Planning a South Devon escape and staring at an empty suitcase thinking “where on earth do I even start?” Don’t panic, we’ve got you covered! We’ve put together this straightforward guide packed with smart packing tips, sensible advice, and a few essentials you genuinely do need to bring. No nonsense, no overwhelm, just practical help to make packing actually painless.

So grab your suitcase, make yourself a proper cuppa, and let’s get you sorted!

Pack Light (You’ll Thank Yourself Later)

Here’s the truth: you genuinely don’t need to pack as much as you think you do. And you definitely don’t need the kitchen sink (you’ll have one of those in your accommodation anyway!). That cocktail dress you might wear? Leave it. Those 10 pairs of shoes “just in case”? You’ll wear two, max. The hardback novel you’ve been meaning to read for three years? Grab the Kindle instead.

Packing light means everything you do bring is genuinely useful and essential for your trip. You’re not lugging unnecessary weight around, you’re not wasting time deciding between outfits you’ll never wear, and unpacking at the end is an absolute breeze.

But here’s the important bit: We’re not saying skip the little things that genuinely make your trip more comfortable! Absolutely bring those. Your favourite tea bags, that particular pillow that helps you sleep better, your comfy walking shoes, those are the things worth packing.
Psst… We’ve actually written a whole blog about the little comforts that make a big difference on a staycation – check it out here!

Just don’t bring things that’ll sit in your suitcase gathering dust for a week. Be honest with yourself: if you haven’t worn it in the last three months, you’re probably not going to wear it on holiday either.

Be Organised

Being organised might sound a bit boring, but honestly? It saves you SO much hassle in the long run. It saves space in your suitcase, keeps your belongings safe and easy to find, and, most importantly, lets you focus on what really matters: actually enjoying your getaway!

Planning Is Your Best Friend

You don’t need a military-level itinerary (this is a holiday, not a strategic operation!), but having even a rough idea of what you might get up to will massively help you pack smarter.

Ask yourself: What kind of break am I going on?

• Hiking holiday? Pack all-weather gear, sturdy walking shoes, and layers.
• Relaxing retreat? Comfy clothes, your favourite book, and maybe those cosy slippers.
• Family gathering? Games, activities for the kids, and your patience!

Another big question: Where are you eating? Are you planning to make use of your accommodation’s kitchen and cook your own meals? Or will you be treating yourselves to nearby restaurants? (We highly recommend Oceans Bar & Restaurant over at Lady’s Mile, by the way – absolutely brilliant!)

If you’re cooking, will you be bringing food with you or picking it up at a nearby supermarket when you arrive? These decisions affect what you pack, so it’s worth thinking about beforehand! See? Planning really is key!

Make A List (Yes, Really!)

Whether you create a comprehensive, foolproof list of absolutely everything or just scribble down the essentials on the back of an envelope, lists are genuinely lifesavers. A good list helps you see if you’re overpacking (do you really need seven jumpers for a three-day break?), AND it stops you forgetting crucial things. Like that toothbrush. Or your phone charger. Or your glasses. You know, the things you only remember when you’re already 50 miles down the road.

Top Tip: Check your list twice. Once when you’re packing, and once just before you leave. That second check has saved many a forgotten item!

Physically Packing

Right, you’ve got your list. Now it’s time to actually pack the suitcase. And guess what? Being organised here makes a HUGE difference too!

Smart packing strategies:

• Packing cubes – Absolute game-changers. Keep clothes organised, compress everything down, and make unpacking a breeze.
• Put outfits together – Pair tops with bottoms so you’re not rummaging through everything trying to find matching pieces later.
• Pack strategically – Things you’ll need first (toiletries, fresh clothes for arrival, phone charger) go near the TOP. Things you won’t need until later (fancy shoes, that “just in case” jumper) go at the bottom.

