As someone who loves to travel, having an upcoming trip to look forward to is basically the key to happiness. And whilst I enjoy a long-haul flight somewhere further afield (yes, I even like the plane food), nothing beats a quick jaunt over to the sunnier side of Europe, does it? I've been lucky enough to have a couple of trips to Italy so far this year, but I couldn't be more excited to head back to Croatia.
It's been a good few years since I visited for Outlook Festival, but I do remember a few key details that'll make it easier to pack this time round. People tend to get a bit more dressed up than I anticipated in areas such as Hvar, so chic trouser co-ords and evening dresses won't look out of place. When it comes to the beach, don't underestimate why everyone (and I mean everyone) wears some form of shoes in the sea. It's rocky. And when it comes to accessories, a giant, carry-everything beach bag and a silk hair scarf (for windier days) are first to go in my case.
These are the seven items I'll be packing for Croatia (and any European summer break) this year.
What to Pack for Croatia 2026
1. Trouser Co-Ord
Style Notes: Any co-ord in general is worth packing because of its versatility, but trouser sets are key for somewhere where it can get chillier in the evenings. Jessica Skye's Faithfull The Brand set (pictured above) looks so effortless, and I've found another one from the Bali-based label along with others from Reformation and With Nothing Underneath. Huge styling potential with only a small suitcase space required. i
Shop the Staple:
You'll end up wearing this so many ways throughout the trip.
I would also wear this with jorts and strappy sandals for exploring days.
Just add heeled thong sandals and a broderie anglaise cami.
I've seen this shirt all over Instagram, and I have to get it.
I'm also seeing these worn with a simple white tank.
2. Sleek Bikini
Style Notes: I remember taking so many bikinis, swimsuits and cover-ups to Croatia last time that my case was overweight; lesson learned. This time, I'll be packing a carefully selected edit of ones I know I'll wear multiple times throughout the week. Like Liv Madeline, Hunza G is always my go-to, along with Away That Day.
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Imagine this in the Croatian sun.
This set is made to be worn by the harbour.
The golden hardware on these bottoms elevates the set.
No matter how many bikini brands I try, I'll always rate H&M swim.
This one also comes in tomato red.
3. Evening Maxi Dress
Style Notes: No matter whether you're heading to the capital, Zagreb or Hvar's harbour town, people tend to be a bit more dressy than in other European countries I've been to. And I need little excuse to pack my best dresses. You rarely get to waft around in a fancy maxi dress in everyday life, so I'll be embracing the opportunity.
Shop the Staple:
I'm wearing this dress to a wedding this month, and I'm also going to pack it to wear without the cape.
The colour, the cut—it's perfect.
Sequins by the ocean get a firm yes from me.
Imagine this with loads of bangles and big earrings.
This colour on holiday always looks incredible.
4. Beach Bag
Style Notes: Practically a staple on any warm-weather trip, a raffia, straw or woven bag is something I never leave for the airport without. Croatia is so beautiful to explore, so I'll be filling a big beach bag with all the essentials for days out followed by evenings on the beach.
Shop the Staple:
This looks so premium.
You had me at striped.
Okay, maybe it's time to upgrade my current Loewe basket.
Sezané always has incredible woven bags.
Muuñ's designs are always my favourite.
5. Oversized Shirt
Style Notes: The power of a brilliant oversized shirt knows no bounds in general, but on holiday, they really come into their own. Thrown on over a bikini like Lucy Williams (pictured above), worn over slip dresses or hung over the shoulders when you need a break from the sun's rays, they're a true holiday hero.
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I've just bought this shirt, and I can't wait to wear it on my upcoming trip.
I love the pyjama feel of this one.
A linen-blend won't crease as easily in your case.
Dissh can do no wrong—here's proof.
I would clash with red shorts.
6. Silk Scarf
Style Notes: If I remember rightly, Croatia can tend to get a bit windy, so if you want to make sure your hair stays its best all day and doesn't get in your face, then a silk scarf is a must-pack. Also, you can easily style it as a top or a belt, or tie it around your beach bag or your neck whilst you're by the harbour in Hvar.
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See how easy it is to style as a top?
A classic Liberty print will never fail.
This is too cute!
I also love framing silk scarves in my home as an alternative artwork.
I feel like Lucy Williams would wear this.
7. Jelly Shoes
Style Notes: My one major piece of advice if you're heading to Croatia is to embrace ugly sea shoes, and if you don't want them to take up valuable suitcase space, opt for jelly shoes instead. The cooler version of the practical pairs, they're essential for attempting to get into the rocky sea. Trust me.
Shop the Staple:
The strap will be handy to keep them on in the sea.
You'll also be able to add these to a linen co-ord.
These make me feel so nostalgic.
In or out of the sea, they're a win-win.
A fun candy-pink pair.