Read What is it Like to have One Day in Tokyo! 

Mar 20, 2025

Last Updated on: Nov 24, 2025

Travel Blog

Tokyo is a beautiful place, and I feel everyone must visit the place once in their lifetime. With beautiful views of mountains, rivers, cherry blossoms, and more natural elements, you can enjoy the place to its hilt.  

With me sharing some of the delicious food, the safest and nicest place to stay, and things to do, you can make your plan for one day in Tokyo. Furthermore, the itinerary for a day ensures that you will get a feeling for the place, especially if you have a limited budget.  

If you are looking for February vacation ideas, this is it for you. Plan it accordingly to create an itinerary that will help you make memories. 

Read What Is It Like to Have One Day in Tokyo!  

Read What Is It Like to Have One Day in Tokyo!

If it is just for a day, you should choose a place which is at the central location of the city so that you do not waste much time while traveling. I would suggest any place that is on the Yamanote Loop line whether it be Tokyo station or Shinjuku.  

It will also help you plan correctly whether it is the places, the food, or the location. Tokyo can easily become one of the best places to travel with kids. Let me share with you this information along with some tips that are perfect for your itinerary!  

Where to Stay!  

Are you a little worried about your stay, especially if you plan to stay one day in Tokyo? Let me share with you some of the places, you can rest assured it will be both fun and safe. Additionally, you also need to know where to stay if you are living for a longer period.  

One of the most exotic places to travel, Tokyo is beautiful to visit. Some of the coolest, most interesting, and safest neighborhoods to stay when visiting Tokyo are as follows:  

Shinjuku  

Shinjuku  

In terms of preference, I would say Shinjuku ranks the highest as a location because you will find great transport connections, delicious dining opportunities, and an amazing shopping experience. This place is known for the young crowd hence, the place also caters to them.  

Starting from foodies to shopaholics, the place can satisfy starting from sudden cravings to planned dinner parties. The most important Yamanote Line is available here hence, it is perfect for you if you have plans to travel regularly. Also, the best bookshop in Tokyo, Kinokuniya is in Shinjuku.  

Let’s not forget that the place can be a little overwhelming with crowds, several bars, and restaurants. So, if you are traveling with kids, it can be a little too much for children, hence, please be a little aware of it.   

Marunouchi Area/ Tokyo Station  

Marunouchi Area

Another perfect place to stay if you are not a homebody! The main transport hub of Tokyo is surrounded by great hotels, shops, department stores, and restaurants. If you are someone who loves parks, this is the place for you. There are several adjoining parks, plus you can visit the Imperial Palace.  

The place can feel a little dead in the evening especially when people are inside restaurants or taking a stroll. However, the more you explore, you will see it is one of the coolest places to be if you are looking for exploration.  

Roppongi  

Roppongi  

Another place to stay, if you are an explorer. Not just tourists, even the locals prefer Roppongi over other places to stay. The place is sexy with its come-hither feel, Roppongi is known for its glamorous nightlife and delicious dining experience.  

Be it clubbers or fine diners, Roppongi is rated as one of the most attractive places to be. A cosmopolitan reflection of big money, be it foreign or Japanese, Roppongi shines bright. However, one of the negative points of this place is it is not on the Yamanote Loop line which can be difficult for an explorer.  

You will have to travel long routes, and you will have to spend more money especially when you cannot access the loop line while staying in Roppongi.  

Where to Eat!  

If you are wondering what to eat when visiting Tokyo, let me share with you some of the iconic dishes. You will develop an immersive culinary experience when trying these dishes along with enjoying the beautiful places in Tokyo. 

Just to be on the safe side, you must have the best travel credit card! It will help you if you are in any crisis. 

Ramen – There are various ramen dishes, starting from spicy miso to rich tonkatsu. A combination of juicy meat, nori sheets, perfectly cooked egg, and bamboo shoots presents this feel-good hearty broth.  

Ramen

Yakitori – This is one of my favorites, the dish is skewered chicken which is of course savored grilled. Mostly, it is seasoned with salt or tare sauce.  

Yakitori

Tempura – Deep-fried vegetables or seafood, you will fall in love with this crispy dish.  

