Summer holidays are all about relaxation, adventure, and making memories. But before you can enjoy that beachside cocktail or mountain hike, you need to tackle the often-dreaded task of packing. Overpacking leads to heavy bags and extra fees, while underpacking means scrambling to buy essentials on the go.
And all of this needs to be done while juggling work and packing for your family too! Eeeeek!
The key? Plan ahead!
Whether you’re jetting off for a weekend getaway or a month-long escape, these savvy packing tips will help you travel lighter, stay organized, and avoid last-minute stress.
Plan Ahead & Make a Checklist
Before you even open your suitcase, take time to plan. A well-thought-out packing list ensures you don’t forget essentials while avoiding unnecessary items.
How to Create a Packing List:
Check the weather– Will it be hot and sunny? Humid? Unexpected rain? If so, you need to be prepared.
Consider your itinerary– Beach days, city tours, hiking, or fancy dinners?
Research baggage policies – Airlines have strict weight limits; budget carriers charge extra for checked bags.
Use a digital checklist– Apps like “PackPoint” generate lists based on destination and activities.
Choose the Right Luggage
Your bag choice can make or break your travel experience.
Carry-On vs. Checked Bag
I always check to see what the rest of my group are intending to do. If you are the only person waiting for your checked bag to arrive on the carousel, after you land you will be very unpopular!
Most people travel with hand luggage now but if I am going away for a week I always check a bag. Why buy lots of nice clothes and have no space for them for your special trip?
Master the Art of Packing Light
If you have decided to travel hand luggage and need to travel light, Here’s how to do it:
The Capsule Wardrobe Approach
Pack versatile, mix-and-match pieces in a coordinated colour scheme. Stick to neutrals and add a few pops of colour.
3 day trip to Spain
– 2 dresses, both suitable for day into the evening
– 3 teeshirts/tops
– 1 pair shorts
-1 pair wide leg, light-weight trousers
– 1 lightweight jacket or cardigan
– 1 swimsuit & cover-up
– Comfortable walking shoes + sandals
Pro Tip: Roll clothes instead of folding to save space and reduce wrinkles.
Limit Shoes
Shoes take up the most room. I suggest wearing a pair of smart trainers on your flight, these will work when you are walking or wearing a casual look on holiday. Pack a pair of flip flops in your hand luggage so that you can change into them when you land. Or if like me, you suffer from swollen feet!!
If you can find a pair of sandals that look good and are comfortable, you are onto a winner. As this works for day and night
I love these from Carvela – an investment that will last for several summers
Use Packing Cubes & Compression Bags
Packing cubes are so handy!. I have lots of them. 1 for jewelry, 1 for underwear, 1 for bikinis etc.keep clothes organized
Compression bags: shrink bulky items like jackets if you are travelling somewhere cooler.
Best Holiday combos
The Dress: This is my go-to summer piece. A dress is one piece, one outfit. Add a few accessories and you are good to go!
In the warmer climates, it can be a cool and comfortable option. please read my previous blog which was on how to find your perfect summer dress. Over the coming weeks I will be reviewing some of my holiday dresses on my Instagram page
The co-ord:
I adore a two piece co-ordinating outfit, whether it be long trousers or shorts. It is an easy outfit that can be styled in multiple ways for day and night. There are some lovely examples in River Island like this one
The Jumpsuit:
Again, a one piece that takes very little except some nice accessories and is one of my favourite holiday looks. Here’s a beauty from Reiss
Toiletries & Beauty Essentials
Avoid overpacking toiletries with these tricks:
Travel-Sized Containers
Some of the airports have changed their regulations now about sizes that you are allowed through in hand luggage. So it is worth checking.
And unless advised otherwise:
Use TSA-approved bottles** (under 3.4 oz/100ml for carry-ons).
Buy solid versions (shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets).
Multi-Use Products
BB cream(moisturizer + SPF + light coverage)
I have used this one for years and you get a cute little container that is stackable free with each product. It gives a beautiful glow and has SPF
Lip & cheek tint(doubles as blush)
Coconut oil: (moisturizer, makeup remover, hair mask)
Accessories make your outfit
Think about your accessories ahead of time. This will make simple pieces look more styled and you can change up your look with a change of earring.
My favourites on the high street for accessories right now are Mango and Marks+Spencer.
Tech & Gadgets
Don’t weigh yourself down with unnecessary electronics.
Essentials
Phone & charger
Universal adapter(for international trips)
Portable power bank
Kindle/Ipad
Noise-cancelling headphones(for flights)
Pro Tip: Download offline maps, books, movies and playlists before leaving.
Last-Minute Packing Hacks
Before zipping up your bag:
✅ Weigh your luggage (avoid surprise fees).
✅ Keep important docs handy(passport, boarding pass, hotel confirmations).
✅ Pack an empty tote bag that will double as a beach bag or a rucksack for day trips
Follow me on @suzanne.robinson_style for lots of try-ons and inspiration for your summer holiday packing.