How to Pack: Family of Six, Summer Edition

stylememoore1
Mar 17
4 min read

Packing for a family summer holiday can feel like a massive, dreaded task, especially when you’re responsible for everyone. The pressure of remembering everything, creating outfits, and trying not to overpack can leave you feeling overwhelmed before you’ve even left the house.

But here’s the truth: packing doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, it can actually feel organised, calm, and even exciting.

As a fashion stylist and a mum of four with a growing community of over 9k followers, I’ve helped so many women simplify their wardrobes, and packing is no different. It’s all about having a system that works.

Start Early and Take the Pressure Off

For me, packing is one of those jobs I like to do a couple of weeks before we travel. Once it’s done, I know one of the biggest tasks is ticked off, and I can start relaxing into that holiday mindset.

When you leave packing until the last minute, you panic-pack. That’s when you throw in random pieces that don’t go together, overpack “just in case,” and still feel like you’ve forgotten something.

Packing early gives you clarity. You can see what works, what’s missing, and most importantly, everything actually matches.

Packing for a Family of Six

As a family of six, packing is a major task. I have two teenage boys and two very girly girls, so their needs are completely different, but the method stays the same: everything must mix and match.

Packing for My Girls

For a 7-day holiday, I keep it simple but stylish. I pack 5 evening dresses so they always have options without overpacking. During the day, they have 2 pairs of shorts, one denim that can be dressed up or down, and 5 t-shirts.

Swimwear is essential, so I pack 3 swimsuits each with cover-ups. This means there’s always a dry option ready.

Footwear is kept minimal but practical: two pairs of sandals (one casual, one for evenings), plus a pair of trainers for walking or activities. I always stick to neutral colours so everything works together effortlessly.

They travel in a comfy tracksuit, which they wear on the plane, to the destination, and again on the way home.

And one rule I never break, double the underwear. Between swimming, days out, and outfit changes, you can never have too many.

Packing for My Boys

For my boys, I focus on smart-casual versatility. I pack 4 shirt and shorts co-ords for evenings, 1 pair of smart jeans, and 1 pair of chino shorts.

They each have 2 pairs of swimming shorts to alternate, along with 5 t-shirts that can be dressed up or down.

Shoes are kept simple: one pair of trainers for travel, walking, and activities, one pair of smarter trainers or summer shoes for evenings, and one pair of sandals.

Again, everything works together, no random items that only match one outfit.

Packing for Me (The Busy Mum)

Let’s be honest—mums are never fully “off duty” on holiday. We’re still organising, getting everyone ready, and keeping things running smoothly. So our outfits need to be easy, effortless, and still make us feel amazing.

I keep my beauty routine quick and realistic. A slick bun for evenings when I’m short on time, a swipe of mascara, a little brow gel, and coconut oil on the lips for that natural glow.

Outfit-wise, I pack 5 easy evening dresses that I can just slip on. During the day, I rely on denim shorts that can be dressed up or down, 5 bikinis, and 3 cover-ups that all work together.

I’ll also include a trouser co-ord, 4 t-shirts, one neutral evening bag, and a beach bag.

For shoes: one pair of neutral heels, one pair of trainers, and my go-to Birkenstocks.

Everything is chosen to mix and match—so no matter what I reach for, it works.

The Secret to Stress-Free Packing

The biggest mistake people make is packing outfits that don’t go together.

The solution? Think in outfit combinations, not individual items.

Every piece you pack should work with at least 2–3 other items. This is what I call a “mix and match wardrobe,” and it completely removes the stress of deciding what to wear on holiday.

If you want a simple method to follow, try the “Sudoku packing” approach. Lay out your clothes in rows - tops, bottoms, layers and make sure each row works across with the others. If everything mixes, you’ve done it right.

How I Pack My Suitcase

I never lay everything flat.

Instead, I fold and stack my clothes upright, like books on a shelf. This not only saves space but also allows you to see everything clearly without messing up your case.

Each family member gets their own beach towel, sunglasses, and a sunhat. The kids also wear baseball caps on travel days, along with a light jacket.

And for travel day essentials, I always use a crossbody bum bag worn under a zip-up hoodie. This keeps passports, money, and important documents safe and close.

And please, do not forget your passports!

How I Can Help You

If you’re reading this and thinking, “I still wouldn’t know where to start,” that’s exactly where I come in.

As a stylist, I don’t just put outfits together, I create systems that make your life easier. Whether it’s packing for a holiday, building a wardrobe, or knowing what actually suits you, I take away the overwhelm and give you confidence.

Imagine opening your suitcase and loving every single outfit. No stress, no overpacking, no last-minute panic.

That’s what I do for my clients. Want this done for you?

I offer personalised styling services to help you build outfits, plan your wardrobe, and even pack stress-free for your holidays.

If you’re ready to feel confident and put-together without the overwhelm, email me at info@stylememoore.com to book your session today.