Whether you pack weeks in advance or leave it to the last minute, following a plan can ensure you do this efficiently and don't miss any of the essentials.
A holiday pro explained her favourite tips for packing well, including a "game-changing" hack to fit more into your luggage.
This is according to holiday expert Chelsea Dickenson, who has partnered with Boots to create packing tips to help the nation get organised this summer. She said: “Packing shouldn’t be stressful - it should be part of the excitement of going away. However, so many people forget the basics, which can really throw off the start of a trip.
"My top tips? Always lay everything out before it goes in your bag, group items by category, and decant your toiletries into travel-sized bottles to save space. And don't forget to create an outfit plan, use compression cubes or vac bags to slim your clothing down and roll any extras into the crevices of your bag and suitcases. Make the most of the space.
Packing doesn't need to be a stressful experience
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“The new summer bundles for beach trips, festivals and adventure trips as well as the new online packing lists at Boots make it easier than ever to feel prepared, stay organised, and enjoy every moment of your holiday."
The travel expert shared that a little bit of organisation goes a long way in how organised you are for your holiday. It can make the process more enjoyable and ensure you don't forget the essentials.
Use a master list
Before you begin, Chelsea recommended writing down everything you might need. She said: "Start with a master list and tailor it for each trip - beach, city, festival, whatever. I keep mine in my phone notes and update it before every holiday.
"Don’t forget, the most important items are always your health, so never remove the essentials like sunscreen, toothpaste and medicines from the rolling list.
"If you need a quick reminder of which toiletries to pack, check out the shoppable lists I created that are live on boots.com now. Also, you don’t need to lug an extension cable around. A good universal adaptor with multiple USB ports is all you need - anywhere in the world.”
Research shows the most commonly forgotten items for a beach holiday include sunglasses, sunscreen, insect bite cream and aftersun, so make sure these are on your master list for these holidays.
How to pack more
Short on luggage space? Chelsea explained some useful items can help you get more in your case this summer, such as compression cubes - "these are just like standard packing cubes, but with an extra zip that flattens everything down".
She added: "If you’re really short on space, you can even then pop them into a vac bag - there are some out there that are ‘roll by hand’ so you don’t have to worry about finding a hoover on your holiday. Game-changer.
“Not got a compression cube or just trying to squeeze in a few extra garments? Roll, don’t fold. It saves so much space and means fewer wrinkles. There’s a reason this one’s stood the test of time.
“Also socks go in shoes, belts line the edges, jewellery tucked into sunglass cases."
Packing toiletries
It is possible to take more than you realise if you move your favourite toiletries into smaller bottles and opt for a flat lay make-up bag.
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Travel expert Chelsea Dickenson shared her top packing tips
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The travel pro continued: "Invest in a flat lay make-up bag. If you’re anything like me and tend to spread your make-up and toiletries everywhere, a flat lay bag makes life so much easier. You just open it up and everything’s laid out and visible. No more rooting around for your mascara - or leaving half your make-up behind.
"Also, decant your beauty favourites. Mini bottles or reusable travel containers mean you can bring your skin care routine with you. You can also reuse them to save future plastic use. Travel light, but don’t sacrifice your holy grails.”
Keep your items clean
If you are away for a long time, it is important to keep your dirty items away from those you haven't used yet. A mid-trip freshen up might also be necessary.
Chelsea advised: “Keep muddy soles away from clean clothes. Use proper shoe bags or hack it with a couple of shower caps – works like a dream.“A travel-size detergent sheet and a universal sink plug mean you can do a quick wash mid-trip. It’s a gamechanger if you’re moving around or trying to pack lighter.”
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