I always pack as if I’m preparing for a small, beautiful experiment: what pieces will make mornings simple, afternoons easy and evenings feel considered? For a long weekend in the Cotswolds — where cottage charm meets muddy walks and cosy pubs — my aim is to bring a compact wardrobe, sensible beauty minis and a few easy snacks that feel like treats. Here’s exactly what I tuck into my bag, and why each item earns its place.
My packing philosophy for a short country escape
I pack light but deliberately. That means a small capsule of mix-and-match clothes, a pared-back beauty kit that keeps skin happy, and a handful of snacks to stave off hunger between farmhouse lunches. The Cotswolds is about layers, texture and comfort — think knitwear, wellies, a smart coat and one or two pieces that feel a bit special for dinners or pub quizzes.
Clothing: a tiny capsule that works hard
I aim for outfits that can be built from eight core pieces. Everything should pair with everything else so I’m never standing in front of my little suitcase unsure what to wear.
- Neutral trench or mid-length wool coat — I pick a coat that’s smart enough for a pub dinner but practical for wind and drizzle. A beige trench (or a camel wool coat if it’s colder) is my default.
- Comfy knit — a midweight, crew or roll-neck in cream or navy. It layers well and looks pulled together without effort.
- Striped long-sleeve top — my classic Breton or a fine-knit stripe for daytime walks and coffee stops.
- Lightweight shirt — a crisp white or soft flannel, depending on the season. I use it for layering or as a casual night-out option.
- Jeans + tailored trousers — one pair of well-fitting jeans (I prefer straight-leg) and one pair of smart trousers — black or navy — for a smarter dinner look.
- Casual dress — a midi wrap or shirt dress that works with boots by day and a blazer by night.
- Outerwear extras: a packable puffer or lightweight down vest if it’s early spring/late autumn; a scarf that’s both cosy and pretty.
- Shoes: wellies or waterproof boots for muddy walks, comfortable trainers for exploring villages, and ankle boots or loafers for evenings.
- Accessories: a crossbody bag, a pair of gold hoop earrings (they elevate every outfit), and a beanie or wool hat.
Example outfit matrix (easy to mix-and-match)
| Day | Outfit | Shoes |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday morning (arrival + walk) | Striped top + jeans + knit + trench | Waterproof boots |
| Saturday afternoon | Dress + knit tied at waist | Trainers |
| Saturday night (pub dinner) | Trousers + shirt + trench + hoops | Ankle boots |
| Sunday (market + countryside) | Jeans + shirt + puffer + scarf | Waterproof boots |
| Travel home | Jeans + knit + comfortable trainers | Trainers |
Beauty minis: the small kit I actually use
I refuse to cart a bathroom of products. Instead I choose travel-sized versions or decant favourites into 30–50 ml bottles that fit easily inside a zip pouch. My priorities are hydration, SPF (if there’s sun), and a fuss-free makeup look for photos and pub nights.
- Cleansing balm (mini tub or a small jar) — I love a balm to remove SPF and any impurities after a long day outdoors. It’s gentle and nourishing.
- Foaming cleanser or micellar water — for the morning cleanse, something quick and refreshing.
- Lightweight moisturiser + facial oil — a hydrating day cream (with SPF if you prefer one-step) and a small dropper bottle of oil for evenings if skin’s feeling dry. Brands I reach for: La Roche-Posay for gentle SPF, The Ordinary or The Inkey List for budget-friendly serums and oils.
- SPF — non-negotiable. I use a face SPF 30 in a travel tube.
- Tinted moisturiser or light foundation — for even skin on the go; saves space over a full foundation routine.
- Multipurpose stick — cream blush/lip tint/eye shadow in one; I often use a product like Glossier Cloud Paint or a MAC lipstick stick for added convenience.
- Mini mascara + brow gel — two small tubes to tidy up features for evenings.
- Hair essentials: travel brush, a small dry shampoo (mini) and a hair clip. If I know I’ll take photos, I bring a travel-sized sea salt spray for texture.
- Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant (solid sticks save space), and a tiny bottle of hand cream.
Extras that make the trip nicer
These are the little things that change a weekend from practical to delightfully cosy.
- Silk or cotton eye mask and earplugs — because strange beds and early church bells exist in the Cotswolds.
- Reusable water bottle — refillable and saves single-use plastic. I like one with a wide mouth for easy filling from country taps.
- Small umbrella or a packable rain cape — the British weather is famously unpredictable.
- Portable phone charger — for long photo days.
- Book or a journal — I always pack a slim paperback or my journal to record small observations.
Food and snacks: easy, thoughtful fuel
I like snacks that are compact, non-perishable (for traveling), and feel like a treat when hunger strikes between stops. If I’m staying in a cottage with a kitchen, I might bring a few special things; otherwise I rely on a mix of local shopping and these staples.
- Energy balls or homemade oat bites — I make a batch before I leave: oats, nut butter, honey, dark chocolate chips and a pinch of sea salt. They store well and are great mid-walk.
- Roasted nut mix + dried fruit — compact and filling.
- Crackers and a small jar of chutney or honey — for a spontaneous cheese board in the evening. If I have room I bring a small, wrapped block of cheese (or buy locally on arrival).
- Dark chocolate squares — because the pub might not always offer the exactly right pudding.
- Instant coffee sachets or favourite tea bags — cottage kettles are charming, but I like a familiar brew first thing.
Packing tips I actually use
- Roll clothes where you can to save space and reduce creasing. I fold knits flat and roll shirts.
- Keep one small tote or foldable shopper in the bag for market finds.
- Put beauty minis and snacks in clear pouches so I can pull them out without unpacking everything.
- Wear your bulkiest items (boots, coat) on travel days to free up suitcase space.
- Make a small checklist on your phone the evening before so you don’t forget charging cables or that emergency pair of socks.
Packing for the Cotswolds is really about respecting the slow rhythm of the place: practical pieces for walks, a couple of nicer items for meals out, and a tiny beauty and snack kit to keep things simple and enjoyable. When I arrive, I want to spend my time exploring lanes, swapping boots for a cosy chair by a fire, and not fussing over what to wear or which product to reach for. That’s my perfect long weekend.
