Choosing what to pack for a shorter trip is arguably harder than preparing to traipse around the globe for a few months. No matter the destination, whether you’re lugging your bag up the train platform, shoving it on the back seat for a road trip or wheeling your suitcase through an airport, it’s all too easy to get it wrong (anyone else pack four pairs of shoes too many?).
Thankfully, a handful of clever, tried-and-tested essentials can take the stress out of packing without compromising what you actually want to bring – and will actually use. First up: luggage, which our friends at July have handled (excuse the pun). Its Capsule Carry On Pro suitcase is designed to hold all you need, while still fitting in the overhead locker. These are the items we suggest you pack in it – ones that have earned a permanent place in our hearts (and carry-ons).
The Only Carry-On You’ll Need
First things first: what are we packing everything in? The July Capsule Carry On Pro makes a strong case for itself (sorry, had to), with a lightweight, water-resistant shell, a magnetic front opening for quick access to your things, SilentMove Pro wheels for easy wheeling and a hidden laundry bag for keeping your dirty clothes separate. Plus, built-in CaseSafe tracking means there’s no need for an AirTag if your suitcase goes on an unexpected journey of its own. £325, July
The Towels You Can Travel With
You can’t take your usual bath sheet with you – but you can fit this travel-ready bundle from Australian label Clammy Club in your case. It contains a full-sized waffle towel and a matching mini version, all packed into a drawstring bag for ease. Lightweight, quick-drying and made from recycled materials, it’s designed to move seamlessly from beach days and sunrise stretches to airport showers and beyond. $90 AUD, Clammy Club
The Cleansing Wipes That Are Kind To Your Skin
Unlike traditional cleansing wipes (which can be harsh on your skin and fail to actually remove grime), these ones from Conserving Beauty are infused with a nourishing oil that effortlessly melts away makeup and SPF (they’re dermatologist-approved for sensitive skin, too). Each cloth also dissolves in water after use and comes packaged in a plastic-free sachet that can be composted at home. You’ll wonder how you ever travelled without them. $35 AUD, Conserving Beauty
The Pocket-Sized Scent
There’s nothing worse than having to leave your favourite perfume behind because its ornate glass bottle won’t survive the journey (or pass airport security’s 100ml rule). Le Labo’s Liquid Balms come in a mini rollerball vial, plus the safflower oil-based formula is free from drying alcohols, meaning it won’t react to the harsh cabin air (anything to avoid dehydrating our skin further). Our pick: Thé Matcha 26, a blend of creamy fig, matcha tea, cedarwood, vetiver and bitter orange. Expect compliments. £80, Le Labo
The Multitasking Makeup
Who knew one little pot could do so much? Swedish beauty brand Manasi 7’s award-winning All Over Colour is a four-in-one cream that can be used as blush, lipstick, eyeshadow or contour. Compact enough to slip into any makeup bag, its buildable, shimmer-free formula can take you from a subtle hint of colour to a bold statement. One product, four jobs, and a few fewer things to cram into your suitcase. €40, Manasi 7
The Two-In-One Dress
Après Studio’s Sylvie Mini Dress is made from lightweight 100% cotton, with an easy, throw-on silhouette that works as well over bathers as it does dressed up with heels for dinner. It’s also designed to be worn either way around, for two different looks in one. Add in the fact that it looks just as good unironed and this might be one of the hardest-working pieces you own. £143, Après Studio
The Tote To Take Everywhere
A good tote bag is an essential for any trip. July’s Everyday Vacation Tote is made from 100% recycled material, with a water-resistant exterior and lining to handle sandy beaches and unexpected spills, plus plenty of pockets for the things you want close at hand. It also has a luggage pass-through, so it can easily slide over your suitcase handle when you’re on the move. £155, July
The On-The-Go Stain Solution
It pays to be prepared. Tallow + Ash’s Travel Stain Remover Pen is the little essential you’ll be thanking us for when you inevitably spill something on your crisp white tee on holiday. It works quickly, lifting fresh stains without the need to hunt down a sink or soap. You’ll be glad you packed it. £12.99, Tallow + Ash
The Flip-Flops You Can Last In All Day
Whatever the destination, a pair of trusty flip-flops should always have a spot in your suitcase, whether you’re wearing them to the beach or just throwing them on for a casual day out. This pair from TWOOBS is waterproof, made from recycled materials and has plenty of arch support for all-day comfort. $119 AUD, TWOOBS
The Packing Hack To Keep You Organised
Packing cubes may seem obvious but they really are helpful. Whether you’re a Type A who needs everything in its place or a Type B who throws it all in and hopes for the best, this mesh design from July make fitting everything into your suitcase (and finding it again) easy. £70, July
