Traveling internationally is a perfect opportunity to capture memorable Instagram shots, but packing your entire closet isn’t an option. (Unless you want to spend a fortune checking extra luggage.) On a recent trip to Montenegro—a Balkan nation on the Adriatic Sea—I had to narrow down my vacation clothing options to fit into my favorite travel suitcase. While it wasn’t easy, I managed to craft my perfect packing list, getting all the outfits—and pictures—I’d hoped for. Using this simple, three-step guide, you can enjoy the same packing success. 

In Montenegro, I knew I’d be lounging by the pool, walking cobblestoned streets, hitting the beach and sampling some of the country’s thrilling nightlife. To that end, I needed mix-and-match pieces that would stand out on camera, keep me cool and comfortable, and allow for ease of movement, regardless of my location. Add in an easy bag that would hold my passport, phone and some other essentials—without weighing me down—and I knew I had my list of must-packs. 

Summers in coastal Montenegro can yield temperature highs that hover around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Head into the country’s mountain region, however, and the climate cools by as much as 20 degrees. This meant including long-and-short-sleeved vacation clothing on my packing list, to prevent last minute scrambles for additional layering items. 

Travel is an opportunity to create lasting memories, and stand-out scenery demands unforgettable outfits to match. Since suitcase space is limited, and luggage fees add up quickly, I scoured my closet for vacation clothing with special details, such as pretty silhouettes or eye-catching prints, that I knew would photograph well but could also work with several different shoes, bags or accessories. This helped minimize the number of pieces I had to bring along on this trip, while maximizing the potential for eye-catching outfit combinations. 

When it comes to maximizing suitcase space, keeping outfits basic (but special) and adding on the accessories is a smart traveler’s best option. After all, accessories take up less square footage in your luggage, and can transform a look from day to night, beach to town, and so much more. 

Given Montenegro’s stunning blue skies and dazzling red-roofed cityscapes, I kept my color palette fairly neutral for this excursion. My outfit choices: an all-white Reformation crop top and wrap skirt; a white, bell-sleeved, A-line Zimmerman mini-dress with red floral accents; a skin-toned Dress the Population piece with sheer lacy-overlay; and the perfect black-and-leopard-print swimwear from River Island. 

These outfits checked all the boxes on my three-step packing guide: ideal for the locations and climate, easy and comfortable to move in, and with stand-out features in colors that wouldn’t compete with Montenegro’s stunning scenery. 

Still, I wanted to put my unique stamp on every outfit choice, so I got creative—and personal—with my accessories list. I always play with bracelet stacks, so for this trip, I picked a mix of stackables from Kendra Scott. Bracelet stacks are perfect for vacation packing because it’s easy to add or subtract a few pieces, creating an entirely new outfit vibe in the process. I also added a set of layered Kendra Scott necklace chains, perfect for fancying up pool-side pics, or adding emphasis to simple necklines.  

Next, I selected a few pairs of statement earrings—danglers from Kendra Scott to add excitement to my neutrals and evening wear, plus some simple studs to add extra polish to daytime looks. Finally, I added my favorite Quay Australia sunglasses and two Chloe mini-bags, and all the elements for perfect vacation style were in my suitcase, ready to create Instagram magic upon arrival in-country. 

What are your top packing tips for vacation clothing? Share your must-have suitcase items below!