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Packing list for a UK holiday

Packing list for a UK holiday

Here’s your ultimate packing list for a UK holiday. If you’re just after the list in bullet point format with no waffle then please scroll to the bottom of this post for the full list. If you’d like some ideas and recommendations for specific products then keep reading to see my favourite items when packing for a UK holiday.

Today I’m sharing a packing list for a UK holiday to ensure you’ve got everything you need and you don’t forget the essentials.

Packing for a UK holiday isn’t easy because we have such varied weather. One minute it’s warm and sunny and the next it’s snowing. 

One thing you can almost always guarantee during a UK holiday is that it will rain at some point. If it doesn’t rain during your UK trip then you’ve been very, very lucky! Don’t forget to prepare for the unexpected and keep in touch with a reliable uk esim for your mobile device.

If all else fails, blue jeans and a white t-shirt never look out of place!

Create a capsule wardrobe

Stick with one colour theme so you can pack lighter and all items can work together.

A windproof and waterproof jacket on the beach? Yea…it’s the kind of place!

And don’t even think about visiting without a warm coat for the winter!

What clothes to pack for a UK holiday

Temperatures are mild in the UK and ‘jeans and a t-shirt’ is our go-to outfit for any occasion.

We wear jeans and a t-shirt all year round! You can dress it up, dress it down, add a warmer layer, take off a layer when it’s hot and you can wear this outfit in most circumstances.

If you’re ever in doubt, wear jeans and a t-shirt! No matter what your age, jeans and a t-shirt will be fine.

Visiting Bamburgh Castle

Jeans

Levi’s 501 are my absolute favourites. If I’m trying to pack light then I’ll stick to Levi’s super skinny high rise in black because they’re suitable for so many situations (they’re linked below and yes, I buy them on Amazon because you can order loads of sizes and send them back before you’ve paid for anything). I’ll wear them with heels to go out for dinner, hiking boots to go walking, trainers for a casual day out, sandals when it’s hot.

You get the picture. These are a versatile pair of jeans and I wouldn’t be without them for a holiday in the UK.

Sale
Levi's Mile High Super Skinny Women's Jeans, Black Ground, 30W / 28L
  • Ultra high rise with a super sleek silhouette
  • Levi's Sculpt with Hyperstretch is an advanced blend of LycraÆ and cotton fibers for extreme stretch
  • Made with Water&ltLess technology - Uses 96% less water than standard finishing techniques

Jumpers

Whether you call them jumpers or sweatshirts, these are a staple item when you’re packing for a holiday in the UK.

Once again, we love a jumper because it can be dressy or casual, really warm or just a light layer.

Aokosor Ladies Sweatshirts V Neck Jumpers for Women Long Sleeve Tops with Pockets Side Split Casual...
  • 【FEATURES】: V neck jumpers highlights your elegant neck curve, two side pockets make it easy to carry your belongings such as keys and cards
  • 【MATCH】: Goes with anything! Especially nice length for leggings. It has a basic cut, which makes it the ideal base for many outfits.
  • 【OCCASION】: Casual and loose style makes it great for a variety of activities. Suitable for daily wear, work, outdoor, vacation, shopping, dating and lounge around the house

No products found.

Light t-shirts and vests

We do get plenty of mild to warm days in the UK through the spring, summer and autumn so pack some t-shirts or vests for those rare days when the sun comes out.

Casual shirts are also really easy and they can be comfy and casual but still look put together.

Amazon Essentials Women's Classic-Fit Short-Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt, Pack of 2, White, M
  • CLASSIC FIT: Close but comfortable fit with easy movement.
  • COTTON MODAL BLEND JERSEY: Super soft cotton modal jersey with added stretch for all-day ease and comfort.
  • ESSENTIAL T-SHIRT: This versatile t-shirt is a classic wardrobe essential, perfect layered under your favorite jacket or cardigan, or wear on its own for casual, everyday style.
Ladies Blouses, Casual Summer Long Sleeve Tunic Tops, Oversized Plain Button Down Up Shirt, Plus...
  • ❤Unique Design: The white shirts for women will help you achieve a casual yet put-together look! Lightweight and comfortable fabric creates a collared neckline, rolled-up 3/4 sleeves, buttoning...
  • ❤Adjustable Sleeve Design: Get chic, effortless style with the womens summer tops. This button down shirts is comfy and casual as ever, with no sacrifice of sleek style! The styling possibilities...
  • ❤Incredible Comfort: Stand out from the crowd this season with these women's tops and blouses from our latest collection. Made of advanced 95% Polyester 5% Spandex, the comfy fabric is very...

