What to Pack for a Trip to Croatia + Outfit Inspiration

Jul 26

YOU’RE GOING TO CROATIA — YAY! 🇭🇷✨

Crystal-clear water. Endless Aperol spritzes. Medieval towns. Yacht days. Fresh seafood. Lavender fields. Long dinners by the sea.

Croatia is one of those destinations that somehow feels both wildly luxurious and wonderfully laid back at the same time.

The best part? Packing for Croatia is refreshingly easy.

Think breezy dresses, linen sets, comfortable sandals, swimsuits you'll actually want to live in, and a few elevated outfits for those unforgettable dinners overlooking the Adriatic.

Whether you're joining one of our Group Galavants or planning your own Croatian adventure, this guide will help you pack smart, avoid overpacking (well…maybe not haha), and feel amazing from your first stroll through Dubrovnik to your final sunset in Split.

The Croatia Style Guide

If I had to describe Croatia style in three words, it would be:

Effortless. Elevated. Mediterranean.

People tend to dress well without looking like they tried too hard. Think natural fabrics, neutral colors (or lots of colors if you’re like me), simple accessories, and timeless pieces that you'll wear over and over again.

As you're packing, you'll want to think about four different moments throughout your trip:

☀️ Exploring beautiful old towns

🌊 Days spent on (or beside) the Adriatic

🍷 Wine tastings and leisurely afternoons

✨ Sunset cocktails and beautiful dinners

The beauty of Croatia is that most of the same pieces can work for all four; you'll simply swap your sandals for “nighttime sandals” (leave the heels at home), throw on a pair of statement earrings, or add a linen button-down over your swimsuit.

Pro Tips Before You Start Packing

PRO TIP #1: Copy the packing list at the bottom of this post into the Notes app on your phone so you can easily reference it while shopping and packing.

PRO TIP #2: Want to elevate your looks without buying a whole new wardrobe? I swear by rental services for trips like this.

Nuuly is my favorite clothing rental service, especially size-inclusive and great for boho silhouettes. You’ll get $30 off your first month when you use my referral link.
Rent the Runway is my go-to for statement dresses and flowy pieces (use code RTRALLEP for 40% off two months).

PRO TIP #3: If you want links to all the items listed in the guide, CLICK HERE

Croatia MVP’s

**Everything you see in this guide is linked HERE**, so if something catches your eye, you can shop it in just a few clicks.

1. Easy Vacation Dresses

If there was ever a destination to live in dresses, it's Croatia. Between wandering Dubrovnik's marble streets, sipping wine in Hvar, and waterfront dinners that somehow always turn into late nights, you'll be reaching for them constantly. I love packing easy midi and maxi dresses that can be worn with sneakers or sandals during the day and then dressed up with jewelry for dinner. Bonus points if they're wrinkle-resistant because let's be honest... ironing is not happening on vacation.

And I'll say it again, renting from Nuuly is such a fun option if you want a few special vacation pieces without buying a whole new wardrobe. Here's my code for $30 off your first month (you're welcome 😉).

2. A Quality Swimsuit

This is one destination where your swimsuit will get plenty of use. Whether we're hopping on a boat, swimming in the Adriatic, relaxing at the hotel pool, or spending the afternoon at the beach, you'll want at least one swimsuit you absolutely love. I always recommend packing at least a few so one has time to dry while you're wearing the other. This swimsuit has come with me on every trip I’ve taken in the last few years (it’s so flattering!) and it doubles as a great top under a linen set. I also LOVE this brand for quality swimwear.

3. Matching Sets & Linen Everything

If Croatia had an official uniform, it would probably be a linen matching set. Nothing says effortless European summer quite like a linen button-down paired with matching shorts or wide-leg pants. They're perfect for sightseeing, travel days, winery visits, or grabbing lunch overlooking the Adriatic. You'll look polished while still staying cool in the summer heat, which is exactly the vibe we're going for.

