruslite Down Jacket
Amazon
Packing warm clothes is where things can quickly get out of hand: before you know it, you’re sitting on your suitcase and breaking the zipper. As much as I love fall outerwear, like a denim jacket, leather jacket, or blazer, I can’t fit them all in a carry-on. Instead, I choose a versatile option, which is my preferred “puffed” (or down-filled) jacket. In addition to being one of the best ways to stay warm, puffer jackets are also incredibly packable, like this one. Eddie Bauer down jacket which is insulated for cold days but can be folded or rolled up to almost half its size. If you have compression packing cubes that remove empty air, a bloated bag shrinks even more.
Raincoat
SaphiRose Water Resistant Trench Coat
Amazon
Although puffer jackets are warm, they are not always water repellent. That’s why I always wear a trench coat too. This classic silhouette It can help take outfits from casual to dressy and protects me from getting soaked if I get caught in the shower. One shopper said this midi trench worked well in ParisHe added: “I loved the detachable hood. It fit great, the material wasn’t cheap, it kept me warm and the belt gives it a flattering fit.”
Knitted cardigan
Grace Karin Classic Long Sleeve Knit Cardigan
Amazon
Sweaters are comfortable, but they can be bulky to wear and pack for quick trips. A simple cardigan can be worn as a light layer or on its own, tucked in for a nice look. This Grace Karin Cardigan It has an average rating of 4.4 stars and comes in 29 different colors, making it versatile and easy to find a neutral shade to match your outfit.
wool vest
Tuduoms Sherpa Vest
Amazon
Like a cardigan, a vest is another versatile layer to pack. I look for a vest instead of a long-sleeved chunky knit sweater because it offers better control of my body temperature and takes up less space in my luggage. A fleece vest will keep my core warm, while the absence of sleeves will make me feel better if a fall day turns unexpectedly hot. This cozy vest It has a slightly oversized fit, making it ideal for layering with other t-shirts.
Layered button
Mutitop Button Down Shirt
Amazon
A white button-down shirt isn’t just a fall staple; It’s a staple for all seasons. No matter where I go, I have one in my luggage. I wear this style of shirt tucked in for a more formal look or untucked as an extra layer over a t-shirt. This mutitop button-down shirt It’s made from 100 percent cotton, so it won’t have a synthetic feel and will be breathable and lightweight, perfect for fall days turning sunny and warm.
midi dress
Amazon Essentials Short Sleeve V-Neck Knit Midi Dress
Amazon
During travel days where I will be sitting for long periods of time, I avoid pants that cut into my waist. Instead, I look for a midi dress, like this option with V neckthat you will feel comfortable all day. I wear a button-down shirt, a scarf, and a coat so I can take off the layers if I’m hot. This comfortable travel ensemble can double as a going-out dress for a nice restaurant reservation when you pair it with jewelry and a silk scarf.
Chelsea Boots
Chaco Fields Chelsea Waterproof
Amazon
For easy, versatile fall footwear, wear a boot that can handle everything from a simple walk to a dinner reservation at a restaurant. A Chelsea boot is a classic profile that can do it all. Chaco is known for making excellent walking sandals and his boots They are sure to be just as durable and reliable with the same sturdy sole and comfortable insole for walking long distances.
Layered T-shirts
Amazon Essentials Classic Fit Short-Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt, Pack of 2
Amazon
Simple t-shirts will be the basis of every outfit on a fall trip. Sweaters and cardigans can be tricky to wash, so I always wear a t-shirt under heavier layers so I can go a little longer between washes. In the fall, you’ll also find that temperatures rise dramatically during the day as the sun rises, and this may justify taking off all those warm layers you needed in the morning. For a 10 day trip, I suggest packing. two white t-shirts and two black t-shirtsand then add two wildcard colors of choice. If you don’t like the V-neck, opt for a crew-neck cut, like this madewell shirt.
Water-repellent day bag + dry bag
Vera Bradley Lorman Nylon Crossbody Backpack
Amazon
Fall brings foggy, rainy conditions. If you’re exploring, you’ll want a lightweight bag that protects your stuff from getting wet. This Honda Vera Bradley is made from recycled nylon and is water repellent, while these fun printed dry bags will keep technology and valuables free of moisture even in a downpour.
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