Not to toot my own horn, but I like to consider myself a bit of a staycation expert. As a lover of the outdoors who revels in the less celebrated side of British weather, I've camped and glamped across the UK, gone for a swim in the North Sea in October and even chosen a week in a cottage in Wales over an all-inclusive holiday in Spain.
But my staycation knowledge extends far beyond the ability to recommend idyllic Cornish bays and Welsh farm shops. Packing for a holiday in the UK requires a very different approach than packing for a trip abroad, and I've got it down to a fine art.
It requires striking the perfect balance between style, function and comfort, which means a mix of versatile dresses, good quality footwear, cool basics, and high-performance outerwear which can be styled with minimum effort, allowing you to move from country walks to pub dinner with ease.
Finding pieces that tick all those boxes isn't easy, but with plenty of practice ( and plenty of 'I wore the wrong shoes for this' moments) I've landed on five staycation-proof staples I pack every single time.
So whether you've got a summer staycation booked and have no clue what to pack, or are looking to upgrade your usual British holiday wardrobe, below I've compiled an edit of the five pieces that will work hard and look good. Read on to find out more.
The Ultimate Packing List for Summer Staycations 2026
1. Broderie Anglaise Dress
Style Notes: Typically made from cotton, this feminine style of dress is as stunning as it is comfortable and easy to wear. The delicate embroidery detail gives the dress a heritage feel that can be leaned into with a raffia tote and knee-high boots, or modernised with trainers and a scarf or plaid shirt in place of a belt.
Shop Broderie Anglaise Dresses:
A worthy investment.
A day-to-night dress.
The hem detail is just stunning!
100% cotton.
Inspired by Victorian-era underpinnings.
2. Long Sleeve T-Shirt
Style Notes: Long sleeve t-shirts may sound a bit dull, but they've taken on a cooler vibe than your average basic this year, layered under oversized short-sleeve tees in a nod to 90s grunge, or featuring slogans and graphic detailing. Simply add to a statement pair of jeans or colourful athletic shorts and trainers for effortless style.
Shop Long Sleeve T-Shirts:
A hard-working wardrobe essential.
For a subtle athleisure vibe.
Size up for a slouchy fit.
Noughties coded.
The perfect addition to cargo trousers and 'ugly' trainers.
3. Technical Jacket
Style Notes: The technical jacket has evolved far beyond its practical origins to become a staple in the wardrobes of the most stylish. The appeal lies as much in its ability to give outfits an effortlessly relaxed, off-duty edge as it does in its ability to keep you warm and dry, making it the perfect summer layer. Wear with a cotton midi skirt and fisherman sandals on dry days and swap to trainers when the weather turns.
Shop Technical Jackets:
A practical statement.
Chic and water-resistant.
The perfect shade for your summer wardrobe.
With UV protection technology.
To take you from class to coffee.
4. Longline Shorts
Style Notes: Bermudas blew the shorts trend wide open giving us more styles than ever before. While both denim and tailored versions have their place in a holiday wardrobe, for a staycation the longline short (their slightly longer and more relaxed sister style) strikes the perfect balance between comfort and polish and work with everything from loafers to ballet flats.
Shop Longline Shorts:
These come in three other colours and I want them all.
The colour of summer 2026.
Softly tailored.
Butter yellow is here to stay.
Wear with a striped shirt and loafers.
5. Hi-Tech Trainers
Style Notes:
Shop Hi-Tech Trainers:
A fashion editor favourite.
Durable suede, breathable mesh and two sets of laces for styling.
So many colourways to choose from.
Team with barrrel-leg trousers.
For lovers of hiking and animal print.