Planning Your Holidays? Stylist Courtney Smith Spills On Her Essential Packing Tips

If you’re sick of hauling a suitcase full of clothes on holidays only to end up wearing the same three sundresses all week long, it might be time to streamline your packing.

Stylist Courtney Smith is constantly on the go, be it scouting locations in Los Angeles or shooting in London, so she knows a thing or two about getting the most out of a suitcase of clothes.

We caught up with her at the Marker Hotel this morning, where she was launching Aer Lingus’s new direct service to Los Angeles, which launches May 4th. If you’ve got the travel bug, here are Courtney’s top packing tips…

Plan, plan, plan
“I’m quite strategic with my packing, and I plan every outfit before I go, by day and by night. The main thing is to incorporate the same pieces across different looks, so that you don’t end up bringing four pairs of jeans when you can bring just one.”

Use accessories wisely
“I use my accessories to change up each look: different bags, different necklaces, different sandals. Accessories don’t take up a lot of space and they’re not heavy.”

Silver Beaded Tassel Necklace, €19.99, H&M

Use multi-functional pieces
“The last time I was away I brought along a swimsuit from H&M that also doubled as a bodysuit. So I wore it to the beach one day and wore it with a high-waisted skirt another day. It was a lifesaver!”

V-Neck Swimsuit, €24.99, H&M

Pack like a pro
“I roll each item separately before packing it into my case, rather than laying everything flat. You use far less space and it means things don’t get as creased. I’m constantly shooting abroad so I have packing down to a fine art at this stage!”

Layer up
“A kimono is a great way to change up a look completely. Throw a long kimono over a dress, a bikini or jeans and a tee and you can totally transform the look. Kimonos are everywhere at the moment – there are some great options in River Island and H&M.”

Tasselled Floral Print Kimono, €25, Forever 21

Stay comfy
“A pair of stylish, comfy shorts should be top of your packing list for a sun holiday. I love being out and about when I’m travelling, so comfort is important – and if you’re wearing shorts you can still get a tan on the go!”

• Aer Lingus
• Courtney Smith