What to Pack in a Capsule Wardrobe for a UK Summer Beach Staycation
With so much uncertainty around holidaying abroad this year, many people have chosen to holiday at home in the UK instead. But with the changeable UK weather you’ll need a practical Capsule Wardrobe that can take you from warmer to cooler temperatures each day.
My husband and I have always holidayed in the UK, Wells and St Ives in Cornwall being our go to’s so we are adept at packing for the unpredictable British weather! During the spring half term holiday, we went to beautiful Wells in Norfolk. It was our first family as a four since our daughter was born in 2019.
We were so lucky that after a month of cold weather and rain, the UK entered a heatwave so I didn’t need to worry about packing too many cold weather items (or entertaining the kids everyday!) We spent everyday on the beach and a few hours walking around the town.
Here’s 10 things to consider when deciding what to pack:
The vibe on British beaches is generally very casual and relaxed.
Wear clothes that our practical for the activities you will be undertaking.
You’ll only need swimsuits and bikinis in the very height of summer, unless you’re staying somewhere with a pool or hot tub!
If you are planning on spending any time in the sea between October and March, a wetsuit is highly recommended! Most resorts have somewhere you can hire one.
It can be really windy even when it’s hot. So alswell as always applying sunscreen (thanks for the reminder Baz Luhrman!) because you’ll burn when you least expect it, so opt for clothing that isn’t likely to get caught and expose you during the wind, billowing skirts and maxis can get taken in the wind!
A Hammam towel can be used as a beach blanket as well as super absorbent and fast drying.
If you are planning to eat out somewhere nice, check the dress code in case you need something smarter, but generally most beach resorts are very casual and you are likely to be overdressed in anything too dressy.
What I packed
As my holiday was going to be on the beach entertaining children, I chose to pack only shorts and trousers rather than dresses and skirt, as they are easy to move about, paddle in the sea with the children, build sandcastles and play frisbee!
I always use a backpack rather than a bag or tote for the beach as I need to be hands free for carrying buckets or holding the children’s hands!
I only packed two pairs of shoes, a pair of Saltwater sandals which are 100% waterproof for walking to the beach and are easy to slide off when you need. A pair of trainers for the mile long walk up to the local town.
There was a strong sea breeze on a few of the days, so whilst on the beach we really needed a warmer layer. I wore jumpers over t-shirts, but hoodies, wind proof jackets and lightweight puffer style jackets are also great alternatives.
Due to the changeable weather, I also took a pac a mac with me in case we got caught in a downpour, but luckily I didn’t need it!
My Beachwear Capsule Wardrobe
Here’s what I packed and wore for our 7 day trip:
Some of these pieces a few years old, but you can find a link to very similar ones on my Moonsift board here.
I hope you found this a helpful insight into what to pack. If you have a holiday coming up and are struggling to create your own Capsule Wardrobe, you may be interested in having a chat in a Style Express appointment where I can help you plan, pack or shop.
