After six seasons as a chief stewardess, it’s fair to say that Kate Chastain is a expert on travel, especially when it comes to packing and knowing how to strategically organize everything.
Before flying to Europe Below Deck alum spoke to People about her summer travel essentials, including her new warm-weather uniform: “A black bikini would be great. A short caftan, a long maxi dress, and wedge heels will take me pretty much anywhere,” she says.
Chastain recently partnered with Dramamine, a product she takes with her on every vacation and always brings on board for crew and guests. Advanced Herbals Ginger Chew It has become her new favorite.
Below, find out Chastain’s travel essentials and some of the styles they inspire.
Crossbody Bags
A hands-free handbag is a travel essential for Chastain: “If I lose my suitcase, I have a crossbody bag with essentials like my passport and money, and I can get to everything else,” she says.
Her current favorite handbag is this denim one. rebecca minkoff bag It’s adorned with gold celestial studs, but we found a similar option for just $25.
Laura May quilted crossbody bag
Kaftan Dress
Chastain traded in her polo shirts and epaulets for caftans, which she calls her “go-to” for any occasion: “You can dress it up or down. It’s easy and breezy. It’s a one-piece, but it’s kind of stylish.”
Petite Plum Navy French Ticking Stripe Cotton Kaftan
Maxi Dresses
Another style she always carries with her is a maxi dress, especially one with spaghetti straps in a solid color. She’s trying to build a capsule wardrobe, so black or neutral colors like beige, white, or navy are a must. Chastain also says to opt for lightweight fabrics like cotton and natural fibers.
Lspace Mallorca Smocked Cover-up Maxi Dress
Slip-on sandals
Chastain, a Florida native, thinks flip-flops have a “bad reputation” and says she prefers heelless sandals: “I think it’s also because I’m on a yacht. When you’re jumping on and off a boat, who has time to put on a backstrap?”
If you’re looking for an affordable option that’s just as easy to slip on and off as hers, Havaianas flip flops are on sale for just $14 on Amazon. Birkenstock On sale for just $80.
Havaianas Slim Flip Flops
Lace-up espadrilles and wedges
Chastain calls espadrilles “the denim of shoes” because they go with just about anything. She just bought a pair of Stella McCartney lace-up wedges that she plans to wear all summer. For a more budget-friendly option, try this great style on Amazon for under $50, or buy a pair of these popular espadrilles. Soludos Espadrilles.
Nailyhome Espadrilles Wedge Sandals
Large Tote Bag
Chastain currently travels with her favorite Louis Vuitton tote bag, which she also uses as a diaper bag for her son, Sullivan Kay. What’s the secret to choosing a good tote bag? [get] Anything that can hold all your belongings, like a laptop, a small bag, and some books, will do.”
A soft, synthetic leather shoulder bag for $16 to hold your essentials, lululemon bag It is water-repellent and can be rolled up and packed easily.
Dreubea Soft Faux Leather Tote Shoulder Bag
Black Bikini
One of Chastain’s first jobs was working at a surf shop in Florida, so she’s “familiar with the bikini world.” Like her favorite dresses, she opts for bikinis in basic colors. One of her favorite brands is Body GloveIt’s this bikini that she recommends as “a really cool, flattering separate.” Below, check out some of our favorite black bikinis.
Spanx Piqué Plunge Bikini Top
Spanx Piqué Shaping Swim High Rise Cheeky Bottom
Before you head off on your next adventure, check out more styles inspired by Kate Chastain’s summer travel essentials. Looking for more summer adventures? Check out Dramamine’s No Drama On Deck Sweepstakes You have a chance to win a private yacht charter experience.