Last Minute Packing List for Summer Travel 2022: You won't need the Iron!


Disclosure: AD, this is a sponsored post, however all opinions are 100% my own.


After a strange few years on the travel front; it's wonderful to be free to travel and feel safe at the same time.

There is huge excitement and demand for going away this summer and we are all feeling the desire to holiday like we used to. However, with this comes the usual dilemmas of what to pack, if you are taking too much and if it all needs to be ironed before you go and again on location!

I'm delighted to find that Cotton Traders have launched a new wrinkle free collection of clothing. Perfect for ‘suitcase ready style’ and less worry. Saving you time and making your life easier. This is brilliant for travelling anywhere, whether you're heading off on short trips to the UK coast, for a weekend trip or to a hot beach in Europe!

If you're one of those last-minute packers who find it all too stressful, take a deep breath as we have thought of the most important things. We all tend to over pack and many items can be found on holiday if you need them, saving you space in your case and some anxiety!

We think the following items are a good idea for any break at this time of year.

Credit: Cotton Traders.

So what should be on your last minute packing checklist for a Summer 2022 holiday?

Firstly the fun stuff! What to wear? Your travel essentials should be:

1. Pull-on trousers and shorts

Easy to wear and incredibly comfortable, these pull-on trousers (also available as shorts) come in a handy wrinkle-free fabric!

To make sure you have a colour which suits your skin tone and style these are sold in a variety of colours and lengths.

In breathable pure cotton with a crease-resistant finish, you can use these to travel to your destination or grab them from the suitcase on arrival and you will be good to go.

We love the flattering straight leg and back elasticated waist.

Credit: Cotton Traders.


2. Denim shorts

Denim shorts are such a classic style. These are especially flattering as they finish on the knee. I prefer this to the shorter options which aren’t as practical.

These would look gorgeous for day wear or casual dinners in the evening when you’ve come straight from an excursion.

They are made from very soft, cotton-rich, stretch denim. This gives you the style you want with the comfort we all desire!

With traditional 5 pocket western styling, zip fly and stud button to the waist and belt loops. They have the look of your favourite jeans but in a summer short.

We think these will be your most worn item all summer!

Credit: Cotton Traders.


3. Wrinkle free tops

The timeless polka dot, this pattern is so perfect for holidays. If you’re looking for comfortable tops which work well with all your separates, this is for you.

In a ribbed, pure cotton fabric, there’s extra detail to make it stand out with an easy to wear texture.

The wrinkle free finish is fantastic as you know there will be no ironing while you’re away. You can get on with enjoying your time off.

We really like the 3/4 length sleeves which flatter and keep you cool.

Credit: Cotton Traders.

4. The On-trend Shirt Dress

A shirt dress never goes out of fashion. Whatever the occasion, if you’re living in dresses and trainers on holiday or if you save it for the evening. This classic look can be dressed down or smartened up with heels and statement jewellery.

Available in two different all-over prints it also boasts a classic collar, faux mother of pearl buttons and a discreet back elasticated waist!

The soft and flowing fabric will keep you cool and looking wonderful for summer and beyond.

Credit: Cotton Traders.

5. A Light Jacket

Always take a little jacket for cooler evenings when you have a break.

Even the wind can change a summery day's temperature and make you feel a little chilly.

The cotton material in this jacket will keep you just warm enough; yet stylish with the full lining and high-quality finish.

There’s an inner drawcord at the waist for a feminine fit, much needed pockets and pretty pleats.

A flattering silhouette which will take you through to Autumn.

Credit: Cotton Traders.


6. Footwear

Don’t be tempted, you don’t need lots of pairs of shoes! One pair of sandals, flip-flops and a pair of casual shoes for travelling in is enough. Plus water shoes for children. These are especially useful when considering vacation packages to Greece, where sometimes the ground can be rocky around the beaches.


7. Medicines

Always bring your prescription medications, plus insect repellent and sting cream. You can take a compact first aid kit with plasters but more important are everyday items like contact lenses and your glasses. Check if you still need to have a flight mask due to covid restrictions. Most of these have been removed now but some countries still require them on a flight.


8. Personal items

The essential toiletry bag! You won’t need shampoo and conditioner as your usual toiletries can be bought on location. If you must bring some use the travel-size versions which take up less space. The items which must be in your case are toothbrushes, toothpaste, lip balm and sun creams / aftersun.

Don’t forget your pjs and nightgowns so you have a comfortable evening on warm nights.


9. Carry on bag

Choose a fun carry-on bag which can double up as your beach bag or shopping bag during the trip. Something which folds down to a smaller bag size is useful and stops any questions about the size of your carry-on luggage as you board.


10. Important documents

Last thing on the list is the boring but all important travel documents!

Make sure you have your tickets, boarding passes, passport and driver's license on your person along with details of your travel insurance.

Finance wise you will need debit cards in case of extra baggage fees and a credit card. The latter is needed for car hire.

Think about what tech you really must take. A memory card, cell phone charger and anything else you love to have with you such as a smartwatch. Try and switch off a bit though on holiday. An email and social media break is good for the soul.


Hopefully, this entire checklist will solve your usual major packing headache!

Pack light, the number of items you need is always far less than you realise.

Focus on the warmer weather and that your trip is just around the corner without the last-minute scrambles. You'll have the peace of mind that you have just enough different outfits, all wrinkle-free and ready to wear!