Tempura

Sushi – It is one of the most popular cuisines of Japan, you will get a variety starting from creative rolls to classic nigiri.  

Sushi

Okonomiyaki – A specialty of Hiroshima, this dish is a savory pancake with various mix-ins such as cabbage, pork belly, and shallots! It is a combination of an omelet and a pancake.  

Okonomiyaki

Must See Tokyo in One Day!  

Must See Tokyo in One Day

Go to Asakusa first thing in the morning! You can visit Senso-ji temple which is located near Asakusa-jinja shrine.  

Then you can take the Ginza subway line which will take you straight to Shibuya, across town from Asakusa. You will have to make the ride for about 30 minutes, so it is better if you grab a seat and relax with a book.  

You can then take the Hachiko exit after you arrive in Shibuya and walk to the Shibuya crossing. It is one of the coolest shopping districts, now you know where I am taking you? There are a lot of huge department stores offering beautiful products.  

You can eat something, a snack like Yakitori, Onigiri or Taiyaki the streets so that you are not hungry till afternoon! Most department stores have huge restaurant floors so you can easily have your lunch in Shibuya. It will be a bit rushed in the afternoon; peak time is 1:00 p.m. so try to avoid that time.  

You can then visit the beautiful Meiji-jingu Shrine which is located west of Harajuku. You have to take the Yamanote line to get there. Furthermore, you can have your coffee at Omotesando to recharge for the rest of the day.   

Let’s not forget the amazing views you will get from the observation deck of the Mori Tower. You must go to the 52nd floor of the tower to enjoy the beautiful Tokyo city view as the evening falls. There are many bars in the Roppongi district, where you can end your day with delicious meals and drinks.  

Things to Do in Tokyo!  

Things to Do in Tokyo!

If you have more time, these are the following things that you must do if you are visiting Tokyo. The first thing that I will suggest to you is to visit a few spots popular for their cherry blossoms, mind-bogglingly beautiful. 

The places are perfect for some alone time especially if you are avoiding the blossom season. Another thing that I feel that you should not miss is the Samurai Restaurant Time show. It shows the cultural side of Tokyo especially with the fun and glitz that the cabaret show brings with it. 

You can get yourself tickets online from Samurai Restaurant Time to enjoy the extravagant show, memorable for a lifetime.  

Mount Fuji is another wonder you must not miss if you visit Tokyo! If you are planning to visit Mount Fuji, try to do so in the daytime! There are several places from where you can enjoy the beautiful views of Mt. Fuji. 

You can also add visiting Lake Kawaguchiko because the view you see of Mt. Fuji from here will not be available anywhere. You can go fishing, hiking or cycling or read a book sitting under one of the trees enjoying the view. There are also several museums around the lake, you can go check them out.  

Tips to Make Your Trip Memorable  

Tips to Make Your Trip Memorable

Buy a Universal adapter because the plug sockets in Japan are different. Bring Charger and Charger cables because you need to charge your cell phone regularly. The same applies to your laptop and Kindle.  

Try to carry your phone Bank especially if you have plans to take pictures on your phone. With our social media platforms becoming the journal of your life, posting pictures, videos, and reels is a must. Get a data-only Japanese SIM card because it is better than having the roaming services on the existing SIM.  

Carry your medicines when visiting Japan but be a little careful when carrying them. Japan has some strict regulations on common drugs, psychotropics, opioids, and others. Having a travel first aid kit is a must when traveling to Japan.  

Carry basic medications such as flu, cold, diarrhea, rashes, painkillers, and others, sanitary pads, tampons, gel and Razors. How can you forget deodorant or perfume when traveling? It is one of the most important toiletries apart from your moisturizer, sunscreen, shampoo, shower gel, toothpaste, and others!  

You also cannot forget sunglasses, a warm jacket, scarves, and a hat! Carry cotton and linen clothing, athleisure, and sportswear. Try to avoid denim because it holds onto moisture! Carry lightweight, comfortable walking shoes. Drying towels are necessary, so carry them in packs!  

Wrapping Up!  

In conclusion, there are several places in Tokyo that you cannot miss when visiting! If you are visiting for one day in Tokyo, read the article to learn more about the places you can stay, the food you can eat and the things you can do.  

