What to pack for a city break

Love it or hate it, if there is one thing that autumn has over other seasons it’s that it is perfect for city breaks. Paris in the fall? Mais oui! There is just something so magical about cities painted red and gold with turning leaves. What isn’t so magical is the luggage allowance on budget airlines (Ryanair is a cruel mistress). Thankfully, this autumn semester we are teaching “city break packing 101”. Regardless of where you are jetting off to, with these simple tips you will be conquering the carry on.

Boots made for walking

Not to sound like your mum, but are those Primark heels really what you want to bring on your trip to Edinburgh? Unless you want to skip the free walking tours and camp out at that hipster cocktail bar you found on TripAdvisor instead, you might want to stick to a tried and tested pair of walking shoes. We’re not suggesting anything orthopedic, just something you know you can walk in all day (and potentially dance in all night). So the Nikes you wear to go shopping, or the Doc Martens you wore to Glasto should definitely be on your packing list.

 

Bring the basics

We’re not talking toothbrushes and pyjamas here (though you’re going to want to pack those as well), but a well picked selection of basics means you can mix and match and create multiple outfits from just a few items. Black jeans, a white top and comfy zip up hoodie are perfect for your day trip to Pompei – swap out the hoodie for a blazer and you are ready for Aperol Spritz by the Trevi Fountain.

 

Something to catch the eye

Of course just basics aren’t going to cut it. To capture the true Parisian spirit you will want to dress up your black turtleneck with a pair of cat eye sunglasses on your stroll to the boulangerie for croissants. Obviously. A chunky necklace, a nice scarf, a statement jacket, whatever gives your outfit that little bit extra and makes you feel like you’re in Roman Holiday.

A full face in one

Odds are that your hotel isn’t going to have a grand table for you to set out your make-up and have an elaborate glam session. As much as you might want to, packing your entire beauty repertoire might not be the most space savvy decision. Thankfully there are face palettes that have you covered for just this situation. You can’t go wrong with this Charlotte Tilburry kit, or check out the Benefit palette with Hoola highlighter and even a few lip colours.

Back it up

Let’s get practical for a minute. If you are out and about exploring the city all day you will want to carry around some essentials: a wallet, powerbank, bottle of water. Not to mention any souvenirs you might pick up along the way – your bag can get heavy quickly. A cross the shoulder bag might therefore not be the best option so take a cute backpack instead. It’ll also come in handy at the airport, to keep your passport and boarding pass close by.

Sally Wijers