Escaping to the village over the festive period is a welcome break for many from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is a time to momentarily hang up your well worn dancing shoes, recharge your batteries, finally read that book and get in some quality family time.Whilst the decision to book that trip will be the easiest choice you make this season, the packing process is not so easy. The truth is we all hate packing and short breaks seem to stump most more than others so here is our essential checklist to get you on your way without a hitch:

1. THE WEEKENDER BAG

Lets say it all together ‘weekend break’ and a weekender bag is all the luggage you should really need. Plus, what really are you packing for apart from elasticated waistbands for copious food consumption and chillwear for lounging? Do yourself a favor and make your life easier with one of these travel sized companions from Nguni. Different colorways available in-store.

2. DUST OFF THE BOARD GAMES

Whether you choose to drive or fly to your hometown there’s a lot of time to kill during the journey with bumpy roads and delayed flights and even more so at the other end. Board games are all part of the fun of tripping to the village and a past time that rarely makes it out of the closet in our tech age. You’ll be able to kill two birds with one stone by getting all the family involved and successfully banishing hours of thumb twiddling.

3. HOME SCENTS & FRAGRANCES

Most of us only manage an annual trip home so unless you’re lucky enough to staff both your homes - you’ll be returning to the nostalgic smell of camphor (moth balls). Dr. Vranjes works quickly, which is what you need! As soon as you pop the cork and flip the reeds, it gets to the job of perfuming your space. Why not start a tradition and pick specific scents that you’ll only use in your holiday home so you’re able to make more than one trip home a year even if it’s just using your olfactive memory.

4. UP YOUR PRINT GAME

African Wax Prints also known as Ankara is usually referred to as the “common” West African material for making clothing and one of our recommended prints of choice when packing for your weekend away. We’re not saying you should look ‘common’ - we do want you to stand out but not like a sore thumb. Don’t be that Lagosian that the locals snigger at in your trendy western ‘baths’! Dazzle your hometown kinsmen in ‘Jewel by Lisa’ - the go-to brand for the Ankara glow-up.

5. ACCESSORIES

The village look is understated yet chic and should be taken into consideration when selecting your accessories. We present to you the Cult Gaia Ark bag which is both these things and comes in a variety of colors making it very easy to match to the kaleidoscope of Ankara options at your disposal.

6. BUBBLES

Shops are few and far between and you’d be sorry to not remember to pack a selection of bubbles for celebratory moments unless of course you’re partial to Ogogoro. Pick from a wide selection of Moet & Chandon champagnes in-store to suit any palate or party.

THE ESSENTIAL PACKING GUIDE: VILLAGE EDITION