Comment below to let us know which are the places you want to visit and why! Apart from deciding the places you want to go, what is more important is how you can enjoy your trip to Tokyo, be it for a day or a week. 

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Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.

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READ MORE golden corral breakfast hours

Golden Corral Breakfast Hours: When Does Breakfast Start?

BY  sagnika Sep 7, 2023

Are you craving some bacon, omelets and sausages? Do not worry; we have got you covered! I am here to tell you about the Golden Corral breakfast hours so that you can create your combination of delicious breakfast meals. The food items are a masterpiece, so to get all that yumminess, you've got to know the right time to visit the restaurant to have your favorite fillings in that Omelet! Or choose your pick among the hot and cold breakfast selections! Another important item that at least I can always notice, whether during lunch, dinner, or breakfast, is desserts. I can only go with a pie or a piece of cake whenever I visit Golden Corral. With a wide variety to cater from, it is a perfect option for a Sunday morning breakfast with family or a breakfast date with that crush you have been mooning over! I am sure they won't be able to say 'No' to pancakes or french toast! Brekkie At Golden Corral: When Does Golden Corral Start Serving Breakfast? Golden Corral is a popular breakfast joint that has been an in-demand and appreciated dining destination for Americans. There are a variety of options for food that are available at affordable prices. There have been issues with negative publicity in 2012 when there was an outbreak of norovirus, specifically connected to the Golden Corral restaurant in Casper, Wyoming. According to the Wyoming state epidemiologist, food handlers were sick, which contributed to the 344 illnesses. That specific branch has been closed! Yet, the good quality of food, wide variety of options and customer services has led to the popularity of Golden Corral! Breakfast at the restaurant is another delicious and fun part of the restaurant. You have to try their breakfast menu, especially when they are so affordable. I will discuss all about Golden Corral breakfast hours and prices! All About Golden Corral! Golden Corral is an American restaurant chain with an amazing all-you-can-eat buffet and grill offer! The first restaurant of this chain brand opened in 1973 on the 3rd of January in North Carolina after the incorporation of the company in 1972. The restaurant chain is located in 43 states of the USA and Puerto Rico. The company's founders, William F. Carl and James Maynard, opened this restaurant chain when they failed to acquire franchises with other companies. The headquarters of the company is situated in Raleigh No, North Carolina. There are almost 500 Golden Corral restaurants across the United States, out of which the company owns 100. The rest of them are franchised stores! The stores are quite popular across the US, which is proved by the company's gross sales. In 2023, the annual revenue is $69 million! The restaurant has a diverse dining experience concerning an all-you-can-eat option with an affordable price of the food items. The brand is well known for its summer camp programs, philanthropic efforts and charity events towards minority groups, children, military service members and others. Do You Want To Grab Some Brekkie At The Golden Corral? Everything feels better when you have crunchy fried chicken! Golden Corral brings home-style comfort foods, satisfying Americans across the country! The restaurant chain is "America's #1 buffet and grill." So, if you plan to get breakfast at the Golden Corral, you must rise early! The restaurant may not be your first option, but some of the items on the breakfast menu are delicious! Also, remember that only some restaurants under the Golden Corral franchise serve breakfast, so get that information before you visit. The restaurants in the company chain have flexible timings! It is quite popular across groups, families and parents with kids. So, you know, what time does Golden Corral close? At times, the closing time of the restaurant ranges till 2 AM! You will find further information related to the restaurants on the company's