My Top 10 Holiday Essentials...

By Jade Clayton

Going abroad this year to soak up some sun? As summer is fast approaching it's time to dig out that suitcase and begin planning your holiday. Everyone has a list of summer holiday must have items and everyone's list is different, but If you are struggling, here is a list of my top 10 holiday essentials…

Sunglasses – If there is an opportunity for me to wear my RayBans then I'm usually the type of person to take full advantage (as long as it's actually sunny). We all love putting on our sunglasses at any chance we get, whether you're in the UK or abroad and of course to protect against the sun and the harmful UV rays.

Camera – Taking a camera on holiday is on everyone's check list. Although these days most phones can also act as pretty decent cameras, I still love taking my compact digital camera with me – it is small, light, purple and fantastic at capturing any great moment and sharing your holiday memories.

Suncream - I don't go to hot places without taking sun lotion, I'm a factor 50 type as I have really fair skin and getting my skin burnt isn't worth the pain and could spoil my holiday. I also like sun screen as a general moisturiser whilst on holiday plus it makes me smell good.

Converse/Trainers – Like most people everyone has their “comfy shoes” and I would 100% swear by my Converse whilst on holiday or even trainers in general. After going away with my friends over the last couple of years I've learnt that Converse are a must for me; easy to walk in, comfortable, don't take much room up in the suitcase and are easy to match with outfits. (Heels/wedges are just a waste of time).

iPad, Dock & Earphones – Taking my iPad abroad is ideal for me because of its multi functions such as camera, internet, apps, maps, games and music which all come in handy whilst on holiday. I like to listen to music aloud when getting ready in my room but I also like relaxing round the pool listening to music with my earphones in.

Travel Adaptors – Without travel adaptors a number of things like hair straightners and phone charging wouldn't be possible, and although everyone usually brings one with them , having a few travel adaptors is such a great idea, especially if there are a few of us in the same room.

Beach Bag – I always need a bag on holiday both during the day and night. To make life easier for myself I like my hand luggage bag to also act as a beach bag to save space but as an alternative I take a clutch, preferably one that goes with all my outfits for the night time (no one wants to carry round a big bag on a night out).

Make Up – Every girl's essential day to day item, but some make up just won't work with heat and humidity, I know mine won't. Changing or adding a couple of key items can help though, such as waterproof mascara, make-up setting spray and waterproof foundation.

Hat – Hats? I love taking a hat on holiday, both for style and protections purposes because let's face it, there is nothing worse than a burnt scalp. Usually I tend to choose a straw type trilby hat when I am going on a beach holiday.

Slippers – At first I thought taking slippers on holiday was strange but a friend of mine takes them every time we go away and I always ended up wearing them around the room or apartment. It actually makes you feel at home and works well for when you're getting ready or relaxing. Now I always take a pair of slippers away with me.