Summer holiday essentials

Despite not having booked a summer holiday myself yet, I'm already thinking about what I'd take with me when I head off to sunnier climates. A summer holiday for me is all about taking the essentials, leaving as much room in my suitcase as possible for Turkish Delight and the odd bottle of duty free.

Here are my picks that will help you take what you need, without going over that pesky baggage allowance.

SPF - This La Roche Posay dry touch gel cream* is my current favourite for the face. It offers an SPF 50, so much less chance of a burnt nose! It also doesn't leave you feeling greasy, and works well with makeup applied over the top. 

Salt spray - Hot weather for me means relaxing on the heat styling and making the most of my natural waves. This Bumble and Bumble salt spray* helps encourage them to form, and gives the 'been at the beach all day' look. The 50ml mini size also means its perfect to take away on holiday without taking up much space in your suitcase. 

Nail polish - Summer nails need to be bright and this Color Club polish* is a perfect shade. It's long-lasting too, and looks good on both fingers and toes.  

Aloe Vera gel - This has been my saviour for cooling sunburn, prickly heat and also to help soothe the itchy effect of insect bits. Neat aloe vera gel works best, and this handy tube from Holland and Barratt will keep you going throughout the summer months. 

Facial mist - Perfect for cooling you down in the heat, facial mists are a summer staple for me. Spritz whenever you feel yourself getting overheated for an instant cooling effect. 

Make up - The Heatwave palette* from Smashbox is so versatile, offering ten shadows that will take you easily from day to night. They're all highly pigmented and long lasting, plus the palette contains a big mirror and shadow brush. Add some mascara and BB cream, and that's my holiday make up sorted! 

Travel minis - Being a bit of an over-packer, I try to take mini toiletries wherever possible to make maximum space for more sandals. This handy kit from Malin and Goetz* contains everything from shampoo to cleanser so is perfect for space saving. All of the products should last about a week to ten days, making them my choice for a week away. 

What are your summer holiday essentials?

*This post contains PR samples. My views are honest as always.