Which Swimwear Choice at 64? Plus, My Holiday Packing Checklist

Bikini, swimsuit or tankini…. What is your favourite choice of swimwear?  But first……

We’ve just returned from a holiday to Puerto Mogan in Gran Canaria. This was a chance to recharge our batteries and top up the old vitamin D. We have visited this part of the Canary Islands many times, and, once again, it didn’t fail to deliver. While we were there, we had the treat of a lively jazz festival along with Gay Pride being hosted just down the road in Maspalomas. This all contributed to a bustling, upbeat vibrancy which we thoroughly enjoyed.

When it comes to holiday packing, my responsibilities have diminished, somewhat. In the past, I would arrange the holiday pack for my two sons (not the husband). There were also loose ends to tie up at work, along with making sure members of my family and pets were well looked after while we were away. Now that the “kidiwinks” have grown up, responsibilities regarding holiday preparation have subsided, resulting in a new relaxed state of mind. It’s one I’m happily adapting to, though it’s a fine line between being organised and forgetting everything. 

Check-list

In truth, the following check-list is pretty much obvious! But, this free and easy mindset of mine means I still need a reminder. Here goes:

• make sure you have the essentials (passport, tickets, medications, money and currency;

• “don’t forget your toothbrush” – note to self – because I forgot our electric toothbrushes and heads on our previous holiday – very inconvenient!!!;

• check the validity of all passports. – here’s a link where you can do that;

• send Boarding Passes to the wallet on your phone – easier when hitting the dreaded check-in, which can be survival of the fittest!;

• pack two pairs of sunglasses;

• check the destination’s weather forecast – this can determine what to pack – hopefully, not waterproof!; 

• if you are booking a last-minute getaway like we did in January, check where the best temperatures for winter sunshine are – this worked for us in January; and, finally

• check and consider if there are any major events planned at your destination – this can have a huge impact on whether the place is busy or quiet and the effect on prices in restaurants and bars, and the two unplanned festivals we hit in Gran Canaria were a happy surprise for us, – but it could have gone the other way.

Underwear

I am a girl who likes her comfortable cotton knickers, especially in the heat. I also try to ditch my bra. I have a few summer dresses where I can just get away with it. And, nipple covers (I’ve included a few below), are needed for modesty purposes. I picked them up in Primark for a few pounds and they do the job. Instead of a bra, I prefer pulling on one of my two cotton bandeau bras (black and white). They are super comfortable and a great solution to wear with a halter neck top.

What To Wear

I focus on my favourite summer wear which I know will make me feel good. I tend to make a mental note of outfits which have worked in the past, especially if revisiting a country or resort.

On packing day, I put everything out in one place, including shoes and accessories. This gives me a much better idea of what is going to work. My colour choices are my favourite neutrals, along with a few brights to zhuzh things up. I add a few black and white vest tops – the ones with a fitted bra because they are easy to throw on with pants, jeans, shorts or a midi/maxi skirt. I wore these a lot on my last vacation. 

Part of my holiday is having a choice, outfit-wise. I wouldn’t enjoy wearing the same sarong as a cover-up, dress, skirt or scarf, on repeat. So, I do have a problem with packing light. A “work in progress”, I guess.

Footwear Comfort is Key

I find trainers are great for travelling to/from airports and everything in between. I also take beach, flat and block-heeled sandals. I have an old pair of Birkenstocks which are like slippers. But, there is the risk of them disintegrating, soon, because my feet aren’t dainty. My newish ones refuse to adapt to my feet, so that’s another “work in progress”. I won’t be packing these.

Packing

Rolling clothes – do you use this technique? I hear lots of travellers saying this method helps with space optimization organisation and bulky garment compression. I pack most of my beauty products (weight allowing) in my case and wrap them in between items, or in sandals. I seal the top of the product with heavy-duty tape and then pop the item into a freezer bag so, no leakages…..it’s worked, so far, after all these years.

Suitcase

Yes, to four wheels! So much easier on the shoulders and back. As you can see, we have gone for non-black, and non-flashy-looking hard suitcases. They combine durability and function. These cases stand out on the conveyor belt in the sea of dark-coloured suitcases. We’ve also strategically placed a few strips of grey tape, so easily recognised when you are four deep at the conveyor belt. 

Sun hats and SPF 50 Suncream

I take an array of sun hats, which I put in my hand luggage so they don’t get squashed/flattened.  My favourite SPF50 suncream is from Boots.  It doesn’t leave as much of the usual white cast.  I used the Superdrug version on this holiday and wasn’t very impressed, so won’t be re-purchasing.  My all time favourite facial SPF50 is from Nivea, not that expensive and does the job well.  I have used it for over five years and it glides on, moisturises and is great protection from the sun – also combines well with a light foundation or tinted moisturiser.

Kindles

If you have bought books on Amazon for your Kindle at home, make sure that you have downloaded them prior to leaving. On our last holiday, the Wi-Fi in our accommodation wouldn’t allow me to download my newly purchased books. Finally, after googling the problem, I learned that, if I logged into the hotspot on my mobile phone, this would enable me to connect my Kindle. I was then able to download my books and all relaxation was restored! One of my purchases is, “My Name is Barbra” – Barbra Streisand. It’s a fantastic read, I am still enjoying it.

Multi-plug extension cable

This is a must for holidays. Great for charging up appliances, and using hair dryers, and straighteners, especially when wall sockets are in short supply.

Beach bag

I find this old calico bag more versatile than a straw one. I take it on the plane as my hand luggage, to the beach, pool, and sometimes use it in the evenings as it holds cardigans and other useful items. On my return, I pop it in the washing machine and it looks brand new, again.

Firestick

This won’t be everyone’s cup of tea because some want to escape television. But, as we are news junkies, we take ours to keep up with what is happening in the world. I found this useful when I visited my son in Hong Kong. It was handy filling in the time when my son had to work.

And, lastly…… all chargers and travel plug adapters.

My holiday purchases so far, this year:  Black Bikini. With both classic and high waist knickers (Marks and Spencers), and Swimsuit – Primark £14.00

I tend to follow the same cue for swimwear shopping as any other fashion item. My initial attraction is a flattering design, good quality material and colours which will wake up my summer skin!

Age is no longer a barrier, here, and by the rocketing sales figures on the high street, the marketeers may be, finally, making notes of the fifty-plus spender. I opt for all – bikinis, tankinis or a one-piece, no rules. I probably opt more for a bikini as I enjoy the freedom when hopping in and out of the pool.  I also prefer to ignore any negativity regarding what should and shouldn’t be worn in the swimwear forum. Our bodies show we have lived a life and are, thankfully, still enjoying it. So, let’s celebrate that and wear what the heck we want to.

What I look for when choosing swimwear 

Getting the size right – we are all different shapes and sizes. If you prefer more structure around the bra region, look for cup-sized options, and….try a fair few items on. I do!  My preferred go-to style is the classic and high waist knicker with full cheek coverage.  I look for swimwear which promotes age, size and body positivity.  Also, I check if the company is using the latest sustainable fabrics and practices.

Over Sized Linen Shirt

This beautiful 100% linen shirt was £32.00! What an absolute bargain. I wore it most days on holiday. You can see the versatility of this item. I am showing you, here, just a few ways it can be worn. But, there are countless others. I have noticed there are many colour options for this style on the high street. It’s certainly elevated my summer wardrobe – perfect, if you are after a light, durable and effortlessly relaxed style to wear over beachwear, or something to throw on when you are going out to explore. Perfect for hot weather dressing.

I hope you have enjoyed my post which may contain some affiliate links. If you click through to the product, there is no cost to you. The small commission I may earn helps me with the costs of running my blog. 

See you next time!!!