Effortless Holiday Packing: Your Guide to Looking Chic and Feeling Organised

Who doesn’t love to travel? But let’s be honest, packing can be overwhelming, and you can’t leave without doing it!

How often do you overpack and return with unworn outfits? Struggle to find anything in your suitcase? Realise (too late) that you’ve packed all the wrong garments?

I hear you!

Let’s take the stress out of packing and create a capsule holiday wardrobe that’s stylish, versatile, and perfectly suited to your trip.

Start With Your Itinerary

Your itinerary is your best friend when planning what to pack. Before you reach for your suitcase, ask yourself:

• What activities have I planned?
• Where am I going? And for how long?
• How am I travelling? (Planes, trains, walking everywhere?)
• Will there be both international and domestic flights?
• What are my airline baggage limits, both carryon and checked?
• What’s the climate like at each stop?
• Will I be able to do laundry?
• Are there cultural dress codes I need to respect in cafes, temples, historical sites
• Do I need evening or formal wear?
• Will I be able to do laundry?

Once you've answered these questions you'll have a clear picture of what's practical, necessary, and stylish for your trip.

The secret to stress-free packing is a CAPSULE WARDROBE.

A capsule wardrobe is all about mix-and-match pieces that work together effortlessly. 

• Stick to a neutral colour palette with a few statement accents to keep things fresh
• Fabric matters - opt for wrinkle-resistant, breathable materials like jersey or blended linen or cotton.
• Accessorise wisely - a great scarf, statement jewellery or a belt can transform an outfit
• Pack for comfort and confidence - choose outfits that make you feel fabulous while staying practical
• Shoes, shoes, shoes - limit to 3 pairs at most; a stylish walking shoe, a dressy option and a versatile sandle or trainer.
• The right handbag - you'll need one bag for daytime exploring (that won't hurt your back!) and a smaller one for evenings.
• Underwear matters - bring the right lingerie for each outfit. Seamless options and a good strapless bra are a must.
• Smart folding & packing cubes - they save space and keep everything well organised. 

I have put together this example of a minimalist holiday Capsule Wardrobe for you - for a 14 day trip. You will get up to 20 different outfits out of the various combinations of garments. 

6 Tops - lightweight, breathable and easy to dress up or down.

3 Bottoms - a mix of tailored trousers, shorts or skirts.

1 Dress - a versatile piece that transitions from day to night with shoes/accessories.

1-2 Layers - a jacket or lightweight knit (add thermals if heading somewhere cold).

Shoes and Bags 

• 3 pairs of Shoes - think comfortable chic; one for walking, one for evening and one for casual wear.
• 2 Bags - a crossbody for day and a clutch for evenings.

8 Accessories - including belts, jewellery and scarves.

A Handy Tip

Take photos of complete outfits before you pack them. This ensures every item earns its place in your suitcase and eliminates any wardrobe malfunctions.

Below are different combinations of the garments in my sample holiday capsule wardrobe. Spot the simple difference that make a whole new outfit. More than enough outfits for that 14 day trip!

Style Over Trends

Ladies, you don't need to buy a whole new wardrobe before your holiday! Shop your own wardrobe first, make a list of what's missing and then fill in any gaps strategically. If I'm travelling to Europe or the USA in their summer, I plan ahead and shop during our end-of-season sales. 

Dressing well while travelling isn't about overpacking - it's about packing smart. A carefully curated suitcase means less stress, effortless outfits, and more time to enjoy your holiday in style. 

Above all else, dress for you and your personality, be confident and enjoy!

Do you need help creating your perfect holiday wardrobe?

If packing feels overwhelming, lets take the stress out of it together. Book a one-on-one styling session where I'll help you to:

• Curate a capsule holiday wardrobe tailored to your trip
• Make the most of what's in your wardrobe already
• Fill in any gaps with the right pieces
• Pack efficiently and stylishly

Click HERE to book your session. 

Bon voyage!