Now winter is coming to an end, and the holiday season is approaching, I wanted to share some of my top essentials and tips on how to pack smart for a sunny destination, and make the most of each item that you bring.
I think we’ve all been guilty of overpacking and trying to fit our whole wardrobe into a tiny suitcase! The key is to include versatile items that can be styled in multiple ways for both the daytime and evening, finding a balance between practicality and style. A top tip is to plan before and pack your outfits together, so you know exactly which outfits you have.
And don’t forget to dress comfortably for the airport – opt for clothing that is both stylish and practical. One thing you shouldn’t forget to pack is your skincare essentials. Traveling can take a toll on your skin, so be sure to bring along a moisturiser, sunscreen, and any other products you use on a daily basis. Below you will find my holiday essentials and skincare favourites to help you get ready for your next trip. Happy travels!
STARTING WITH THE FIRST PART OF YOUR JOURNEY
THE AIRPORT
Let’s start with what to wear to the airport. I get so many questions on how to dress when travelling and how to cater to different temperatures. My favourite thing to wear is a co-ord so you look put together but still comfortable (you can shop my favourite co-ord’s here.) I like to throw on a blazer over the top for extra warmth, paired with some cute sandals, and if it’s super cold where you’re travelling from, you can even wear a sarong as a scarf, one less thing to pack!
SUITCASES
TOP ESSENTIALS
Here is a list of my must-have packing essentials. Each item is super versatile and can be dressed up or down. The main things I look for are light fabrics that won’t take up a lot of space in your suitcase and aren’t prone to too much wrinkling. All the items are linked here in my Holiday Edit!
SWIMSUITS & BIKINIS
If you’re traveling somewhere hot, swimwear is a must! I used to love experimenting with more fashion-forward styles with multiple cutouts etc, but always ended up with awkward tan lines, which was not so cute! In terms of bikinis, I tend to go for simple styles such as a bandeau or triangle cut, as these are the most flattering, plus give you minimal tan lines. If bikinis aren’t your thing, a swimsuit is a great option and can also double as a bodysuit paired with some denim shorts or a skirt.
SHORTS
A good pair of denim shorts is essential for warmer vacations. They can be worn in multiple ways, either around the pool with a bikini/swimsuit or in the evenings with some cute sandals and statement jewellery.
SLIP DRESS
A slip dress is one of my favourite items to take away with me simply because there are endless ways to style them and look so chic and sophisticated without taking up loads of room in your suitcase. You can choose from either mini or maxi styles (personally I prefer maxi) with a pair of flip-flops in the day or some heels and statement earrings in the evening.
SARONG
The most versatile item to take away with you! A sarong can be worn in multiple ways and are very light to pack, making them my favourite beach essential. You can make your own from a piece of fabric, or you can shop some of my favourites below.
KAFTAN
A kaftan is another light and easy item that can be thrown on over a bikini with some sandals. You can go for a simple block colour and accessorise or a printed one.
OUTFIT IDEAS
FLIP-FLOPS & SANDALS
In terms of shoes, I usually pack two pairs of flip-flops, one neutral/white pair, and one black pair, as they go with everything. These are also so easy to pack and take up minimal space! If you want to take a pair of sandals, my top tip would be to wear these to the airport, especially if they’re on the chunkier side.
BEACH BAG
A key item to hold all your must-have products when you’re at the beach such as SPF (super important!), a towel, a cover-up/sarong, and sunglasses.
SHIRTS
Now it’s likely you already have one of these in your wardrobe, so a simple white shirt is a perfect piece to take on holiday as a coverup over a bikini or swimsuit, especially if there is a slight breeze or it’s a bit chilly.
ACCESSORIES
Accessorising is a must. By adding a pair of earrings or a necklace you can transform a simple outfit into a more statement look. Some of my favourite pieces of jewellery are linked below. Sunglasses are another one of my favourite holiday essentials, and my favourite accessory in general if you couldn’t already tell.
LAST BUT NOT LEAST…
SKINCARE
Don’t forget to protect your skin with the right SPF. Below are some of my favourite products to take with me on holiday.
It gets quite overwhelming packing for holidays so a good checklist of what to pack is definitely useful. At least I think so.
I hope I’ve helped you organise your packing, and for more holiday content be sure to follow me on my Instagram as you’ll be able to see how I curate my holiday looks and more, if you have any requests for content please drop me a dm or email! xx Erna Leon / MERCER7
