Holidays are on the horizon and for most of us that means squashing every last outfit combination into our cases until they’re fit to burst! But, with a few clever packing hacks and a fool-proof check-list, you can have all your packing done with space to spare and have (almost) wrinkle free clothes at the other end!
We’ve picked out our top packing tips and some handy advice to have you feeling super-smug when it comes to showing off your suitcase skills.
Our favourite packing hacks
- Always start with a list, it may sound obvious but actually sitting and mindfully planning what you need to take can help with any stress about whether you’ve remembered everything.
- Do some clever outfit planning. It can be tempting to just throw everything in and hope for the best, but if you choose pieces that double up for day and evening it can help you pack a more streamlined wardrobe. For example, a great pair of white jeans can be worn with trainers for day and strappy heels for night-time.
- Think about the fabrics – linens and cottons are prone to more creasing whereas stretchy fabrics and knits will fall back into place once they’re hung up.
- Lay it all out before you pack and then do a ruthless edit. Once you can see it all together, you’ll notice things that you’ve probably doubled up on or you don’t need.
- When you start to pack, use all the available space. Roll your clothes to minimise wrinkles and stuff socks into shoes.
- Think about what you’ll need first. If there’s a particular outfit you’ll want on arrival, make sure that’s at the top along with your beach towel. Your liquids should also be kept near the top so they’re easily accessible in case of a bag search.
- Pack an empty tote bag – this can be used to carry your souvenirs when you return home.
Travel essentials
It’s easy to start getting a bit overwhelmed when you’re planning a trip away, there are so many things to remember. Here’s a quick checklist to make sure you’re on track.
- Print out copies of all your flight tickets and also make digital copies of all your most important documents like passport/credit cards/insurance info and e-mail them to yourself. That way you’ll have all the info easily to hand in case you need it.
- Think about your toiletries. If you love a certain haircare brand or know you won’t be able to find your usual brand of deodorant, just pack extra to be on the safe side.
- Do a charger check. Make sure you’ve got all the chargers for every device you’re taking and also pack at least one electrical converter if the country you’re travelling to uses a different kind of plug.
- Disinfectant wipes – take a leaf out of Naomi Campbell’s book and carry a pack of wipes so you can sanitise any surfaces that you’re in contact with on the plane to be extra safe.
- It’s worth packing a mini first aid kit and sewing kit so you’ve got some essentials to hand, rather than trying to hunt down a shop that sells what you need.
- Wear a scarf or pashmina as part of your airport outfit – planes can actually be quite chilly, and you can also roll it up and use it as a pillow for an in-air snooze.
Capsule holiday wardrobe
As much as it would be nice to take all our favourite outfits away with us, you’ll probably find that when you actually get to your destination, you’ll end up wearing the same things daily and have loads of stuff left over you didn’t actually need.
We’ve put together a capsule wardrobe that’ll help you get the most out your packing.
- A pack of classic white t-shirts – these will pair up with literally everything from your favourite shorts to a pretty skirt.
- The day-to-night dress – take a style that can be worn with trainers or sandals for day but can switch up for night with heels.
- Wide-leg trousers – these are a holiday saviour with a relaxed and comfortable shape that look great with your crisp white tee or a dressy top
- The lightweight cover-up – a long-line kimono style throw-over is perfect for a beach lunch-stop or when it gets cloudy by the pool
- The classic hat – a straw hat looks instantly iconic and protects you from the rays
- The midi-skirt – take one pretty skirt that you can pair up with tees and tops for effortless dressing
- Comfy sandals – it goes without saying, you’ll need one pair of shoes for sight-seeing and walking that won’t give you blisters!
- The swimsuit – invest in a comfortable and flattering fit as you’ll be spending a lot of time in this, and you don’t want to get to your destination and realise it’s not quite right!
Our packing edit
Here are a few little essentials that’ll have you looking like a seasoned traveler at the airport and on the beach.
With four wheels, lots of storage for all your essentials, secure pockets, and a striped lining, this suitcase is the ultimate travel companion.
If you’re packing light, this cute Ted Baker vanity case looks the part and is easy to carry around plus it’s got a high-definition front panel for extra style points.
You can turn your luggage into an adventure log with this fun cover – it lets you mark off where you’ve been and also makes your case easy to spot at baggage collection.
Holiday beauty treats are a must, and this sweet little set has got everything you need for some pool-side pampering including shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion. It comes ready to pack and it’s vegan-friendly too!
