Let me set the scene: It’s the Fourth of July, you’re heading to Montana for over a week, and the weather forecast is a rollercoaster… high 50s one day, mid-90s the next.
You kinda know what the plans are, but it’s a big family trip, so things are likely to change five times before breakfast. Oh, and you’re anything like me, you’re legit afraid of being cold, but also fully committed to packing carry-on only.
Welcome to the emotional journey that was packing for this trip 😅
Even though I wasn’t 100% sure what we’d be doing each day (group trips with little ones = flexible schedules), I wanted to feel prepared without overpacking.
So I built a Montana packing list that could handle unpredictable weather, surprise boat days, easy hikes, town exploring, and a couple of casual dinners out without needing more than a carry-on.
The secret? A color-coordinated, layer-friendly travel wardrobe built around two slightly bold shoe choices (shoutout to my leopard sneakers and orange Birkenstocks).
This post includes:
✅ Everything I packed (and what I’d pack again)
✅ How I styled my outfits day by day
✅ My real process for choosing what to wear each morning
✅ Mistakes – AKA what I wish I’d packed
✅ And all the tips you need to plan your own Montana summer vacation wardrobe. Especially if you’re building a functional travel wardrobe for the mountains.
Let’s get into it 👇🏻
*This post contains affiliate links. Which means that if you shop for certain things by clicking the links in this blog post, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! Thanks in advance for supporting Ways of Style!
Estimated reading time: 19 minutes
First, let’s cover the basics!
Before I show you everything I packed, I want to give you a quick overview of the trip details, activities, weather, and a few key things that influenced my Montana packing list.
These are the little context clues that made all the difference when deciding what to bring and hopefully they’ll help you think through your own needs too!
🌎 Itinerary: (June 28th – July 7th)
- 2 days in Missoula (we flew in and out of this airport, so we spent 1 night on the way there, and 1 night on the way back)
- 8 days in Whitefish, Montana
- We visited Glacier National Park and the surrounding areas, but always with the same ‘home base’ in Whitefish.
We based ourselves in Whitefish for the week and did a mix of day trips to nearby small towns and Glacier National Park. It was the perfect home base; charming, easy to navigate, and close to so many beautiful spots.
If you’ve never been to this part of Montana before, just know that everything is a bit spread out, so you’ll likely be in and out of the car a lot. We didn’t switch accommodations while in Whitefish, so I was able to pack once and settle in for the whole week (which definitely influenced what I brought!).
📝 Activities for this trip:
Since this was a family trip *and we were traveling with two little-ish ones* we kept things low-key and flexible. Most of our days involved exploring nature, walking around scenic towns, and soaking in all the views. We did a couple of easy hikes, went rafting, and had a few nicer dinners out (nothing too fancy).
⚠️ You won’t see hardcore hiking gear or technical clothes in this list because we kept our hikes pretty relaxed. I focused on functional outfits I could move comfortably in, but still felt good wearing to a casual dinner afterward.
⚠️ Why does this matter? Because what you pack should reflect your activities. I’m sharing this Montana packing list to help you plan smarter, but also to encourage you to think about what your days will actually look like. That’s the key to packing light without sacrificing comfort or style.
🌦️ Weather:
The weather was mostly perfect; sunny most days with highs in the 80s and 90s. It definitely cooled off at night though, dropping into the 50s, so having layers was a must.
For the second half of the trip, it started to cool down. The high for the last 3 days was 62 degrees with some quick showers, and it got even colder at night.
✅ Other Considerations:
🎯 Before You Pack: A Few Smart Things to Do First
To make the most of this Montana packing list (and avoid overpacking!), take a few minutes to do these things first:
✅ Double-check the weather 2–3 days before your trip. Don’t rely on averages from Google or what it was like “last year.” July in Montana can bring hot sunny days and chilly nights, sometimes in the same 24 hours. A quick look at the forecast right before you leave will help you make smart adjustments—like throwing in a light jacket or skipping an extra pair of sandals.
✅ Be honest about what you’ll actually do. It’s easy to imagine all the hiking, yoga, or dressy dinners—but what does your real itinerary look like? If you’re mostly walking around, doing a scenic boat ride, and going to casual dinners, pack accordingly. The more realistic you are, the less you’ll pack “just in case” pieces you won’t wear.
