There’s no disappointment like mentally assembling your dream holiday wardrobe, only to find it won’t fit in your compact Ryanair carry-on. Unless you’ve budgeted for a generous check-in bag, suitcase space is prime real estate, and every piece that makes it in must be carefully considered.
That’s why we’re advocates of the holiday capsule wardrobe. Instead of stuffing in ten sundresses last-minute alongside an array of printed pieces that don’t really go together, decide that every item you pack needs to work in a handful of looks to make the cut. Take time before your flight to think about the complete outfits and different occasions you’ll be dressing for. Ask questions like, “Will this button-down work just as well for a candlelit dinner as a day at the beach?” Sure, those strappy heels are cute—but will you reach for them over a pair of practical flat sandals? Probably not.
To maximise your holiday capsule, stick to neutral and easy-to-style shades with the odd splash of colour. Remember, the aim is to be able to mix and match everything you pack. If you have a spare couple of inches once the essentials are safely strapped in, that’s when you add in the fun extras.
The truth is, you can put together the perfect packing list with as little as ten pieces (minus underwear and jewellery). Sounds too good to be true? Scroll on to see the simple items we suggest packing for a short getaway—and don’t forget to count as you go.
:quality(85):upscale()/2024/09/16/125/n/1922564/3634561f66e8e2dc452dc4.49007307_.jpg "The Best Fall Wedding Guest Dresses")
:upscale()/2024/09/16/821/n/1922564/63640f3566e87c233e1f43.73956943_.jpg "Nordstrom x Harlem’s Fashion Row Collection")
![Missy Elliott – Throw It Back [Official Music Video]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/9rOKdATrV4g/maxresdefault.jpg "Missy Elliott – Throw It Back [Official Music Video]")
