When it comes to packing for that summer holiday you’ve been looking forward to all year, the tendency is always to overpack. We’ve all done it – rifled through our wardrobes and packing anything and everything that we might possibly need if that one slim circumstance just happens to materialise. Ninety-nine percent of the time, though, you’ll see that you only wear half of what you’ve packed, making that half an hour you spent jumping up and down on you suitcase completely futile.
Just imagine going on holiday with a joyfully light suitcase, feeling a sense of clarity and calm at the minimalism you’ve brought with you. If this thought sends you into panic about what you should and shouldn’t take with you on holiday this year, then you’ve come to the right place! We’ve designed the perfect guide to your capsule holiday suitcase, meaning you can only take what you really need.
Bikini
Bikini comes top, of course. With any luck, you’ll pretty much be living in this, so be sure not to forget it. How many bikinis you should pack pretty much depends on how long you’re staying. If you’re only away for a week, just a couple of bikinis will be fine. If you’re holidaying for longer, you may want to think about taking an extra one or two.
Swimsuit
For those days that you just don’t quite feel like baring all (or most) to the world, it might be worth packing a swimsuit.
Sandals
When it comes to footwear, sandals or flip-flops are pretty much what you’re likely to wear most of the time, so make sure you have a comfortable pair that can slip on and off easily.
Wedges
It’s always a great idea to take a pair of wedges along for those nice dinners and drinks you’ll be having all holiday long. Sandals but fancy.
Trainers
On the off-chance that you might be doing a bit of walking, it’s worth having a pair of more practical shoes with you. Just remember to take a couple of pairs of socks, too!
Cover-up
Now, this can be pretty much anything that you throw on when you get out of the pool, sea, hot tub, what have you. It might be a pretty little sundress, or a sarong, kimono or maxi dress. Whatever it is, you only need one!
Trousers
For that in-between shaving day, make sure you have a pair of light-weight trousers with you. You’ll miss not having them if you plan on showing off those fabulous pins all week long.
Shorts
Shorts are great for just slipping on and off with a swimsuit or bikini top. You’ll also want them for days out.
Tops
Now. If you’re on holiday for a week, you do not need more than three tops. Most of the time you’ll just be swanning around like the star you are in a bikini with your cover-up, so don’t overpack.
Dress
You are allowed to take one nice dress with you for evening meals. Any more than one will go to waste. Even if you go out more than once, no one will care that you’re wearing the same dress. You’re on holiday, after all!
Kimono
For those chilly evenings, you’ll want something lightweight that you can carry in your handbag and whip out if you need it. Kimonos not only look great, but are a fabulous way of covering up when you need just another little layer.
Hat
Everyone loves a hat, so make sure you take one. You’ll keep your face cool and out of the sun, and you’ll feel like a fabulous hat-wearing lady. Win win!
