Summer Holiday Tips: How to Pack Light, Stay Stylish, and Travel Smart
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Best Summer Holiday Destinations: Planning Ahead
What to Wear Summer Holiday: Comfort Meets Confidence
Holiday Outfits: How to Style for Versatility
Summer Holiday Shoes: Choosing the Right Footwear
Healthy Holiday Eating Tips: Stay Well While You Travel
Holiday Packing Checklist: Essentials You Shouldn't Forget
How to Pack Light for Long Summer Trips
Final Thoughts: Feel Good and Travel Smart
Planning a warm-weather getaway? In this episode of the Style for Life podcast, Stephanie Rumble — a professional fashion stylist, accountability coach, and health educator from Christchurch, New Zealand — shares her best summer holiday tips for women planning overseas escapes. Broadcasting straight from the Auckland airport, Stephanie offers personal insights and practical advice to help you feel prepared, stylish, and comfortable during your trip.
From choosing the right holiday outfits to managing long-haul flights, this article recaps Stephanie’s top tips while incorporating essential SEO keywords for readers searching for summer packing inspiration, healthy holiday eating tips, and how to feel good in their skin on holiday.
Best Summer Holiday Destinations: Planning Ahead
Before packing your bags, the first thing to consider is where you’re going. Whether you’re thinking about Australia, Greece, or Southeast Asia, researching your destination helps set the tone for your entire trip. Understanding the local climate, accessibility, and activities can guide your wardrobe choices.
Deciding where to go for summer holidays is often dictated by weather. Stephanie recommends downloading local weather apps for each city you plan to visit. This ensures you're not caught off guard by unexpected rain or chilly evenings, especially if you’re moving through multiple regions.
Summer vacation ideas also need to be realistic about comfort and ease. Will you be exploring cities, lounging by beaches, or hiking up hills? Once you answer that, you're ready to plan your wardrobe with intention.
To really enjoy your travels, remember that choosing the best summer holiday destinations isn’t always about distance or luxury; it’s about what works for your lifestyle, budget, and energy levels. Choose places that align with your values and offer the experiences that matter most to you.
What to Wear on a Summer Holiday: Comfort Meets Confidence
When it comes to what to wear for a summer holiday, Stephanie's golden rule is: Wear what makes you feel good. Don't let worries about body image stop you from enjoying the warmth and fun. Choose pieces that allow freedom of movement, are light and breathable, and help you feel your best.
“Looking great on holiday starts with feeling great first.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Here are a few of Stephanie's essentials when it comes to outfits for hot, humid weather:
Loose-fitting dresses in breathable fabrics
Ladies summer clothes such as cotton tanks, linen shirts, and wrap skirts
Lightweight trousers or wide-leg shorts for when you want more leg coverage
Oversized shirts to throw over your swimwear or wear on hot travel days
Opt for fabrics like cotton, rayon, or bamboo. These help you stay cool and reduce discomfort from sweating.
If you're layering, think about an open-front shirt instead of a jacket, and avoid heavy denim. The goal is to mix summer outfits that look great, feel breezy, and work for a range of activities.
Don’t forget to try everything on before you go. Doing a mini dress rehearsal of your outfits can give you confidence and reduce packing stress. Looking great on holiday starts with feeling great first, and that comes from comfort, not just style. If you’re not sure what colours or shapes suit you best, a personalised colour consultation or wardrobe audit with Stephanie can be a game-changer.
Holiday Outfits: How to Style for Versatility
Building a small, curated capsule wardrobe is the smartest way to travel. Stephanie recommends coordinating holiday outfits around a few versatile core items that can mix and match.
“Don’t worry about how you think you’re going to look. Just wear what you feel good in.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Here are some key combinations:
A set of matching trousers and tops that double as loungewear or dinner attire
A dress that can be dressed down for sightseeing or up for dinner with accessories
Swimwear that doubles as a bodysuit or crop top under skirts or shorts
Stephanie swears by outfits that are ideal for hot weather – these aren't just about looking good but also about avoiding sticky seats, sunburnt shoulders, or clothes that feel tight after a big meal.
