There is nothing more luxurious than packing a bag and heading off on a tropical winter getaway--except for, of course, packing a very large bag and heading off on that same getaway! For my recent to Careyes, Mexico, a few weeks ago, I brought along more swimsuits, dresses, and kaftans than I could possibly wear in a week, but it felt so indulgent to have those options with me (and, as it turned out, unpacked for me as well!). With the holidays coming up--and high hopes for warm weather vacations ahead--I did some reconnaissance on all things resort wear and came up with a list of the latest and greatest must-pack items. Because the list is quite lengthy, I thought I'd break it up into two parts and start with swimwear and cover-ups today. For starters, the array of swimsuit options is immense, but I love that you can get a bunch of styles to try on from sites like Netaporter, Asos and Shopbop with free shipping and returns--and avoid the harsh lighting of a department store dressing room! I tend to bring a mix of staple suits (i.e., the solid black bikini) with more adventurous styles (the cut-out one-piece) and wear according to mood/agenda. I actually just bought this crazy sexy, which I fantasize wearing on a far-away beach with just my hubby, but I also fancy this and this , all of which would be suitable at a family resort! Bikini wise, I still swear by this (I took it with me to Mex!) as it's perfect for all sun, sand and sea outings, but I also love these just-out stunners by , , and . Statement-y kaftans and tunics that go from the beach to the bar, such as this (on sale!), this and this are fantastic in my book, but the easy ones you can throw on over a wet swimsuit and feel dressed are also practical, like this , this , this , and this . Stay-tuned for winter-getaway part deux, where I will cover sandals, apres beach wear and accessories!