Clothes for people who live in a holiday cottage
Short answer: In a holiday cottage the weather and temperature change quickly, and space is often limited. Choose a few versatile layers that cope with damp, are easy to wash and can be worn both outside and in.
A house with its own climate
Holiday cottages are often close to the coast or in the forest, where the weather changes quickly. A house can be cold and damp in the morning and warm in the afternoon. Many cottages also have less heating and insulation than ordinary homes. That means you need to be ready for anything and your clothes need to be flexible. Think in layers and always keep an extra jumper and a pair of warm socks to hand.
Packing smart for a few square metres
Space is often limited, so choose clothes that can be combined and used for several purposes. See Copenhagen Bamboo. Neutral colours and pieces that go together mean you can manage with fewer things. Use vacuum bags or boxes under the bed for clothes you do not use every day, and lay the clothes flat to save room. Keep a fixed box of clothes that live in the house, so you do not have to pack every time.
Layers for cool mornings and evenings
Even in the summer half of the year, mornings and evenings can be cool, especially by the sea. Long underwear is a light, thin layer that gives extra warmth when you sit on the terrace or go for a walk. See bamboo long johns. It takes up almost no room in the suitcase and can be worn under shorts, trousers and skirts. Choose a cut that ends at the ankle and a material that does not bunch at the knees.
Beach, sun and friction
If you walk a lot in shorts or dresses on the beach, the thighs can rub against each other, especially when the skin is wet or salty. A pair of short inner shorts under your clothes gives a smooth layer and less rubbing. See bamboo inner shorts. Choose a fit that does not ride up and a material that dries quickly. Change into dry clothes as soon as you come out of the water, because wet clothes can chill you and irritate the skin.
Damp in the house
Holiday cottages often stand empty for periods and can become damp. Air the rooms when you arrive and let the clothes hang so they get fresh air. Keep clothes in closed boxes so they do not pick up odour. If clothes have been lying a long time, wash them before wearing. Damp clothes feel cold, and the smell can settle in the fabric. Dry the clothes completely before packing them away and check that there are no signs of mould in the cupboards.
Washing and care at the cottage
Many cottages have no washing machine, or it is small. Take the clothes home to wash, or wash small items by hand with mild soap and hang them up. Choose clothes that dry quickly and need no ironing. Wash at 30 to 40 degrees according to the care label and avoid fabric softener. Then the clothes are ready for the next stay without you having to spend holiday time on washing.
Frequently asked questions
How much clothing should I have at the cottage
Enough for three to five days, and choose pieces that can be combined. Keep a fixed box of clothes that live in the house.
How do I avoid damp in my clothes
Air the rooms on arrival, keep clothes in closed boxes and wash them before first use if they have been lying for a long time.
How do I avoid chafing on the beach
Wear short inner shorts under shorts or a dress, and change into dry clothes when you come out of the water.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
