Back Pack Hiking
back pack hiking The Benefits of an Internal Frame Hiking Backpack There once was a time when internal frame backpacks were very popular, but over the years, this type of backpack has become more of a...
Six Packing Tips For Your Next Summer Holiday: Light and Right is the Ticket
The great irony of setting off for a relaxing summer holiday is that packing for it is so stressful! Getting it right can be daunting but it is possible to get your summer suitcase organised without major stress or raising a sweat. Hardworking, versatile pieces like kaftans and summer tunics are part of the answer. Here's how to bring it all together.
1. Think about it...just a little: Measure thrice and cut once as they say.
*Think a bit about where you are going and what you might be doing. No point packing hiking shoes if you are lazing by the pool and beach the entire time!
*Check the long range weather forecast and work out if you need something to keep you a little warm even if it is to a tropical paradise!
2. Plan Your Outfits...versatility and sequence are the key! Here's where versatile resortwear pieces that mix and match effortlessly, dress up or down with ease, are absolutely essential.
*Kaftans and Tunics - a mid length kaftan can be worn on its own to the beach and then layered under with a slip dress or trousers for evening; 2 or 3 looks with one kaftan!
*Layering Basics - to go 'under your overs' and create mulitple outfits with ease; a cotton slip dress, leggings and a pair of trousers. White basics will usually go with most colours.
*Sequence is Everything - Wear the night before what you are going to wear the next day. Involves a bit of planning but will save your suitcase from overloading. Remember…less is more!
*Cull - lay your selections out on the bed as you plan your outfits for each day. Be ruthless. One 'just-in-case' dress as a spare and no more!
3. Ease up on the Shoes: Contrary to popular belief, you can get away with 2 pairs of shoes, 3 if you plan on a beach run every morning.
*Thongs/Flip Flops - beach and day *Metallic sandals or neutral wedges - day into night
*Joggers - only if you intend to use them for exercise. They are never a stylish 'go with everything option'...ever!
4. The Right Underwear:
*Flesh coloured undies are perfect and go under any colour clothing - nothing worse than ending up with a black pair of undies and white trousers!
*A multi-way bra means you don't have to worry about the tops you take and unsightly straps.
5. Max out on the Accessories: Accessories are the antioxidants of the packing world and will do wonders to enliven clothes and transform a look from beach to bar. They don't take up much room but boy do they pack a punch!
6. If you don't wear it at home, then don't take it on holiday!: Outfits can be transformed but if something doesn't quite fit as it should it mostly certainly will not fit perfectly on holiday. Also forget any item of clothing which is a little bit too tight because once you have added suncreams and a bit of heat it will feel tighter than ever!
Finally, give yourself the edge and consider this packing mantra as you go. It might just help you to plough through without even raising a sweat.
"umm...think about what you will be doing; ease up on the shoes;, the right underwear is vital; max out on accessories and if you haven't worn it at home, don't pack it girl...ummm"
Good luck! Here's to your next relaxing summer holiday!
About the Author
Resort wear expert Anita McLachlan is passionate about helping busy women look good and feel fantastic on the beach; to live their best summer. 35+ summer style is about dressing anti-frump & beyond skimp. For more tips on looking your best this summer visit Anita at her year-round oasis,
Sequins and Sand
... resort wear for busy women.