10 items to always have on your beach holiday checklist
Your fly-and-flop getaway is fast approaching. Avoid the classic pitfall of taking too much and assemble a collection of simple pieces that play nicely together. Here are our top tips on what to pack for a beach holiday
Colour-code your look
Coordinate your colour palette so you have endless outfit combinations for the entire holiday. First, pick a hero colour (shades of blue set an upbeat out-of-office mood), then choose complementary neutral shades to wear around it (it’s hard to go wrong with black and white). As a general rule, try to make sure everything you pack can be worn three ways – for instance, as part of an outfit for day tripping, poolside and dinner – simply by switching your accessories and shoes.
Dress the part
The perfect summer frock is a beach-holiday staple. Simple and cool, it looks effortlessly stylish thrown over a bikini for lunch at a smart beach club or for post-sunbathing sundowners. For maximum versatility, look for a classic design in a block colour with thin straps and a midi-length hemline.
Down to a tee
Plain cotton tees in neutral shades are a great way to ring the changes. Pop one over your bikini to protect your skin when you‘ve had too much sun, layer them under and over your sundress for sightseeing, or wear as an extra layer on cooler evenings.
Flat out
Lightweight, comfortable and smart or casual depending on what you pair them with, espadrilles are your ultimate holiday shoe choice. Go for a plain, neutral design that works with your overall colour palette.
Deep dive on swimwear
Less is more — except when it comes to swimwear. For a week’s beach holiday or sunbathing by the hotel pool, take at least two different styles so you can alternate them and minimise tan lines.
Throw some shade
A classic straw sunhat is a must-have, but carrying it on the plane can be tricky. If you don’t want to wear it at the airport, stuff the inside full of socks or lingerie so it keeps its shape in your suitcase. Don't forget to still wear your sunnies too.
Protect yourself
Take hard-working toiletries that counteract the effects of the sun. High-factor sunscreens should be a given, but now’s the time to ramp up body and haircare, too. Look for easy-to-carry pots of body cream – those containing shea butter are super hydrating – and take a regenerating haircare mask to revive sun-frazzled tresses.
Bring some tunes
A portable speaker is a necessity for listening to your poolside music playlist. Look for one that’s splash resistant and small enough not to take up too much room in your luggage.
