There’s nothing worse than when you’re all set to relax and you’ve forgotten something important. Whether this is your first time and you’re wondering how to prepare for a spa day, or you’re a regular spa-seeker always looking for ways to enhance your experience, our guide has you covered.
We’ve put together a list of must-have items to bring for your day of relaxation, along with top tips and things you don’t need to worry about taking. So without further ado, let’s get into it.
1. Swimwear
It may seem like an obvious one, but the vast majority of spas usually involve pools, hot tubs or saunas and therefore swimwear is a key item to pack. There’s a real mix of one-piece swimsuits and bikinis, but it's really important to make sure you wear something you love and don’t feel self-conscious in. Swimwear is also handy for wearing underneath your robe, and it’s generally advisable to bring two so you don’t have to be sat around in a soggy swimsuit. This rings especially true if you’re planning on dining in the spa.
Sunset Spa Evening with Treatment and Dinner at Ockenden Manor Hotel and Spa
Sit back and indulge with a glass of bubbly in a hot tub, a spa treatment, full use of the spa’s facilities and a brilliant two-course dinner in a Michelin-starred restaurant with this Sunset Spa Evening at Ockenden Manor Hotel and Spa.
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2. Underwear
You may be inclined to think that you’ll just wear swimwear during your spa day and while this may be largely true, it’s also a good idea to bring some underwear too. Although most people opt to wear swimwear under their robes for accessing leisure facilities, others may prefer to wear underwear if they feel more comfortable.
When it comes to beauty treatments, bringing your own underwear is super handy as therapists normally give you a choice of wearing your own underwear or paper underwear that they provide. Although be warned, word on the street is that the latter can be uncomfortable and it’s best to bring your own so you can focus on unwinding!
3. Flip-flops
Some spas provide you with flip-flops or slippers, but this is not always a given. If you're banking on them being provided, it's worth checking with the spa in advance. Although saying that, the general consensus is that it’s nicer to bring your own pair of flip-flops. The spa’s slippers are known to get pretty soggy, especially if worn around the leisure areas. And if you don’t fancy going barefoot in the spa, flip-flops are a great solution; they’re super light and won’t take up much room in your bag.
4. Workout clothes
If you wish to use the spa’s fitness facilities, it’s essential that you bring along appropriate workout attire so that you can join in any exercise classes. Most spas host yoga, Pilates or Zumba classes - perfect for releasing those endorphins and alleviating any stress.
While we’re on the topic of workout gear, another great item to take on a spa day is trainers, especially if you’re planning on going outside. Many spas are nestled in stunning countryside, which is the perfect backdrop for an idyllic walk, or have specially-designed Zen Gardens to help people unwind in.
5. Makeup
Makeup is definitely a challenging one. Chances are if you wear a full face, it’s going to run - especially if you’re planning on visiting the gym or steam room. However, comfort really is key, so if you feel you can’t quite face venturing out into the wild bare-faced, a great solution is to apply waterproof products where possible.
Also, whether or not you wear makeup can often be dictated by what treatments you’re going to have; with massages, it doesn’t really matter but facials, therapists may prefer a makeup free face so they can apply their own products and let your skin breathe.
6. Haircare
If you’re wondering how to prepare for a spa day in terms of haircare, you’ll want to rely on your trusted hair clips, bands or bandanas. Not only will it keep your hair out of your face for treatments, but also prevents your hair sticking to you when you inevitably get wet hair in the pool. You may also want to take a hairbrush for the journey home or after-effects of the serene head massage.
Champneys City Spa Head In The Clouds Massage
Take some time out from the hustle and bustle of daily life and treat yourself to a Champneys City Spa Head in The Clouds Massage. With one of Champneys’ expert therapists, you can lie back and enjoy a blissful scalp, neck and shoulder massage, leaving stress and tension far behind. All aspects of the treatment can be modified to your taste; so whatever your preferences on light levels, music, room temperature and more, you can be sure of a totally bespoke pampering experience.
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7. Toiletries
Most spas will provide some basic toiletries but if you don’t want to stray from your go-to shampoo and conditioner, it’s worth bringing them along. Another idea is to take some deodorant - ready to freshen you up for after the gym or sauna.
You may also want to bring skincare and while the spa will almost definitely have an array of products they swear by, it’s quite acceptable for you to bring along your favourite moisturiser or eye cream to maintain that post spa glow as long as possible.
Rejuvenate Ultimate Pamper Day with Two Treatments for Two with Virgin Active Health Clubs
Make the most of the Ultimate Pamper Day for Two with Virgin Active. You and a friend can enjoy some time out at one of six fantastic Virgin Active Health Clubs in the UK. Relax with full access to the facilities, including sauna, steam room and pool, as well as 70 minutes' worth of rejuvenating treatments each.
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8. Comfy clothes
In case you hadn’t already guessed, the main theme of a spa day is comfort and this absolutely translates to the dress code. After relaxing all day, the last thing you’ll want to do is change into jeans, so definitely consider wearing something cosy there. Think loungewear or leggings and a jumper. Also, if you’re planning on dining, you might feel better if you’re dressed in comfy clothes rather than sitting in a robe with a wet bikini underneath.
What you don’t need to bring to a spa
- Hairdryers; most spas have a vanity or changing room with hairdryers, so you don’t have to worry about going home with wet hair or trying to fit one into your bag.
- Robes; the spa you’re visiting will almost certainly provide these so don’t feel like you have to bring yours.
- Jewellery; you’re there to relax, you don’t want any jewellery digging in while you’re having a deep tissue massage or risk losing it in the pool while taking a dip.
- Electronic devices; it’s highly suggested that a spa day is the perfect time for a digital detox - leave behind any device that receives notifications as this will enable you to really escape the outside world and focus on relaxing.
- Food; whether you have it included as part of your spa package or not, you can almost definitely get your hands on some great snacks that’ll be a treat for your taste buds.
Morning Spa Retreat with Treatment and Lunch for Two at Bailiffscourt Hotel and Spa
The beautiful Bailiffscourt Hotel and Spa, close to the unspoilt beaches of Climping in West Sussex, is a stunning spa destination offering sleek modern facilities in luxurious surroundings. Here’s your chance to unwind with a Morning Spa Retreat together.
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Summary
If you made it this far, you're now equipped with everything you need to know about how to prepare for a spa day. All that's left to do is book yourself a trip to the spa and luckily we have a fantastic selection, ranging from city spas to countryside retreats. Simply browse through our spa day collection to find one that matches your interests!
