Add a bit of style to a Stavanger trip, says Laura Craik

We’ve all been there: rooting around trying to find something – anything – that might function as a makeshift mask. So far, I’ve used a paper napkin folded into a triangle, a cardigan with sleeves hastily tied around my head and once, after a jog, the T-shirt I’d been running in. Apart from looking like a total plonker each time, there was also the more important consideration that none of these ersatz face coverings were safe, for me or those around me.

These faux pas occurred right at the beginning of The Masked Years, when I was still training my brain to remember them alongside the usual mantra of “mobile, wallet, keys”. Clearly, I was missing a trick: I should’ve whipped off my knickers instead. Perhaps this explains the behaviour of John McAfee, the 74 year-old tech tycoon who claims he was recently arrested in Norway for wearing black lacy knickers over his face in lieu of a surgical mask. I’m sure they weren’t his – I’m guessing they belonged to his wife, Janice – but whatever their origin, they didn’t impress the surprised Norwegian officials. Anyway, we’re off to Norway this week – one of the lowest risk countries in the world – and specifically, to the city of Stavanger, the perfect base for exploring attractions such as Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), as well as indulging in some surfing, kiting or good old beach bumming along the coastal area of Jaeren.

Granted, Norway is never going to be roasty-toasty, even in high summer. But in August, its hottest month, temperatures can often reach a pleasant 23C (73F). Besides, after the heatwave that’s been melting much of

Britain recently, lower temperatures will possibly be a bonus.

First into the suitcase, therefore, must surely go a swimming costume, one robust enough for watersports. This leaf-print bandeau onepiece by M&S (marksandspencer. com; £19.50) has patented Secret Slimming tummy control panels, removable straps and comes in sizes eight to 24. Let’s also pack some sandals, of the sort that you can slip on and off with ease. These snakeprint “Hannah” sandals by Topshop (topshop.com; reduced to £8) have a raffia sole that will serve you well from the beach to the restaurant.

Let’s pack some shorts suitable for nature trails and treks. In fact, let’s pack a skort. This Fleetwith skort by Patagonia (alpinetrek.co.uk; £38.36) is made from recycled polyester, is quick-dry and breathable and has a comfy elasticated waist. Oh, and pockets, because everybody needs pockets. Everybody also needs jeans, and these Cali demi-boot ones by Madewell (madewell.com; £36.28) are smart enough for evening, grazing the ankle and allowing you to show off your fancy sandals. When the temperature falls, you’ll need a jumper. This slouchy oversized

V-neck by Vika Gazinskaya (matchesfashion. com, reduced from £715 to £214) will see you through autumn, as well as Stavanger, in style.