The ultimate holiday packing list

Wondering how to not overpack? Here’s everything you need for a stress-free getaway

Whatever kind of holiday you’re getting ready for, whether it’s some winter sunshine, a staycation, a honeymoon or a mini-break, we’re always plagued with the same question: how do I pack a suitcase well? The secret to making the contents of your carry-on work hard for you? Multi-use buys that take you from day to night. Here’s how to pack the expert way.

1. Pick a three-shade palette – perhaps black, white and grey, or bronze, cream and green.

2. Choose accessories you can wear on repeat with multiple outfits.

3. Rolling up clothes is the ultimate space saver.

4. Pack a steamer (a small one).

5. Photograph outfits before you pack, so you know how many combinations you can create.

The best all-in-one outfits take up minimal suitcase (and head) space. Make a beeline for cooling fabrics (cotton, linen, jersey, silk) and crease-resistant cheesecloth styles.

• Departure lounge: whatever the destination, nothing brings travel comfort quite like a jersey jumpsuit; they’re multitasking must-haves.

• The ‘do-it-all’ dress: invest in a frock you can dress up or down. This gingham head-turner packs a punch for evening outings, but the fact it’s 100 per cent cotton also ensures daytime breeziness.

• The AM/PM jumpsuit: worn relaxed and wafty for daytime wandering, or belted by night. Simply switch up your shoes and add accessories.

• Linen shirt: don’t underestimate the power of this piece for travel days and chilly nights alike. Shout out to those clever natural fibres for helping regulate body temperature.

• Cool waistcoat: every stylist’s secret weapon – throw over the top of a white tee for daytime, add heels and stacks of jewellery for aperitivo hour.

• The kaftan: the perfect poolside plus-one, taking you from beach to bar quicker than you can say piña col…

Ask any fashion expert and they’ll advise packing no more than three pairs of shoes: trainers, heels and sandals. Travel in your weightiest footwear (aka the trainers) to lighten your luggage.

Carry-on luggage only? One-piece all the way. If you can carve out space for multiple bikinis, though, try to go for sets you can mix ’n’ match to multiply your poolside looks.

The real packing secret that can take looks from AM to PM? Choose smart, multi-use accessories.

• Bags: opt for a joyful design, spacious enough to cover your needs from beach to bar.

• Sunglasses: for when the sun has got her hat on (even as she descends at sunset).

• Necklaces: gold, silver, rose gold… nothing will dress up your décolletage faster.