The holiday season is finally here! Whether you’re heading to a sunny beach or a bustling city, there’s one thing we all dread: packing. But it doesn’t have to be stressful! With a little planning and a few key packing hacks, you can breeze through this process and be on your way to a stress-free holiday. So, grab a coffee, take a deep breath, and let’s talk about packing smart (and light).

Know Your Trip

Pause before packing and consider your trip.  This will make all the difference in what you pack.

• Where are you going? A tropical beach getaway? A hiking trip in the mountains? Maybe a weekend city break? Each type of destination has its own packing needs.
• How long will you be there? Weekend trips require way less than a two-week adventure, so keep your trip duration in mind.
• What’s the weather like?  You may have a good idea of what the weather should be like but it’s always worth checking weather forecast for your destination before you go so that you can pack accordingly.
• What are you planning to do? Are you lounging by the pool, exploring museums, or going on hikes? Tailoring your packing to your itinerary will help keep things light and functional.

The Packing List: What You Really Need

Clothing

Packing for a holiday can be tricky, especially when you’re trying to strike the right balance between looking stylish and feeling comfortable. You want clothes that not only suit your destination but also fit your body, lifestyle, and preferences. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here’s a guide on what to pack, focusing on practical yet chic clothing options that will have you feeling fabulous no matter where you’re headed.

Choose Versatile Pieces That You Can Layer

The key to packing light but still having everything you need is versatility. Opt for garments that you can mix and match to create different outfits. A few key pieces can go a long way, especially if they can be layered. Natural fibres are ideal if you’re holidaying in a warm climate.

• Lightweight Jackets or Cardigans: These are perfect for cooler evenings, breezy mornings or when the air conditioning kicks in a little too high, and they can be dressed up or down. A denim jacket or soft cardigan or even a lightweight trench coat are great choices.
• Pashmina or Lightweight scarf:  These can add a touch of elegance and warmth, but more importantly, they’re easy to stuff into your bag if you don’t need them. They’re ideal for visiting religious sites too where you may be expected to cover your head and shoulders.
• Basic Tops: Pack some colourful tops in block colours and prints. A mix of different sleeve lengths and necklines is ideal.
• Comfortable jeans/ trousers/shorts: Light-wash jeans or  jeans/chinos in white/ivory/stone will work with virtually any colour top.
• Dresses for All Occasions: A well-chosen dress can take you from day to night with ease just by adding heels and jewellery. Look for options that are comfortable yet flattering, with breathable fabrics and a style that suits your body shape. A flowy maxi dress is ideal for strolling around, visiting museums, or enjoying dinner on the beach.
• Beach wear: Not many of us feel supremely confident venturing forth in our swim wear so, frankly, I’d say, just wear whatever you’re most comfortable in – whether that’s a one piece or a bikini! Bear in mind that the top is basically taking the place of your bra though so make sure it’s supportive, if that’s what you need.
• Cover-Up: A stylish cover-up (be that a light sarong, kaftan or oversized shirt) can help you feel less exposed walking around the pool/beach.
• Underwear and Sleepwear: Make sure you have the right underwear.  This may mean packing a strapless bra or one that offers multiple strap positions. Underwear in a smooth design in a nude colour will work best for under lightweight clothes.

Comfortable Footwear for Every Occasion

Shoes can take up quite a lot of suitcase space so try not to take too many. The following should cover most needs.

• Trainers: A good pair of stylish, comfy trainers is ideal for sightseeing, walking around, or casual dinners.
• Comfortable Sandals: If you’re heading to a warm destination, pack a pair of well-made sandals. Opt for something with a sturdy sole and supportive arch to avoid foot pain after long days of exploring.
• Dressy Flats or Wedges: For more formal occasions, a pair of dressy flats or low wedges are perfect. They add a touch of elegance without sacrificing comfort.

Top Tip: Footwear in a nude colour will elongate the look of your legs and go with all your outfits. Metallics ( gold or silver depending on whether you have warm or cool colouring) are also a versatile choice.