website. There are certain adjustments that I will ask you to make, especially if the restaurants are located in a less accessible place. Sometimes, more than the local demand and supply is needed, especially in different areas where situations can influence the services. Please remember that the restaurant chain is closed on Christmas Day, Thanksgiving Day, Labor Day, Fourth of July, Memorial Day and Easter Sunday. Also, the restaurant branches are closed on New Year's Eve and Christmas Eve. Only a few restaurant chains need to follow these holidays; they often open year-round so people can enjoy their food even during the holidays! Official Time To Concur The Hunger! I will tell you the Golden Corral breakfast buffet hours on weekdays, i.e. Monday to Friday, between 7:30 AM and 11:00 AM. The breakfast buffet at the restaurant has a famous all-you-can-eat option, which is quite popular among customers. The Golden Corral breakfast hours on weekends, such as Saturday and Sunday, start from 7:00 AM, and they stop serving breakfast by 11:00 AM. Some popular items on the breakfast menu are glazed honey buns, fluffy pancakes and made-to-order omelets. So, Golden Corral Sunday breakfast hours start 30 minutes early! During the holidays, you might need some help with timing, especially across various restaurants of this chain. Many restaurants' Local timings based on location also vary, so try to be updated regarding the opening hours! Further operations of the restaurant are based on the family-style approach where there are various options for dinner, lunch and breakfast. Still, additionally, they also run a dessert bar. The restaurant is open 24 hours a day; however, it is closed on Sundays in some locations. Quality Of The Yummilicous! Not everyone can be satisfied, but you must remember that Golden Corral's breakfast is worth trying, especially if we go by the customers' experience! There is a diverse selection of food items! For example, customers from Virginia have raved about the food. The reviews from Texas customers have also been positive, especially regarding breakfast at Golden Corral! The food is a well-organized buffet, and most customers have raved about the friendly staff. Many of the food dishes have been deemed delicious. My favorite is fried chicken, home-style pancakes, French toast and assorted yogurt. Some of the best food available in the restaurant is related to the wide station of omelets, cinnamon rolls, chicken items, etc. You can create your dish at the omelet station, especially with various fillings and fresh eggs. A good practice in the restaurant chain is constantly rotating fresh food and variety! And what could be better, on the weekends, you will also get strawberry cheesecake. Options To Stuff Your Face With! Now comes the fun part! There are both hot and cold breakfast options, along with desserts available during breakfast hours. At some branches of the restaurant chain, chocolate runs down fountains! For a cold breakfast, there is an option of fruits such as watermelon, strawberries, bananas and others. Further, cranberry juice, orange juice, apple juice, etc., are available on the menu. Along with that, you can also order assorted doughnuts or assorted yogurts. There are various collections for Golden Corral breakfast complete dishes such as fried eggs, filling with mushroom, sausage crumbles, bacon bits, green peppers, and diced hams. People following the Keto diet have low-carb options with cheese, eggs, sausage and bacon on the menu! It makes people feel less guilty, along with fresh fruits like strawberries and blueberries. My Favorites! People like me who crave candy in the morning will rush towards chocolate! Items in the hot breakfast consisted of scrambled eggs, sausage links, french toast, cinnamon rolls, grilled corned beef hash, Texas roast, breakfast casserole, home-style pancakes, golden waffles and others. I can't miss the dessert, considering it is my favorite food! Items include fruit cobbler, hot fudge, ice cream cones, specific pies and cakes, etc. There are also sugar-free options and healthy food items for people who are health conscious. My favorite items are buffalo wings, chicken fingers and prime rib. Some of my friends really like turkey burgers! The limitless options for dinner, lunch, and breakfast make the food experience even