Light jacket

The light jacket is another essential thing to pack for a holiday in the UK! This isn’t your big coat, this is a lighter version for those days when you need more than just a jumper.

A light shacket is also perfect
Amazon Essentials Women's Utility Jacket, Black, M
  • RELAXED FIT: Relaxed, comfortable fit through the body.
  • BRUSHED STRETCH COTTON TWILL: Washed for softness, this cotton twill is naturally breathable and has a bit of stretch for comfort and flexibility.
  • FEMININE UTILITY JACKET: This versatile, transitional jacket is ideal for breezy days and cooler nights throughout the year. Perfect for everyday casual dressing, work, travel, and outdoor activities.
Amazon Essentials Women's Lightweight Long-Sleeve Full-Zip Water-Resistant Packable Hooded Puffer...
  • Slightly tailored fit through the waist
  • An Amazon brand
  • Please note, the size located on the care label in this garment corresponds to US sizing. Please use the size charts on the product detail page to find the equivalent size

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Comfortable shoes

We do a lot of walking here in the UK, whether it’s around towns and cities or through the countryside. Make sure you have comfortable shoes to ensure you’re happy on your feet all day.

My staple shoes are:

  • Dr Martens for winter
  • Veja trainers for spring
  • Birkenstocks for summer
  • Adidas walking trainers for hikes
  • On Cloudnova – just for everything because they’re so comfortable
Dr. Martens Women's 2976 Leonore Chelsea Boots, Black Black 001, 9 UK
  • Constructed for comfort on the iconic air-cushioned sole of Dr. Martens.
  • This boot is goodyear frame-sewn, meaning the upper and sole are sewn together in our heat sealed Z frame stitch.
  • Good abrasion and slip resistance
Veja Womens Campo Leather Court Trainers White 5 UK
  • Ecological And Sustainable Materials
  • Organic Cotton Lining
  • Expanded Pu And Organic Cotton Insole
Birkenstock MAYARI Birko-Flor Patent, Women's Sandals, Black (Black Patent), 4.5 UK (37 EU)
  • Suede Leather covered Cork Latex Footbed
  • Birkoflor Upper
  • Adjustable Strap
adidas Women's Terrex Trailmaker Hiking Walking Shoe, Core Black/Core Black/Halo Silver, 11
  • Women's lightweight hiking shoes with a rugged outsole
  • STABLE, FLEXIBLE UPPER: Stretchy textile upper with EVA stability frame
  • CUSHIONED UNDERFOOT: EVA midsole provides lightweight cushioning

An umbrella

You’ll always need an umbrella! If you don’t have an umbrella, make sure you have a waterproof jacket with a hood!

Folding Travel Umbrella,6 Ribs Mini Travel Umbrella Strong Umbrella Folding Sun Umbrella Windproof...
  • 【Package Include】You will get 1 piece windproof travel umbrella and 1 piece square capsule case,There are 3 styles of black,pink and blue for your choice. The open size of summer travel umbrella...
  • 【Compact for Travel】Our compact mini umbrella come with capsule case,At 16cm/6.3inch in length when our lightweight umbrella closed.is the perfect compromise between umbrella size and...
  • 【99% UV Protection】UV protection, black coating inside blocks 99% rays, provide protection and keep cool in hot weather.Well built with 6 reinforced fiberglass ribs and durable metal shaft, the...
Regatta Womens Romine Waterproof Parka Jacket - Black - 12
  • Isotex: Waterproof, breathable and windproof membrane technology
  • Thermoguard: Quick dry synthetic fibre insulation that traps air
  • The turn-up cuffs with luxury faux fur trim bring cosy style

Packing list for a UK holiday in the winter

Blaze Wear Explorer Jacket - heated jacket review

There are a few extra things you’ll have to pack if your trip is in the winter.

