How does the song go? We’re all going on a summer… stay-cation. If you're looking to take your summer break on UK shores, here's what you should be packing. 

So what to pack? The list doesn’t have to be much different to what you might take if you were boarding a flight, just add in a few extra layers (and definitely a showerproof jacket!). The joy of a ‘holiday wardrobe’ lies in its laidback state of mind. You want clothes that make you happy and have that unmistakable off-duty look and feel, as well as – crucially – allowing you to roll from one fun activity to another without the need to change.

Read on to discover our best buys for your best-dressed UK holiday.

The key to a successful holiday wardrobe is versatility. You want to pack a collection of pieces that work well together, enabling you to create different outfits depending on your mood or where the day takes you. This is where the relaxed shirt really comes into its own (try something textured or checked). You can throw one on with skirts and shorts, layer it over swimwear on the beach or use it as a jacket over dungarees (see below) or sundresses.

When it comes to layering, more is more, and mastering the art not only means you’ll be ready for changeable weather but you’ll also have the ability to style up outfits in myriad different ways. Pack vests to go under dresses and blouses when it’s a bit nippy, then if it hots up, you can strip down to your camisole and soak up the sun. Long-sleeved jersey T-shirts (think Breton stripes or neutral colours) are perfect to layer under dungarees, dresses and even shirts, and don’t forget to pack a warm sweater or cardigan for when it inevitably cools down in the evenings. Top it off with a rain coat for the showers and you’ll be ready for anything.

Not just for childrens TV presenters, dungarees offer something completely unique in your wardrobe – and they can be styled in loads of different ways.

‘A dungaree is a fantastic option’, says Billie. ‘The fit is relaxed and easy, giving you the freedom to go on adventures. It is created to be layered by pairing with either a short sleeve T-shirt, long sleeve Breton or even a light knit should the temperature require.’ 

If you want to dress them up, you can layer under a silky blouse and add some heels, too. They’re the cool girl’s alternative to a dress.  

Staycation beauty packing tends to be a rather more relaxed affair than grappling with an arsenal of insect repellent while decanting various lotions and potions into their obligatory 100ml incarnations. But while there may be less call for heat-proof products or makeup that will withstand the scrutiny of a swim-up bar, staycations still call for time-saving, suitcase-friendly staples.

Despite offering a decidedly less reliable weather forecast, a broad spectrum suncream is non-negotiable, even in the UK, as harmful UV rays can penetrate the cloudiest of skies. For an SPF that the whole family can use try Ultra Sun’s SPF30 Family Ultra Sensitive Sun Cream. It’s always worth packing a few trouble-shooters too and you’ll thank us for Philip Kingsley’s 1 More Day Dry Shampoo which soothes the scalp while allowing you to eke out another precious wash-free day without the faff of unearthing hairdryers and styling tools.

Similarly, you can’t go wrong with Shiseido’s handbag-friendly Oil Control Blotting Paper. It allows you to ditch the oil-quashing foundations and powders whilst still sporting a holiday glow that’s just the right side of shiny.

And for a bit of (practical) pampering – you are on holiday after all – there’s still plenty of space left for Aromatherapy Associates’ Bath & Body Relax & Sleep Edit gift set. It contains a beautifully scented Relax body wash, Deep Relax Bath & Shower oil, Hydrating Nourishing Face Oil as well as a De-stress Muscle Gel perfect for those overly ambitious pre-pub walks.