HOLIDAYMAKERS will spend the equivalent of more than a week of their lives packing their bags for holidays, according to research.
A poll of 2,000 travellers revealed it takes an average of just over
one hour and 40 minutes per trip mulling over outfits and squeezing in the essentials.
Putting aside the travel restrictions from the last few years, the
average holiday-goer will venture away two times a year – equating to
126 trips over their adult lifetime.
But 32 per cent admit they find packing stressful, and half leave it
until the very last minute.
The research, commissioned by online personal styling service, Stitch
Fix, also found 68 per cent have not been abroad since the start of
the pandemic, with 48 per cent planning to dust off their suitcases
for a holiday abroad this summer.
Rich Simmons, styling team lead, said: “It’s exciting that we’re able
to pack our bags and jet off on holiday once again.
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"But it’s important to not get carried away with those pre-flight
purchases; particularly as our research shows that 45 per cent of
holidaymakers purchase items for their summer holiday but never wear
them again.
“As with packing smart, it’s crucial to shop smart. Eighty-one per
cent of the nation typically treat themselves to something new for a
trip away and given that this is our first restriction-free summer in
two years, it’s not surprising that many of us will be looking for
something new.
“The key here is to invest in a few quality pieces that you absolutely
love, so that you can rewear and restyle them over the course of your
trip.”
The study also found when packing for a summer holiday, travellers'
top suitcase staples are t-shirts, shorts and sandals.
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Although 53 per cent regularly pack items that go unworn, notably
jumpers, jeans and heels.
More than half (56 per cent) find pre-planning outfits alleviates the
pressure, while 56 per cent make lists to avoid falling into the trap
of overpacking.
It also emerged four in 10 find holiday shopping a challenge, and 31
per cent would prefer a stylist to take the reins.
Rich Simmons added: “Don’t ignore what’s in your wardrobe already.
"Take the time to look through your clothes and you’re sure to find
some summer staples that you’ve forgotten about.
"At Stitch Fix, our expert stylists focus on selecting items that are
tailored to your unique style, while ensuring that they work with your
existing wardrobe, so we can help pair up those uncovered gems with
new, quality items, leaving you with a versatile holiday wardrobe that
you’ll love to wear time and time again.”
To help people truly master their pre-holiday preparations,
stress-free, Stitch Fix has enlisted the expertise of organisational
expert, Sophie Liard (@thefoldinglady) to share her top tips:
1. PLAN YOUR OUTFITS
Begin by writing down the events you’ll need an outfit for – from day
trips to pool days. This way, you’ll pack smarter and avoid
over-packing. Build your outfits one by one and arrange in piles – you
can even add specific underwear so it’s complete. Once finished, add a
post-it to each pile so you can see it’s ready for packing. You’ll
find this process gives you ideas of how to mix and match your
clothes, building multiple outfits out of fewer core items.
2. GO EASY ON THE SHOES
They take up space, so really think about what you need. My general
rule is one pair of trainers, and one pair of sandals. Remember to use
shoe bags – these will keep any buckles or laces tidy and keep the
soles away from your clothes. Make the most of the space inside your
shoes, too – use it to pack socks and even jewellery.
3. USE PACKING CUBES
Research reveals 56 per cent fold their clothes when packing, whereas
only 29 per cent prefer the rolling technique. The good news is, zip
up bags are perfect for packing in tidy and organised categories,
whatever your preference. You can access your clothes easily and use
these in the drawers of your accommodation, too – so anything you
don’t end up using, is packed and ready to go.
4. THINK ABOUT GARMENT CARE
The main factor that determines creases is the material of the
garment.
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To test if it’s ‘creasy’, do the scrunch test – grab a bunch
of the garment and scrunch, hold for a few seconds, then release. Has
it creased? My advice is to stay away from materials that do not pass
the scrunch test, unless it’s linen of course, as everyone expects
this to come complete with a crease or two.
Also, consider packing travel hangers so you can hang things up on arrival – they are
lightweight and fold small, so will take up minimal room in your
suitcase.
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