Even with our generous 22kg luggage allowance and another 10kg in hand luggage, packing for a holiday is a task and a half. And don’t even get us started on trips longer than the standard seven nights. The outfits, the bag options, the essentials you think you’ve got until that sinking feeling that you’ve forgotten something kicks in at the airport… Lucky for you, we’ve got all of that covered in this handy how-to guide.

The non-negotiables

Let’s quickly get through the boring-but-essential part, so we can move onto planning your evening dinner fits. The most obvious one is your passport. You’d be surprised how many people have to leg it back home for a forgotten passport. Check it’s valid (like, actually check, not just assume) and remember that for most countries, it has to be valid for at least six months from your return date. Pretty sure no one can forget their phone at home, but the same can’t be said about a charger or an adapter. If you can, get a portable charger too – it’s a game-changer. Travel insurance is another must – a broken ankle and a hefty medical bill is not the kind of souvenir you want.

Here comes the sun… cream

We’re sure you’re ready to show off your golden look and get that much-needed vitamin D, but make sure you stay safe. Repeat after us – always wear suncream. Pack a solid SPF (yes, at least factor 30) and apply it like your holiday depends on it – because it does. Go for a lightweight, non-greasy formula (the skincare girlies on TikTok and Insta can help with that) so you don’t feel greasy. Speaking of skincare, you probably don’t need your 17-step routine on holiday. Just make sure a toothbrush, deodorant and some other basics make it to the plane with you.

Take inspo from your previous hols

Onto the fun part! When you’ve secured all the necessities, it’s time for moodboards, style-inspo online and this super-helpful read, of course. Speaking of inspiration, take some from your previous holidays. Trends come and go, but you’re sure to find a combo or two from previous summers you still love. You can always incorporate new pieces into them if you’re not an outfit repeater – although, let’s be real, how would they know?

Scarves are for summer

Don’t worry, we’re not talking about the knitted, chunky scarf you hide yourself in November to February. Think more chic, silk or satin scarves that double as a beach cover, detail on your bag or even a top. Depending on their size, they can be used as a towel to lay on or a hair accessory to tie your evening look together. The possibilities are endless, but the space in your suitcase isn’t…

Accessories over more outfits

Another pair of jeans or shoes (we’re not even going to go into jacket territory) might take up a lot of space. But you know what doesn’t? Accessories. We did tell you, scarves will be your holiday besties, but don’t discount hats, statement jewellery or small bags (that you can stuff with smaller clothes to make the most out of its space). Our personal favourite? Sunnies. Protect those peepers and look effortlessly cool doing it. Bonus points for not losing them on the first day.

Let’s talk swimsuits

It’s not a beach holiday without at least a few snaps captured at the beach and we know you’ll want to look your best. But that doesn’t mean you need six different beach or pool outfits. That being said, pack at least two – there’s nothing worse than getting back into your damp-from-yesterday cossie. If your swimsuit collection consists of similar style, but different colour bikinis, mix and match them to create different looks.

All about that bag

How long did your suitcase sit in the middle of the room after your last holiday? Walking past, thinking ‘I need to unpack’, but not getting around to it? There’s no shame – we’ve all been there. But behold, we have cracked the code to making this tedious part of holiday easier. Before going away, throw an extra plastic bag or a pillowcase into your luggage and use it as a laundry basket. That’s at least half of your suitcase put away when you get back. You’re welcome.

If the shoe fits… in your bag

A pair for sightseeing, some flip flops for a beach day, heels for that one fancy dinner out, sandals for being out and about, the list goes on and on… Try narrowing it down to two or three if you must. Anything more and some of them will end up sitting in the suitcase, that’s for sure.

Play your cards right

By the pool, at the beach, while waiting for dinner or quite literally anywhere else – a deck of cards, UNO or any other pocket-sized games are a lifesaver. Although you might want to consider saving that +4 card until the end of the holiday…

Take the party with you

Headphones for the flight, a speaker for later – that’s the combo we like to see in our bags. Whether you’re getting ready to go out or having a quiet one inside the hotel, some background tunes are always a VIBE.