✅ Check if you’ll have access to laundry. Even just a washer/dryer at your Airbnb can change what (and how much) you pack. If you know you can do a quick mid-week wash, you can pack fewer clothes without sacrificing comfort or variety.
✅ Consider how much time you’ll actually spend outside. If you’re spending all day exploring Glacier or walking through town, breathable fabrics and sun protection matter. If you’re doing shorter outings and hanging with family, you may want more comfortable, low-key options that work for both indoors and out.
Montana Packing List: (10 days in a carry-on)
My goal was to pack light but still feel like myself. I stuck to a tight color palette so everything could mix and match, focused on layering pieces for the wide range of temps, and made sure every item could be worn more than once.
Since our Airbnb had a washer, I wasn’t worried about rewearing outfits, and that made all the difference. (I did laundry once)
Tops: (6)
- (1) Cotton Modal Scoop Neck T-shirt (Color: White – Size: XS)
- (2) Stretch Cotton Jersey Fitted Long Sleeve T-Shirt (Color: White & Brown – Size: S) these run small.
- (2) Stretch Cotton Jersey Boat Neck Tank (Color: Black & White – Size: S)
- (1) Cotton Modal Double Scoop Neck Tank (Color: White – Size: XS)
Bottoms: (4)
- Ultra-Stretch Ponte Cropped Wide Leg Pants (Color: Black – Size: 2 – Inseam: 24) *just as a side note, I also have these pants in green but in a size 4, inseam 24 and they fit amazingly as well*
- Madewell Jeans (oldies, but browse similar options here)
- SPANX Cropped Wide Leg Pants (Color: White – Size: S Petite) exact ones are sold out, but these are very similar.
- SuperSoft Fleece Cropped Wide Leg Joggers (Color: Black – Size: S) *worn on travel days*
Sweaters: (3)
- Srunken Cashmere Crewneck Sweater (Color: Oatmeal – Size: S)
- Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater (Color: Ivory/Black Stripe – Size: S)
- SPANX Air Essentials Sweater (Color: Beige – Size: S) *exact one sold out, but check out the full Air Essentials Collection here – it’s super soft and wrinkle free)
Layering Pieces:
- Lightweight Down Packable Puffer Vest (Color: Loden – Size: XS) *If sold out, find similar puffer vests here
- 100% European Linen Long Sleeve Shirt (Color: Light Cargo – Size: XS)
- Distressed Denim Shirt (Color: Light Chambray – Size XS)
Shoes: (2)
- Leopard Print Sneakers *worn on travel days* (this print is sold out – but browse other cute prints here)
- EVA Arizona Birkenstocks Sandals (Color: Rust – Size: 36)
Accessories:
- Venice Polarized Stainless Steel Sunglasses (sold out – other options from the same brand here)
- Allegra European Leather Belt (Color: Saddle – Size: XS)
- (1) Pashmina *worn on travel days*
- (1) Italian Leather & Raffia Crossbody (Color: Natural)
- (1) Headband
- (4) Statement Earrings
- (3) Necklaces
Others:
- (1) One Piece Bathing Suit
- (1) Beach Cover-up
- (1) TENCEL Jumpsuit
- (12) Underwear
- (5) Pairs of socks
- (4) Bras
- (1) Silk Pajamas (mix & match them here)
👉🏻 I pack all my things inside my favorite packing cubes – the same ones I’ve had since 2018!
⚠️ Important to know: Because I had plenty of extra space in my 20′ carry-on I packed an ultra comfy outfit for my travel day. I usually take my travel day outfit out of my final packing list, but it wasn’t the case for this trip.
Toiletries:
- Antioxidant balm *doubles as night eye cream*
- Plumping cream *doubles as day eye cream*
- Hemp serum *doubles as eye serum*
- I use these washable rounds to remove my make up with water
- Face sunscreen
- Body sunscreen
- Small makeup bag (foundation, blush, mascara, chapstick and a lipstick)
- Refillable travel containers (one for shampoo, one for body moisturizer *I skipped conditioner*)
- Bar soap
- Razor
Montana Outfits – By Occasion:
Now that you’ve seen the full Montana packing list, let’s get into how it all came together on the trip. I’ve broken down my Montana outfits by occasion so you can see exactly what I wore for travel days, exploring, boat days, and Glacier National Park.
If you’re planning a similar Montana summer vacation, I hope these real-life outfit ideas make your own packing process a whole lot easier.
