Vacation Wardrobe On A Budget.

Imagine you've bagged that cheap flight, booked your holiday accommodation but have little money left for new clothes.  That is exactly the dilemma faced by my reader J, a lady in her late 40's, who contacted me saying she hadn't been abroad for the last six years, needed help with a holiday capsule wardrobe and a new suitcase, all within a tiny budget of just £200! Luckily I am always up for the challenge, although this one isn't particularly easy, especially when the reader has certain body concerns, doesn't wear dresses and has some health issues with her hands and feet, which put bags with fiddly clasps and heels of any description out of the equation, but it can be done and although the pieces featured may not fit everyone's holiday requirements, hopefully you can find some inspiration or pick up some of the bargain pieces I have tracked down for your own summer get away.

Luggage is often a massive expense but Tripp suitcases currently have huge reductions at Debenhams. I've had one for years so it comes with a personal recommendation, lightweight and very easy to manoeuvre which is an important factor for my readers arthritic hands, also the perfect choice if you can't afford a neon Antler.

A top tip apart from mixing and matching is to delegate your clothes by wearing them for nights out first then using as daywear. Especially good if only taking a cabin case. Kaftan's can be worn over lightweight trousers for evening before acting as a swimsuit cover up and shorts are easily dressed up for evening or down for daytime.
Chunky custom jewellery is a great way to transform a day to evening look and statement necklaces dress up classic crew neck t-shirts with ease. New Look have some gorgeous necklaces with all their jewellery currently on a buy one get one free promotion.


 

My holiday money saving hints and tips.

• Keep calm and don't panic! Don't assume you have absolutely nothing to wear on holiday, sort through the clothes you wore last summer, you are bound to have short sleeve or vest type t-shirts that can be worn during the day with shorts, and lightweight trousers or maxi skirts that can be given a whole new lease of life by purchasing a new pretty floral or printed top. You don't get much for £200 so will have to mix and match the new with old.
• Primark, Peacocks and the holiday shop online at New Look with sunglasses from £2.99 and denim shorts from just £8 here will be your holiday wardrobes best friend.
• Don't forget ebay but always check that any item you are buying is in excellent condition. If the seller doesn't state this in the listing - ask before you bid and buy!
• Buy a bag for the beach that can double up as your travel bag or vice versa!
• Buy two bikini's one printed and one plain and mix and match to create four different looks.
• Buy Suntan lotions when on a buy one get one free deal or half price offer from Boots etc. Prepare well by buying now with all tanning products currently half price at Superdrug here.
• Avoid travel sized products like they plague, on a cost per fluid ounce basis these work out so much more expensive.  Decant family sized product into smaller containers you have saved and washed up to save money.
• Buy toiletries every week in with your food shop. If you go out and buy everything you need in one shop, you will be shocked at the total cost and it would be much better to take that £50 on holiday with you than spend it in the chemist!
• I like to pack light and have previously book flights with hand luggage only, so always wear trousers/jeans, ballet pumps and a lightweight jacket or cardigan for the journey. These items come in handy if you get a rainy day, which can happen even in August so don't get caught out!
• When shopping online try to order a few things from each website you are using so that you qualify for free delivery and allow time for returns and re-orders.
• Summer sales usually start mid June so if you are going away after that time, make a list of what you need and get ready to grab a bargain.  Two of my daughters aren't going away until September and although they are already eyeing up swimwear I have told them to wait patiently! 
• Avoid excess baggage charges at the airport by checking your airlines baggage allowance and weighing/measuring suitcases before you leave home. Far better to spend your money on scent or skincare in Duty Free!

What are your top tips for saving money on your holiday wardrobe or packing lightly?