better. What I like about the restaurant's environment is that you can consume a leisurely meal with friends and family. You can also grab a quick bite if you are in the mood for something sweet or hurry! Do You Think Breakfast Is Good At Golden Corral? I want to highlight a unique selling factor of the restaurant chain, especially when they establish rates based on age. For kids, Golden Corral Breakfast offers meals that cost about $7.49; for adults, the Golden Corral breakfast for adults costs around $10.69. Further, if you are a senior citizen, you must pay $8.99 for Golden Corral breakfast! You have to carry a valid ID, which, during billing, you need to present to the cashier. It is called the senior citizen discount. Another significant fun part is that Golden Corral sometimes creates offers such as an "all-you-can-eat" pancakes special, priced at $0.99. People appreciate that beverages such as milk and juice are included in the bill with unlimited refill options in some restaurant branches. What Are People Saying About Golden Corral? The reviews on Tripadvisor about Golden Corral restaurant in Florida City have been mostly positive. Based on 204 reviews, the rating has been 4 out of 5 restaurants where customers have appreciated service and staff behavior. The food items have been rated as outstanding, with a few issues of long waiting lines, steak a bit fatty or dirty restrooms. One reviewer called Richard Van Huizen informed me about the fresh food and affordable rate with diverse options in the buffet, quite unexpected from such a place! He meant that the restaurant's look could have been more interesting and attractive, as the chairs and tables were sticky. People visiting with their children were very clumsy as their kids dropped food on the carpet, and they were not concerned! Another review by WineDineRoadies was positive, especially when it read that the food was very good and a wide spread of buffet choices were available. Just like me, he has a sweet tooth! He agreed that there was a good variety of desserts. There was a chocolate fountain, which was an IT place for kids! Even at Zomato, a reviewer appreciated the restaurant's order regarding breakfast! He informed in the review that the food is of fresh produce. The omelet was also prepared on time. Overall, it is a good experience to go and eat at Golden Corral because of the friendly staff and the well-organized buffet! What If You Can't Make It During Breakfast? If you cannot make it during lunch, you have time for brunch between 9:30 AM and 2:00 PM! What can be better than enjoying pancake lunch, especially when it is one of the best items in the restaurant? Their lunch service is also active till 2 PM, which stops after 2 PM. It is also important for customers to get food at affordable rates, especially when the prices on the menu are mostly below $12 per item. People with dietary restrictions can eat healthy here, considering there are low-carb food items, high-protein diets and others. In the afternoon, there are more food options! One of the advantages you have with Golden Corral is that it is also open in the afternoon. Some of the breakfast options are present in the afternoon menu as well. Sometimes, there are additional breakfast or brunch menu options, such as strawberry cheesecake french toast, bacon, carved glazed ham and others! The free coffee, milk and juice on the menu raise the bar on the food's quality and demand. Finishing Up… Are you craving some home-style pancakes? How about visiting Golden Corral? You can read this article regarding Golden Corral breakfast hours. When you visit the restaurant, you must remember that the opening time is 7:30 in the morning, while it is 30 minutes early on the weekend. The staff in the Golden Corral are friendly, and you will have a pleasant experience because of the delicious food items and the impressive behavior of the team. You will get endless refills of the beverages such as juices and milk. Comment below regarding your preference for the food item if you ever visit the restaurant and why! Read Also: Taco Bell Breakfast Hours: When Does Taco Bell Serve Breakfast? Wendy’s Breakfast Hours: When To Visit Wendy’s For Breakfast? Chick Fil A Breakfast Hours: When Do They Start Serving Breakfast? Burger King Breakfast Hours: What Time Does Burger King Serve Breakfast?

