AD – with Boots.
I don’t know about you but I’ve always been a last minute packer. Reading countless hotel reviews, finding a good deal, booking a holiday and enjoying the countdown seems to come naturally to me – but packing a suitcase and remembering ALL the essentials has never been my strong point.
It’s usually a rushed job the night before and invariably I spend the journey to the airport worrying I’ve forgotten something VERY important.
So this year, I’ve decided to do things a little differently. I’ve not only written myself a checklist in my fancy new notebook (get me!) but I’ve ordered my travel mini’s from Boots way ahead of time, put together a summer essentials make-up bag complete with waterproof eyeliner and matched up all of my bikinis and popped them in ziplock bags, so that I can hit the pool as soon as I land!
To aid my quest for a stress-free packing experience, here are a few of the tips I’m going to take on board (no pun intended!):
- Have a summer ready make-up bag
In previous years, I’ve not given much thought to switching up my make-up routine while on holiday and usually this ends in tears, or should I say… panda eyes because my usual mascara isn’t waterproof and this is something I re-learn only as I exit the pool.
This time around, I’ve chosen a lovely new waterproof mascara to ensure it stays put all day long!
2. Think about your toiletries
While your favourite full-size products can be decanted into travel containers (available at Boots.com) you may also want to consider travel minis or even purchasing full-size products online which you can then have delivered to a Boots store after security at your departing airport (be sure to allow 5 days).
Whichever option you choose, make sure you think about your toiletries ahead of time so there’s no last minute sun cream frenzy!
I’m opting for full-size sun creams and mini shampoos, conditioners and body washes this year – to really make the most of our suitcase space!
It’s also worth considering a hard-working SPF foundation, because as fabulous as sun cream is – there is no harm in layering up on the sun protection.
3. Grab and go outfits
I seem to go through SO many outfit changes on holiday – there’s an outfit for breakfast, a pool-side combo, a lunch-time cover-up, a getting ready comfy item and then a dressier dinner option.
So rather than frantically emptying my suitcase every time I need to change, this year I’m opting to ‘plan’ some easy grab and go outfits which can then be stored in individual frosted zip lock bags, popped into the case and easily found when needed.
It also makes packing for the journey home (not that we want to think about that!) much more simple too, as you can utilise the bags to organise washing.
4. Optimise your suitcase space
I LOVE reading by the pool and save up recommended books throughout the year to take away with me. Because let’s face it, summer romance novels are far better when consumed by the pool, with a cocktail in hand!
However the fact I can go through one book a day means that precious suitcase space (and weight limitations) are quickly taken up.
So I’ve invested in a Kindle – and I’m planning on downloading everything I fancy reading before I even get on the plane!
5. Write yourself a checklist
Passport? Check! Toothbrush? Check! 14 pairs of underwear for a 7 night holiday? Check!
Writing everything down is not only a great way to ensure your journey to the airport isn’t spent worrying you’ve forgotten something – but it’s also good to do ahead of time in case there is anything you might need to action.
Is your travel insurance in date? Have you got your transfer documents to hand? If you’ve checked it off the list, chances are… you have!
My Holiday Essentials Shopping List:
Soltan Clear & Cool Protect Suncare Mist SPF 30
Hawaiian Tropic Dry Oil SPF 15 Mini
Rimmel London Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
L’Oreal Paris True Match Liquid Foundation
Maybelline Lash Sensation Waterproof Mascara
Wherever you’re heading off to this summer, I hope you have a fabulous holiday! Whether you’re more of a spontaneous getaway person or a booked-and-ready dream holiday planner, Boots is inviting us to get fully equipped for all of our summer adventures with all of the holiday and travel essentials you may need. Head to Boots.com to stock up on all your favourites!