  1. A warm coat (consider a heated jacket)
  2. Gloves
  3. Hat
  4. Waterproof boots
  5. Warm socks
UK holiday packing list

Packing list for a UK holiday in the summer

  1. Sunglasses
  2. Sun cream
  3. Shorts
  4. Skirts or dresses
  5. Sun hat
Sale
NIVEA Sun Protect & Moisture Sun Spray SPF 30 (200 ml) Moisturising Suncream Spray with SPF 30...
  • Immediate protection: NIVEA SUN moisturising cream spray offers immediate effective protection against UVA and UVB rays, sunburn, and premature skin ageing
  • SPF 30: NIVEA SUN cream SPF 30 offers a medium level of sun protection with its water-resistant formula which protects against sun exposure and UV-induced skin damage
  • Skin moisturising: This NIVEA sun cream supports skin protection from the inside with antioxidant Vitamin E, helping to keep skin moisturised for up to 48 hours
10 things you need to know before buying a holiday caravan

Toiletries for a UK holiday

You’ll need your normal toiletries you use at home such as:

  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Body wash
  • Moisturiser
  • Face wash
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

You’ll also need:

Insect repellent (especially if you’ll be spending any time near lakes or rivers in the summer)

Sunscreen in the summer

Sale
Jungle Formula Maximum Repellent Aerosol 125ml - Maximum Strength, against Mosquitoes, Biting...
  • Up to 9 hours of total protection: Maximum strength insect repellent - Excellent for travellers to long-haul destinations. Up to 9hrs common mosquito (Culex), 8hrs malaria mosquito (Anopheles), 5hrs...
  • Insect Repellent Factor 4: Jungle Formula Maximum ANY DESTINATION has an insect repellent factor of 4 - The highest level on the IRF scale. Jungle Formula is available in kids (IRF2) and Medium (IRF3)
  • Jungle Formula Maximum repellent aerosol contains 50% DEET and 1% Geraniol - Maximum protection for adults and children over 12 years of age

Packing list for a UK beach holiday

  • Wetsuits (especially for kids)
  • Beach towels (if you’re short on space, opt for microfibre beach towels like the Dock & Bay ones)
  • Beach umbrella
  • Beach chairs
  • Windbreak
  • Bat and ball
  • Buckets and spades
Mountain Warehouse Junior Kids Shorty Wetsuit - 2.5mm Thickness, Neoprene Kids Wetsuit, Flat Seams...
  • UV Protect Max - tested up to UPF 50+
  • Flat Seams - Combined with a close fit to prevent chafing and provide extra comfort
Sale
Dock & Bay Beach Towel - Quick Dry, Sand Free - Compact, Lightweight - 100% Recycled - Includes Bag...
  • PERFECT FOR THE BEACH - With a towel that is great for drying off after a dip in the sea or to kick back and sunbathe with, choose from two striped designs both ideal for the beach - the two-toned...
  • SAND FREE BEACH TOWEL - The ultimate beach companion that leaves the sand at the beach for castles. The high-quality material means all you need to do is give it a shake and all sand will simply fall...
  • 100% RECYCLED MATERIAL - Our towels are made from 100% recycled materials comprised of a mix of 83% polyester and 17% polyamide. Not only are they extremely soft with a pleasant feel, but they are...
Flamingueo Beach Umbrella - Large Garden Parasol, UPF 50+ Umbrella, Outdoor Umbrella, Wateproof...
  • UNIQUE RETRO DESIGN: It has a retro and exclusive design, with two-tone lines, wood finish pole and braided cotton fringes.
  • STRUCTURE AND MATERIAL: The beach umbrella has a solid and resistant structure thanks to its 8 fibreglass rods. Its material is polyester 180 grammes, durable and waterproof.
  • MEASUREMENTS AND WEIGHT: The large beach umbrella measures 210 cm in height and 170 cm in diameter. In addition, the garden umbrella is light, weighing 2.1 kg.
SONGMICS Beach Chair, Folding Camping Chair, with Shoulder Strap, Adjustable Backrest, Headrest,...
  • [Comfortable Sitting] Backrest height: 65 cm, adjustable from 110 to 180° (4 positions); seat size: 48 x 39 cm (D x W); seat height: 21 cm; everything in this beach chair is designed for you to sit...
  • [Portable & Foldable] This camping chair weighs 3.1 kg and has a shoulder strap so that it can be easily carried, even by children. When folded, it measures 66.5 x 70 x 11 cm and fits in the boot of...
  • [150 kg Load] The aluminium frame with 0.9 mm thick tube walls is sturdy; 600D Oxford fabric with a water-resistant coating is wear-resistant and durable. This outdoor chair can support up to 150 kg

