Capsule packing for your staycation

We’ve all done it. Packed for a weekend away – squeezing those chunky jumpers and boots into a carry case, only to get there and be caught out by our indecisive British weather and a 25-degree day in late September.

So, here’s our guide to ensure you’re covered for every eventuality.

Luggage

Staycations have several benefits, but a major one is NO WEIGHT LIMIT on cases. Ideal. But do you really want to be lugging a huge case around just for the sake of those extra boots you packed. You know, the ones you won’t wear?

Our advice? Choose a reasonably sized case or holdall which is big enough for a chunky jumper, but small enough that you won’t fill it with items ‘just in case’ (pun intended).

The basics

The most important section, some might say – because nobody wants to be caught knicker-less do they? We’re currently obsessed with Sloggi’s GO ALLROUND range, which are one-size-fits-all and super comfortable with no VPL. So just as perfect for long car journeys and mini-hikes as they are under leggings or a dress. The basics for capsule packing are all about layering. Roll up a thin baselayer in case the temperatures drop, but be sure to pack a lightweight t-shirt too. These items should be thin enough to roll to help save space in your bag and keep them crease-free too.

Clothing

Mix and match is the first priority when it comes to capsule packing. The second? Comfort. You don’t want to be in jeans that are cutting you in half all day that you then have to wear all night too. Acai is a fab brand co-founded by Kasia Bromley – who formerly worked for Alexander McQueen. She’s now revolutionising outdoorwear for women. Forget shrink and make it pink – Kasia is all about flattering shapes as well as functionality and style. Read her interview with HLN here if you’re interested in reading more.

Make sure you pack one big chunky knit that’s versatile enough to go with all of your trousers, then a mix of t-shirt, cardigan, and a lightweight jumper so that all weather eventualities are covered.

Footwear

These suede ankle boots by gorge brand Aspiga are ideal for wearing to go out at night. The small block heels give you an elevated feel but they’re robust enough for country lanes – no teetering here. For colder days, we’re a fan of a biker boot which can be worn with thick socks for an autumn look, but you’ll get more use out of them than a walking boot that’ll sit in the wardrobe for most of the year. (Note we’re talking walking around country towns here, not climbing Helvellyn).

Accessories

Last but not least, lightweight accessories are key. Our Managing Editor Laura has this raincoat from House of Zana and it brightens up any dull day. It’s great quality and it comes with a handy little bag alla Mac-in-a-Sac which makes carrying it in a handbag super easy.

Our final piece of advice? Try one of these reverse folding umbrellas – they are SO handy. Meaning you can literally get into the car as you’re taking it down, and it stands by itself making drying a dream (yes, we’re still talking about an umbrella). Try it, you’ll thank us when you’re caught in a torrential downpour in the middle of the Lake District.