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Our Greek Island Summer Packing List

Traveling year-round—here I am, writing from a cafe in Madrid—is a major perk of the job. While my favorite time to do so is shoulder season, I cannot deny that summer will always have a bit more magic to it (sure, there are crowds, but there’s just nothing like lounging seaside in the middle of July.) And this year, I am finally making it to a destination that embodies the season like no other: the Greek Islands. For me, the excitement ahead of a summer holiday is planning both where to visit and what to pack. The best approach to both is to not take it too seriously or rigidly—over-planning and over-packing don’t lend themselves to a carefree, relaxing trip. Instead, I like to let the days unfold with a loose structure, without worrying too much about the next stop (or outfit). These are a few places on my list, and what I am taking with me—both my travel essentials and a few favorite summer pieces (of course, with enough room in my suitcase for new finds to bring back with me).

Portrait of Hunter Levitan Hunter Levitan
Our Greek Island Summer Packing List

WHERE I'M GOING

Serifos

One of the smaller, less-populated (and visited) Cycladic islands, Serifos is known for its rugged landscape and raw beauty. I’m so excited to stay at Perma Serifos, a wellness and slow-living hotel that emphasizes rest, reconnection, and intentional experiences.

Folegandros

After Serifos, I’ll head to Folegandros, a small and wild island that offers a quiet and authentic escape from mass tourism. I can’t wait to experience Spina, a deeply personal and intentional stay with just five suites and an osteria overlooking the ocean.

To be determined... one more island!

I'm still deciding on the third island to visit, but it's between Milos, Paros, and Kimolos.

WHAT I’M PACKING

With Nothing Underneath Linen Set

A classic summer fabric, and this navy blue linen set from the British womenswear brand (who excels at classic, clean styles) will be beautiful against the Mediterranean.

ROWSE Serum & Balm

I just visited the natural skincare brand’s beautiful new Greenhouse in Madrid and had an incredible Detox Ritual facial. I left with their Regenerate Night Serum with Bakuchiol which is a natural alternative to retinol and Lip & Cheek Balm in Summer Blush, for easy, light summer makeup.

Porto The Pouch

The Pouch is the perfect little bag to travel with—so easy and simple yet elegant, and the buttery soft leather is delicious.

Vicente Ganesha Sarongs

My favorite beach cover ups that I also like tie up as a cheeky little skirt or top, from the iconic Vicente Ganesha shop in Ibiza.

Nike Moon Shoe

I always bring a comfortable yet stylish sneaker with me, and the new release of the Nike Moon Shoe will keep up with the many miles I walk while exploring a new place.

H-O-R-S-E The Track Pant

Growing up, my mom had some ironclad rules about how to dress while traveling. Always long pants (shorts on a plane? Absolutely out of the question), no sweatpants, no leggings, no sweatshirts, no open-toed shoes, and carry on an extra sweater or shawl… look presentable, not lazy. She was, per usual, right, and it’s ingrained in me to dress well in transit. Which is why I love my H-O-R-S-E Track Pant. They can go from loungewear to workout to dressed up, making them the perfect travel pants.

Dr. Stolberg Rest + Digest Tea

Dr. Stolberg Rest + Digest Tea is a nightly ritual that helps keep my digestive system regular, especially important while traveling.

Tibi Boat Tote

Tibi is one of my favorite designers, and their re-imagined Boat Tote is the perfect carry-all— it fits so much and doubles as a beach bag. The cinched belt adds a bit of edge and cool to the classic boat tote. Brilliant.

Black Havianas

A classic, essential flip flop that never fails. I love the original black wide strap with the Brasil logo.

Emily Dawn Long River Shawl

One piece, multiple ways to wear it, from the cool, NYC-based designer Emily Dawn Long. Is it a top? Is it a scarf? Is it a shawl? The River Shawl is all the above.

Vintage 1970s YSL Sandals

I stumbled upon these vintage, off-white YSL sandals in incredible condition last spring in Copenhagen. They have the perfect heel—just the right height and width (in between a stiletto and block heel)—and are so comfortable, I can wear them for hours. Did I mention they came in the original box?! Suffice it to say I’m obsessed, and they will be the one heel I bring with me.

Gimaguas Sandal Wedges

Okay I didn’t lie about just bringing one pair of heels, because I don’t consider a wedge a heel. These black patent leather wedges from Gimaguas, the cool Spanish brand, are so comfortable and the best height; casual enough to wear to the beach or dress up for dinner. Also, there's something about a thong sandal that just does it for me...

Nu Swim Bathing Suit

A classic string bikini from the New York-based swimwear and lifestyle brand that makes sustainable, timeless pieces. I can’t decide between simple black or a color (I kind of love the sulphur)… knowing me I’ll bring both.

Claudent Button Up Shirt

Protecting my skin from the sun has never looked more stylish thanks to Claudent, a women’s resortwear brand built for the sun. Their Button Up Shirt is an easy add to my summer wardrobe—it’s made with UPF-rated fabrics that protect from harmful UV rays.

Malia Mills Stevie Slip Dress

A simple silk slip takes up zero space and is a no-stress outfit you can throw on and still look put together. I love my Stevie Slip in black from Malia Mills, one of NYC’s OG swimwear designers to embrace and celebrate women of all shapes and sizes, and now crafts ready-to-wear, underwear, and accessories.

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