Deciding what to pack takes time. Be honest: separate what you will need at every stage from what is only nice to have.
A clear list makes packing easier. After this one, check our extra tips for winter and summer trips so you are covered in any season.
You will not need two or three shampoos for the shower. Decant shampoo, conditioner, face wash and sunscreen into 100 ml bottles. That lightens luggage, especially on flights. The other option is to buy them when you arrive.
Clothes matter. Try pieces on before you pack so you know they still fit. Holiday rush makes it easy to forget things; safer choices usually work better. Settle what you will wear before you worry about saving space.
Even in a safe hotel or villa, things can go missing. Leave the most valuable pieces at home. Losing jewellery can spoil a holiday.
If you like reading, take a couple of books — not too many, and skip the thick ones. An e-reader is the easiest way to carry more.
You may not find your usual drink on holiday. Food is harder to pack, but tea or other easy drinks can travel with you.
A straightener or similar tool helps if you do not want a bad-hair evening walk in the resort.
Most hotels and villas provide towels, but with a large group it can help to bring extras. If your skin is sensitive, bring the towels you already trust.
T-shirts work morning, noon and night in summer. In winter the mix changes, but a few versatile colours still help.
Winter packing is about extra warmth. Items are heavier, but light insulating layers solve a lot of that.
Underwear and core items barely change with destination. Put basics in the bag first.
Thermal layers help. Long thermals for the lower body, sleeved layers on top.
One or two pairs of jeans work with almost everything in cold weather.
A fleece-style jacket or coat is a safe winter choice. If it will rain, consider a second coat.
Optional, but useful in a wet winter destination. Pick one that also keeps you warm.
At least one sturdy pair of boots or thick leather shoes. For snow, a hiking shoe with grip is better.
Head, neck, hands and feet cool first — a scarf adds a lot of comfort.
Take two pairs if it will be seriously cold. Thin wool for mild weather, leather if you want something smarter.
A good winter hat keeps you warm. Wool for a cold city, something lighter if you will be active.
Useful in every season. On snow, polarised lenses protect your eyes from glare.
Summer packing can still be tricky. You can use clothes you have, or pack lighter pieces. A detailed list helps.
Light clothes help in the heat, but still pack enough underwear for the trip, summer or winter.
For a sunny destination take at least four or five so you are not washing every day.
In a tropical place a long-sleeved shirt or blouse is useful. For men a button-up shirt is a classic summer piece.
Two pairs of shorts plus one pair of trousers for cooler evenings.
If you stay in a villa with a pool, your own nightwear is handy. Hotels may provide some, but your own is better.
Always pack swimwear. Humidity can slow drying, so a spare is useful.
Sandals are a summer essential, especially if you walk a lot on sand.
Even in summer, evenings can cool down. A light knit covers that.
Protect your eyes from glare. Polarised lenses are a strong summer choice.
