GOING on holiday should be the stress-free reward you have worked hard to deserve.

But getting prepared for that relaxing vacation can be an exhausting experience in itself.

There is nothing worse than landing on foreign sands to open your suitcase and find you haven't packed the right gear.

I'm not just talking solely about the 'essentials' (sun cream, swimwear, towel), but those few items of clothing that will keep you feeling coolly confident in the sun.

First of all there is the all important decision to be made about what swimming attire you will choose for this season.

And naturally, as women, we can and will take more than one.

There are the obvious traditional bikini shapes - bandeau, halterneck, triangle and underwired bra - as well as your bog standard costumes.

But there are a whole host of other options so find out what suits you in both body and mind.

Why not brave a risqué cut out swimsuit, skirted costume or high waisted bottoms for a flashback to the 50s look.

George at Asda has just the thing to achieve that retro look with their 'bodysculpt' skirted bandeau swimsuit at £14.

A bit of everything in one, this swimsuit is super flattering thanks not only to the feminine shape but also because of the padded cups and front control liner to smooth your tummy.

The intricate blue and white pattern edges this piece away from being bland.

Equally as important as the practical swimwear is the pool-side cover-up.

There are plenty of kinds to choose from, whether it's the kimono or fringed oversized tee dress.

Even tie-dye seems to be making an unexpected comeback into some of the high-street collections.

This week I have stayed with blue and gone for subtle with Marks and Spencer's navy shirt beach dress at £25.

Be comfortable in this laid back-meets-sophisticated simple piece - perfect for throwing over a bikini.

There is room here to accessorise so go for some beach-side bling and pick an oversized back to keep all the necessaries in.