Jetting off somewhere sunny this winter but don’t know where to start when it comes to holiday shopping? Bookmark these handy websites…

There’s nothing better than jumping on a plane and jetting off somewhere hot and sunny, especially when the rest of the country is in the grip of a freezing cold winter. But with that sense of smugness comes the panic of what to take and where to buy it. It’s all very well and good when it’s the height of summer back home and all the shops are packed with floaty dresses, itsy-bitsy bikinis and beach bags. But the idea of doing a holiday shop can be a little daunting when you’re surrounded by chunky-knit cardies and Ugg boots. On that note, we’ve trawled the net to find some websites that’ll solve your out-of-season shopping dilemma – so you don’t even have to move from the sofa…

Toiletry Trouble

One of the great things about going on holiday in UK summertime is that all the major shops do deals on things like sun cream and fake tan. In winter, though, getting a 2-4-1 on your favourite brand of factor 30 is a lot less likely, and you can end up paying a small fortune if you’re not careful. Enter Feel Unique – your one-stop-shop for all things beauty. The site is great for essentials like make-up and toiletries, and you’ll pay a lot less than you would in the shops. St Tropez tanning sets, for example, are about half the price you might pay on the high street. Check out their special offers page, too – there are loads more deals to be had.

Beach Bag Bother

Everyone loves a trusty wicker tote on holiday, but it’s mission impossible to find one in the shops over the winter months. It’s easy enough to get one online, but if you want it to last, opt for something a bit sturdier. The Cath Kidston tote bags are really good value – they come in Kidston’s gorgeous signature flower designs, and have wipe-clean oilcloth exteriors (handy for getting rid of sun cream marks and stuck-on sand). Best of all, they last forever and won’t start to fall apart the second they’re splashed with water. Nab yours from Cath Kidston or head to your nearest John Lewis department store.

Clothing Conundrum

Don’t settle for last season’s dregs just because it’s all in the sale. Most of the leftover summer stuff is rubbish anyway. Besides, ASOS.com has a dedicated holiday shop section all year round, and the site gets added to daily, which means everything’s on-trend. In other words, you won’t be in danger of sporting what everyone else was wearing by the pool five months back. In fact, their latest holiday-themed collection – Beach Bound – has just landed. Check it out here.

Swimwear Search

Try online swimwear sites like Simply Beach if you’re struggling to find anything in the shops. This one’s filled with bikinis, tankinis, trunks and swimsuits in every print and colour possible, as well as things like kaftans and beach accessories. There are loads of sizes available and, at £1.99, delivery is cheaper than average. But what we’re really loving are the reversible bikinis – they’ll save you pennies and space in your suitcase. Genius!

If you’re an out-of-season shopping pro, we want to hear about it. Let us know below where you go for your holiday wardrobe in the colder months…