Accessories

Accessories can make your outfits go from basic to fabulous without taking up much space in your luggage.

• Statement Jewellery: A few simple, yet bold pieces can elevate any outfit. Think large earrings or a chunky necklace that can instantly transform a simple dress or top.
• Sunglasses: A good pair of sunglasses is both practical and stylish. Select a neutral-coloured pair that complements your face shape.
• Hat: A wide-brimmed hat will protect you from the sun and add a bit of glamour to your beachwear or casual outfits.
• Bags: A small crossbody/ shoulder bag and a larger tote or rucksack for day trips.

Outfit Planning

Lay out all the garments you’re considering taking . Work out what tops you will be wearing with what bottoms and what jackets/cardigans you will be layering on for chillier evenings etc.  Stick to a colour scheme ( a breeze if you’ve had a colour analysis!) so that everything can be mixed and matched. Generally, it’s a safe bet to have bottoms in your best neutral colour as they will work with tops in all your other colours.

Ensure each item pairs with at least three others for maximum flexibility.

Try garments on if you’re not one hundred per cent sure they are still a good fit. Clothes have a nasty habit of “shrinking” in the wardrobe between one holiday and the next!

If they don’t fit or don’t pair with other items, don’t take them!

 

The Other Stuff!

Toiletries

Keep it simple: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, sun cream, and any skincare essentials. Just take the bare minimum of make-up, particularly if you’re going to be in a hot climate.

Pro tip: Opt for travel-sized containers or go for solid toiletries like shampoo bars. That way, you save space and avoid spills in your bag. Also, check if toiletries such as shower gel and shampoo are included with your accommodation.

Tech & Gadgets

Phone charger (obviously), power bank, and any other essential gadgets (camera, headphones, Kindle). If you’re traveling internationally, make sure you’ve got the right adapter.

Travel Docs & Essentials

Passport/ID, boarding pass (don’t just rely on your phone app), travel insurance, and any bookings or tickets.

Bonus tip: Take a photo of all your important documents just in case. It’s an extra layer of security if something goes missing.

Extras

A reusable water bottle—staying hydrated is key.

Plastic or reusable bags (for dirty laundry or wet items)

A good book (or download some audiobooks) for long flights or relaxing beach days.

Packing Tips & Hacks

Okay, here’s where the magic happens. These tips will make packing feel like a breeze:

• Roll, don’t fold: Rolling clothes instead of folding them not only saves space but also helps minimize wrinkles. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.
• Packing cubes are your friend: If you haven’t tried them yet, you’re missing out. Packing cubes help you stay organized and avoid that “everything’s a mess” feeling when you open your suitcase.
• Wear your bulkier items: If you’re short on luggage space or close to your weight limit, wear your bulkier/heaver items to the airport rather than packing them.
• Leave space for souvenirs: You know you’ll pick up a few trinkets or gifts along the way, so don’t pack your bag to the brim. You’ll want room for those little treasures!

Avoid These Packing Mistakes

Packing can be a little tricky, but avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll thank yourself later:

• Overpacking: It’s tempting to bring everything but trust me—you won’t need half of what you think. Stick to the essentials and leave the “just in case” items behind. There’s an old adage that says take half the clothes you think you’ll need and twice the money! In my experience this holds true for all but the most efficient packers.
• Not checking baggage restrictions: Always check your airline’s baggage policy before you pack. Avoid extra fees by making sure your bag fits within their size and weight limits.
• Forgetting important documents: Double-check you’ve got your passport, ID, and any required visas before you leave. You don’t want to be stuck at the airport because you forgot your passport in your other bag.

Summary

When packing for a holiday, the goal is to bring clothes that make you feel comfortable, confident, and ready for anything. By choosing versatile, flattering pieces and paying attention to the activities you’ll be doing, you’ll be able to pack light while still looking chic and put-together. So, go ahead and pack those cosy layers, stylish dresses, and comfy shoes—and get ready to enjoy your holiday in style!