Here’s how to build a versatile, stylish travel wardrobe with 10 affordable pieces

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There’s plenty to deal with when planning a trip; your packing list doesn’t need to be one of them. If you wear men’s clothing, it’s relatively easy to build a travel wardrobe that can take you just about anywhere — be it a business trip or a seaside retreat. Ahead is a brief guide on how to build a travel wardrobe, and an example of a lean, mean (and affordable) 10-piece packing list to fill any gaps in your current setup.

How to Build a Travel Wardrobe

Excluding underwear, socks, and accessories, men’s wardrobes really boil down to four categories: shoes, bottoms, tops, and layers. If you’re trying to keep your suitcase as light as possible, there are only a couple of pieces within those categories that you’ll need to be ready for anything.

Shoes: Two pairs of shoes will be enough for most trips. In my opinion, that’s loafers and sneakers. Loafers obviously satisfy any dressier adventures, but they’re mellow enough to wear casually too. Sneakers are necessary for walking, and the right pair won’t look out of place in vacation settings around sandals.

Bottoms: Unless you need a full suit, jeans, chinos, and shorts will be enough for almost any trip. Jeans and chinos can be dressed up or down, and shorts are always good to have in case the weather warms up.

Tops: Shirting should be the most abundant section of your suitcase. A flexible but minimal setup for most trips can be a dress shirt, a casual button-up, a polo, and a T-shirt. That will satisfy all levels of dress codes, and (more importantly) keep you comfortable.

Layers: Outerwear, sweaters, and jackets are the most variable part of a travel wardrobe, depending on the weather at your destination. But the two things you’ll usually want to bring are a blazer or sport coat and a sweater. Add a big coat and more sweaters for chilly trips.

Travel Wardrobe Essentials from Men’s Wearhouse

Ahead, I’ve created a sample suitcase using 10 travel-ready pieces from one retailer: Men’s Wearhouse. Although best known for its suits, the always dependable retailer has some great travel pieces, too (and they’re all very affordable).