✈️ Travel Day Outfits: (2)
🎯 Outfit Formula #1: Spanx Air Essentials Sweater + Cropped Joggers + Leopard Print Sneakers + Crossbody Bag + Pashmina
🎯 Outfit Formula #2: Cashmere Sweater + Cropped Joggers + Leopard Print Sneakers + Crossbody Bag + Pashmina
🧳 link to my carry-on here *I love it so freaking much*
🏆 Why It Works: Both looks were extremely comfortable and I still felt pretty cute!
🏔️ Day Time Exploration Outfits: (9)
Most of our days were spent outdoors. Walking around town, visiting Glacier National Park, or doing very easy hikes with the family. I didn’t need technical gear, just comfortable pieces I could move in, layer as needed, and still feel cute enough to wear to dinner later.
I kept it simple: breathable tanks, lightweight button-downs, wide leg pants, and comfy shoes I could walk in for hours. The same outfits worked all day, from exploring to casual dinners out—which made getting dressed super easy.
You can see in the photos below how the outfit worked with or without the extra layer! I’m counting those outfits as just 1 because it’s basically the same thing.
The last few photos were taken at home because me and my husband got sick mid trip and basically passed out for a day and half in our Airbnb. However, I still wanted to show you the outfits that I would have worn during those two days.
🏆 Why These Outfits Worked:
- Layering was everything. With temps swinging from 50s in the morning to 90s in the afternoon, being able to peel off or add layers made a huge difference.
- They were versatile. These outfits worked for easy hikes, town strolling, and dinner—without needing a full change.
- The vibe was very laid-back. Even the nicer restaurants we visited felt outdoorsy and casual, so I never felt underdressed in comfortable, polished basics.
- I felt like myself. I wasn’t trying to dress for Instagram—I just wanted to feel good, stay warm (but not sweaty), and enjoy the trip.
🚤 Lake Day Outfit: (1)
This was a surprise outing! I thought we were renting a boat, but we ended up going rafting—which was such a fun change of plans. I didn’t get a photo (too much water involved!), but I wore my one-piece swimsuit and a simple cover-up that doubled as a dress for walking around before and after.
I also wore my Birkenstocks, which were fine for the short walk down to the river. But heads up: if your shoes don’t strap around the heel, they’ll ask you to rent their water shoes for $2.50. Honestly, no big deal—so if this is the only water activity you’re planning, don’t stress about packing special shoes.
🇺🇸 4th of July Outfit: (1)
For the Fourth, we went to a local rodeo (which… I’ll be honest, wasn’t really my thing 😬). But the outfit worked perfectly for the vibe. I wore a white tee, light-wash jeans, my orange Birkenstocks, and a brown leather belt—and felt totally comfortable and appropriately dressed.
The crowd was a mix of everything: full western looks with hats and boots, casual outfits like mine, and yes, even heels. The general theme leaned denim, cowgirl boots, leather, and hats, but honestly, there was no strict dress code. Just wear what feels like you and you’ll fit right in.
🎯 Outfit Formula: Scoop neck T-shirt + Wide leg jeans + Leather belt + Birkenstocks + Crossbody bag + Headband + Gold jewelry + Sunnies
🏆 Why It Works: This outfit felt festive without trying too hard. The jeans and leather belt gave it a subtle Western touch, and the sandals kept things comfortable for walking around all evening. It was the perfect mix of practical and cute.
🧳 Packing for a Trip? Let Me Create a List Just for You!
Overwhelmed by what to bring? I get it. That’s why I created a quick quiz that takes the guesswork out of packing. Tell me where you’re going and how long you’ll be there and I’ll send you a customized packing list that fits your destination, weather, and personal style. (only for spring & summer travel)
It’s not a generic checklist. It’s what I actually use to pack light and feel good in what I wear. Get started by answering these 2 questions:
Post-Trip Reflection Questions:
Before we wrap up, I always like to take a few minutes after a trip to reflect on what worked—and what didn’t. It helps me pack smarter for the next adventure, and hopefully it’ll help you too. Here are a few questions I asked myself after our Montana trip:
1️⃣ Would I pack the same way again? Absolutely! I felt like I nailed it—and my suitcase wasn’t even full.
2️⃣ What did I pack but didn’t wear? Nothing! I wore everything I brought.
3️⃣ What did I wear more than once? The puffer vest, jeans, chambray shirt, and black pants were on heavy rotation.