Packing list for a UK countryside holiday

Wellies

Walking boots

Small backpack for walks

Boot buddy for muddy boots

The Boot Buddy Shoe & Boot Cleaner Brush - Shoes Cleaning Kit - Cleans Any Shoe Including Walking &...
  • MULTIPLE USES − The Boot Buddy is as effective with bikes, wheelchair or pram wheels as it is with boots; so whether you've been jumping in muddy puddles, playing on wet and muddy fields, hiking up...
  • CLEANS BOOTS AND FOOTWEAR IN MINUTES − Non-electric, hand-operated and very easy-to-use, this boot brush takes the strain out of cleaning footwear, cleaning the most stubborn mud in minutes,...
  • Heel Height: 2 inches Material Composition: 100% Other Fabric Shoe Cleaner Brush Width: Medium
Sale
ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack, 25L Small Water Resistant Rucksack Foldable Travel...
  • 🎒【FLEXIBLE AND CONVENIENT】Our ultra lightweight foldable backpack weight is 290 g,the expansion size is 41×27×20 cm,and the folding size is 19×19×5 cm.Small foldable backpack is an ideal...
  • 🎒【REASONABLE AND ORDERLY】Our ultra lightweight foldable backpack capacity is 25L,and the pocket structure layout is reasonable and orderly.One main bag can accommodate sandwich lunch boxes and...
  • 🎒【HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS】Our light foldable backpack is water resistance (note:not completely waterproof).We use high-tear nylon fabrics and use the latest double-layer wear-resistant process...

Packing list for a UK city holiday

Crossbody bag for your valuables

Smart clothes for evenings out

Sale
Lily England Cross Body Bag Women - Multiple Pockets - Adjustable Wide Strap and Chain - Black...
  • Stylish & Versatile - Designed in the UK, our women's cross body bag come with two straps - a fashionable adjustable fabric strap and a detachable gold chain
  • Wear it Your Way - Coordinate your handbag with any outfit using our adaptable hand bags for women. Wear it day or night - crossbody, over-the-shoulder bag, or glam it up with the chain
  • Easily Store All Your Essentials - With a roomy interior, this camera bag has space for all your must-haves - phone, purse, keys, makeup, + more! Internal zipped pocket ensures valuables are kept...

Other essential things to pack for your UK holiday

Plug adaptor

Phone charger

Credit or debit card that will work in the UK

No products found.

Your simple, bullet point packing list for a UK holiday

  • Jeans
  • Jumpers
  • T-shirts
  • Underwear and PJs
  • Light jacket
  • Dr Martens for winter
  • Veja trainers for spring
  • Birkenstocks for summer
  • Adidas walking trainers for hikes
  • On Cloudnova – just for everything because they’re so comfortable
  • Umbrella
  • Waterproof coat with a hood
  • A warm coat (consider a heated jacket)
  • Gloves
  • Hat
  • Waterproof boots
  • Warm socks
  • Sunglasses
  • Sun cream
  • Shorts
  • Skirts or dresses
  • Sun hat
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Body wash
  • Moisturiser
  • Face wash
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Insect repellent 
  • Sunscreen in the summer
  • Wetsuits (especially for kids)
  • Beach towels 
  • Beach umbrella
  • Beach chairs
  • Windbreak
  • Bat and ball
  • Buckets and spades
  • Wellies
  • Walking boots
  • Small backpack for walks
  • Boot buddy for muddy boots
  • Crossbody bag for your valuables
  • Smart clothes for evenings out
  • Plug adaptor
  • Phone charger
  • Credit or debit card that will work in the UK