Your last-minute holiday checklist

A sun-soaked holiday out of season feels like the ultimate reward. But when it's single-digit temperatures at home, it's hard to imagine being in a climate that calls for simwear and not much else. Here, our handy list of staples are all you need to see you stylishly through a week in the sun. Enjoy!

A travel wallet will make you feel instantly organised. This Morris & Co style comes with a separate zip-top pouch – perfect for separating your holiday money – and the main compartment can house your passport and documents. Don’t forget headphones in your hand luggage and a water bottle for the journey and beyond – filling up at fountains at the airport will save you splashing out on overpriced plastic bottles on the plane.

Whether you plan to sunbathe or swim, do it in something supportive. John Lewis & Partners’ swimwear is designed by the lingerie team, so you can expect the same considered fit as our underwear. Pick a generous cover-up – such as a longline linen shirt or a printed kaftan – to shield you from the sun and to pull on for a casual lunch.

Almost everyone is guilty of over-packing for a beach break. Don’t be afraid to wear the same thing twice – in fact, a piece that’s as covetable as this AND/OR La Galeria Elefante dress is a joy to wear from day right through to night. Consider simple separates to keep your outfits rotated, with vest tops and midi skirts top of your list. 

Shoes take up the most space in a case, so whittle them down to the bare minimum. Plimsolls are perfect to travel in and should the opportunity arise, will have you covered for a gentle hike or a spot of tennis. Designate one pair of flip-flops or sliders for poolside pursuits and one elegant style of sandals for evenings out. That’s all you need.

Make sure your beach bag is large enough to hold a thick towel, a book, some magazines and bottles of suncream. Unless it lies flat, use it as your carry-on bag to save space. Ditto your sun hat, which is a suitcase space-invader. You might feel totally tropical at the departure gate, but spreading the holiday cheer is no bad thing.

If you have the space, you’ll be grateful for a little loungewear in case the hotel air-con is overzealous. Light robes and hoodies are also good modesty-preservers if you’re sharing a space with extended family or friends. And, if you’re tempted by the local outdoor yoga class, you’ll be glad you packed that pair of leggings.