4. Bandolier Phone Case

I NEVER travel without a Bandolier phone case.These are fantastic because they have a pouch on the back of the case for your money and ID, so you have everything all in one place. They also have fun clip-ons like this that hold your AirPods. Wearing this at the airport when your hands are always full is truly a game-changer. I also love this small woman-owned company that makes SUPER cute wristlet chains that I like to pair with my Bandolier case (shoutout to our Gals Meg & Suzanne for turning us onto this brand).

5. A Sunhat

I'm convinced everyone looks cooler in a sunhat while strolling around the Croatian coast. Not only does it elevate every vacation outfit, but you'll be thankful for the extra shade during long afternoons exploring or relaxing on the boat. Plus... it also happens to hide vacation hair beautifully between washes, and that's a win in my book.

6. A Boat / Beach Tote

Trust me on this one: you'll want one bag dedicated to all our days by the water. Think something roomy enough for a towel, sunscreen, water bottle, cover-up, and whatever little treasures you inevitably pick up along the way. I usually bring a woven tote or canvas bag that looks cute, but I won't stress about getting a little sandy or wet.

7. Not Too Expensive Sunglasses

Croatia is one of those places where you'll be wearing sunglasses from breakfast until sunset. Between the bright Adriatic sun, afternoons on the water, and endless outdoor cafés, they become part of every outfit. My only advice? Don't bring your most expensive pair. Between boats, beaches, and saltwater, there's a much higher chance they'll accidentally end up at the bottom of the Adriatic than you'd probably like. 😅

8. Comfortable Walking Shoes

Croatia is incredibly walkable... but your feet are definitely going to earn their Aperol Spritzes. Between polished stone streets, cobblestones, stairs, ancient alleyways, and full sightseeing days, comfortable shoes are absolutely essential. That said, we aren't sacrificing style. I always pack a pair of chic sneakers (these are my go to) that work with everything and make sure they're broken in well before the trip. I also swear by these Birkenstocks; they go with me on every trip & also double as the perfect water shoe.

9.A Great Exploring
Bag

You'll want a hands-free bag that can comfortably carry your daily essentials while we explore. Think sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, your wallet, and maybe a little souvenir or two. I usually reach for a crossbody that sits close to my body so I can wander hands-free all day long without constantly adjusting a shoulder bag.

What to Wear during the Day in Croatia

***An Effortless Sundress***

A sundress is one of those pieces you'll find yourself reaching for over and over again in Croatia. It's an effortless outfit that always looks put together. I love packing styles that can be worn with sneakers or flat sandals during the day and easily dressed up with jewelry for dinner later.

Shop Now

***Linen button down***

A linen or cotton button-down is one of the most versatile pieces you can pack. It’s perfect for layering over a tank, styling with trousers, or throwing on over a dress. It adds that effortless, slightly polished feel, and looks expensive, even when it isn't.

Shop Now

***A Variety of Bottoms***

Croatia gets warm during the summer, so breathable fabrics are your best friend. I love packing a mix of linen shorts, flowy skirts, and lightweight pants that can be mixed and matched throughout the trip. I usually leave heavy denim at home and focus on pieces that keep me cool while still feeling polished.

Shop Now

***Matching Sets***

Matching sets are one of my favorite things to pack for Croatia. Whether it's a linen vest and trouser combo, a breezy shorts set, or a fun printed two-piece, they instantly look polished with almost zero effort. I also love that each piece can be styled separately, giving you multiple vacation outfits without taking up any extra room in your suitcase.

Shop Now

Looking for the links? You'll find every product featured in this guide HERE

What to Wear in the Evenings in Croatia

***A Light Layer***

Even though the days are warm, evenings by the Adriatic can occasionally cool off, especially if we're out on the water or dining by the sea. I always toss a lightweight sweater, linen button-down, or wrap into my bag just in case. It's one of those pieces you may not use every night, but you'll be happy to have it when you do.

shop Now

***A Dress You’ll Actually Wear Again***

Dinner in Croatia is one of my favorite parts of the day. Think waterfront restaurants, incredible seafood, local wine, and sunsets that somehow seem to last forever. I like packing a few dresses that feel a little more special but are still comfortable enough to linger over a long meal and an after-dinner stroll.

