Packing for a summer holiday should feel like the start of your adventure, not a stressful game of suitcase Tetris. Whether you’re jetting off to sun soaked beaches, exploring the countryside in the UK’s unpredictable conditions, travelling with your family, or heading on an adrenaline filled active holiday, our guide has you covered. After all, packing a suitcase is a bit like arranging a well organised storage unit! With practical tips, packing checklists and advice on storing bulky or seasonal gear, you’ll be ready to enjoy every moment of your getaway.
Preparing to pack
Before you start, think about these preparation essentials:
- Research your destination to understand the expected weather and local customs. This will help you pack appropriately.
- Make a list: A quick checklist saves you from last minute panic packing where you’ll tend to shove random pieces of clothing into your bags!
- Invest in storage solutions: To keep your seasonal or less frequently used items like tents or surfboards protected, a local storage unit can be invaluable, especially for active holiday prep. Long term storage means that you’ll always know where key pieces of kit are located.
Packing tips for holiday types
Hot foreign holiday essentials
Heading for that dreamy getaway with guaranteed sunshine and balmy waters? Packing for this summer holiday means light, breathable clothing and focus on versatility!
Checklist:
- Lightweight clothes (cotton or linen tops, sundresses, shorts, T-shirts).
- Swimwear (2-3 sets work well).
- Sandals or flip-flops and one smart pair of versatile shoes.
- A wide-brim hat or baseball cap.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Mini toiletries to save space.
- Light scarf for extra cover (handy in over-air-conditioned spaces or visiting temples).
- High-SPF sunscreen and aloe vera gel for sunburn relief.
- Books or e-reader for lazy beach days.
Packing tip: Roll your clothes instead of folding to prevent wrinkles and optimise space. Keep liquids in dedicated pouches to avoid messy spills.
UK holidays come rain or shine!
The UK’s weather isn’t known for its dependability, even in summer! Be ready for sunshine, showers, and cooler evenings. No matter what the forecast may say…
Checklist:
- Layering essentials (T-shirts, jumpers, and light jackets).
- Waterproof wear (a waterproof coat, wellies, or durable walking shoes).
- A small, foldable umbrella and packable rain poncho.
- Jeans or trousers for chilly days or evenings and shorts or dresses for sunnier spells.
- Accessories for all weather – like a scarf, sun hat, sunglasses, and gloves.
Packing Tip: Use packing cubes to organise your layers by type, so you’re not rifling through your case in a hurry when the weather changes.
Family summer holiday
Travelling with kids means preparation and smart packing are key to avoiding stress.
Checklist:
- Outfits for each family member, sorted by day (to save time and sanity).
- Entertainment for the kids (activity books, small games, a tablet).
- Healthy travel snacks in resealable containers.
- Travel comfort items like neck pillows, cuddly toys or blankets.
- A basic first aid kit (including plasters, antihistamines, and motion sickness aids).
- A travel laundry kit (detergent pods and a laundry bag) to deal with mid-holiday messes.
Packing Tip: Give everyone their own colour coded bag or packing cube. This keeps things easy to identify and avoids rummaging through a shared suitcase.
Active holidays
Planning an adventure filled holiday with hiking, cycling or water sports? Active holidays need specialty gear, and that can take up space.
Checklist:
- Comfortable, moisture wicking activewear. Go for one or two sets more than you think you’ll need!
- Sturdy trainers or hiking shoes, and sport specific footwear if needed.
- Bulky gear like helmets, wetsuits, or hiking poles.
- A compact foldable daypack for excursions.
- Reusable water bottles and portable snacks.
Storage Tip: Large, rarely used items like kayaks, tents, or surfboards can easily get damaged in poor storage conditions. A dedicated storage unit ensures they remain in top condition and ready for your next adventure.
Universal travel essentials checklist
Of course, there are those bits and pieces that you’ll need wherever you’re going, so here’s a short universal checklist when packing for a summer holiday:
- Passport, tickets, travel confirmations, and any required visas.
- Phone, charger, power bank, and plug adapters.
- Travel insurance details.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Basic toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, and travel soap).
- Emergency money (local currency and digital payment options).
Smart packing techniques
Maximise suitcase space and keep your items organised with these expert packing techniques:
- Layer heavy to light: Place heavy items like shoes and larger toiletries at the bottom of your case. Lighter and delicate fabrics should go on top.
- Multi-tasking items: Choose shoes and clothes that can double up for different occasions (like trainers you can wear walking and casually).
- Use packing aids: Packing cubes, compression bags for bulky items, and toiletry organisers can transform chaos into order.
- Personal essentials bag: Keep a small, easily accessible bag for essentials (e.g., wallet, passport, phone, snacks, and chargers) to avoid rummaging through your suitcase.
- Act fast when you get home: Sort clothes into clean and laundry piles immediately. Take care of your travel gear by drying it out or cleaning it before storage. You’ll thank yourself when prepping for the next trip.
Storing seasonal and bulky items
Seasonal items and bulky gear (like camping tents or surfboards) can clutter up your home when they’re not in use. Even in the garage or loft, these things can get damaged and take up helpful space to store more regularly accessed belongings. Using a storage unit for these pieces ensures they’re kept in optimal condition, free from damp, pests, or UV exposure. Plus, with everything in one place, you’ll never waste time hunting for that missing tent pole again!
For regular travellers, consider creating a “travel essentials box” with items such as power adapters, reusable toiletries, and luggage tags. This keeps packing for future holidays quick and effortless.
Perfect packing for your summer holiday
Packing doesn’t have to be stressful, no matter where you’re headed or how many people you’re packing for. With our tips, smart planning tools, and thoughtful storage solutions, you’re set to make memories without a hitch. Looking for a secure place to store your summer gear or curious about how storage units can simplify your holiday prep? Contact us at Blue Box Storage today to explore flexible solutions tailored to your needs.
