You don’t have to bring your entire wardrobe. Here are some tips!

by Nejla Matam-Finn

I love packing!

Packing for me means that I am about to go someplace to build memories, and it also means that my never ending to-do list is going to take a break. Last, but not least, it means that most of my time is going to be spent with my family. #besttimeever

While travel, in general, has not resumed yet and for most of us playing tourist in our own cities has been going on for far too long, a staycation is the best alternative and great addition to our “arsenal of breaks”.

The best thing about packing for a staycation is that you can go EXTRA as there are no limitations to your luggage allowance or time spending waiting and walking in airports. To top it off, all the pieces that usually make it to the “if I have extra space” pile can now finally come with you.

And if you are like me and always decide to up your beauty routine while you’re away from home, this is the best time for you can pack as much as you want without the fear of having your extra millimetres of liquid being confiscated or leaking in your luggages.

For this post, we partnered with Ulo to show you what our ideal packing for a staycation (or future travels) will look like. And for those of you based in Singapore, do note that Ulo offers a 4 hour delivery window making the ideal place to shop for last minute gifts.

THE BAGS

Just like how the things you should be packing are important, the kind of bag you use is equally important.

At THE FIFTH COLLECTION, some of us (myself included) are obsessed with traveling gear, and that includes weekend bags - especially the ones that blends style and functionality. Now, the Keepall in Black Epi by Louis Vuitton is exactly that. This one is a bag that is subtly chic - sturdy but not too big or too small, and can be used for a staycation or long haul flights later as the size of this particular model will be permitted on board.

The tip to pack weekend bags in this shape is to pack the shoes at the bottom corners as it will help to keep the base of the bag sturdy and will make the rest of your packing a breeze. We are also big fan of packing cubes and, in the case of a staycation, you can even divide them by outfit per day.

To accompany the weekend bag, we always make sure to bring along a large tote bag with us. It is a great catch-all for all the little extra that you can’t leave without. Plus, it comes in handy when you decide to go for a long walk or some shopping at the hotel boutique. Our tote bag always include a pouch to keep our must-have beauty kit comprising hand cream, lip balm and mascara, as well as our own refillable water bottle. Always have notebooks because you never know when an idea might spark. Trust us, staycations are also a great excuse to give a break to your phone.

For the extra feel, we are definitely packing our hats in - especially the ones that rarely make it overseas due to lack of space or patience, because who is ready to hold onto their hat on long haul flights? And the other one is Turkish towel - not only will you stand out at the pool, but they can double up as the perfect coverup when it is time for lunch

R&R TIME

Any break from your daily routine - even if it is a mini one - is great excuse to reset and recharge.

In my case, I usually spend it catching up on sleep, reading a physical book or on my kindle to avoid any notifications, and have a break from that famous blue light that is known to have a negative effect on your mood as well as on your skin.

Which brings me to my other guilty pleasure: skincare.

If your hotel has a great spa, then make sure you book yourself a treatment. Ideally, it should be one where you can nap as well. But if time or place doesn’t permit it, then take full advantage of the hotel bathroom to catch up on your skincare routine. I love long baths , which unfortunately I don’t have in my home. So any hotel stays means long baths, mask on and a good book.

And when I am done, I will take my time getting ready and that means finally focusing on my body especially if I spent some time in the sun.

POOL SIDE LOOK

Talking about the sun… poolside is always a good idea in my books. Not only the entire family enjoys it (especially my 10 year old), but it is good for you especially if you are deprived of outdoor activities because of work. I always pack a book or a magazine. Don’t forget sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and water bottle. The last one is important. I use a reusable one to not only keep myself hydrated but also to avoid any extra plastic/glass consumption… ok, except when it is wine o’clock.

My favourite bathing suits are those one-pieces these days, especially when I know that pool time also means entertaining the little one. I also add either a proper coverup or my own Turkish towel so when lunch time approaches I am ready. I also do the same for my daughter.

Knowing that hotel pools have stronger chlorine content means that I don’t want to undo all of my skincare, and body care routine, so I always pack my own shampoo and conditioner. This is when Swimmers hair and body wash comes super handy as it is good for the entire family.

DINE IN DINE OUT

Whether you choose to dine in or out, having the time to dress up for it is a luxury on its own. And, yes, even on a staycation, you can pack your own candle and feel like you are one of those celebrities who say they pack their candles everywhere they go in interviews.

I rarely wear dresses when in the office but when on break I do. Here, we chose two very comfortable dresses in two distinctive prints to add a little bit more fun to the look - especially if, like me, you have a tendency of wearing a daily uniform. This little detail will only uplift your mood even further.

THE EXTRAS

I did mention that packing for a staycation means you can pack all the EXTRAs you want. So, here are a few that rarely made it to my long haul flights.

Extra bags, extra sunglasses and lots of readings so I am prepared for any mood and avoid the temptation of checking my phone.

LATE CHECKOUT

That is right we also pack a nice outfit for when it is time to checkout.

Because that feel after having a nice restful break deserves something comfortable yet a bit va va voom. Plus, it is a great way of prolonging the “I was on a vacation” feel and vibe.

What are some of your best tips for packing for a staycation? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Also, don’t forget to check out the pieces featured in this story! (: