How to pack like a pro – your ultimate guide to a stress-free summer break

Booking a summer break is the easy bit.  You choose your destination and accommodation and start ticking the days off the calendar.  But as the holiday approaches, the stress of what to pack starts to weigh heavier than that excess baggage you always seem to have to pay for.

This is your ultimate guide to packing like a pro, I’ll be providing you with a comprehensive overview of packing tips and tricks to make your summer holiday a breeze.  From clothing essentials to must-have accessories, so you avoid bringing home more clean clothes than you wore and forget to pack half of your essentials, arriving at your destination already relaxed with pristine, wrinkle-free outfits.

Plan Ahead

Start by putting together a packing list based on your destination, duration of stay, and what you plan to do while you’re there.  Is it mostly a beach holiday, or do you love to get out and do lots of sightseeing?  Will you be partying most nights or having relaxed, chilled-out evenings? 

Do your research on the location you’re visiting, especially if it’s a new country or region to you, so you know what to expect.  This will help you to get organised and avoid that last-minute packing panic.  

Capsule wardrobe

Start to lay out your clothes based on the principle of a capsule wardrobe as much as you can – mix and match items in 2/3 colours plus a light and dark neutral that all work with each other, so you can reduce the number of garments, but not the outfits available to you.

Go for lightweight, breathable (ideally natural) fabrics.  As a guide, for a sunny destination, you will probably be including:

• Tops and T-shirts
• Shorts and/or skirts
• Lightweight trousers or jeans
• Dresses and/or jumpsuits
• Swimwear and cover-ups
• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals
• Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
• A light sweater or cardigan for cooler evenings
• A small range of accessories to mix and match with outfits such as fashion jewellery, belts etc.

Top tips:

• Rolling your clothes will save space and ensure they stay wrinkle free.
• Using packing cubes ensures you keep everything together and makes it easy to find things – they have been a game changer for me.
• A lightweight, foldable bag is useful for the beach, sightseeing etc.

Toiletries

Pack travel-sized toiletries or decant your favourites into reusable small containers to save space.

• Sunscreen with a high SPF for face, lips and body
• Insect repellent
• Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• Basic skincare – cleanser, toner, moisturiser
• Any medication and a small first aid kit
• A small range of cosmetics – you really don’t need your whole make-up collection!

Electronics

• Smartphone and charger
• Travel adaptor
• Camera
• E-reader
• Bluetooth headphones
• Hair tongs/straighteners

Travel documents

Don’t pack these in your case.  Keep them with you, in hand luggage, either as electronic versions on your phone or printed out.

• Passport and visa, if needed
• Boarding pass
• Travel insurance info, including telephone number for emergencies
• Airport parking details
• Local currency / travel money cards / credit cards

Packing for a summer holiday doesn’t have to be daunting.  By planning ahead, researching your destination, and packing smarter, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable trip every time.

Remember to pack your essentials, prioritise comfort, and keep your luggage lightweight.  Following these tips and tricks will help you make the most of your summer break.  Happy holidays!

If you’d like to know more about capsule wardrobes – using your best colours and most flattering styles of clothes to pack less but have seemingly endless different outfits, let’s have a chat.  Book a FREE, no obligation, discovery call via my website now.