Sure, this approach might seem a little boring or safe, but sticking to tried and trusted neutral colours can actually help you create a plethora of classic and timeless looks that subtly communicate you are a stylish and sophisticated male. Just look to icons like Dean, Newman, McQueen, Sinatra and Grant for confirmation.

Personal Picks

Obviously, outside of a business trip, everyone’s personal style is completely unique, so it’s difficult to tell you exactly what to pack. However, here’s a sneak peak at what I would include in my own travel bag:

• Grey chinos
• White and blue Oxford cloth shirts
• White and navy t-shirts
• Thick denim or flannel shirt
• Navy cardigan
• Grey v-neck jumper
• Neutral knitted tie
• Black Adidas Sambas
• Brown desert boots
• Navy winter weight blazer
• A statement knit, such as an orange cable knit jumper

And that really is about it in terms of clothing (along with my travel outfit).

Socks and underwear get folded, rolled and stored inside the shoes or available pockets, whilst I also include a small toiletry bag full of grooming essentials – toothbrush, moisturiser, face wash, razor, shaving prep and shower gel – and a towel. I even normally have enough room to spare that I can pack a few books, just in case.

As for packing technique, I find that rolling, rather than folding, is the best way of maximising space when travelling. If you’re taking anything even remotely resembling a suit jacket, roll it loosely and make sure that you hang it up in the bathroom when you shower so that the steam gets rid of the creases.

Key Pieces

• Asos Slim Chino In Brushed Cotton
• Farah Vintage Oxford Shirt With Button Down Collar
• Allsaints Fantem V-neck T-shirt
• He By Mango Slim-fit End-on-end Shirt
• Uniqlo Men Flannel Checked Long Sleeve Shirt K
• River Island Navy Blue Crew Neck T-shirt
• Acne Isherwood Denim Shirt
• Reiss Dennis Mercerised Wool Cardigan Navy
• John Smedley Bobby V-neck Merino Wool Sweater
• He By Mango Wool-blend Knit Tie
• Adidas Originals Samba M – Trainers – Black/white
• Topman Dune Brown Suede Desert Boots
• He By Mango Unstructured Herringbone Wool-blend Blazer
• River Island Rust Red Twist Chunky Cable Knit Jumper
• Penfield Danbury Washbag

Final Word

So there you have it guys, my guide to travelling smart and in style over the coming holidays. Next week we cover how to do the same thing when you’re off on business.