Travelling light: city break wardrobe

NOW LET’S be honest, chaps. How often have you packed for a weekend trip, and returned home with a small pile of unworn, but creased, items? So, you think to yourself, the next time I travel, I will smarten up and take less items, but then you go ahead and jam those unfilled gaps in the case with more shirts, socks, underwear and toiletries? Don’t worry. You are not alone.

Time to get smart, think about your destination, the time of year you will be travelling, how long you will be there for, what your itinerary is… and make a plan. Better still, follow these guidelines, and you should not go far wrong. It is my tried and trusted method for packing for a city break, and it works for me.

Back to basics. Make a checklist of clothing that you will need for the trip. First and foremost, select your toiletries and underwear before moving on to your clothing. If you are travelling abroad and intend on buying After Shave or Eau de Toilette at Duty Free, then do not pack a part-used bottle before you leave home, as it will only add to the weight.

Ok, now the packing checklist. For the top half, I take three shirts, a polo shirt, a light sweater or cardigan (heavy knit jumper if travelling in winter), and a lightweight, water resistant coat (otherwise wear a warm winter coat). For the bottom half, jeans, two pairs of chinos in light and dark shades, smart casual shoes, belt, and do not forget your sunglasses.

Go for a neutral colour scheme, to which you can add a statement shade, in order for you to be able to mix and match, depending on the occasion. For spring and summer breaks, choose cotton or linen, and for the winter, go for heavier cotton, wool or cashmere.

I checked some latest collections from Debenhams, so you might find some of the following clothing appropriate.

Mantaray PU Coated Holdall, £45

John Rocha tri colour polo shirt, £35