Holiday Packing List

The Golden Rule: Capsule Swim

The biggest packing mistake people make with swimwear is bringing too many pieces that do not work together. The capsule approach is simple: choose a colour palette of two to three tones and build your swim wardrobe around it. A black bikini, a printed one-piece, and a statement colour two-piece will cover every scenario from lazy pool days to beach club evenings. Each piece should work with your cover-ups, sandals, and accessories.

The Essential Swimwear Edit

Bikinis (Pack 2–3)

You need rotation. One bikini for active beach days — something secure that stays put through waves and movement. One for lounging poolside — this is where you bring the style: a triangle top, a bandeau, or something with interesting strap work. And optionally, a third for evenings: a sleek, dark two-piece that pairs with a sarong and gold jewellery for sunset cocktails. Brands like L*SPACE and Hunza G excel here because their pieces are versatile enough to cross categories.

One-Piece (Pack 1)

Every holiday wardrobe needs a one-piece. Not as a backup — as a star player. A well-cut one-piece swimsuit doubles as a bodysuit under linen trousers or a skirt, making it one of the hardest-working pieces in your suitcase. Look for styles with interesting back details or side cut-outs that elevate the silhouette. Black is the obvious choice, but do not sleep on rich jewel tones like burgundy, emerald, or midnight blue.

Cover-Ups (Pack 2)

A lightweight kaftan in white or neutral linen is non-negotiable. It works from beach to taverna without looking like you have just rolled off a sunbed. Your second cover-up should be more structured — a linen shirt dress or a crochet midi that you can dress up with wedges for an evening stroll. The key is fabrics that do not crease in a suitcase: cotton gauze, linen blends, and crochet all travel beautifully.

Beyond Swimwear: The Essentials

Sun Protection

SPF 50 for face and body — this is non-negotiable. Invest in a reef-safe formula if you are swimming in the ocean. A wide-brimmed hat protects your scalp and face while looking effortlessly chic. Do not forget lip balm with SPF and a quality pair of UV-blocking sunglasses. After-sun with aloe vera is essential for those days when you inevitably catch a bit too much colour.

Accessories

A waterproof phone pouch saves you from the constant anxiety of splashes. A quality beach bag — straw or canvas — large enough for towels, books, and sunscreen. Simple gold or waterproof jewellery that you can wear from pool to dinner without removing. And a pair of comfortable slides that work on sand and cobblestones alike.

Swimwear Care Kit

Pack a small mesh laundry bag for hand-washing swimwear — chlorine and salt water break down elastic faster than anything else. A gentle detergent sachet and a microfibre towel for drying complete the kit. Your £200 bikini will last three times longer with proper care, and it takes up virtually no space in your case.

Packing Checklist

• 2–3 bikinis in coordinating colours
• 1 one-piece swimsuit (doubles as bodysuit)
• 1 lightweight kaftan or sarong
• 1 structured cover-up for evenings
• SPF 50 face and body sunscreen
• Wide-brimmed hat and UV sunglasses
• Waterproof phone pouch
• Canvas or straw beach bag
• Comfortable slides
• Mesh laundry bag and gentle detergent
• After-sun and SPF lip balm