READ MORE Solo Adventures

Why Solo Adventures Can Be Life-Changing

BY  Sibashree Sep 1, 2025

Ever thought about just… taking off somewhere by yourself? No schedules to match, no arguing over playlists, no “where do you want to eat?” back-and-forth.  Just you, a bag, and the road. Sounds fun, right? Also a little scary, I know. But here’s the thing, solo trips end up being some of the most eye-opening experiences people have.  You’re tossed out of the comfort zone, forced to trust your gut, and you notice things in a way you can’t when you’re tagging along with a group. And it’s not just a random personal choice anymore. More people are doing it. After the pandemic, especially, folks wanted out of the usual grind.  Travel sites keep reporting more single bookings. Instagram, TikTok—everywhere you look, someone’s posting about heading off alone.  Even in small places like Bandera, Texas, the solo-travel vibe is strong. There’s a weird kind of freedom in being alone with your thoughts in a new place.  Anyway, that’s what this post is about. I will talk about why your solo adventures change you and how you grow into bigger shifts. Also, I will discuss what to know so the trip feels exciting and safe. Where You Stay Shapes Your Solo Adventures When you’re by yourself, the place you stay matters a lot more than when you’ve got a group.  Comfort jumps up the list. Same with safety. But there’s also this other piece—connection. A good stay gives you something solid to come back to at night, not just a bed.  There’s no shortage of lodging in Texas. But if you are in Bandera, opt for Riverwalk RV Resort. If you end up in Bandera, Riverwalk RV Resort is a neat option. It kind of nails that balance.  Additionally, you can hole up in a tiny home or RV site if you want privacy, but you’re still around people.  It’s easy to bump into fellow travelers by the pool, around the fire pit, or on the walking paths. For solo folks, that little bit of community keeps things from feeling too quiet. And location? Huge. Stay near the action, which basically means near the trails, river, and town squares. And, you don’t need anyone else to nudge you into exploring.  In Bandera, you’ve got hiking, kayaking, and small-town events right there. The right stay makes solo travel feel both safe and adventurous, which is honestly the sweet spot. How Solo Adventures Mirror Bigger Social Trends This isn’t just about wanderlust. It reflects a bigger shift happening everywhere. People are leaning into independence. Also, it is quite evident that they are chasing flexibility and choosing experiences over things.  Moreover, remote work has blown the doors wide open. So, all of a sudden, you could travel without begging for vacation days.  And younger travelers especially? They’d rather collect memories than stuff, so yeah, solo travel fits. Studies show that time alone can improve focus, reduce stress, and even spark creativity. Also, the last few years have changed how people think. The pandemic was a slap in the face. It has taught us the most important lesson these heavy quotes couldn’t: life’s short, don’t wait around.  Toss in politics, money worries, all that, and suddenly more folks are saying, “Forget waiting for perfect timing, I’ll go now.” Solo travel lets you grab control of your own time. And there’s the mental health angle too. Alone time helps with stress, sparks creativity, and clears your head.  A solo trip feels like pressing reset. Not just another vacation, but a way to figure yourself out again. The Irony Of Meeting More People Alone Here’s the funny part: when you go alone, you actually meet more people. Weird, right? But think about it—groups stick together.  You’ve already got company, so you don’t reach out. Alone, you’re easier to approach. And let’s be honest, you’ll want to talk to someone eventually. So conversations happen. Maybe you end up sharing a table, maybe someone invites you along for a tour, maybe it’s just a quick chat in line.  Sometimes they’re tiny moments, sometimes lifelong friendships. You never really know. Of course, you’ve gotta use judgment. Solo travel makes you sharper about that. You get good at reading the vibe, trusting your gut, knowing when to say yes and when to walk away. That’s a skill that sticks with you. Practical Tips For Safer Solo Adventures Alright, so here’s the real-world stuff. Safety first, always. Pick places with good reviews. Share your plans with a friend. Keep extra copies of your ID somewhere safe. Non-negotiable. Pack light, too. You’ll regret dragging heavy bags when it’s just you carrying them. Essentials like a portable charger, first aid kit, and reusable water bottle make trips smoother. Insurance if you’re going longer—it’s boring, but you’ll thank yourself if anything goes wrong. And yeah, tech helps a ton. Google Maps, translation apps, online reviews—you’re rarely lost anymore. Just… don’t stare at your phone the whole trip. You didn’t fly across the country to look at a screen. What Solo Travel Teaches You About Yourself The coolest part isn’t really the destination. It’s what you figure out about you. When nobody else is steering, you find out what excites you, what stresses you, and what you’re actually capable of. You’ll surprise yourself, too. Maybe you handle public transport in another language. Maybe you fix a random travel hiccup on your own. Those wins pile up and you start realizing—hey, I can handle a lot more than I thought. But here’s the twist: being alone can also make you appreciate people more. Coming home after days of quiet makes a simple dinner with friends feel extra warm. You get this balance—you learn to enjoy solitude and community. That’s why solo trips are so powerful. They remind you that freedom’s possible, even in little doses. They show you you’re stronger than you give yourself credit for. And sometimes? The best travel buddy is just… you. At the end of it all, travel isn’t only about where you go. It’s about who you come back as. Read Also: Is New Orleans Safe as a Solo Traveller: Shared Experience! Learn All About the Best Solo Trip in India Right Here! Is San Juan Safe for Solo Women Travelers?

