Off To Cabo
I’m packing for a trip to Cabo to celebrate my 40th birthday with girlfriends! I haven’t been on a proper beach vacation in years. My sister used to live in Hawaii, and for many years it became a ritual to celebrate my birthday there with her: we’d do a cool hike, drink lots of coffee, have a healthy lunch, nap on the beach, then head out for a casual dinner wearing a fun dress.
Lately, most of my recent getaways have been city adventures, so this beach trip feels like such a treat- a chance to relax, recharge, and connect with people I love.
I’ve known for months that I’d be going in July, and honestly, part of the fun is planning it all: where to stay, what to eat, what to do, and of course- what to wear. There’s nothing I love more than feeling at home in a new place, wearing pieces that make me feel happy and comfy.
The dress I’m wearing on my birthday is a RealReal find from last year- I knew the moment I saw it that it was meant for something memorable. It’s a bright floral Cara Cara mini dress with the tags still on it.
There are a few things I wish I had for this trip too, but I’m okay going without and adding them to my running wish list for the year ahead. I think when we buy things last-minute to rush an outfit, they can sometimes feel too polished or not really us. I prefer that “lived-in” feel, mixing and matching pieces from past seasons.
Fun fact: the elevator in my building is broken, and I live on the top floor, so I have to be strategic and pack light in a carry-on. Here’s everything I’ve picked up over the past couple of months- plus a few things I wish I were packing too.
CLOTHING
2 bathing suits– I’m not a huge fashion swimsuit gal. I know what looks good on my body and stick to it: full coverage bottoms and a supportive top. This is my current favorite suit (top & bottom)- I’m bringing in both navy and black.
4 statement dresses– I’m planning these for dinners out. One is my birthday dress, another I splurged on is this blue floral embroidered maxi because I know I’ll wear it for years to come. This silky slip slip dress is an easy go-to and then this linen number can be dressed up or down.
4 cover-up/day outfits– I splurged on this bright floral set to wear on my birthday- at first I wasn’t sure the top was going to work with the shorts, but I love them together. It made me realize how much I like shorts and a button down as a coverup. I don’t love pareos and oversized tops- they feel impractical since they only work poolside and don’t transition well to other activities. I also have a pair of easy linen shorts and a button down eyelet top for another day, plus this boho maxi dress that can double as a travel day look. Counting on this linen dress too.
2 airport outfits– this is a no brainer: I’ll wear my favorite linen pants and some sort of button down top and an oversized cashmere cardi so I have something cozy on hand. Probably the same look both ways, or I’ll wear the boho maxi with the cardi on the way home.
1 set of pjs– I love a lightweight poplin set for travel.
ACCESSORIES
Fun evening bag- I’d love to splurge on a pink, blue or raffia top handle bag, but I haven’t found one I love love love yet. So when in doubt, my Chanel small black flap bag always comes with me (this one is a great deal)- it goes with everything.
Raffia tote for airport and beach- I did a deep dive on raffia totes and landed on this one– special and practical under $500. I love the black stripes, they go with everything I’m packing. If I were to splurge I’d go with this.
Beach hats– Packing my trusty blue baseball hat (perfect with the navy suit) plus a big bucket hat that folds and packs well.
Flip flops- ‘Tis the year of the flip flops! I did another deep dive and decided to stick with my tried-and-true slim Havaianas. All the trendy jelly pairs are cute, but realistically they’ll probably only last a season, so I’m passing.
Sandals- I’ll probably wear these sporty, chunky Birks on the plane — they work for pool days too. I wanted to buy a pair of gold or black flat sandals for this trip, but both pairs I had my eye on are sold out in my size. So, I’ll make do with an old pair of brown Tkees. They look nice but aren’t the comfiest when my feet swell in the heat.
Sunnies- I’m not a big sunglasses gal because my small nose bridge means most pairs slide right off. Ray-Bans are basically the only brand that fits, so I picked up this cute light pink pearlized pair a couple weekends ago — they’ll add a fun touch to all my looks. I’ll also bring this classic pair.
Statement necklaces and earrings- vintage, vintage, vintage all the way here. Definitely packing gold hoops of all sizes, some beachy statement earrings, and a mix of long and short colorful beaded necklaces.
OTHER NOTABLE ITEMS
Lipgloss- I need to find one with SPF, but I’ll definitely pack this sporty tube plus a creamy pink tint for dinners out.
Bronzer- My all-time favorite, the little hearts on top are so cute! I’ll probably use this instead of my daily tinted moisturizer to amp up the tan.
Luminizer palette- Just snagged this quad to use on both my eyelids and face- feels perfect for vacation too.
Sunscreen- Actually in need of a new recommendation here, anyone have one? I’m still finishing up some old Beautycounter.
Inspiring read- Lately I’ve felt pulled back to spiritual, manifestation-type books — they’re so damn expansive and remind me to trust my grounded, slower-paced energy. So I finally bought the Project 369 trio I’ve had bookmarked forever. What better way to enter a new decade than feeling inspired?
Hair oil & body butter- I’d love to bring my go-tos (this and this) but might skip them since I’m only doing carry-on.
Make-up bag- Ugh, I just saw someone post this new Cuyana color and I’m obsessed! Didn’t buy it yet, but I do need a new set soon — it’s on my birthday wishlist.
Heading anywhere sunny and warm this summer? Maybe this will inspire you to pack lighter, plan slower, or just savor whatever you’re dreaming up next!
