Packing Essentials: What to Pack For Your Next Staycation

The great British staycation is a wonderful way to holiday, letting you appreciate the magic of your own home country. But what clothes do you pack? 

The strappy camis and teeny bikinis of a sunny holiday abroad might not be as suitable for the unpredictable UK weather. Not to mention there are so many types of staycation to enjoy, from city breaks to country escapes and classic seaside holidays - and each one requires slightly different suitcase contents. 

In this guide, we'll go through the staycation packing checklist for each of these fabulous holiday types so you're completely prepared and ready to strut your stuff.

The classic UK city break can be so magical, whether you’re exploring the cobbled streets of Edinburgh or taking in the West End shows of London.

It’s also a fab option for a staycation with a touch of glamour, so smart and chic clothes are a must for your evening activities, while comfier pieces are needed for your daytime explorations. 

For a city break that’s equal parts sightseeing and sophistication, here’s what you should pack:

• Comfortable trousers or jeans for every day

• A few versatile tops, one for each day of your staycation

• Comfortable and stylish pumps for sightseeing

• Occasionwear for evenings on the town, such as a dress or jumpsuit

• Smarter shoes for your occasionwear, such as heels or statement boots.

• Underwear and socks for each day

• A handbag big enough for your must-have bits and bobs (a crossbody strap is a wise choice for avoiding pickpockets)

• Essential toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, skincare, hairbrush, soap and shampoo

• Makeup (if you wear it)

• A few fun, statement accessories

• A smart jacket that pairs well with everyday clothes and occasionwear

• Layering options: A versatile cardigan or elegant scarf for chilly weather

• Seasonally appropriate nightwear

• Chargers and plug adapters

For gents, the packing is much the same. Just switch the dresses for a shirt and tailored trousers, and add a blazer for layering in the colder months.

The classic British seaside holiday is so charming, whether you’re enjoying the illuminations of Blackpool or the spooky sites of Whitby. To prepare, you’ll need outfits for beach days and strolls along the promenade.

Here are our packing suggestions:

• Shorts, a loose skirt or comfortable trousers for days on the beach

• T-shirts or comfy long-sleeve tops for casual beachwear

• Swimwear (if you plan on taking a dip)

• A cover-up to warm back up in after splashing around

• Comfy pumps for coastal walks

• A casual, waterproof jacket 

• A tailored jacket for smarter spaces

• A dressier blouse and trousers, an elegant dress, or a jumpsuit for visiting restaurants on the prom

• Smarter shoes, if needed

• Underwear and socks for each day

• Essential toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, skincare, hairbrush, soap and shampoo

• Makeup (if you wear it)

• A few fun, statement accessories, like a hat and sunglasses

• A beach bag for the go-tos like towels, sun cream and snacks

• Knitwear for layering

• Seasonally appropriate nightwear

• Chargers and plug adapters

Great Britain has some amazing countryside locations, from the Lake District and Peak District to the Highlands and more. Make the most of your time exploring these stunning landscapes by packing the essentials:

• Sturdy shoes for hiking

• Comfortable trousers

• Lightweight tops such as t-shirts or henleys

• Wool or cotton socks

• Underwear

• Layers to easily add or remove as needed

• A water bottle

• A functional bag for hiking essentials, such as a first aid kit, map, and insect repellent

• An outfit for exploring villages or enjoying afternoon teas, such as a beautiful blouse and maxi skirt or tea dress.

• Swimwear if you plan to take a dip in the lake, plus a cover-up

• Occasionwear for visiting upscale restaurants or hotels, plus chic shoes

• A waterproof jacket

• A warm fleece or knit if needed

• Essential toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, skincare, hairbrush, soap and shampoo

• Makeup (if you wear it)

• A few fun, statement accessories

• Seasonally appropriate nightwear

• Chargers and plug adapters

A dress is your best friend if you're looking for an easy way to wear colour with confidence. It's a full outfit all in one, so you don't have to worry about co-ordinating your separates, and, when you choose the right tone, the impact is immediate.

Whether its a bold block of colour like deep red or sunny yellow, or a boho print with lots of beautiful hues, a colourful dress makes you feel energised, expressive, and — above all — confident! 

In the beginning you can start with colours that naturally suit your skin tone. Orange and yellow tones for autumn colour seasons and pastel shades for summer complexions. You can keep the silhouette simple and let the colour do all the talking, or you could choose a dress full of remarkable details that show off your personality as well as any pattern or print.

As your confidence grows, you can experiment with prints and patterns that blend unexpected shades. If you want to know how to choose prints that complement your style, check out our blog! 

Remember: how you style your dress can have an impact on the colour. Keep things grounded with neutral footwear and accessories (i.e. simple silver jewellery or brown boots), or go all-in with co-ordinating shoes or bags.