Why does this matter? Because imagine this: You arrive around dinnertime after a long journey. You’re tired, you’re hungry, and you just want to freshen up and head to the restaurant. If your nice, clean outfit is right at the top of your suitcase? Sorted in two minutes. If it’s buried under everything else? Frustration central.

Future you will genuinely thank present you for being organised. Trust us on this one!

Packing Essentials (The Things You Actually Need)

Right, let’s talk about what you genuinely should pack. No frills, no maybes, just the proper essentials that’ll make your South Devon break comfortable and stress-free.

Basic Toiletries

The non-negotiables: toothbrush, toothpaste, shower gel, shampoo, deodorant, you know the drill. Don’t forget any prescription medications or daily essentials like glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aid batteries.

Top Tip: Decant your favourites into travel-sized bottles rather than lugging full-size products. Lighter suitcase, same great shower experience!

Comfy Clothes

You’re on holiday, not attending a board meeting! Pack clothes that feel good to wear, soft fabrics, relaxed fits, things you can actually relax in. Think: comfy trousers, cosy jumpers, tops you can layer. Leave the scratchy, restrictive stuff at home. If you wouldn’t happily lounge around in it with a cuppa and a good book, don’t bring it. Simple as that!

Sturdy Shoes

South Devon has some absolutely gorgeous views, stunning coastal paths, beautiful beaches, charming villages, and you’ll want to explore them! Pack proper, sturdy walking shoes with a good grip. Your feet will thank you after a lovely clifftop walk, and you won’t be slipping on those coastal paths. Bring a comfy pair of casual shoes for evenings too. Your feet deserve options!

Swimwear

Now, this one depends on your plans! If you’re staying in accommodation with a hot tub (and honestly, you should – take a look at our gorgeous hot tub lodges here!), pack your swimmers. There’s nothing quite like soaking in a hot tub under the stars after a day exploring. Absolute bliss. Fancy braving the sea? Go for it! Just maybe check the water temperature first. The Devon sea is… bracing. Let’s put it that way.

All-Weather Gear

Let’s face it, British weather is about as reliable as a chocolate teapot. One minute it’s glorious sunshine, the next it’s chucking it down. Welcome to the UK!

What to pack:

• Sun cream – Even on cloudy days, UV rays get through. Protect that skin!
• Umbrella or lightweight waterproof jacket – For when the heavens inevitably open
• Hat and sunglasses – For the sunny spells (fingers crossed!)

Basically, pack for all four seasons, and you’ll be sorted. It might seem over the top, but you’ll be SO glad you did when everyone else is caught out!

You’re Now Officially Packing Pros!

There you have it, everything you need to pack smartly, sensibly, and stress-free for your South Devon getaway! Using these straightforward tips and tricks means you can focus on what genuinely matters: enjoying your break, soaking up the coastal air, and making memories you’ll treasure for years to come. Not worrying about whether you’ve packed the right socks or forgotten your phone charger. From planning your list to actually zipping up that suitcase – you’ve got this sorted.

But even if something slips through the cracks (and let’s be honest, it happens to everyone!), don’t stress. Seriously. Don’t let one forgotten item derail your entire break. You’re heading to South Devon, not the middle of nowhere. There are shops! Supermarkets! Pharmacies! If you forget your toothbrush, suncream, or that specific tea you like, you can pop out and grab it. Easy. The world won’t end. Your holiday won’t be ruined. You’ll just have a funny story about the time you had to buy emergency flip-flops because you forgot yours.

Most Importantly: Enjoy Yourself!
You’ve planned, you’ve packed, you’ve got everything sorted. Now it’s time to actually go and have a brilliant time. Relax. Explore. Breathe in that gorgeous sea air. Make memories. Laugh. Rest. Your South Devon escape is waiting, and it’s going to be wonderful.

So, book your stay at Oakcliff now! Click here to secure your spot and create unforgettable memories!

If you enjoyed our blog ‘Smart Packing Tips for Your South Devon Getaway’, you might like our other blogs. Find them here.