T R A V E L | Holiday Packing Tips with Bonmarché

Holiday Essentials*: c/o Bonmarché

I'm in the middle of planning my next adventure, which will be my summer holiday to Barcelona (EXCITED DOESN'T COVER IT!). As you probably know summer holiday planning can be a bit of a nightmare, especially for someone that absolutely detests packing (that's me!). I'm not the most organised human being in the world, so when it comes to packing for summer trip I try to plan ahead as much as possible.

Bonmarché recently sent me a summer holiday essentials package, which included a killer high-waisted, floral bikini, a straw floppy hat, a beach bag, some sunnies and some sun cream. What more could you want in a day-at-the-beach essentials kit?

Despite being the world's worst packer, Bonmarché asked me to share my top holiday packing tips with y'all. There's nothing I love more than procrastinating from sorting out that dreaded suitcase. Seriously. But, I'll let you know what I've learnt along the way.

• Pack everything and then pull it all out and pack again: The first time round packing you'll probably find that your suitcase just won't close, which is why it's best to overpack and then unpack. That way you can really assess what you need and what you don't need. Do you really need seven pairs of shoes for a weekend getaway?

• Double check your baggage allowance: Seriously, there's nothing worse than being stung at the airport because you've accidentally brought an extra bag that you haven't paid for or your suitcase is over the weight allowance. It is always cheaper to pre-book your baggage before you arrive at the check-in desk, so make sure you weigh your luggage before setting off.

• Invest in an extra light suitcase: These suitcases are easy enough to come by on the high street and make all the difference with your weight allowance.

• Roll your clothes rather than fold: This saves a lot more space meaning you can squeeze a lot more clothes into your suitcase.

• Stuff your shoes with socks and pants: If you're packing shoes into your suitcase, utilise the space inside those shoes by filling them with socks and undies.

• Cut down on your toiletries: If you're only going for a week away, there's no need to take a standard size bottle of shampoo, conditioner, soap, etc. especially when that extra weight counts. Invest in some smaller plastic containers and transfer your bathroom bits into these or buy travel-sized products. It's important to also bear in mind that you cannot take any liquids over 100ml in your hand luggage, so if any of your toiletries are over this amount put them in your hold baggage.

• Split your luggage: If you're travelling with someone else (especially a boyfriend as they seem to pack little to nothing) make the most of the space in left over in their bag if they have any.

• Wear your heaviest pair of shoes: This will save on packing space and baggage weight. Who cares if they're massively inappropriate for the airport - you'll look sassy as hell and you'll be saving on weight for extra accessories.

• Keep all valuables in your hand luggage: I know it goes without saying to keep your valuables with you, but it's best to re-iterate DO NOT PUT THEM IN YOUR HOLD LUGGAGE OR YOU MAY NEVER SEE THEM AGAIN.

• Leave some room in your case: After all, souvenirs are the best bit about going away, right?

If all this summer holiday talk has got you in the mood to jet off somewhere filled with palms trees and sandy beaches, then you're in luck as Bonmarché are running a competition where you can win an amazing holiday worth £3000!

Don't mind if I do!

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