Summer’s essentials travel companions

Pick a classic book set in the place you’re travelling to. The Leopard by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa would be perfect for an Italian jaunt. It’s a wonderful and vivid story about the Prince of Salina and life in 19th-century Sicily during the Risorgimento.

A string bag is invaluable on any trip as it’s stowable, light and expandable. Fill this Arket version with fruit and vegetables at the market in place of a plastic bag, or use it for towels and sun cream on the way to the beach.

Add a pop of colour and a spring to your step with a pair of linen shoes this summer. As well as their fabulous geranium and dark pink piping, these Flabelus shoes’ soles are made from recycled bicycle tyres.

A small, transportable game is a must for any holiday. While away the hours as you enjoy an evening drink or wait for your flight with a round of Bananagrams, a brilliant word game that tucks neatly into your bag.

Channel a 1960s summer spent in St Tropez with this high-waisted gingham bikini in zesty orange. The place to find it, along with other retro beachwear, is Faithfull the Brand, where everything is inspired by the iconic Marianne Faithfull.

Don’t let lighter mornings get in the way of a well-deserved lie-in. Pack Yolke’s padded silk eye mask and laze away the early hours in total darkness. And do remember to slip it into your hand baggage for those early morning flights.

This Sunny Life deluxe beach chair is light and can be carried on your back. Settle into the sand, sit upright as you sip a cold beer and then recline for a snooze. There’s even a storage pocket for valuables – and a drinks holder, too. 

Elevate your beach kit with this personalised bat and ball by Not-Another-Bill – a great present for the competitive one in the family. Made from sustainably sourced wood, these are far sturdier than the plastic version, and will last year after year. 

Sustainability is at the heart of Love Brand, whose swimming trunks are made from quick-drying recycled materials. This bold Elephant Palace print is made for the sunshine, and proceeds help to support wildlife charity Elephant Family in the conservation of Asian elephants.

The unisex Sundazed by Byredo carries you to a state of summer bliss with its breezy mixture of sunny mandarin, Californian lemon, bold neroli and Arabian jasmine. Warm and dreamy, it’s the perfect thing to spritz for a summer’s evening.