The Art of Packing For a Summer Holiday Lightly (and Stylishly) for a Summer Holiday

Whether you are looking forward to a weekend trip, or a longer break, there is an art to packing for a summer holiday.

The accommodation is sorted, the flight checked in and, hopefully, the weather looks promising. Now it’s time to start packing. To make sure you take everything that you need to enjoy your holiday in style, from versatile outfits to luggage and travel bags, read our essential summer holiday packing audit.

Some of us love the challenge of packing a suitcase, whilst others dread it. Likewise, some people pack in one hour flat, 12 hours before take-off and others have the bed and quite possibly the floor strewn with options for days on end. Just how many times can that pair of trousers go in and then out of the suitcase?!

Essentials tips for packing for a summer holiday - Vital wardrobe choices, luggage and travel bags

To refine the art of summer holiday packing it’s always a good idea to make a list. Not only does this focus the mind, but it means there is less chance of items being left behind.

It’s highly likely that you will be aware of the weather forecast and your possible itinerary whilst away. When assessing which clothes to take, choose cleverly. For example, a summer knit that works with several outfits will cover you if the evenings are chilly and you are somewhere hot. Likewise, skirts, trousers and shorts that pair with a multitude of tops will reduce the volume of clothes in that case, leaving space for other essentials and perhaps the odd souvenir.

Realistically, for a 7-day holiday in a warm climate, you probably need 2 pairs of shorts, one pair of loose trousers, two or three dresses and two maxi or midi shirts and a selection of vests, t-shirts or tops. You might add a jacket for the travelling element and to keep warm on the flight - pop these into your suitcase.

The right luggage and travel bags make packing much easier, at the start and end of your holiday. Many of us travel with hand luggage only, so do check the measurements of your case as airlines vary and can be strict. Trolley bags make life easy whether they are cabin size or going on the hold. For quality luggage, we particularly love Brics hard-shell options for strength, lightness and style.

Next, it’s time to think about footwear. A pair of trainers are relatively bulky, so consider traveling in these. Be sure to pack a pair of sliders, flip flops and strappy sandals.<

Next, it’s time to think about footwear. A pair of trainers are relatively bulky, so consider traveling in these. Be sure to pack a pair of sliders, flip flops and strappy sandals.

Several bikinis and swimsuits need to go in the case as does a joyful beach towel. We like to add a beach bag (possibly doubles up as hand luggage) and a beach clutch to keep those essentials safe from the sand and water.  And for those trips from pool to bar, beach to restaurant, a kaftan or kimono is always useful.

Take a few pieces of jewellery; a few layering chains, a pair of chunky earrings and a colourful bracelet or two. Estella Bartlett The Edit range is waterproof.  

Next up is the tech kit. Be sure to add modern essentials like chargers, adaptors, power banks and ear plugs to your summer holiday packing list.

Summer Holiday Essentials

Finally, remember to pack those summer holiday essentials: wallet, phone and possibly passport.

Wherever you go, have a wonderful time…