Off on vacation? I've compiled the summer holiday packing list you need

All the essentials.

Holiday packing list: Fashion week show goers wear orange, holiday-inspired looks
(Image credit: Getty)

Summer is on the horizon, and if you're anything like me that means you have one thing on your mind: a summer holiday. Whether you opt for a vacation to a far-flung location or a staycation in your hometown or city, there is nothing better than shutting off for a few days to prioritise rest and relaxation.

Of course, any planned holiday will elicit the same question, what do I pack? This is why today, we have put together the ultimate summer holiday packing list, to make sure you never forget the necessities again. 

It goes without saying that different types of holidays will require different things, so of course, there is no "one size fits all" rule, so to speak. Though, in general, if you're going on a summer holiday (cue the iconic tune by Cliff Richard) there are some absolute wardrobe essentials you need to take with you. 

Fashion week attendees wears summer look featuring orange shirt and shorts

(Image credit: Getty)

While clothing might seem like an obvious answer, there are a few specifics you'll need beyond just the basic underwear, shorts and a T-shirt. If you're going to an area with a sunny, hot climate then packing a hat and sunglasses is an absolute must. Avoiding sunburn and being sun-smart is imperative to ensuring you enjoy your trip. 

Aside from this, a sunny location will likely warrant the need for a beach bag, so that you can tote all the essentials, including sunscreen, water and even snacks. 

While you might be inclined to simply pack a pair of flip-flops to cover your footwear needs, sturdier, more supportive shoes will be a far more practical decision. When exploring a new city, you often cover more steps than your average day, so making sure you're wearing shoes that support your feet, will help you avoid unwanted issues down the line. 

Keep scrolling for a packing list of the essentials you might need for your next summer holiday and shop our favourite summer buys below.  

What do I need in my holiday packing list?

Of course, the items you will need to pack for your holiday will entirely depend on the kind of vacation you are planning to take. A ski holiday will require completely different items to a beach holiday, for example. With summer coming up, today we're focusing on a summer holiday packing list.

  • Passport
  • Underwear 
  • A few T-shirts or tops
  • Some light (potentially linen) trousers 
  • A pair of shorts or a few skirts
  • A hat
  • Light summer dresses in mini, midi or maxi lengths 
  • Your favourite swimwear 
  • A light cardigan/jumper/jacket for cooler nights 
  • A beach bag
  • Sunglasses
  • Sandals 
  • Trainers
  • Gym Kit
  • Skincare 
  • Makeup 
  • Sunscreen 
  • A towel 

Shop our summer holiday packing list:

Zoe Anastasiou
Fashion Editor

Zoe Anastasiou is a Fashion Editor with over eight years of experience working across digital publications in New York, London and Australia. She has contributed to publications including Harper’s BAZAAR and ELLE Australia, and was the Fashion and Social Media Editor at Who What Wear UK before joining Marie Claire.