Carry-on holidaying: what to pack for a short summer break

I’ve had a whirlwind few weeks. Quite literally. Up in the air, flitting about from Munich, to Palm Springs, to Milan, to Madrid all within the last couple of weeks. That’s excessive, even for my usual schedule.

And it’s meant I’ve had to live out of a carry-on suitcase (by AWAY, with a helpful phone charger included) in order to give me more time to explore the cities I’m visiting, and less time waiting at the luggage carousel.

Limited-edition Copenhagen carry-on, ￡265, AWAY

These short in-and-out trips have meant I’ve had to streamline my usual packing. I’ve learnt to and master the art of minimal but effective wardrobe options that will take me from day to night easily, and offer me enough flexibility to toggle between sightseeing and work meetings. I thought I’d round up some of my current travel essentials here.

Gul Hurgel dresses

Istanbul-based Gul Hurgel came to my attention a couple of years ago with her light and lovely striped linen jumpsuits and simple summer dresses. Since then she has developed her line to focus on the perfect summer dress.

Gul Hurgel floral-print smocked cotton dress, ￡782; matchesfashion.com

These range from simple designs using the linens she started with, to her exclusive pieces for Matchesfashion.com: more sophisticated smocked strap dresses exquisite in their craftsmanship. They're pretty, easy to pack and provide instant elegance. 

Chanel Les Beiges tinted moisturiser

I still haven't mastered the art of make-up, so skincare is what I fall back on. I can't tell you the number of times people have asked me what I've done differently recently after using this new tinted moisturiser.

Les Beiges tinted moisturiser, ￡37; Chanel

With added SPF30, this little vial of wonder provides a subtle wash of colour and fills out any fine lines, blurring edges and giving an instant, happy glow to rival any Snapchat filter. It's my new obsession.

Asceno silk pyjamas

Asceno came onto the scene offering great nightwear and has recently expanded into beachwear too. These pink silk PJs are too good to wear only at bedtime.

Blush bold stripe PJ top, ￡165, Asceno

Add a great white T-shirt (Ninety Percent does a fantastic classic one), keep the shirt unbuttoned and tucked into trousers and you have a beautiful, lightweight playsuit that takes up minimal space in your luggage. Sleep in if you must.

Fabrizio Viti x Ancient Greek Sandals

Fabrizio Viti x Ancient Greek Sandals Peonia floral-embellished leather sandals, ￡261; Moda Operandi

The head shoe designer of Louis Vuitton who launched his eponymous label to unleash his inner 1970s Donna Summer vibes has teamed up with Ancient Greek Sandals to create delicate, floral handmade footwear that works from day to night.

Loewe Gate bag

I’ve been using my two-tone, soft leather Gate bag religiously, with two roomy compartments that fit much of my essentials and an easy cross-body strap that takes me from airport to evening.

Small Gate bag, ￡1,275; Loewe

It comes in all sorts of colour combinations and textures, and its simple knot embellishment keeps it minimal with a dash of personality.