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Packing A Travel Capsule Wardrobe for a Hot Girl Euro Summer

  • Writer: Ross Jones
    Ross Jones
  • Jul 20
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jul 27

The Allies Edit.


Sun, sandals, Aperol… and a suitcase that actually zips up? Consider us interested.


No one wants to be that person on the floor of the airport, sitting on their luggage, wearing ALL of their clothes while silently regretting packing four pairs of heels and a second sequin jumpsuit.


Some people panic-pack. Some people over-pack. And then there’s you, about to become that smug person at the airport who sails through security with a perfectly packed carry-on and an outfit so chic it looks like you stepped off Sofia Richie’s Pinterest board.


This is your no-fuss guide to building a travel capsule wardrobe and beauty kit for your Hot Girl Euro Summer, whether you’re hopping through the Greek islands, sweating your way through Paris in July, or living your best The White Lotus fantasy in Sicily (minus the murder, obviously).


Packing for a European summer holiday. Top tips from the team at Allies of Travel on packing your capsule wardrobe and beauty essentials.

Start with the Right Carry-On

If your suitcase isn’t working harder than you are, it’s the wrong suitcase.


Here’s what to look for:

  • Approved cabin bag sizing. Up to 56 x 45 x 25cm is standard for your large carry-on cabin bag, and 45 x 36 x 20cm is standard for your personal under seat cabin bag, but check the specific dimensions for your airline.

  • Hard shell for durability (and chic points)

  • 360° wheels to glide through airports like a pro

  • Built-in charging port so your phone’s alive when you finally find WiFi

  • Compression compartments, so yes, that extra kaftan can come too


Allies tip: opt for something neutral-toned and sleek so it goes with everything (even your airport outfit).



Your Hot Girl Capsule Formula

Packing smart doesn’t mean giving up the glam. The trick? Choose pieces that work together, layer well, and can easily transition from beach bar to rooftop dinner.


Here’s our go-to formula for a 4 to 10 day summer Euro trip:

  • 5 outfits that mix and match (linen is your best friend)

  • 5 beauty heroes that multitask (because we don’t have space for your full routine, babe)

  • 3 pairs of shoes. Think: chic pool slides, comfy trainers, and one dinner pair

  • 2 bags. A roomy beach tote and a small crossbody for city hopping



Allies-Approved Essentials

Our ride-or-dies that will have you gliding through departures like you’re auditioning for Love Island (but you packed better, obviously).


Here’s what’s currently living rent-free in our carry-ons:

  • Travel-size face mist. Cabin air is not your friend. Keep your skin happy (and your vibe dewy) with a spritz of something hydrating mid-flight or mid-heatwave.

  • SPF Stick. Top-up friendly, pocket-sized, and great for when you’re already glowing but don’t want to fry.

  • Multi-use balm. Think of it as your one-stop-glow-shop. Cuticles, cheekbones, dry patches, frizz, it does it all.

  • Packing cubes. TikTok wasn’t lying. Compression packing cubes are genuinely the key to saving space, staying organised, and feeling like the main character when you open your suitcase.



Looking Luxe (Even in 35°C Heat)

Let’s be honest, heat makes you feral if you’re not prepared. These are our go-tos to stay polished when your thighs are sticking to café chairs and your SPF is fighting for its life.

  • Blotting paper to stay shine-free and selfie-ready

  • Mini fan - chic and functional (and yes, people will ask where you got it)

  • SPF spray – top up without removing your base



As for the travel capsule wardrobe?

It’s not about what you spend, it’s about how you put it together. Looking luxe in the heat is all about choosing breathable fabrics, minimal accessories, and a bit of glow (preferably without melting).

Here’s how:

  • Stick to neutral tones – think white, beige, olive, and black

  • Keep jewellery simple but gold – instantly elevated

  • Pack one perfume that smells like a Brazilian sunset

  • Add statement sunglasses – oversized, glam, and cover 80% of your face for minimal effort, maximum effect

  • Always roll your clothes to avoid creases (and keep things zen)


A well-packed bag is about balance, a few luxuries, a few smart swaps, and the confidence of someone who remembered their SPF and their AirPods.


The Final Zip

Packing for a hot girl summer doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style or dragging a 23kg case through cobbled streets like some tragic Love Island dropout.

You don’t need 18 outfits to serve 10 days of looks. A little planning, a lot of neutrals, and a few clever Allies-approved hacks is all you need.


Here’s to the hot girl summer energy that starts in your suitcase and follows you all the way to the coast.

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