15 Cooling Summer Clothes for Traveling to Hot Places

As a mom of school-aged twins, my best shot at a proper two-week family getaway often falls in July, when the kids are out of school. It also happens to be birthday month for my kids and me, so travel often doubles as a celebration. We’ve spent recent summers in sweltering peak-heat places like Greek islands, the Dalmatian coast, Rome, Amalfi, and Tokyo—all incredible experiences, and all also so hot that we were practically melting.

But we’ve still had fabulous, memory-making trips, because I know by now how to dress and prep for the conditions. From breathable fabrics to sweat-friendly styles, I’ve learned what works and what’s just not worth packing. Here are the go-to summer clothes and accessories I rely on to stay cool and comfortable (and even look passably cute in pics!)—no matter how hot it gets on our travels.

Anrabess Two-piece Matching Set

I’m always looking for matching sets that make packing easier, and this two-piece outfit has a lightweight linen-blend fabric that is breezy and breathable, perfect for hot days and long travel legs alike. The set includes wide-leg pants with an elastic waist and a loose, boxy top that’s comfy enough for the plane but polished enough for sightseeing or dinner on those Mediterranean summer nights. It comes in tons of colors and packs down wrinkle-free. And I love that you can mix and match each piece with other staples in your suitcase for versatility.

Lentta V‑neck Sleeveless Harem Jumpsuit

This lightweight, loose-fitting jumpsuit is the real packing MVP—throw on the single-piece wardrobe, and you're ready to go. The roomy cut and breathable cotton blend mean comfort during long flights, while the adjustable straps ensure a perfect fit so it never feels sloppy. The oversized pockets and flowy silhouette make it both cute and totally functional even when you're dripping sweat on super-hot travel days at your destination. 

Stelle Skort With Pockets

If chafing is a real concern when you sweat, especially on walking-heavy trips, this comfy skort solves that problem with built-in bike shorts that provide smooth, breathable coverage and prevent thigh rub. The outer pleated skirt offers a cute, polished look and is deceivingly fashion forward for such a performance-driven packing staple. The fabric is lightweight, stretchy, and quick-drying, making it ideal for humid climates. Plus, it has pockets for convenience and a high waistband that will stay put.

Quince Organic Cotton Gauze Jumpsuit

This Quince jumpsuit is a great way to stay looking polished and feeling breezy even in peak heat. The double‑knit organic cotton gauze is lightweight, breathable, and soft, with a smocked bodice for flattering, comfy wear. Its exaggerated wide legs let air flow freely, and the adjustable straps and functional pockets add practical style. With a silhouette that transitions from daytime explorations to an evening out, it’s easy to look put‑together without overheating (or, heaven forbid, ironing). 

Ewedoos Tennis Dress

Court-inspired style is having a major moment, and this one-piece tennis dress is a hot-weather wardrobe dream—throw it on, and you're ready for just about any type of travel day. Made from moisture-wicking, four‑way stretch fabric, it keeps you seriously cool. The built-in shelf bra and shorts offer seamless support and coverage (no extra layers needed), the hidden pockets easily fit a phone, and the A-line shape is flattering yet roomy.

Crocs Women’s Brooklyn Low-wedge Sandal

To each their own, but I cannot personally endorse clog-style Crocs for adults, sartorially speaking. But these are another story. The Crocs Brooklyn Low-wedge Sandal is everything I want in a summer travel shoe: they’re lightweight, cushioned, and stylish. The two-inch lift adds just enough height without sacrificing comfort, and the flexible, water-friendly design holds up in heat, humidity, and even sudden tropical downpours. Unlike heavy leather sandals that trap sweat, these are breathable and quick to dry. Plus, they come in several colors and go with everything from breezy dresses to shorts. 

Kafka Kool Tie

A must-have travel cooling accessory, this lightweight neck scarf is filled with polymer crystals that, once soaked, provide soothing evaporative relief—ideal when you're sweating through hot sightseeing days. It stays cool for hours, lowers your core temperature, and can be rehydrated again and again for frequent use. It rolls up small and weighs next to nothing, so it's perfect for stuffing into a carry-on or daypack.

