With the main summer holiday season now in full swing, we thought you might find it useful to know the things the Headwater team make sure they've packed before heading off for the airport!

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Empty carrier bags

Multi-uses: as in the UK, charging for carrier bags has become universally accepted, so save cash by taking your own; use them for lining bike panniers or day rucksacks (stops bread crumbs and picnic leftovers getting everywhere!), handy for separating worn and clean clothes as your holiday progresses.

Duct tape

Duct tape is a soft, flexible tape that allows you to make instant temporary repairs to luggage, tyres, hems on clothes, etc.

Sarong or pashmina

A lightweight sarong or pashmina can be used as a beach wrap, picnic rug, mosque cover up or evening shawl. The soft cashmere-style ones also roll up as excellent pillows if you're travelling on planes or through the night.

Trolley coin

Some airports now require a coin to release their luggage trolleys - very annoying if you've arrived with a wallet of notes! Make sure you have a spare euro coin or invest in a trolley coin before you set off.

Torch

It's always useful to take a mini torch with you when going somewhere for the first time and think there's a chance you'll fancy an evening stroll.

Hand wipes

Invaluable on picnics, beaches, by the pool, in stuffy airport lounges or when out walking/ cycling. (Do make sure you re-seal packet or container properly though as they dry out quickly if left open!)

Copy of passport

If you are unlucky enough to lose your passport, or have it stolen, then the reporting and replacement processes are much simpler if you have a copy available. Just make sure you keep it separate from the original.

Earplugs

Always useful if you're a light sleeper in unfamiliar surrounds, or if you are seated near to noisy children on the plane!

Sheets of clean kitchen roll

Great for wiping hands, plates etc if on a picnic. Also very useful to fold and use as a compressor if you need to stop a wound bleeding.

Facial water spray

These pocket-sized aerosols are idea for giving your face a quick refreshing spray of chilled water - great for putting in glove compartments, handbags, bike panniers etc.