Having your suitcase open but not knowing what to pack is a feeling familiar to us all. And of course, it really all depends on your destination – perhaps you’re catching the sun in Menorca, hiking in the Alps or staycationing in Cornwall (might we suggest a raincoat for the latter?). Thankfully, Sloane Street’s boutiques are plentiful and varied, so you will have no trouble shopping for your next getaway. Here, we have rounded up the highlights to give you a head start. 

First things first, book in for a Men’s Signature Facial at Ushvani spa in Cadogan Gardens to ensure you are looking and feeling your best before you’ve even left Chelsea. Next, stock up on grooming essentials, like high-quality sun protection and a fragrance. Skin specialist Sarah Chapman offers a Summer Skin Invisible Duo at her clinic on Pavilion Road, and it comes with a general SPF 50 cream alongside a dedicated one for the sensitive area around your eyes. A spritz of Jo Malone London’s travel-sized Earl Grey & Cucumber cologne will be just the thing to perk you up mid-flight, and the scent will forever remind you of your imminent trip. 

Now, if you are heading to the beach then you will need some good swim shorts, such as Loro Piana’s Albatross style – available in muted yellow or blue – or Burberry’s bright orange ones (which make quite the statement with the matching T-shirt). You will probably want a book to read while soaking up the sun, and there is no one better placed to provide a recommendation than the literary experts at John Sandoe on Blacklands Terrace. A beach bag is essential for storing your reading materials, sunglasses and other items – Hermès has a cool, capacious option available in store, and while you are visiting, check out its straw hat, which is ideal for keeping the sun off. 

Some easy yet stylish sandals are also important, and Brunello Cucinelli’s buckled ones fit the bill because the beige suede means they will go with everything. Hermès’ cotton-canvas and leather option, meanwhile, offers more of an outdoorsy look.

Speaking of outdoorsy, if you’re the adventurous type then be sure to go armed with the right kit, such as Hogan’s thick-soled hiking boots, and Brunello Cucinelli’s lightweight polo shirt and cargo-inspired shorts, which bridge the gap between smart and functional. Hermès’ waterproof bucket hat is also one for your shopping list. 

Explorers who want to make a splash in the water and the style stakes should invest in Dior’s snorkelling mask, which is made in collaboration with underwater equipment expert Beuchat (tip: you might have to order this one into the store). And don’t forget a diving watch – Omega’s is a timeless option that you will wear long after the holiday is over. 

For dinners and events, you’ll want to pack smart shoes, such as Tod’s suede driving ones, and some complementing trousers – we like Tom Ford’s Cooper style, made from cool and comfortable silk. We recommend investing in Loro Piana’s white linen André shirt for such occasions because it works just as well for a coastal lunch as it does an elegant meal in town. 

Holidaying is also a good time to road-test a new colour or a bolder style than you’d typically wear back home. A floral shirt like Saint Laurent’s is a good place to start, or you could try clashing prints with Dolce & Gabbana’s leopard and floral-patterned iteration. These bright trainers, also from the Italian brand at number 175, are another way to push the boat out. 

And finally, in between all those Aperol Spritzes, make sure you stay hydrated by sipping on cold water from the ultimate in stylish drinking vessels: Louis Vuitton’s monogrammed flask.