If you’ve ever unpacked after a holiday and realised half your suitcase never got touched, you’re not alone. Most of us have a habit of packing for every possible scenario, only to wear the same few things over and over.
The good news is that you don’t need a huge packing list to have a great trip. A handful of reliable essentials will cover almost everything, whether you’re heading to the coast, exploring a new city or spending a week by the pool.
Here are ten things that always earn their place in your suitcase.
We were always going to suggest this first! A good pair of flip flops will probably get more use than any other footwear you pack. They’re perfect for the beach, the pool, campsites, hotel breakfasts and popping out for lunch.
Natural rubber flip flops are particularly comfortable because they have a little more give underfoot than many foam alternatives. They’re lightweight, easy to pack and dry quickly after a day by the water.
It’s the one item you’ll regret forgetting.
Even if the forecast doesn’t look particularly hot, UV levels can still be high, especially around water where sunlight reflects back onto your skin. A broad-spectrum SPF is worth applying before you leave your accommodation each morning, not once you’ve reached the beach!
Buying plastic is a big no, no from us! The cost soon adds up, both financially and environmentally. A reusable bottle is easy to refill at airports, hotels and many public spaces, helping you stay hydrated without creating unnecessary plastic waste.
A quick-drying towel takes up very little room and comes in handy far more often than you’d expect. Beach days, boat trips, swimming pools or even an impromptu picnic all become a little easier when you’ve got one packed.
A decent pair of sunglasses makes long days outdoors much more comfortable. Look for proper UV protection rather than choosing a pair based purely on how dark the lenses are.
Whether it’s a paddleboarding session or simply keeping your belongings safe from wet towels and sandy swimsuits, a waterproof bag is one of those things you don’t appreciate until you need it.
Phones have become our maps, cameras, boarding passes and restaurant guides. A small power bank takes up hardly any space and can save a lot of frustration when you’re out all day.
A simple cap or wide-brimmed hat offers welcome shade during the hottest part of the day. Combined with sunscreen, it’s one of the easiest ways to stay comfortable in the sun.
You don’t need to carry a full medical kit. A few plasters, painkillers, antiseptic wipes and blister plasters are usually enough to deal with the little things that can otherwise spoil a day out.
Whether you’re a book worm, podcast lover, arrow-word professional or a doodler. Don’t forget to pack your book, notepad and pen or to download your favourite listens for the plane. Oh and one more thing, a pack of cards! Who doesn’t play cards on holiday?!
Packing well isn’t about taking more. It’s about taking the right things.
A comfortable pair of flip flops, sun protection and a few practical essentials will see you through most holidays without weighing you down. At Waves, that’s exactly what our natural rubber flip flops are made for. They’re comfortable enough for long summer days, durable enough for everyday adventures and easy to pack wherever you’re heading next.
