19 things to pack for an adventure holiday, according to a travel editor
From clever SPFs to the most innovative athleisure gear, Stylist’s travel editor Susan Riley runs down her active holiday must-haves…
Athleisure: our sartorial non-negotiable. The comfortable, fashion-forward items that enable us to be versatile with what we do and where we go.
Now hold that thought and apply it to holidays. Because while our outfits always have a bit of active thrown in, increasingly so do our breaks.
Athleisure holidays are on the rise: trips that offer that perfect blend of cultural discovery but with a physical slice of excitement thrown in.
Take the marathon mini break. Whether you’ve enrolled for Amsterdam’s Mizuno or are combining souks with Strava in Marrakech, runners are increasingly mixing training with tourism.
Same for hikers (the 640m high Kapuzinerberg allows you to climb a mountain while on a Salzburg city break). And bikers. And kayakers. And anything else that sets your pulse racing while expanding your global horizons.
So what does all this adventure and exhilaration mean for our suitcases? It means that we have to pack clever. With expert-approved and in-the-know recommendations (which I need too – my Sicilian summer carry-on needs to cater to beach bumming as well as a Mount Etna hike).
That’s why we’ve curated the most stylish and practical products for any holiday involving adrenaline…
1. The waterproof jacket
Yes, it is an investment piece but a waterproof jacket like this one from Berghaus will last a lifetime. Featuring a classic colour-blocked design and three layers of GORE-TEX®, this jacket will keep you snug, dry and stylish.
2. The sensorial SPF
With the sole aim of futureproofing skin, the Future Fluid SPF 50+ Superlight Mineral SKINSCREEN™ from Ultra Violette features a featherlight formula that glides on sun protection with a nourishing finish. Ideal for hiking (and pretty much everything else), this SPF is packed with yummy skin-loving ingredients.
Shop Ultra Violette Future Fluid SPF 50+ Superlight Mineral SKINSCREEN at Cult Beauty, £38
3. The clever earbuds
Featuring a cool open-ear design, these ACCENTUM Open earbuds from Sennheiser are designed for adventurers to tune into their music and/or podcasts, while still allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of your natural surroundings. Plus, an IPX4 splash resistance rating ensures that rain won’t ruin your listening experience.
4. The hiking trainer
Perfect for those who like to fuse activity with style, these SpeedArc Matis GORE-TEX® trainers from Merrell have a wide range of clever shoe technology, including the ground-breaking SpeedARC™ midsole system which has been designed to provide ultimate comfort over every kind of terrain. Oh, and they’re waterproof. Happy days.
Shop Merrell Women’s SpeedArc Matis GORE-TEX® trainers, £190
5. The must-have skincare set
Barrier-boosting skincare brand BYOMA is having a moment in the beauty world right now, and with good reason. This So Hydrated Set is perfect for keeping dehydrated skin soothed and moisturised, while taking up zero space in your carry-on. Plus, the colourful packaging provides a fun little pick-me-up after a long-haul flight.
6. The frilly shorts
Frilly running shorts are officially a thing: why? Because they’re comfortable, breathable and still look really chic when worn with an oversized linen shirt and denim jacket (ie, when you’re not huffing and chuffing while hiking up a sand dune). We’re currently loving the Carpe Diem shorts from Free People’s FP Movement range as they come in a huge range of colours, pack well and look great with everything.
7. The lip conditioner
Enriched with nourishing grape seed oil and antioxidant grape polyphenols, this luxurious Caudalie Lip Conditioner will help soothe dry lips that have been battered by the elements. The stick formula makes it handy to carry while flying, while its sweet orange and vanilla fragrance subtly perfumes the lips for protection all day long.
8. The amphibious shoe
Wet shoes are an absolute game-changer for those who love to wild swim in stony areas or climb on wet rocks. These lightweight and flexible Ultra IV shoes from Vivobarefoot are designed for wearers to fully experience the terrain beneath their feet, while still being stylish enough to wear with a cute dress onshore.
9. The merino long-sleeve
With their products all handmade in East London, Usual Objections are a brand we’ve had our eye on for while now. Blending warmth, performance and sustainability, this long-sleeved UltraMerino top is the perfect layering piece. Keeping you warm on chilly hill hikes (and cool when dashing round busy airports), the combination of Italian merino and recycled polyester is both durable and breathable.
10. The support tank
Tops that double up as a sports bra are a great addition to an adventure travel packing list. Not only is the AllTheForm™ Support Tank from Vuori buttery soft (so it feels really luxurious against the skin), it also features a built-in shelf bra to offer support while you trek from place to place.
11. The crossbody bag
We first discovered brand Labo Mono on Instagram, and have since become obsessed with their fully customisable crossbody bags. Not only does the Modular Sling style have loads of pockets, but the neon rope strap makes it ideal for hiking. It also happens to be rain repellent.
12. The high performance swimsuit
We love the retro colour blocking in this zipped Speedo swimsuit. Plus, the material is both pilling-resistant (ideal if you’re having to rinse your swimsuit out repeatedly while away) and is UPF50+ to help prevent sunburn. The high neck style is also great for all the wild swimmers out there.
13. The backpack
If you’re planning a trip that demands a lot of trekking, this lightweight Abisko Hike 35 backpack from Swedish brand Fjällräven is the one for you. Boasting loads of technical features (think ALL the pockets), this pack ensures you get all your stuff from A to B with zero fuss.
14. The flight essential
Formulated with spicy ginger and soothing lavender, this clever little aromatherapy Aesop Ginger Flight Therapy roll on contains essential oils to help you feel calm and relaxed. Simply apply to your pulse points, and breathe in.
15. The everything leggings
There’s a reason lululemon leggings have achieved cult-like status. Powered by Everlux™, the Wunder Train High-Rise Tights have been designed to remain breathable while wicking sweat away from the body. They are also just amazingly comfy.
16. The water cup
Ideal for both hot and cold drinks, this 42oz (1.2l) Straw Mug from YETI will keep you hydrated on any short or long-haul trip. It’s also shatter-resistant, so no need to worry about dropping it on rough terrain. Plus, we love this summery peach colourway.
17. The cotton gilet
Stylish yet functional, this organic cotton gilet from Finisterre will serve you well on a summer hike, while looking chic when paired with the matching cotton trousers (below) when out for dinner in a local restaurant. Simply pair with a metallic sandal.
18. The workwear trousers
Barrel trousers are one of this season’s most-shopped shapes, and these organic cotton Croft Workwear trousers from Finisterre are another example of how practical utility clothes can double up as both walking gear and something smart to wear when out in the evening (especially when worn as a co-ord).
19. The bucket hat
Not just for festivals, a bucket hat is the perfect adventure travel piece, and this New Balance offering in super soft corduroy also happens to be bang on trend with its embroidered motif. Why we love? It rolls up tightly into your carry-on bag without creasing.
