September is the season of the late summer getaway — long weekends, warm-weather escapes, and spontaneous trips before fall officially takes over. Whether it’s a Labor Day vacation, a tropical weekend away, or a last-minute flight to somewhere sunny, packing smart makes all the difference.

Unlike high summer, when suitcases are overflowing with options, a late summer getaway is all about versatile pieces that mix style, comfort, and sustainability. At PLAYALUXE, our collections are designed to transition seamlessly from poolside lounging to resort evenings, giving you a curated wardrobe that fits in your carry-on.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what to pack for a late summer getaway, including swimwear, cover ups, resort outfits, and must-have accessories to make the most of your final summer escapes.

No packing list is complete without the perfect swimwear. For a late summer getaway, focus on swimwear styles that are versatile enough to wear multiple ways and polished enough to double as outfits.

• Bikini Sets: A coordinating bikini set is an effortless option for pool or beach days. Choose sculpting styles like our Capri Ruched Bandeau Bikini Set in Black for timeless minimalism, or go bold with Red Confetti Floral for a pop of color.

• One Piece Swimsuits: A sleek one piece doubles as a bodysuit, making it a must-pack. The Seychelles Ruched One Piece in Leopard delivers flattering ruching and an iconic print that transitions easily with shorts or skirts.

• Separates for Mixing & Matching: If space is tight, pack bikini tops and bottoms separately. Our Waikiki String Bikini Top in Snake Print can pair with multiple bottoms, maximizing outfits without taking extra suitcase space.

Late summer getaway pro packing tip: Bring at least two swimwear options — one for lounging and one for active water days.

For men, a late summer getaway packing list should focus on resortwear that can handle poolside by day and cocktails by night.

• Cabana Sets: A standout option that eliminates outfit stress. The Saint Tropez Cabana Set in Dark Olive pairs a tailored camp-collar shirt with compression-lined trunks for a complete look that works on and off the water.

• Swim Trunks: Choose versatile neutrals and bold prints. Our Tulum Volley Swim Trunks in Tobacco Flower balance quick-dry function with elevated design — perfect for daytime wear or styled with a crisp shirt for evenings.

• Lightweight Shirts: A button-up shirt is the ultimate layering piece. The Todos Santos Shirt in Black is breathable, quick-drying, and works equally well with trunks or jeans for travel dinners.

For women, packing the right cover up makes every swimwear outfit instantly resort-ready. These are the hero pieces for your next late summer getaway. 

• Ruched Mini Skirts: The Rio Ruched Mini Skirt in Black transforms your bikini into an outfit in seconds. Pair it with the Capri Bandeau Top for a sleek monochrome look.

• Mini Dresses: The Ibiza Ruched Mini Dress is lightweight, flattering, and doubles as both a beach cover up and a night-out option.

Accessories make or break your late summer getaway wardrobe. Keep it minimal, but intentional:

• Sunglasses (1–2 pairs: one classic, one trend-forward)

• Sandals that can handle both day and night

• A wide-brimmed hat for sun protection and style

• A compact tote or crossbody bag for pool-to-dinner transitions

• Lightweight jewelry (think hoops, bangles, or layered chains)

A late summer getaway is often short and spontaneous, which makes efficient packing essential. Here’s how to get it right:

• Choose a color palette. Black, neutrals, and one or two statement prints keep everything mix-and-match.

• Limit shoes to two pairs. Sandals + sneakers (or sandals + espadrilles) cover all occasions.

• Pack dual-purpose pieces. A one piece doubles as a bodysuit. A cabana shirt doubles as evening wear.

• Roll, don’t fold. This keeps fabrics wrinkle-free and saves space.

When deciding what to pack, every piece should pull double duty. PLAYALUXE designs each style to be eco-conscious, versatile, and travel-friendly, making them the ideal companion for any late summer getaway.

• Recycled fabrics: Quick-dry, lightweight, and wrinkle-resistant — perfect for carry-on packing.

• Day-to-night design: Bikinis double as crop tops, one-pieces as bodysuits, cabana shirts as dinner attire.

• Sustainability with edge: Style-forward prints and silhouettes that feel as good as they look.

By focusing on timeless silhouettes and functional details, PLAYALUXE ensures your late summer getaway suitcase feels edited, elevated, and effortless.

When planning outfits for a late summer getaway, sticking to a tight color palette makes packing simple and stylish. Neutrals like black and olive are endlessly versatile, while bold prints and brights add personality without overloading your suitcase.

• Timeless neutrals: A black bikini set or black cabana shirt works with anything, day or night.

• Seasonal brights: Shades like red or light fern bring vibrancy to poolside looks and evening dinners.

• Animal prints: Leopard and snake are statement-making but surprisingly versatile, mixing seamlessly with solid cover ups or casual basics.

By editing your color palette, every piece in your bag coordinates, giving you more outfit options with fewer items — a strategy that ensures your late summer getaway style feels effortless and elevated.

A late summer getaway is about making the most of warm days, golden evenings, and time away before fall routines take over. By focusing on versatile swimwear, cover ups, and lightweight layers, you can pack light without sacrificing style.

PLAYALUXE designs each piece to deliver comfort, sustainability, and elevated style — essentials that belong in every late summer suitcase. Wherever you’re headed, pack with intention and enjoy the final days of summer in effortless luxury.

Explore More Late Summer Getaway Essentials:

Bikini Sets

Cabana Sets