The wait is over, the anticipation has been killing us, but at last we can plan our summer holidays in the safe (ish) knowledge that we will actually make it to our destination of choice.

So, lockdown is over, and travel restrictions are lifted.  Airport queues may still have a way to go, but leaving that aside, let’s enjoy the planning and preparation that we’ve all missed for what seems like a lifetime.

Just in case you’re feeling a little out of practice, we’ve put together a list of the top ten essential items to pack for your summer holiday.  Take a quick look through and we’re sure it will all come flooding back.

1. Admin

Without this, you are literally going nowhere. It might not be the most interesting set of documents to pack, but they are probably the most essential.  So what does this list include?

Let’s have a look:

• Passport

• Tickets

• Currency and credit/debit card

• Insurance documents

• Driver’s licence

• Accommodation details

• Covid related documents.

2. Medication and first aid kit

This might need a bit of forward planning, depending on your personal circumstances.  If you regularly take prescription medication you will need to make sure you have enough to cover your trip.  This could mean a call or visit to your doctor’s surgery to order the medication in advance.
With regards to the first aid kit, you don’t need to go overboard, as most items will probably be available at your destination.  However, some pain relief, plasters, antiseptic cream and cold and flu tablets are always good to have to hand.  And when you get home, if you haven’t had to use them, they will no doubt come in useful at some point.

3. Toiletries

We all have a few things we really can’t do without, so make these your priority to save on luggage space and weight.  If you’re staying in a hotel you have the option of using the hair and body wash sets that they provide. You may still choose to take your own though, and if that’s the case then this list still applies to you.

• Shampoo / conditioner

• Body wash

• Face and body moisturisers

• Cleansers

• Deodorants

• Hair removal products

• Toothpaste and brush

• Sanitary products

• Hair styling products 

• Make up

• Clothes hand wash liquid

4. Electrical appliances

This list extends to anything that needs a plug.  And on that note, don’t forget the adaptors and charging leads!

• Phone

• Tablet

• Laptop (if you insist on doing some work)!

• Shavers

• Hair dryer

• Hair styling tools

• Travel iron

5. Protection from the elements

Since we’re talking specifically about summer holidays here, we can skip the tips about how to keep warm in colder climes. With sunny skies in our minds, let’s see what you need to include in your luggage to enjoy the sun safely.

• Sunscreen - it’s a good idea to take higher and lower factor protection

• After sun cream

• Sun hats (particularly for the younger travellers)

• Sunglasses

• Lightweight cover up garments to throw on if necessary

• Pop up beach tent for the little ones
  

Take care not to overdo the sunbathing.  Be aware of the dangers of too much sun. By limiting your time on the sun lounger to the parts of the day when the sun is a little less severe you will avoid the dreaded sun burn and be able to enjoy your holiday pain free.

6. Beachwear

Whether you have the waves lapping at your feet or you’re lounging by a crystal clear pool, it’s always a good idea to have some lightweight cover ups to hand.  The choice is immense these days, and you will be able to find cover ups to suit your style, body shape and holiday type.  Kaftans, oversized shirts, floaty dresses and even sarongs are available in a range of styles and colours to compliment your swimwear and keep you safe from the sun.  Did we mention that they are also a fashionable way to cover a multitude of body parts that you may not always want on show? 

7. Swimwear

You’ve heard the phrase ‘beach body,’ and you’ve no doubt heard the responses, such as ‘every body is a beach body.’  And we are fully on board with this one.  The choices are endless when it comes to swimwear. You can opt for a one piece swimsuit, a bikini, or a  tankini.  You can then choose high leg, low leg or shorts, thongs. And then there’s colour! It can be hard to know where to start. Choosing a bikini best suited to your body can be quite daunting.  Take into account what you feel comfortable in, as well as what highlights your best bits.  Maybe you’re going on an active holiday, in which case a more sporty option will be more useful than a string bikini!  Pack two or three options if budget allows, and you can avoid those dreaded tan lines too!

8. Casual clothing

You might have plans to be out every night at a fancy club or restaurant, but don’t neglect to pack enough casual clothing for those late breakfasts and daytime tours around the local attractions. A selection of tops, skirts, shorts and loose fitting trousers can be mixed and matched to create several combinations, without overpacking. Opt for neutral colours, or be a little bolder with contrasting patterns and fabrics. Either way, try to be sensible with the amount you take.  You’ll probably find you spend most days in your swimwear, cocktail in hand, perfecting that tan.

9. Formal fashion

Bear in mind the temperature difference between where you live and where you are holidaying.  Formal wear at home may be too heavy and uncomfortable for wearing on a balmy summer evening in the tropics. Keep the fabrics light and breathable - linen and cotton is ideal.  That way you’ll stay comfortable as well as fashionable.  Pack some dresses, floaty skirts and trousers, and accessorise them with bold jewellery to add a bit of flair.  Sometimes simple is best, and you will look polished and elegant without having to over-dress.  

10. Footwear

You might be one of those people who can manage with a pair of sandals and some flip flops for the duration.  If you’re not, and you feel the urge to pack a different pair of shoes for every outfit, take heed! Shoes take up a lot of space, and when you arrive at your destination of choice you probably won’t feel much like tottering around in heels everywhere.  A neutral shade of heeled sandal, some funky flats and a pair of comfy beach shoes should see you through most days and nights with ease. 

So there you have it. If this has put you in the holiday mood then you’ve got a good headstart for when you’ve planned your trip. 

Keeping it simple will allow you to pack enough to have options when you get there, but not so much that you’re paying top dollar for extra  luggage allowances.  When all’s said and done, what do you really need when you’re spending your days with the sun on your back and your nights sipping sangria under the stars?  

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.