Carry-on classics: 14 fashion essentials for when you need to travel light

Pops of colour are perfect for travelling and getting back out into the world

Jetting off for a few days of sun? If I’ve learned anything about packing, it’s that getting away from it all does not mean taking it all with you. 

Offset your airport stress footprint by opting for hand luggage only. 

That’s right. If it doesn’t fit, it doesn’t fly. 

The key to an unforgettable holiday begins and ends with packing lightly. 

Need a hand? Put an end to excess baggage with these 14 summer suitcase essentials.

GET THE LOOK:

M&S Collection linen-rich high neck maxi tiered dress,€54; multicolour straw mini tote, €27, M&S

1. M&S Collection linen-rich high neck maxi tiered dress, €54; multicolour straw mini tote, €27, M&S 

Dune London gold 55cm cabin suitcase, Next, €159

2. Dune London gold 55cm cabin suitcase, Next, €159 

Oversized linen-blend shirt, H&M, €27.99

3. Oversized linen-blend shirt, H&M, €27.99 

Fluid cupro shorts, Arket

4. Fluid cupro shorts, Arket, €59 

‘Moki’ babouche shoes - Cabrera, Calla, €170

5. ‘Moki’ babouche shoes - Cabrera, Calla, €170 

Co-ord shirred cami, €9 and skirt, €16, Penneys

6. Co-ord shirred cami, €9 and skirt, €16, Penneys 

Trendyol swimsuit, Zalando, €44.99

7. Trendyol swimsuit, Zalando, €44.99 

Prada sunglasses, Zalando, €259

8. Prada sunglasses, Zalando, €259 

‘Serena’ Poplin Bardot dress, Whistles, €199

9. ‘Serena’ poplin Bardot dress, Whistles, €199 

‘Geometria’ kimono, Rianna + Nina, €1,680

10. ‘Geometria’ kimono, Rianna + Nina, €1,680 

‘Aria’ abstract print crop top, Whistles, €129

11. 'Aria’ abstract print crop top, Whistles, €129 

Multicolour sarong, Penneys, €5

12. Multicolour sarong, Penneys, €5 

Bamboo handle bag, M&S, €42

13. Bamboo handle bag, M&S, €42 

M&S Collection colour block maxi beach dress, M&S, €47.50

14. M&S Collection colour block maxi beach dress, M&S, €47.50 

STYLE NOTES:

• MULTI TASKERS: Increase your wear time (and decrease excess baggage) with luggage heroes that take on multiple roles. A sarong segues into a skirt; a beach shirt ties multiple ways with shorts; matching co-ords divide and conquer across just about everything.
• MIX AND MATCH: Stress-free holiday dressing boils down to a unified colour scheme. Simplicity is its own reward.
• ONE AND DONE: Bright, breathable, and big holiday energy: this season’s tiered holiday dresses save on time getting ready that can be better spent enjoying a glass of Prosecco on a terrace.
• THE LAST STRAW: Sun cream, beach towels, insect repellent, beach book, sunglasses: make life easy with a roomy straw tote. Plus, there’s always room for shopping.