We understand the thrill and excitement you have when it comes getting ready for your holiday. With that being said, there is also the other side of holiday prepping which is probably considered the most stressful, besides making sure your passport is in date — is also getting all your looks ready for your trip and how to pack them all. Not sure on what to wear, whether the weather might change although its forecasted to be sunny /hot/snowing the whole time and the only thing is you are sure about is that you will be travelling. We have created some helpful tips below on the essentials that you should pack. Additionally this [we would like] to be stress free for you and actually look forward to travelling.

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Hot/Sunny Holiday

The very first thing you should do is make a packing list of all the essential travelling documents that you need and body creams including sunscreen. Once that is complete, you will need to make a packing list for what you would like to pack, what is necessary to pack. This will help you establish what it is you truly need and what you will wear depending on the longevity of your trip. We definitely are not stating that you won’t need a backup or a few backup outfits, however you definitely do not want to over pack. Below are essential items we think you need, and what your backup essential items should be for a 1 week holiday.

1.Sun Hats

As the weather is getting warmer, you will find yourself slowly pulling out your sun hats and if you do not own one or a few, now is the time to purchase especially if you plan on travelling quite a bit during the summer. Sun hats are a great accessory to add to most of your day outfits and can be easily transformed to your evening casual outfits. Besides the necessity for your outfits, it is also a great way to protect you from the blazing sun should you be spending most of your time out all day. We advise carrying two style sun hats.

2. Sunglasses

Most people are a collector of sunglasses, so you are probably spoilt for options for what to carry on your holiday. The key is to always carry the classic styles which include your black, tortoise/turtle style, white and brown. You will be able to switch around these 4 styles of sunglasses with most your outfits whilst away.

3. Tote/Cross Body Bag

Tote bags are an all year round style, that will never go out of style, so make sure to pack two of your best straw/raffia style tote bags. These can vary in sizes. We recommend perhaps carrying one medium size and one small/mini size that you can carry as a cross body. Additionally you will also need evening bags. Depending on how many times you plan on dressing up in the evening whether it be 3-4 times, we recommend carrying 3 clutch/cross body evening bags. Colours should include black, silver, and gold

4. T-shirts & Blouses

Basic white Tee’s are a must have in your wardrobe even if you are not travelling, so make sure to pack a few of these as you will definitely be able to style this also for your evening wear. Flowy blouses are also a must have and would recommend you also have a few of these in your suitcase. You could consider flowy blouses as part of your backup items as you may find yourself wearing more dresses.

5. Dresses

Summer/sundresses are also a must — we would advise perhaps to have 3 evening dresses and 3 casual dresses that you could also use for a casual evening. Making sure to pick versatile and breathable [material] could be quite tough. Unless you have visited the country before, always make sure to carry light blended styles.

6. Two Pieces

Matching co-ord sets are an easy put together style that if you already haven’t got a grasp of, you should start collecting a few. Two pieces are a great style to convert from casual to evening pretty nicely especially if you like the pyjama look. We recommend to have at least 2 of these styles.

7. Kaftans

Kaftans do not necessarily only have to be worn to the beach or as a cover up, they can also be worn as dresses should you wish to keep it simple but effective. Packing 2-3 of this style will definitely give you versatility for your swimwear plus the option of your day and evening wear.

8. Swimwear

Spending most of your time at the beach or swimming pool? Packing a variety of swimwear is what we recommend depending on what you feel most comfortable with showing. If you are both a bikini and full body swimsuit type of person packing 2-3 of each style is a must. Bare in mind that the colours of your swimwear, should you wish, should be able to be styled with your kaftans.

9. Comfortable shoes/sneakers

Comfortable sandals and sneakers are a must — if you do plan on doing some fun activities whilst away, packing 2 pairs of comfortable would be to your benefit. As for sandals for your day to day walking around, make sure to carry ones that you are familiar and know when your feet swell up a little, they will not be causing you any pain. At least 4/ 5 styles of sandals should be packed.

10. Basic Jewellery

If you would prefer not to carry your expensive jewellery, purchasing basic silver/gold or both is ideal. Especially for those casual outfits that you end up wearing in the evening, the perfect additional items to pair it with would be jewellery.

Winter/Cold Holiday

Your packing list is going to be a tad bit different for this type of holiday, however some of the essentials as above mentioned will be incorporated within this checklist also. We would suggest wearing your bulkiest items while traveling, if possible, to save room in your suitcase.

1.Thermals

A long sleeve top and thick leggings would most likely keep you warm in cold temperatures. However, if you do decide to go for proper thermal clothing, you will be guaranteed warmth as they are designed for heat circulation. we would recommend you get at least two pairs of these for you winter packing list!

2. Hats & Scarves

Depending on how cold the climate is, you will be wearing these two essentials almost every day. We would suggest you to bring a few different options to match your outfits and cashmere should definitely be your go to material to keep warm.

3. Coats

Thick winter coats are obviously an essential for cold holidays. If you are visiting a really cold location, then we would recommend bringing a long coat that covers most of your body - past the knees. If you want to keep your options open then you should definitely pack two different styles - one long coat and another short lightweight coat. However only one coat is needed if you plan on going with a neutral and versatile colour.

4. Boots

In our opinion, if you are going to a snowy/ wet climate, boots are one of the most important essentials. You should be packing a pair of quality, and ideally lined, boots on your next cold holiday. These would definitely be the items to spend a bit of extra money on! If you are going to a location with lots of snow, we suggest packing tall, waterproof boots.

5. Swimwear

If the location you are traveling to will have spa facilities, then you should definitely bring your favourite swimsuits! However, since these might not be utilised as often as on a warm holiday, you can save space in your suitcase by only packing a few - we recommend at most 3 of your favourite styles.

6. Knitwear

We cannot stress the importance of good quality knitwear! Not only do they provide a protective layer for your thermal layer, they are super comfortable. Thickness should depend on how cold the climate is where you are visiting while wool, cotton, and cashmere are the best materials for your knitwear.

7. One Piece Bodysuits

While boots and jackets het most of the attention during winter, the body suit is now a staple for any wardrobe. This second-skin like layer can not only keep you warm but can double as an outfit statement piece when its time to take off layers indoors. However, when purchasing any bodysuit you must pay close attention to the fabric - as this will determine how well the piece will hold your shape for a streamlined silhouette.

8. Waterproof Wear

If you are going to a snowy location, then anything waterproof will be your best-friend! These items will also protect your body from other elements such as rain and water so, we suggest bringing as many items that are waterproof as you can - including boots, jackets, trousers etc.

9. Sunglasses

Most people are a collector of sunglasses, so you are probably spoilt for options for what to carry on your holiday. The key is to always carry the classic styles which include your black, tortoise/turtle style, white and brown. You will be able to switch around these 4 styles of sunglasses with most your outfits whilst away. When it comes to cold holidays, most people are not aware that snow acts as a reflector to the sun, indicating that sunglasses are just as necessary for cold holidays as they are for warm holidays.

10. Evening Wear

This is essential on any holiday, as you want to be prepared for any formal dinners or nights out on the town. We are not saying bring a ballgown on every holiday, but bring a few items that can be dressed up for any formal occasions.