4️⃣ What would I leave out next time? Maybe the white pants—they’re a bit high maintenance for travel, but I still love them.
5️⃣ What do I wish I had packed instead? There was one really hot day where I wished I had shorts, but overall I’m glad I didn’t bring them. We never went to our Airbnb to change for dinner, so I don’t think shorts would have worked as an all day thing for me. (it worked for my sister in law though, so everyone’s different. You know yourself better than anyone)
6️⃣ Were there any surprises in terms of weather or activities? The last two days got colder than I expected (and we got sick 🥲), but it was actually kind of nice to cozy up in PJs and joggers. Having a washer was a lifesaver!
7️⃣ Did I feel appropriately dressed for every activity? Mostly yes! I wasn’t as sporty-looking for hikes, but I was comfy (none of them were difficult, they were more like walks in nature) and I’d rather be a little overdressed than underdressed. Having a car helped since I could always stash extras in the trunk.
🧠 Why I Packed What I Packed
When building my Montana packing list, I focused on pieces that were versatile, layerable, and comfortable enough for everything we had planned.
I wasn’t trying to pack the perfect Instagram outfits—just clothes I could actually live in for 10 days, and that made sense for the weather, activities, and vibe of a Montana summer vacation.
Here’s a quick look at the thought process behind a few of the key pieces:
- Leopard Print Sneakers – My go-to for travel days, town exploring, and even casual dinners. They go with everything and are comfy enough for lots of walking.
- Bottom Pieces – I packed two pairs of wide-leg pants (one black, one white) and a pair of jeans. They were super easy to style, comfortable for sitting in the car, and worked well for both day and night. The white ones are a bit high-maintenance, but I love them anyway.
- Puffer Vest – Lightweight but warm—perfect for layering on chilly mornings or boat days without having to bring a bulky jacket.
- Cashmere Sweaters – Cozy, compact, and just dressy enough for a nicer dinner. They didn’t take up much room and added instant warmth when the temps dropped.
- Long Sleeve T-Shirts – Essential for layering under sweaters, button down shirts or jackets. I wore them on the cooler days and appreciated having the extra warmth without overheating.
- Tank Tops & T-Shirts – These were perfect for the warmer days at the start of the trip. I stuck to neutral colors so they could be mixed and matched easily with any bottom or layer.
- Birkenstocks – Great for warm weather and casual outings. I wore them to dinner, lake days, and walking around town. Just easy and reliable.
- Accessories (jewelry, headbands, and crossbody bag) – These small details helped me feel more put together without taking up space.
I stuck with the same color palette for tops, bottoms, layers and sweaters because I wasn’t sure about how I would feel with the temperature (I don’t like cold weather). I had to give myself options! So literally everything matched and I could simply decide what to wear each morning based on the temperature and activities.
Every piece I packed had to earn its spot by being useful in more than one way. That’s the beauty of packing light—it forces you to get clear on what you’ll really wear.
I hope this gave you a clear and realistic look at how to build a Montana packing list that actually works for your own trip.
Whether you’re planning a full week in Whitefish, exploring Glacier National Park, or just figuring out what to pack for Montana in the summer, remember:
The best travel wardrobe is one that fits you—your plans, your comfort level, and your style.
If you’re still figuring out how to create a mix-and-match travel wardrobe for the mountains, I hope this post helped you feel more confident (and a little more excited!) about packing for your trip.
Let me know in the comments if you have any questions—and safe travels! 💛
XO,
Aimara
PPS: want immediate access to all my best packing resources? Get 17 packing lists + guides for $17!
Hi, I’m Aimara 👋🏼
I’m a full-time traveler who lives out of this 20-inch carry-on and somehow still loves getting dressed.
Over the past few years, I’ve traveled across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Latin America with just the essentials in my suitcase, and along the way, I’ve figured out how to make packing light feel doable (and even fun!).
I started this blog to help women like you travel lighter, shop smarter, and feel confident in what you wear—whether you’re exploring Montana’s mountain towns or just trying to pack for your next weekend getaway without losing your mind.
If this Montana packing list helped you feel a little more prepared, I think you’ll love these travel styling blog posts too:
- My favorite wrinkle free travel clothing!
- How to pack light for trips with different climates
- The best way to pack your personal item
- How to stay safe while traveling
- Pros and cons of the top-rated carry on bags
Did you find this Montana packing list useful? Please share this post on Pinterest!
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