READ MORE summer wardrobe essentials

Splurge Or Save? Finding The Sweet Spot For Summer Wardrobe Costs Before Your Next Trip

BY  Ankita Nov 12, 2025

One of the many things that my husband keeps bugging me about is what to pack when we are going on a trip. It is still okay if it is a winter trip, as he knows all the jumpers and jackets he needs to pack. For summer trips or whenever we are traveling to a warmer city, he can never decide.  And with my son now all of 12, he acts like a carbon copy of his father. He never knows what to pack for his summer excursions or holidays.  Now, this may sound like a trivial issue. However, it is a serious concern, considering Travel+Leisure has dedicated an entire post to the ideal travel clothing in 2025.  Though the post is essentially for women, it has some great ideas about how to build the perfect summer wardrobe for men without compromising comfort.  Shopping for summer wardrobe essentials for a trip can be a real budget buster. One minute you're browsing for a simple t-shirt, and the next thing you know, your cart is loaded with designer everything.  But here's the reality check. You don't need to spend your rent money to look good when the temperature rises. The trick is knowing when to open your wallet wide and when to keep it firmly shut.  Invest In These Summer Essentials Some pieces are worth every penny you spend on them. Take polo shirts, for example. A cheap polo will pill after three washes and lose its shape faster than ice cream melts in July. But a man's quality designer polo?  That will look sharp season after season. The fabric stays crisp, the colors don't fade, and the fit doesn't go wonky after a trip through the washing machine. Swimwear is another no-brainer for spending more. Nobody wants their swim shorts to fall apart mid-vacation or turn see-through after one dip in the pool. Quality swim gear holds up to chlorine, salt water, and countless pool parties. Also, you have to be particular about your innerwear. This is the innermost layer of your clothing, and your personal hygiene or comfort depends on the lingerie you wear.  Skip The Splurge Here Trendy stuff that'll be out of style before Labor Day? Save your money. That neon tank top with the weird geometric print might look cool now, but it's probably heading straight to the back of your closet come fall. Basic tees are another place to be smart with your cash. Sure, an $80 plain white t-shirt might feel luxurious, but a $15 one from a decent brand will do the job just fine. Save the big bucks for pieces that really matter. The 70/30 Game Plan Think about your summer budget like this: put most of your money into the stuff you'll wear constantly. That means: A couple of great pairs of shorts that fit perfectly Solid polo shirts and casual button-downs One really good pair of swim shorts Comfortable shoes that won't fall apart Save about 30% of your budget for the fun stuff. Bright colors, bold patterns, and whatever trend is taking over social media this year. How To Spot Quality Worth Paying For Good summer clothes have a few telltale signs. Natural fabrics like cotton and linen keep you cooler than synthetic blends that trap heat and sweat. Check the seams, too. If they look like they were sewn by someone having a bad day, skip it. Fit matters more than the price tag sometimes. A $40 shirt that fits like it was made for you beats a $100 one that's too tight in weird places. Don't Fall For These Shopping Traps Store credit cards promising instant discounts sound tempting, but that 25% off today could cost you way more in interest later. And those "limited time only" sales? Half the time, the same deal pops up again next week.  Don't let pushy salespeople rush you into buying something just because it's marked down.  Sleep on big purchases, especially if you're already questioning whether you really need another pair of khaki shorts. Also watch out for: Bundle deals that make you buy stuff you don't actually want just to get a discount on what you do need. "Buy two, get one free" offers that trick you into spending more than you planned. Impulse buys at the checkout counter that are budget killers disguised as good deals. Smart Shopping Tricks Now, to begin with, my husband initially complains. But it is he who does the maximum shopping at the end-of-summer sales. Once he is inside the trial room, it’s like a never-ending wait as he will keep trying all that he has picked in turns.  Last August's leftover inventory becomes this May's wardrobe refresh at half the price. Yes, you have to plan ahead a bit, but your bank account will thank you. Also, think about how many different ways you can wear something. A plain navy shirt goes with everything. A shirt covered in flamingos? Not so much. Building Your Summer Collection The golden rule to have all the summer wardrobe essentials for your next trip? Start with the basics. When the basics are right, you have the chance to layer them or accessorize them according to the weather conditions and local etiquette.  Personality pieces are also important, especially if you are going on a business trip or have some specific events to catch up on. Get a few neutral-colored essentials that play well together, then throw in some color and pattern to keep things interesting. Don't feel like you need to replace everything at once, either. Maybe your shorts are still good, but your polos have seen better days. Replace what's actually worn out, not what's just boring you. In addition, I keep some budget aside for shopping for summer clothes at the new location we are visiting. In this way, I can also avoid excess baggage charges when flying.