Laura’s Guide To Perfect Packing

The best way to build a well-functioning capsule is to see it all together. Buy a small, foldable rail from the high street that can be used to hang holiday pieces on, then packed away and stored when not in use.

Reach for the item you are looking forward to wearing the most. This could be a cherished summer-box piece or a sales find – anything that gets you in the holiday mood. Hang this on the rail first as it will set the tone for your entire holiday aesthetic.

Once your hero is in place, build the rest of your capsule around it. Pick out colours and prints and add in pieces to complement them. Sticking to a palette means everything in your suitcase will work together.

On a sunny holiday, packing the right fabrics is key. Choose natural, lightweight and breathable materials that will keep you cool and collected, such as cotton, linen and silk. Avoid synthetics that can get sweaty in the heat.

Packing in outfits rather than pieces means you’ll have a head start on getting ready while you’re away, and guarantees you’ll wear everything you take. Build looks before you commit them to the suitcase, not forgetting shoes and accessories.

This is the fun part. Stage a mini fashion show and try on everything in your capsule, checking it fits well, hangs properly and looks as expected. Not only does this ensure you really love what you’re taking away with you, it’s a great opportunity to fall back in love with summer pieces.

One of the most-asked packing questions I received was: How do I avoid overpacking? My trick is to reach for versatile styles that can be worn multiple ways throughout your holiday. For example, this Zimmermann dress works with tan flats for the day, then gold sandals for evening.

Summer evening cover-ups can be tricky to get right. I love denim jackets on holiday, but if they’re too casual for dinner plans then go for a linen blazer instead. They’re light enough for the heat and the tailored lines add instant polish to outfits.

Swimwear is your everyday outfit on hot holidays, so it pays to give it as much attention as the rest of your wardrobe. Lay out every style on the bed, group them into bikinis and one-pieces then select your favourites, making sure they’re in tone with what’s on your rail.

Once you’ve made an edit of swimsuits, put them into beach-ready outfits, thinking about shoes, beach bags and cover-ups. This summer, I’ll be wearing an airy linen shirt over swimwear.

The most space-efficient way to pack swimwear is to roll it. Don’t be afraid to go for a super-tight roll – that’s the beauty of high-stretch fabric.

Packing squares are my secret weapon for keeping my suitcase organised. Stack swimwear rolls into a square, using a second for lingerie. When you come to unpack at your destination, take each square out and simply slip it into a drawer.

Once you’ve selected your shoes, stuff them with tissue paper to retain their shape and place each pair into a protective dust bag. Lay them on the bottom of your case, or slot them into gaps between clothes.

Underwear is often an overlooked category when packing, but it’s essential to get the foundations right. Build up a selection of soft, breathable pieces in tones that work underneath sheer fabrics and pale colours.

A sunny holiday is the perfect time to be playful with jewellery. Beaded necklaces can be layered up on the beach and worn for cocktails. I’ll be wearing luxe styles from Future ICONS brands Milne Watson and Aurum + Grey.

Keep precious pieces safe and organised by storing them in a luxe leather jewellery case. When you reach your holiday spot, keep it on the dressing table so you can accessorise easily when getting dressed.

Sunshine and sea salt can take its toll on hair, so pack a nourishing mask or oil to apply before dinner. Decant favourite products into travel bottles if you’re taking hand luggage only. A summery hair accessory adds a special touch to beachy waves. I’ll be packing our exclusive Marzoline linen hairband and scrunchie set.

I never go away without a kit of care products to keep my holiday pieces in top condition. Avoid trips to the dry-cleaner by packing a fabric-refreshing spritz and take a portable, handheld steamer to banish creases after unpacking.

A roomy, lightweight suitcase that handles well will make travelling a lot easier. I love Antler’s durable, thoughtfully designed styles which look chic and last for years. One of the best summer investments you can make.

Hotel rooms and villas never have enough clothes hangers, so save yourself a headache on arrival and pack pieces on slimline, space-saving styles. This method also makes unpacking quicker as items can be taken out of your case and instantly hung up.