There are two distinct types of people in the world: those who live for packing for their holidays and those who loathe it. The former is the one who starts an Excel spreadsheet detailing every outfit they plan on wearing two weeks ahead of their trip. The latter can be found bundling random t-shirts into their case mere hours before they depart.

But as much of a chore as it can seem, packing your suitcase doesn’t have to be stressful and complicated, especially in the haze of the last-minute “where’s my passport?” rush out of the door. 

Whatever your packing style, it’s important to be as methodical as possible. “Travelling, especially with larger suitcases can become chaotic when not properly organised: your clothes become creased, it can be unnecessarily stressful and no one needs that,” agrees Antler’s Kirsty Glenne. “Things like packing cubes are essential to maintain some form of order inside the case.”

And indeed, whether you’re only travelling with hand luggage or taking all you need for a long-haul trip, there’s another helpful packing hack: the 5-4-3-2-1 rule.

Coined by blogger Geneva Vanderzeil back in 2015, this strategy has remained popular on social media in the decade since, promising to help you simplify your suitcase and avoid the annoyance of overpacking altogether.

So what is this rule? And how can you try it for yourself?

Think of the 5-4-3-2-1 method like the ultimate capsule wardrobe. When packing for your holiday, Vanderzeil advises taking just five tops, four bottoms, three dresses, three pairs of shoes, two swimwear items, two bags, one hat, one watch or accessory item and one pair of sunglasses.

The key, though, is making sure everything you choose is flexible and adaptable – you should be able to mix and match almost all these items so you have enough outfit variations not to get bored.

While the 5-4-3-2-1 method may take a little bit of forward thinking, it’s ultimately worth it to avoid the added cost and weight of unnecessary luggage, and carrying around those clothes you packed ‘just in case’ but never end up wearing.

Note that the five tops includes any outerwear you might need (like a gilet or lightweight jacket) as well as tops that can work for both day and night. Similarly, pack a selection of bottoms – shorts, skirts and trousers – that are a mix of lengths and styles, as well as lightweight and breathable. Unsure? Linen dresses are always a good idea, as are shirred midis and beach-ready maxis.

Footwear is where a lot of us become unstuck in our packing, but the trick is to pick very wearable shoes that go with everything else in your suitcase. Comfort is important, so stick to sandals or low-heel mules. For bags, consider packing a large tote (useful when travelling, too), plus a smaller crossbody or clutch for evenings or when you don’t want to be carrying too much.

When it comes to accessories, consider a tarnish-free jewellery piece that you won’t have to take off during a dip in the sea, or a classic watch to smarten up an outfit. Add some reliable swimwear, a stylish summer hat, a pair of protective-yet-chic sunglasses and you’re good to go – whatever your destination. 

Still in the market for more ways to make travel stress-free and simple? Read on for our recommended packing essentials. 

Images: Getty/courtesy of brands