Holiday Checklist

Packing can be one of the most time-consuming things to do when planning a trip but if you are organised it can save time and makes it less stressful.

Here are some of my top tips for packing for holidays.

Look out the clothes you want to take a week before you travel lay them all out on the bed, check them over for wear and tear/ if they still fit? If it is beach wear for example maybe you have not worn it for some time so it is a good idea to check everything over this saves any last-minute panic!
Having a packing checklist on your computer is a good idea. Adjust the list to suit the kind of trip. Print it off and tick off the items as you pack. Using this system means it is less likely you will forget something important.
Pack for your itinery/type of holiday. If you have access to a washing machine you can then pack less clothes . Could you just take a carry on bag in this situation and save luggage fees?
Mix and match outfits pack clothes that will co-ordinate well and that you can layer if need be. Only take what you need this saves over packing. Simple accessories like jewellery/scarfs can jazz up a plain top for evening wear.
It’s always a good idea to pack a light sweater, cardigan or a shawl for cool nights. A shawl is good for the plane too as you can use it as a throw if it gets cold
Obviously think about the country and climate you are going to bearing in mind religious customs which may require you to cover up.
Roll your clothes this gives you more space in your suitcase. Vac space bags can also be helpful for creating more space.
Save any small samples you get in magazines, gift packs or free at the beauty counter to take with you. The travel size 100ml bottles are also great and you can get a 4 pack at Primark for £1, fill them with your favourite products this works out much cheaper than the expensive travel size products you can buy.
It is always handy to pack a few plastic carrier bags. These may have a multitude of uses. They can be used for toiletries. They can be used for dirty laundry and shoes. They can be used to protect valuable electronic equipment and cameras from rainfall, and they can fill in suitcase space to prevent damage to delicate items.
Take your phone charger in your hand luggage in case of delays/your suitcase goes missing. You often see people charging up electrical items at the airport/on trains/coaches.
Bring a small medical kit with – include some painkillers, allergy, sickness tablets, antibacterial cream, plasters and safety pins. This could be a god send in the middle of the night or if you can not find a pharmacy.
I always take a pencil sharpener in my make up bag as sometimes the pressure on the plane can melt the tips of your eye/lip pencils. I keep some of my make up in the fridge in hot countries as it tends to melt if left out, pencils and lipsticks usually.
A cotton wool pad on your powder and eyeshadow will prevent cracks nothing worse than smashed make up when you arrive at your destination.
Bring plenty plug adaptors and make sure they are the correct type and voltage for the country you are going to.
Ballet pump slippers are great for hotels. I hate walking on hotel floors/bathrooms that hundreds of feet have been on. They can be thrown in the wash after ready for your next trip.
I always bring a small umbrella you never know when a sudden down pour will happen and it is also good to use for shade in hot countries if you forget to bring a sun hat.