I’m off for a much-needed summer vacation! Woohoo! 🙂
Over the years, I’ve devised a rough guide to packing for holidays. It’s always worked for me. I start with a bottom-up approach (literally). Take a look:
Pre-packing step:
I did some great shopping over the past few months (check out my Mango and Zara sales finds), though I hardly got to wore those clothes. I think it’s the right time to make the best use of my not-so-new clothes and be dressed to the Ts!
So before anything else, figure out what looks you want to try. In some cases, it’s pretty obvious (like if you’re going on a trek), but in most urban settings, you can be anyone you want to be. And remember, holidays are the best time to experiment!
Step 1: Choose the pants/ skirts
It’s always easiest for me to start with the pants, as they give me a good idea of interpreting various holiday looks. I’ve always been a big jeans-and-tee fan, but this time I’ve decided to be different.
In my suitcase:
- Blue jeans from Levi’s (1 pair): Skinny or straight-cut, I’m yet to decide.
- Grey knee-length skirt from Zara: Paired with floral tights (from Vero Moda)
- Bright blue capris from Mango: Versatile and comfy.
Step 2: Bring in the tops
Once I’ve got the pants sorted out, I move to the tops. I’ll be mixing and matching tshirts and blouses with the pants and jeans. Everyone’s holiday is different, so the number of casual tshirts and semiformal blouses will vary based on where you’re travelling and your personal style statement.
In my suitcase:
- 2-3 tshirts: Can’t ignore these.
- Two smart blouses
- Dress from Zara
- One basic jacket that’s right for the clime
- Extra: Beige buttoned cardigan from Marks & Spencer: can be worn by itself or as a jacket over a tshirt.
Step 3: Shoes
I’ve always believed carrying flip-flops is a waste, unless you’re going to a beach.
In my suitcase:
- Trusted Nike sneakers: Great for all-day walking/ roaming/ wandering and ahem… shopping!
- Comfortable sandals that can be worn for a few hours.
Step 4: Play with accessories
Whether you want to wear accessories on your holiday is entirely your choice. Accessories can bring an element of sophistication or quirkiness to your look, especially in an urban setting.
I’m very, very tempted to buy a cute hat or cap for my holiday, to create a sporty or urban chic look. What do you think, is it too touristy?
In my suitcase:
- Small cross-body purse that can hold my camera and knick-knacks.
- Two tiny pairs of earrings
- Two necklaces: one statement, one delicate
Step 5: Extras!
If I’m lucky enough to have space in your suitcase for more, then add the following:
- Swimsuit
- Light shawl/ jacket
- Cocktail dress and heels (if you will be partying—I don’t)
- Some more pants and tops
How do you pack your bags before your vacation? Is it chaotic or do you plan every step?