Recently, my husband and I did something we never expected: We vowed not to get on a plane for the entire summer. I know it sounds crazy—summer is for travel! But that doesn’t mean we need to do so by air. We live in Los Angeles, which is only hours away from some of the best destinations you can imagine, so we decided to hit the road and explore. Plus, I love not having to pour my skincare products into 3.4-ounce TSA-approved bottles.
This summer, we’re driving along the California coast in one of Mercedes-Benz’s iconic cars. As someone who has tried to drive off with her parents’ Mercedes many times over the years, I’m well aware of how luxurious these vehicles are. I could spend hours on their plush leather seats, blasting music through speakers that make me feel like I’m actually at the Eras Tour. Being the fashion editor that I am, I’ve already curated packing lists for all of our travels—from waking up at dawn to drive to a quiet beach town to racing down the road before dusk to set up our campsite for a long weekend—and they’re too good not to share. If you want to hit the road in style, I have just the lineup for you.
When the weather is warm, there’s only one place I want to be: by the water. If you’re headed to the beach this summer, the sleek and dynamic Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet is the perfect car for your journey. This ride even includes my favorite feature: an open top. Picture yourself cruising the coast with the wind in your hair and a view of the beach from your window. For this trip, a chic swimsuit is a must-pack, along with an umbrella and a stylish towel to complete the look. Oh, and lots of sunscreen.
Hermes
Yachting Raye Beach Towel
$340
Johanna Ortiz
Visionary Arts Embroidered Triangle Bikini Top
$350
Johanna Ortiz
Sheshea Tasseled Bikini Briefs
$225
Shiseido
Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 60+
$90
Business & Pleasure Co
The Holiday Beach Umbrella
$199$99
Celine
Oval-Frame Acetate Sunglasses
$550
If you’re escaping to a luxury wellness retreat, the timeless and sophisticated Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan is the perfect companion. Combining elegance with cutting-edge technology, this classic vehicle offers a relaxing journey that will complement the serenity of your escape, whether it’s to a secluded spa or a tranquil yoga sanctuary. Packing for a wellness retreat requires a thoughtful selection of items that enhance relaxation and comfort—cozy bathrobes, lightweight sets, and luxurious skincare products are all musts.
Cozy Earth
Luxe Bath Robe
$180
Sporty & Rich
Wellness Cotton-Twill Baseball Cap
$60$36
Dôen
Hava Top in Indigo Sorrento Stripe
$248
Dôen
Hava Top in Indigo Sorrento Stripe
$148
Oak Essentials
Ritual Oil
$88
Le Labo
Palo Santo Home Spray
$133
Slip
Contour Sleep Mask
$55
An open road, rolling hills, farm animals off in the distance, and a dreamy Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe—that sounds picture-perfect if you ask me. The CLE Coupe is designed for comfort and style, making it the ideal partner for a Ranch Retreat. The panorama roof allows you to take in all that’s around you as you leave the big city for someplace simpler. And while your vacation may be low-key, your wardrobe doesn’t need to be. Lean into the ranch vibes with cowboy boots, hats, scarves, and my personal favorite, a designer handbag with a little horse detail. Yeehaw.
Khaite
Dallas Knee High Boots
$1380
Citizens of Humanity
Ayla Denim Knee-Length Shorts
$218
Van Palma
Ezra Felt Cowboy Hat With Brass Accents
$275
Chloé
Chain Horse Shoulder Bag in Soft Leather
$4600
Hermes
En Piste Scarf
$345
Going on an outdoorsy road trip requires a car that can handle the elements, and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan fits the criteria. This car delivers a smooth ride and luxurious features, including a spacious cabin designed to keep you comfortable on your journey. When styling for a hiking trip, it’s essential to bring pieces that combine practicality and style. Nylon shorts and jersey tops will keep you cool, and it doesn’t hurt if your durable hiking shoes are also incredibly cute. With a backpack, bucket hat, and water bottle, you’ll be prepared for whatever the great outdoors brings.
BrüMate
Rotera 65oz in Dune
$65
Prada
Re-Nylon Shorts
$1120
Prada
Stretch Jersey Top
$750
Hoka
Kaha 2 Low GTX
$220$165
Away
The Outdoor Backpack 26l
$130
Jacquemus
Le Bob Artichaut Cotton Bucket Hat
$135