Add accessories like bold earrings or bangles to switch up your look without taking up suitcase space. The goal: flexibility without the clutter.
Layering lightweight pieces and sticking to a colour palette makes it easier to create new combinations every day. And by choosing clothes you can wear in more than one context, you make your suitcase work double-duty. You’ll get both style and substance in every outfit.
Summer Holiday Shoes: Choosing the Right Footwear
Footwear can make or break your travel experience. For summer holiday shoes, Stephanie recommends packing three to four pairs depending on your activities.
Her top picks for summer shoes for women include:
Running shoes (if you plan to exercise or go for walks)
Trendy trainers for long airport hauls and general wear
Comfortable sandals for walking in hot weather
Poolside slides or waterproof sandals for beaches and wet areas
Blisters and discomfort can derail your holiday quickly. Break in any new shoes beforehand and consider packing lightweight travel gear like compression socks if you're on a long-haul flight.
If you’re short on space, wear your heaviest pair on the plane and use packing cells to keep the rest organised.
“Use packing cells and plan your outfits — it’ll change your travel experience.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Foot support is just as important as fashion when it comes to travel. A well-planned footwear strategy will save your back, protect your posture, and let you enjoy the walking, sightseeing, and dancing without pain — all while looking great.
Healthy Holiday Eating Tips: Stay Well While You Travel
No one wants to come home from holiday feeling sluggish or bloated. Stephanie encourages a mindful but relaxed approach with these healthy holiday eating tips:
Plan to be active – walking, hiking, running, or light core workouts
Stay hydrated – pack a drink bottle and refill it regularly
Choose meals with protein and veggies where possible
Allow indulgences, but don’t overdo it daily
Be mindful of alcohol – it's full of empty calories
Stephanie shares that it’s entirely possible to go on a trip and come back fitter than you left – especially if you stay intentional with movement and food. Even 10 minutes of exercise in your hotel room can make a difference.
While on holiday, enjoy the food, enjoy your body, and most importantly, enjoy the moment.
“You don’t have to come home from holiday feeling like a blob.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
That said, planning ahead makes a big difference. Stephanie also offers health and wellbeing education that supports you in making empowered lifestyle choices—whether you're at work or on holiday. Knowing how to say “yes” to treats without saying “no” to your health can be empowering. Balance, moderation, and hydration are your best travel companions.
Holiday Packing Checklist: Essentials You Shouldn't Forget
Creating a holiday packing checklist is the easiest way to stay organised and avoid overpacking. Stephanie swears by repacking several times and taking things out each round.
Here are must-haves for warm-weather destinations:
Swimwear (Stephanie takes 4–5 bikinis!)
Undergarments and socks
Sunhat or visor (and how to pack it without crushing it)
Activewear (shorts, singlets, visor, sports bra)
Sunglasses
Toiletries in travel-sized containers
Travel towel or microfibre towel
Essential medications
“Get your swimwear on. Don’t be embarrassed of your body or your figure.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Stephanie also keeps a separate bag for:
Passport and ID
Printed itinerary and travel documents
Snacks like One Square Meal bars or dried mango
Chargers and cords
Refillable metal water bottle (doubles as a foam roller)
Travel essentials don’t need to take over your luggage. Thoughtful planning is the secret to packing like a pro.
A checklist is more than a tool — it's a mindset. When you approach packing with structure, you leave room for spontaneity during your travels. You’ll also reduce the mental load and decision fatigue of trying to remember everything.
How to Pack Light for Long Summer Trips
Struggling with heavy bags? Stephanie shares several strategies on how to pack light while still having everything you need. It's all about reducing bulk, choosing smart gear, and rewearing core items.
Here are her top packing tips for long trips:
Use packing cells to compartmentalise and compress your clothes
Choose mix-and-match items so each piece gets worn multiple times
Stick to a colour palette that works across outfits
Limit bulky toiletries – refill small containers instead
Skip makeup unless you truly plan to use it daily
She also recommends re-wearing your long travel outfit and only packing one other "cooler weather" outfit just in case. Focus on layering instead of packing full extra outfits.
Lightweight travel gear like a trolley-sleeve bag or convertible backpack can also reduce physical strain, especially if you're switching cities frequently.
