The Best Way to Pack a Suitcase for Your Holiday

Every self-respecting man knows that packing for a holiday simply doesn't mean throwing half your wardrobe into a suitcase and hoping for the best. There's a way to pack smart and do so with style. 

Have you seen a Mod with wrinkled shirts, bulging bags and mismatched outfits? No, you haven't. Not on their watch! The key is to travel light without compromising on style. And no, it's not impossible. With the right strategy, you can step out of the car, the train, or the plane looking just as sleek as you did before you set off. 

In this guide, we'll teach you how to pack your suitcase like a pro – lightly and efficiently, with all the space available for style. Trust us, and you'll be ready to look dapper wherever your destination takes you.

To Know Your Destination Is to Know Your Wardrobe

Everything begins with context, and style is no exception. Your city break in Rome will demand a very different wardrobe from a ski trip in the Alps. So, before you even reach out for your suitcase, take a moment to consider the following: ‘Where am I going?', 'What will I be doing there?’ and 'What's the weather going to be like?', ‘Is there a dress code?'.  

Fashion experts suggest building a capsule wardrobe that's specifically meant for the location and your itinerary. Tropical spots? Think lightweight and linen. Urban adventures? Well, what better place to show off your best Mod clothing pieces?

You'll see, packing becomes a whole lot easier when every item serves a purpose.

Plan Outfits, Not Items

The biggest mistake we men make when packing? Tossing a random item 'just in case'. Only to never wear it and fill up space. Instead, take the time to plan your outfits in advance. You'll save a ton of space, avoid decision fatigue on holiday and pack the pieces you'll actually wear. 

One of the holiday packing tips experts swear by is the mix-and-match formula. Lean on timeless neutrals like navy, white, beige, grey, and black. Then, layer one or two statement pieces to show off your personality. A bold patterned shirt or a bright-coloured tank can go a long way. 

However, to keep things cohesive and avoid any luggage bulk, stick to a 3-colour palette. Everything will work together, we promise you!

Don't Forget the Versatile Staples

Limited space? Versatility is key. The smartest travellers don't pack more. Oh no. They pack better. Focus on pieces that work across different settings. From daytime exploration to evening dinners. 

Here's what you need: 

• White shirt – effortlessly smart and sleek. Button it up for dinner or throw it over swimwear. 

• Light Sta-Prest trousers – lighter than jeans and easy to dress up or down. A true travel essential.

• A vintage jumper – timeless and endlessly adaptable. Pair with the trousers, layer under a blazer, or wear solo. 

• Lightweight jacket – a Harrington, overshirt, or light bomber offers just enough warmth and structure, without bulk.

That's it. That's your holiday packing list for men. The staples are timeless for a reason, and there's no better place to discover their versatility than on a trip. 

Packing Shoes. The Smart Way

We all hate this part of packing. Shoes simply take up too much space in your luggage, so you must choose wisely. The experts agree: stick to two or three versatile pairs that cover all the basics of your activities. 

Here's the winning formula: 

• Casual trainers or loafers – perfect for daytime exploring and casual dinners. Go for neutral tones that pair easily with your wardrobe.

• Beach slides or sandals – lightweight, laid-back, and ideal for poolside lounging or seaside strolls.

• One smart option – think minimalist leather sneakers or compact dress shoes, which can elevate an evening look without taking up half your suitcase.

Pro tip: Always use shoe bags to keep the rest of the clothes clean. And make use of the space! Stuff your shoes with socks, belts, and any other small accessories to save on space. This will also help keep the shoes in shape.

Accessorise Like You Mean It

This is where style means intention. The right accessories can instantly pull your look together and make it sleeker, especially when your outfit is based on neutrals or timeless staples. 

No need to overdo it, though! In fact, it's best to keep it simple but considerate. We're talking essentials again:

• Sunglasses – functional and effortlessly cool. Go for a timeless shape that suits your face. Very Mod of you!

• Watch – a classic timepiece adds polish, whether you're in a linen shirt or a tee. It's even better if you have a vintage one hanging around.

• Belt – you only need one versatile, well-made belt that works with both smart and casual outfits. Black or brown is best, depending on your shoes.

Here, we also need to mention your luggage. Yes, it is also part of the accessories. A sleek backpack, crossbody, or leather weekender will give you that vintage classic edge that will steal the show at the airport.

Master the Art of Rolling and Layering

Now that you've got everything set and ready, it's time to pack it. Again, don't just throw things in the bag. The best tips for packing a suitcase insist that it's important to know when to roll, when to fold, and how to layer. This is going to make all the difference between arriving with crisp outfits and a bag full of creased chaos. 

Rolling is best for casual items like T-shirts, knits, and swimwear. Roll them neatly and you'll save space and minimise wrinkles. Folding, on the other hand, is best for pieces with more structure, so shirts, trousers and jackets should be folded, not rolled!

Pro tip: If you'll be attending a more formal event, you can preserve the sharpness of your blazers and shirts by placing a tissue paper or dry-cleaning plastic between the folds. This will prevent deep creasing, so you're always dinner-ready. No iron required!

Packing Like a Pro

The well-dressed man knows how to travel light, being prepared for anything and with style, regardless of whether he's taking a spontaneous day trip or heading to a more formal dinner event. 

Remember these travel packing tips for your next holiday or weekend escapade. Your luggage will be streamlined, ready with killer outfits and some extra space for souvenirs. After all, good taste never takes a holiday.