What to Pack for a Yacht Trip: Old Money Style (But Make It Fun)
So, you’re packing for a yacht trip, and you want to channel that effortlessly chic, old money vibe? First of all—bravo! Most people show up with neon beach bags and plastic flip-flops. You, on the other hand, are here for quiet luxury, linen, and the kind of elegance that whispers instead of screams.
Now, if you’re thinking, “Wait—what exactly do old money people pack for a yacht getaway?”—you’re in the right place. I’ve got the lowdown on everything you need, from what to wear to what not to even think about packing (plastic fashionistas, I’m looking at you 👀).
Let’s get into it—but make it classy.
The Old Money Aesthetic, Aboard a Yacht
You’re not going for flashy. You’re not here to outshine the sun with rhinestones. You’re aiming for classic silhouettes, high-quality fabrics, and timeless elegance. Think Princess Diana on a Mediterranean cruise meets Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy sipping rosé in Portofino.
The rule? If it looks like it came from your wealthy grandmother’s closet (in a good way), pack it.
Clothing Essentials That Scream (Whisper?) Old Money
The Linen Dream Team
Let’s just say this once—linen is your best friend. Not only does it breathe (you’ll thank me under the sun), but it gives that natural “I didn’t try hard, I’m just effortlessly rich” energy.
Pack these:
Linen button-down shirts (white, beige, and maybe one pastel tone)
Linen shorts or culottes
A structured linen blazer (for breezy dinners on deck)
FYI: yes, linen wrinkles. And no, we don’t care. That’s part of the charm. Wrinkles = real.
Breezy Dresses for Bougie Days
You’ll want flowy, midi or maxi dresses that you can wear from brunch to sunset cocktails without changing. Avoid loud prints. Go for:
Muted florals
Subtle stripes
Classic neutrals
Wrap dresses? Yes. Bodycon? No, sweetie, just no.
Bathing Suits for the Soft Life
Yes, old money swims.
One-piece swimsuits in solid colors (navy, cream, black)
Retro high-waisted bikinis
Cover-ups that look more like a Greek goddess robe than something you found on Shein
Ever tried diving into the sea with grace while adjusting a string bikini? Exactly.
Shoes (AKA, What Not to Wear)
This isn’t a nightclub in Mykonos.
Pack:
Leather sandals (not plastic ones that squeak, please)
Espadrilles for dockside dinners
Slip-on loafers or ballet flats for a polished look
Avoid:
Platform anything
Rhinestone flip-flops
Sneakers, unless they’re white, spotless, and possibly named something French
Accessories That Do All the Talking (Quietly, Of Course)
Sunglasses That Say “I Own a Vineyard”
Your sunglasses should look expensive—even if they’re not.
Go for:
Oversized tortoiseshell frames
Vintage cat-eye shapes
Neutral tones only
You know what doesn’t say old money? Neon pink heart-shaped lenses. Save those for TikTok.
The “I Inherited This” Jewelry
Less is more.
Pearl studs
A simple gold chain
Vintage watch (that maybe doesn’t even work)
IMO, nothing beats that “I borrowed this from my grandmother who once dined with Jackie O” look.
Bags to Toss Over Your Shoulder (With Purpose)
Go for:
Canvas tote with leather straps (bonus if it’s monogrammed)
Straw bag for daytime excursions
Mini crossbody bag in tan or beige for evenings
Avoid logos that scream. Remember: money talks, wealth whispers. 😉
Beauty & Skincare: The Understated Glow
Skincare Over Makeup
Real talk? No one wants to cake on foundation under the Mediterranean sun.
Pack:
SPF 50 (non-negotiable)
Tinted moisturizer
Lip balm with SPF
Facial mist for that dewy, “I woke up rich” finish
Skip the heavy makeup. A touch of cream blush and mascara is all you need.
Haircare Like You Just Left a Villa
Silk or satin hair scarf (bonus: protects your hair from sea breeze frizz)
Wide-tooth comb
Hydrating leave-in spray
Dry shampoo (because showers aren’t always yacht-friendly)
Hair up in a bun, tied with a scarf? You just won the chic-on-sea award.
Extras You’ll Thank Yourself For (Trust Me)
A Book (Or Two) That Isn’t Trashy
Bring something that looks smart on the deck:
Classic literature (Fitzgerald is a vibe)
Travel memoirs
Poetry, if you’re feeling deep
No shade, but leave the self-help paperbacks at home.
Tech That Stays Classy
A good camera if you’re into aesthetics
AirPods (no neon cases, please)
Kindle > iPad for reading, unless you’re using it for Spotify yacht playlists
And please—no loud speaker battles with the guy docked next to you.
A Signature Scent (Subtle, Darling)
Smelling like money? It’s a thing.
Look for:
Notes of neroli, sandalwood, bergamot, or vetiver
Nothing too fruity or sugary
Nothing that smells like a mall kiosk
Spray lightly. You’re not trying to fumigate the deck.
What NOT to Pack (Seriously, Don’t Do It)
Let’s go over a few yacht fashion sins. Just so we’re crystal clear.
Logo overload – One Gucci item? Fine. Full Gucci suit? Chill.
Sequins – Not even for “just one night.” It’s not a disco.
Heels – Save your ankles. Yachts wobble.
Loud prints – If I can see you from the next bay, it’s a no.
Too many outfits – Pack smart. Rewear like the old-money pros.
Remember, confidence is part of the outfit. If you feel good and look put-together, you’re doing it right.
My Personal Go-To Packing List
Because you asked (you didn’t, but let’s pretend you did), here’s my personal packing breakdown for a 5-day yacht trip:
2 linen shirts
2 flowy dresses
1 white one-piece swimsuit
1 navy bikini
2 cover-ups
1 blazer
1 lightweight sweater
1 pair of sandals
1 pair of espadrilles
A scarf, sunnies, 2 pieces of jewelry
Skincare bag
Book + Kindle
Signature perfume
Small straw bag
And yes, that’s it. You don’t need to bring your entire closet. Just your best pieces
Final Thoughts: Float Like Old Money, Dress Like Royalty
So there you go—your ultimate yacht-packing guide, old money style. No need to stress, overpack, or wear anything itchy. Just stay breezy, polished, and authentic to your elegant self.
Ever noticed how old money women always look chic even in the middle of the ocean? Yeah, now you know their secret. 😉
Now close that overstuffed suitcase and re-pack it with grace. You’ve got a yacht to catch—and an aesthetic to uphold. 🛥️✨
Bon voyage, darling. Don’t forget your SPF.