Summer Packing Guide

Packing for a summer holiday can feel overwhelming. So much to think about and so many pieces to choose. But with a little planning and some clever strategies tailored to your style personality, you can create a suitcase that is stylish, practical, and stress free.

Understanding Style Personalities and How They Shape Your Summer Packing

Your style personality is the way you naturally express yourself through clothes and accessories. Knowing yours can make packing so much easier because it guides your choices, ensuring your holiday wardrobe truly feels like you.

Wondering how to find your style personality? 

Think about how you want to feel in your clothes and what draws your eye in shops or magazines. 

Are you attracted to bold, statement looks or soft, romantic styles? 

Do you prefer timeless classics or casual, effortless pieces? 

You might recognise yourself in one or a combination of the following personalities: Dramatic, Creative, Romantic, Classic, Natural, or City Chic.

Once you know your style personality, you can choose pieces that flatter your shape and mood, mix and match effortlessly, and enjoy your holiday wardrobe to the fullest.

I have made an easy to use quiz which will help you discover your style personality, click here to download it.

A Simple, Stylish Packing Method That Really Works

I have used this packing method many times and always arrive at check in under the weight limit, yet still have everything I could possibly want or need on my holidays. Follow this approach for packing success every time.

1. Start by choosing everything you’d love to take and lay it out on the bed - clothes, shoes, bags, accessories, makeup, swimwear. Seeing it all helps spot overlap or overpacking.

2. Next, pack your non-negotiables: swimwear (not too many), suncream, toiletries, underwear, chargers, and medication. For shoes, one pair of stylish evening shoes, comfortable day sandals or trainers, and flip flops will do. One neutral evening bag is enough.

3. Add versatile clothing next, mix-and-match separates and pieces that can be dressed up or down. Keep your colour palette cohesive to avoid overpacking.

4. Then see what space is left and carefully add ‘nice to haves’ from your initial pile. Be selective and intentional.

5. Leave room for shopping and aim to be slightly under your weight limit, scales can be unreliable, and it’s easier to bring home a souvenir.

6. Finally, do a last edit. Check you have outfits for every occasion, and that everything works in at least two looks. If something feels like ‘single use’ and/or doesn’t make you feel fabulous, leave it out.

7. Keep accessories simple but effective - jewellery, scarves and sunglasses instantly change a look without taking up much room.

How to Pack Your Suitcase Efficiently 

• Place shoes at the bottom of your case near the wheels. Fill them with socks, knickers or rolled swimwear to save space and help them keep their shape.

• Tuck smaller accessories inside bags - jewellery in a pouch, sunglasses in a case, belts rolled neatly.

• Use packing cubes or zip bags to compress outfits or keep similar items together. They not only compact clothes but also prevent everything from shifting.

• Roll softer items like t-shirts and cotton dresses to save space and reduce creasing. Fold structured pieces like tailored trousers and shirts and place them on top.

• Fill every corner - pop rolled-up underwear or vests into gaps, slide flat items like clutches or books along the sides. For hats, fill the crown with rolled items and pack around it to keep the shape.

• Bring a lightweight fold-up tote for beach trips, shopping or bringing home holiday finds.

Stylist Tip: Pack a small emergency kit in your hand luggage with spare knickers, an easy outfit, swimwear and toiletries, just in case your suitcase is delayed.

Final Top Tips Before You Zip Up Your Case

Packing really doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little thought, a touch of planning, and a suitcase filled with pieces that reflect your style and make you feel amazing, you’ll be ready for anything your holiday brings. Wherever you're heading, I hope you travel light, feel fabulous, and enjoy every stylish moment.

• Keep medication and valuables like expensive jewellery in your hand luggage for safety.

• Use a clear toiletry bag for easy security checks, with liquids under 100ml and well sealed.

• Don’t rely on hotel toiletries - bring your favourites in travel bottles to avoid skin reactions.

• Check your luggage weight before you leave and stay slightly under the limit to avoid extra fees or embarrassing check in moments.

• Pack a small first aid kit with plasters, bite cream, painkillers and any other essentials.

• Leave some space or bring a foldaway bag for souvenirs and extras you pick up.

No matter where you are going, making sure your outfits feel right for your trip, they don't overwhelm you when you have your holiday looks in the wardrobe, and make you feel your best, is the most important part.

Your outfits should not hold you back from your holiday, they should work for the climate, your needs and your confidence!

I have made a quick, one page downloadable checklist for you here, just in case you'd love to be more prepared for your holiday packing.

I hope you have a wonderful holiday!