By Jane Ward

Packing for a sun holiday can be stressful, and with stricts weight restrictions imposed by airlines it’s important to make the most of every ounce of clothing you pack. Making sure you have these essential holiday items in your suitcase will help you to mix and match your holiday wardrobe.

Oversized Sunglasses

Oversized sunglasses will work with any summer look, whether it’s just jean shorts and flip flops to go to the shops or a full on 70s look. There are some really great budget alternatives to designer frames but if you’re spending a lot of time in the sun make sure they have proper UV protection.

A Practical Swimsuit

Bikinis are great for lying on the beach but one big wave and it could be swept out to sea. It’s a good idea to pack at least one practical swimsuit if you plan on doing some actual swimming on holiday.

Light Denim

A good pair of denim shorts will go with just about anything and are great for mixing and matching on holiday. The most flattering style is knee length as they emphasise the slimmest part of your leg. If you’re lucky enough to have a set of pins to wear a shorter pair cover up on the top half. When you’re out and about on holiday it’s important to remember many sights such as churches and some restaurants have strict policies about covering up and don’t allow very short shorts.

Gladiator Sandals

There’s a place in every girl’s suitcase for a good pair of gladiator sandals. They’re trendy and comfortable and can be worn with anything from jean shorts, skirts and maxi dresses. They’re great for sight seeing as they’re flat and because they’re strapped to your feet they’re less tiring than flip flops, just make sure they’re well broken in first.

A Maxi Dress

Maxi dresses are great to bring on holiday as they are dressy enough to wear out in the evening and during the day will keep you covered while shopping.

Straw Handbag

Straw handbags are great for sun holidays as they’re light and will go with any summer wardrobe. Make sure to look for one that closes fully at the top as open bags aren’t very safe and can be easily pick-pocketed.

A light Scarf

A light scarf on holiday is incredibly versatile. They can be used to shield you from the sun during the day or as a shrug at night time. White or nude colours are best as they will go with any outfit and are better for keeping the sun off.

A light Cardigan

It’s handy to bring one light cardigan to cover up in case there’s a few days of bad weather or even to use as a jacket at night time.

Extra Daytime Shoes

If you spend a lot of time walking and sightseeing on holiday it’s important to bring a spare pair of shoes for day to day use. When you’re walking around your feet get sweaty and this gets absorbed into the lining of the shoe. Bringing a spare pair of shoes and alternating them day to day will give them a chance to air out at night time.