Mastering the mini break

Home or away?
Your first big decision: do you stay in the UK, or head somewhere more exotic? With Europe just a stone’s throw away a cheap weekend abroad is always an option, but if you’re looking for something a little closer to home, the mini break lends itself perfectly to a staycation. There are so many beautiful locations to explore on your very own doorstep that a weekend break in the UK is often the perfect choice. Staying closer to home is usually cheaper than travelling overseas, and the journey will be shorter, too – meaning you have more time to relax.

What to do
Let’s narrow it down further. Do you fancy a London city break, or a luxurious spa weekend in Scotland? Is a romantic trip to York on the cards, or would you prefer a back-to-nature retreat in the beautiful Surrey Hills? They’re all great options, but if you want to really relax before it’s back to work again, you can’t beat a spa weekend. Britain has some of the most stunning spa towns on Earth: Cheltenham, Harrogate, Leamington and of course Bath, so pick your favourite destination and head off on a well-deserved weekend’s pampering.

Packing your bags
Weekend breaks aren’t about slumming it, so pack light but well. You’ll need to strike a balance between looking good and feeling good – so as well as your favourite dress or your sharpest shirt, remember to pack an extra warm layer and a wet weather option, too. The right shoes are vital, too – those heels might look great, but exploring a new city means a lot of time spent on your feet. And your laptop? Leave it at home.

Last but not least, you need some luggage that looks the part.