Shop Now

***A Fun Statement Look***

I always like bringing one outfit that feels a little extra. Maybe it's a colorful matching set, a bold printed dress, or a silky two-piece you've been waiting for the perfect vacation to wear. Croatia has a way of making you want to dress up just a little, and you'll never regret having one outfit that makes you feel amazing for those unforgettable evenings.

Shop Now

MOST IMPORTANTLY: If you want to elevate your outfits for this trip without overbuying, I highly recommend renting through Nuuly. It’s my favorite rental service for travel; the selection is incredible, the pieces feel modern and wearable, and it’s also much more size-inclusive (owned by Anthropologie and Free People). I rent from them constantly and love how easy it is to experiment with bold, flowy styles that are perfect for Croatia. If you use this link, you’ll get $30 off your first month.

Rent the Runway is another great option, especially if you’re looking for more formal or statement pieces. It’s been a longtime travel favorite of mine, and you can use my code RTRALLEP for 40% off two months.

What to wear to the Pool in Croatia

***The Best Swimsuit EVER***

This is hands-down the suit I reach for again and again. It’s incredibly well made, supportive, and actually stays put (no riding up, ever 🙌). I love how easily it doubles as a **bodysuit**, styled with linen pants, a skirt, or a button-down for a chic cover-up moment.

Shop Now

***Sarong***

This brand is a **packing dream**, their swimsuits are **reversible**, giving you two looks in one, and many come with **matching sarongs** to complete the set. It’s basically **two swimsuits for the space of one**. The sarong is incredibly versatile too: wear it as a wrap, a skirt, or even throw it over your shoulders.

Shop Now

***A Sunhat***

A **wide-brim straw hat** is an absolute must for Croatia travel, not just for pool and boat days, but also for sun protection while exploring. It helps keep you cool during sightseeing and instantly elevates any outfit.

Shop Now

***A Fabulous Cover-Up***

Whether you're swimming in the Adriatic, lounging on deck, or pulling up for a waterfront lunch, it instantly makes you look put together with almost no effort. I love an oversized button-down, breezy matching set, or chic crochet cover-up that feels equal parts comfortable and effortlessly stylish.

Shop Now

Croatia Shoes & Accessories

**See something you love?** You'll find links to every item featured in this guide **HERE**.

1 . Sandals

These are hands down my favorite travel sandal & come in a bunch of different colors. They're SO comfy! These have been around for a few years, so sometimes sizes are hard to find, but a few different retailers carry them, so shop around.

2.Versatile Sandals

Having a cute sandal to wear from day to night is PERFECT for Croatia. I think Dolce Vita or DV By Dolce Vita have some of the best sandals that can be dressed up or down. I’ve been wearing these around all summer; they’re SUPER supportive and I will be bringing them to Croatia. I would leave your heels at home…too many cobblestones.

3. White Sneakers

There’s really nothing more classic to travel with than a white sneaker. I love these white sneakers because they are CRAZY lightweight and come in a few different colors.

4. These waterproof Birkenstocks

When I’m visiting a warm destination, these are non-negotiable! They are comfortable for long days touring & they’re PERFECT for Croatia because when they get dusty & dirty, you can easily rinse them off. PS - they come in SO many colors, and there’s a simpler style too.

5. Hat clip

These are HUGE for me when I travel with a hat. It’s a magnetic clip that attaches to your bag so that you can carry your hat instead of constantly having to wear it.

6. A Statement Evening Bag

A fun , colorful bag for dinners is such a fun way to spice up a look. I LOVE this whimsical fish bag lol. Perfect for Croatia.

7. A Carry-All Bag

I love a slouchy tote bag for carrying around all the things when you’re touring. I like to add on a fun colorful scarf to bags like this to style this up. I’ve got my eyes on this carry-all (ps it’s currently on sale!).