I’m lucky enough to have been on a few spa breaks over the last couple of years (hell, after the year I’ve had, I’ve needed them), and I’ve gone from serial overpacker to a more edited, streamline version of my former self.
It’s easy to pack outfit changes, a ton of makeup + 101 things you think you’ll need for a spa break, but the reality is you don’t need much! I’ve got it down to an art these days, so I’m sharing my must takes, and my must leave behinds!
DON’T FORGET
A Swimsuit. Perhaps this is personal preference, but when I’m in a spa, dipping in and out of whirlpools, steam rooms and saunas, I feel much more comfortable in a swimsuit than a bikini. It’s nice to know all your bits are tucked in and less likely to fall out, and I know it’s silly, but I like wearing a swimsuit and not worrying about stomach rolls and muffin tops whilst I’m trying to relax!
A Body Moisturiser. After a day in water, getting in and out of chlorinated pools, even post shower it’s likely you’re skin is going to feel a little dry. Take a thick, luxurious body butter that you can slather yourself in before bed, when else do you treat yourself to a good all over moisturise?
A Book. Whilst spas tend to be something of a social experience, relaxing with friends, your partner or your mama, in my case, sometimes treatments don’t finish at the same time, and sometimes you just want an hour to relax on your own. I love curling up in cosy spa spaces with a book, in fact it tends to be where I get most engrossed! Chuck one in and I guarantee you won’t regret it!
A Moisturising Conditioner. Chlorine is a devil for drying things out, and hair is no exception! I always like to pack a thick, moisturising conditioner, and give my hair an intense treatment at the end of the day, to keep my locks soft and silky!
Hairbands. The amount of times I’ve gotten into my swimsuit only to realise I’ve forgotten a hairband! These are especially important if you’re having a massage or anything like that to keep your hair out of the way!
LEAVE AT HOME
Your laptop. There’s a time and a place for work and a spa isn’t one of them. You don’t need your laptop so leave it at home, and embrace time without screens,
Your makeup collection. When you’re lazing about in treatments and spa rooms, the last thing you need is contour, highlight and a red lip. I’ll often chuck in a tinted moisturiser and mascara for the evenings or the day we leave, but other than that I leave the makeup at home, and use the time to let my skin breathe!
Uncomfortable clothes. Ain’t nobody got time for skin tight high waisted jeans, heeled shoes, or swimsuits with 1000 straps. Comfort is key, pack your favourite clothes!
What are your spa break essentials?