J.Crew Factory Packable Straw Hat

A wide-brim hat is non-negotiable for sun protection in peak summer—but truly travel-proof options are rare (despite widespread claims to the contrary). This straw hat is the only one I’ve never managed to sweat out of shape or crush beyond repair. Made from resilient paper-straw, it folds, flattens, or rolls effortlessly into any bag, then springs back into shape upon arrival. It really retains its shape and has a generously sized brim that keeps the sun’s harsh rays at bay.

Magicsuit Bianca One‑piece Romper Swimsuit

Typically, I'm not drawn to swim dresses for actual swimming, since they often look frumpy to me. But this swim romper nails it as a super chic outfit, perfect for staying dry and cool on a hot, balmy day. Its silhouette offers top thigh coverage while staying totally airy and practical in intense heat. The soft-cup bust and built-in tummy control smooth nicely, and the adjustable halter straps ensure a perfect fit. I wore this one on an almost intolerably hot day trip from Sorrento to Capri, and it was easy to wear, sleek to look at, and appropriate for sightseeing under the scorching sun.

Cozy Earth Bamboo Stretch‑knit Short‑sleeve & Pant Pajama Set

I'm a woman of a certain age, and I tend to sleep hot any time of year—so I definitely need pajamas prepared to handle hot-weather travel when it’s July and I’m in some European Airbnb without adequate air conditioning. This viscose-from-bamboo knit set hits all the marks; it's silky-soft, moisture-wicking, and breathable enough to prevent night sweats on scorching summer nights. It drapes nicely without bunching, and details like contrast piping, button-front top, and side pockets keep it both practical and polished for lounging. 

The North Face Horizon Breeze Brimmer Hat

If your main priority from a hat is performance rather than shade and style, then this The North Face one gets the job done no matter the conditions. Crafted from recycled nylon with ventilation panels and a drying sweatband, it keeps you dry and cool under even intense sun and weather conditions. Despite its soft, packable construction, the three‑inch brim stays put (even in wind) thanks to an adjustable crown and chin cord. With UPF 40-plus sun protection and a Skin Cancer Foundation seal, it's built more for function than fashion, and it definitely delivers.

Offline by Aerie Real Me Xtra Halter Tank Top

I knew I had to try this court-inspired tank for myself after it went viral on TikTok, and now it's a summer essential for heat-wracked travel days. No bra is required—the built-in shelf keeps everything secure—which removes one layer from the equation and adds so much to the comfort factor overall. The butter-soft, ultra-lightweight material wicks sweat and packs tight without creasing, making it ideal for stuffing into a carry‑on. The halter cut provides shoulder coverage but stays breezy, and makes for an overall elevated look that works equally well with cut-offs or a cute skirt for dinner.

Wayre Travel Pocket Flow Short

These featherlight shorts are made for seriously hot-weather travel. The fabric is soft, quick-drying, and wrinkle-resistant, so they pack down small and look fresh right out of the suitcase. I especially love the deep zippered pockets, which are roomy enough to fit my phone without bulging or bouncing. The high-rise waistband is comfortable for long sightseeing days. Paired with the matching tank (more on that next), they make for a polished set that feels like loungewear but looks totally pulled together—especially given the chic neutral hues in the range.

Wayre Boxy Shift & Snap Tank

Like I said, I’m a huge fan of matching sets for travel—they make packing and outfit planning so effortless. This breathable tank is the perfect partner to the previous matching shorts, and I wear them both together and also as separates for sweaty trips. It’s cut from a silky-feeling, technical fabric that resists odors, stains, and wrinkles (key when you’re sweating through a European heat wave). The boxy shape and subtle back snaps add airflow and style, and the whole outfit can be rinsed in a hotel sink and re-worn with no stress.

Eyebobs Anomaly Sunglasses

I have blue eyes that are super sensitive to light, so sunglasses are totally essential, especially on sunny summer days. I always pack more than one pair for travel so I can use varying styles to express a dose of individuality, not to mention coordinate with my travel outfits. These colorful yet neutral acetate frames add instant personality, and they have a full tint that offers 100-percent UV protection. Plus, the lenses are scratch-resistant and anti-glare, a must when scouting sunny streets or beaches.

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