Summer’s final hurrah

Packing for a staycation and don’t know what to bring? Grace Cahill has you covered...

IT’S the day before you leave for your muchanticipated staycation and there you are, kneedeep in laundry with an empty suitcase, thinking, what should I bring? It’s true that this summer has provided us with some of the warmest days this country has seen in decades, but I wouldn’t let that dictate your packing agenda. It’s moving into late summer, and as I write this, clouds are gathering and there are whispers of thunder storms afoot.

Not only do you have the decidedly unpredictable Irish weather to contend with, but there’s also this simple fact — packing for a short break is difficult. Chances are you’ll be bringing a small case — anything other than that screams of high maintenance — so you need to bring the correct gear for all sorts of weather, and importantly, not too much of it.

There’s an art to packing lightly, and I’ll admit it’s taken me quite some time to master it. In all my years of travelling, I’ve forgotten such essentials as passports, travel documents, and even underwear.

I’ve learnt by my mistakes, and

am now prudent about my pretravel list, which helps me retain some discipline over my packing (and goes a long way to ensuring I don’t forget anything).

Really consider your destination. Is it a country B&B, where you’ll be going on walks, or a luxury escape that is all about chilling

out? Will you need to dress for dinner, or will your dining options be more casual?

Remember you’ll need to pack an iPad, books, chargers, and hair and beauty products alongside your sunscreen, a weatherproof coat, a swimsuit and a favourite jumper to nap/go for strolls/ lounge about in. It’s not just about clothes, you know!

And never pack more than one pair of heels. If you’re off-duty and relaxing, you’ll be wearing slouchy boots or comfy trainers.

Here are some great pieces to help make that summer break the best one yet, rain or shine...