The rule of three
Three tops, three bottoms, three pairs of socks and pants. That's the spine of a one-bag Mediterranean wardrobe. Everything should mix and match, and nothing should need ironing.
Choose a single colour palette (navy and white works everywhere) and you'll halve your packing list.
The essentials you'll forget
Sunscreen is cheaper at home. A power bank will save your phone on day trips. A foldable tote bag doubles as a beach bag.
And yes, pack a small first-aid kit. Pharmacies abroad are great, but plasters are easier from your own bag.
- One pair of walking sandals, one pair of smarter shoes
- A light layer for breezy evenings
- Swimwear that dries fast
- A refillable water bottle
What to leave behind
The 'just in case' outfit. The second pair of jeans. The hair tools you'll never plug in. If you haven't worn it in a month, it doesn't come.
Worst case, you buy something there. That's half the fun.