Packing light gives you freedom: to move quicker, avoid baggage fees, and feel more relaxed. The lighter your luggage, the lighter your travel experience, both physically and mentally.
Final Thoughts: Feel Good and Travel Smart
Stephanie Rumble’s Style for Life podcast reminds us that a successful summer holiday isn’t just about the destination – it’s about how you feel while you’re there. From smart footwear and breathable fabrics to healthy holiday eating tips, staying organised and mindful makes a huge difference.
Whether you're heading to one of the best summer holiday destinations or planning a staycation escape, use these summer holiday tips to feel stylish, comfortable, and in control.
Remember:
Focus on how you want to feel
Pack light but pack smart
Choose holiday outfits that work with your body, not against it
Move your body and nourish it with water and real food
Let go of unrealistic expectations, embrace joy and spontaneity, and trust that you're enough: bikini, blisters, bum bag and all.
Now… where will your next summer escape take you? If you're planning a retreat, workshop, or speaking event and want to inspire others with Stephanie’s signature blend of wellness and style, check out her speaking engagements and event offerings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best types of clothes to pack for a summer holiday?
The best clothes for a summer holiday are lightweight, breathable, and easy to mix and match. Think linen shirts, cotton dresses, wide-leg shorts, and oversized layers that protect your skin while keeping you cool. Choosing pieces that can be worn multiple ways will help you keep your suitcase light and your style options open.
How many shoes should I pack for a summer trip?
Stephanie recommends taking three to four pairs: one for exercise or walking, one stylish pair for casual wear, one pair of sandals for hot days, and something waterproof for the beach or pool. The key is comfort and versatility. Blisters or sore feet can derail a trip, so it’s worth packing wisely.
What’s the easiest way to pack light for a long summer trip?
Start with a colour palette and focus on outfits that can be layered or reworn in different ways. Packing cells help keep everything organised, and choosing dual-purpose items (like a shirt that works for day and night) cuts down bulk. Stephanie’s method involves repacking several times and always taking a few things out.
What should I wear on a plane to a hot destination?
Dress in layers. Flights are often chilly, but your destination might be humid and hot. Lightweight trousers, a breathable tank top, and a loose outer shirt work well. Comfortable shoes and compression socks are a must for long-haul flights. Stephanie also suggests packing a change of clothes in your carry-on in case of delays.
How can I stay healthy while on holiday?
Stay active by walking as much as possible and plan some intentional movement like yoga, a run, or a short workout. Keep water on hand and don’t overdo alcohol. Stephanie recommends bringing a refillable water bottle and scheduling downtime to rest and reset. Her coaching can also help you build habits that travel well with you.
Should I bring workout clothes on holiday?
Yes, especially if you enjoy staying active while travelling. A few basic items like shorts, singlets, and a sports bra take up little space. Stephanie often includes activewear in her packing lists and encourages clients to keep up light movement to feel energised throughout the trip.
How do I protect my skin and body from the sun when travelling?
Pack a wide-brimmed hat or visor, a loose shirt for layering, and high-SPF sunscreen. Long walks and sightseeing can lead to more sun exposure than expected. Stephanie highlights using oversized shirts to protect your shoulders and skin, especially when you're outside for long periods.
What are Stephanie Rumble’s top travel hacks?
Stephanie swears by using packing cells, downloading local weather apps, packing snacks like One Square Meal bars, and rewearing one outfit for flights to reduce suitcase weight. She also recommends a trolley-sleeve bag to avoid back pain and a visor or travel hat that won’t lose its shape.
How do I know what clothes suit my body before packing?
Try everything on before you go. Doing a mini dress rehearsal helps you avoid packing clothes you won’t wear. If you're unsure what styles or colours flatter your shape, Stephanie offers virtual and in-person wardrobe consultations to help you confidently curate your travel wardrobe.
What if I feel self-conscious in swimwear?
You’re not alone, and it’s more common than you think. Stephanie encourages clients to wear what makes them feel good and to enjoy their holiday without body shame. Choose swimwear that supports you, pack a stylish cover-up, and focus on the experience—not the insecurities.
