The ultimate summer holiday packing list

You’ve booked the holiday and now you’re dreaming of blue skies, sunny beaches and fruity cocktails. With a glorious few days of me-time to look forward to, the last thing you need is any packing drama, so let us take away the hassle with our holiday packing checklist, so you can focus on winding down before jetting off.

What to pack in your hand luggage

Make sure you have the important items in reach so you can get your holiday off to a relaxed start.

1. Spacious bag with pockets

Pick a weekend bag with several compartments for keeping you organised with all your travel documents and money to hand. It’ll keep the smaller items from getting mixed up and lost at the bottom of the bag, and you can keep your passport and phone in the exterior pocket for easy access.

2. Hand sanitiser

Whether you’re checking in at the airport or wading through a busy train station, it’s not always easy to reach a bathroom to wash your hands. Keep a small travel sanitiser in your bag to keep them clean and moisturised. Just remember to put it in a clear plastic bag at airport security.

3. An eye mask

A little power nap on the plane or train will have you refreshed and ready once you hit your destination. Pack an eye mask in your hand luggage to block out the light and let you catch some Zs. It’ll also come in handy if you have a bright room wherever you’re staying.

What to pack for the beach

If you’re planning on some uninterrupted beach time, make sure you have these seaside must-haves on your summer holiday packing list.

1. A beach bag

The all-essential beach bag is a must for carrying your swimsuit, shades, towel, sun cream and book as you head out for a day by the sea. Pick a shopper style that folds or rolls up neatly in your luggage, leaving valuable space for evening outfits.

2. A handheld fan

Stay cool and classy on the go with a patterned handheld fan. Great for creating your own mini breeze while you’re catching some rays by the sea, or if you’re feeling the heat while wandering round tourist hotspots. Just fold up and pop in your bag.

3. A beach read

A day at the pool or lazing by the ocean is the perfect time to catch up with a new book. Whether it’s an escapist page-turner or a more inspiring read, pack something you can dive into while you’re away.

What to pack for a day of sightseeing

If you’re planning a day walking around historic cities and trekking the tourist trail, fuss-free dressing will keep you comfy and cool. Add some functional-but-fashionable accessories to ensure a stress-free day out.

1. Stylish sunglasses

Enjoy the view through a stylish pair of sunglasses. Protect your eyes from the glare of the midday sun and keep them on a handy sunglasses chain for easy reach and a touch of getaway glamour. Better still, pack two pairs – a girl needs options.

2. Comfy sandals

Soaking up the sights can involve a heavy step count, so make sure you pack a comfy pair of flatform sandals with a padded footbed. Choose a pair with a chunky weave and a gold-toned buckle for a chic look you’ll be able to wear out for drinks, too.

3. A sun hat

For extra protection from the sun - and a stylish addition to your outfit - a summer hat is a useful accessory for sightseeing. Choose a classic shape that’s lightweight and floppy enough to pack in your bag.

What to pack for your evening out

The evening glam-up is always a holiday highlight. If you have reservations at a local restaurant or you’re looking forward to a night on the dance floor, make sure your holiday packing list includes the following.

1. A glitzy clutch

You’ll need a little bit of arm candy for nights out – a bag that’s big enough to store the essentials but small enough to tuck neatly away in your luggage. This structured faux pearl clutch has a gold-toned chain strap and an inner slip pocket for cards, as well as a larger main compartment for phone, keys and lippy. Browse our clutches to find your carrying companion.

2. A multi-tasking midi

Pack a simple but elegant midi dress for evening meals and dancing, then you can dress it up or down with heels or flats depending on the occasion. Team with lashings of jewellery and a slick of lippy and you're done. Or pair with trainers and sunnies in the day for a casual-luxe vibe.

3. A slinky scarf

On nights out, a lightweight scarf can be draped over your shoulders when the breeze picks up. It can also add colour and interest to your eveningwear - try twisting and tying in different ways to use your multi-tasking scarf as a necklace, hair tie, belt or handbag accessory. Compact and chic, it slips easily into your bag.

Your suitcase saviours

Packing a selection of travel organisers will keep your precious pieces together and your hotel room tidy. Don’t leave home without...

1. Laundry bags

Keep personal items such as underwear, bikinis or washing organised in your hotel room with drawstring laundry bags. A must-have on your holiday packing list, these are also great for separating items in your suitcase, or for holding a spare pair of clothes in your beach bag.

2. A pouch

A zip-up pouch that doubles as a make-up bag or wash bag can also be a great way to keep your phone, keys and other important items sealed away from sand when you're sunbathing. Pouches are also handy to pop in your beach bag so that smaller items are easier to find and can be kept separate from damp towels and clothing.

3. A travel jewellery box

A miniature zip-up jewellery box with separate compartments will keep your jewellery safe and organised while you’re travelling. It can also be popped easily into your beach bag for storing valuables when you’re heading out for a dip.