What to pack for a summer holiday abroad

If you're like me, you don't do 'packing light'. Tried it and decided if the trip is longer than 5 days its not for me.

My luggage for a 16 night trip to Florida

I want to start off by saying if you want to take a large suitcase, a carry on or just your passport and purse there is absolutely no correct way to travel I personally just prefer taking as many options as possible because I like changing into different outfits.

The first thing I do when packing for a trip is go online and double check the weight allowances with the airline, then I check weather, laws/customs of the country/city you're visiting i.e. some countries require you to cover your shoulders and legs especially if visiting historic monuments.

If you are planning on doing any excursions whilst you are there making sure you have a look at what they require you to wear for example some parks require closed toe shoes.

The Clothing

1. Underwear, ATLEAST 1 for each day, you will not be wanting to put on dirty underwear on when you are not wearing your swimming costume.

2. Socks you may not need these as if you are like me you will spend most of your time in sandals, however I do recommend you take a pair incase you go on an excursion like a sightseeing tour or a park, better to be safe than sorry!

3. Shoes - sliders/flip flops, trainers, evening shoes, dress sandals

4. Tops - you will need a good selection of T-shirts, vest tops, blouses

5. Swimwear - Bikinis/Swimsuits, Cover-ups, sarong

6. Nightwear - Most hotels have aircon now but to be on the safe side I always take my lightest PJs

7. Evening wear - if you are planning to go to nice restaurants make sure you have clothing for strict dress codes such as a nice dress or trousers as many do not let you in if you are wearing casual shorts or sandals

8. Bottoms - shorts/skirts for during the day and casual evenings, I normally go with neutral colours so you can mix and match with the tops

9. Rainwear - Poncho/thin waterproof jacket, even though you are going to a warm country you may experience thunderstorms

Toiletries, Health & Hygiene

1. SPF - I can't stress this enough, wear your SPF

2. Tanning oil, there will be some available to buy when you're there but if you have a trusted brand that you like you are better taking it with you

3. Hairspray and Mousse

4. Shampoo/conditioner

5. Leave-in conditioner - this is a must if you're going to be spending a lot of time in chlorinated or salt water

6. Morning and night-time products - Cleanser, toner, moisturiser, lotion etc

7. Make-Up

8. Perfume

9. Deodorant

10. Medication and Birth control

11. Razor and Tweezers

12. Blister plasters

13. Pain Relief

14. Tweezers

15. First Aid Kit

Accessories

1. Squashable Hat

2. Sunglasses

3. Evening bag/clutch

4. Beach bag

5. Jewellery

6. Scarf/Pashmina

7. Goggles

8. Pocket mirror

9. Belt(s)

10. Umbrella

Essentials

1. Adaptors

2. Charging Cables

3. A good quality TRAVEL or dual voltage hairdryer - don't take your regular hair dryer as it may not work with the voltage difference

4. Books

5. Headphones

6. Towel (your hotel might not allow you to take theirs to the beach)

7. Hairbrush / Comb

8. Scrunchie/Hair Ties

9. Claw Clips

10. Camera

11. Extension lead

If you are struggling to stay under your weight restrictions while packing, remember things like shampoo, conditioner, deodorant etc can be bought whilst your there, things like trainers, hoodies and books can be worn/taken in your hand luggage.

Happy packing!

Christina x