The countdown is on to summer holidays, and it’s time to start thinking about grabbing the essentials. We’ve rounded up the must buys for men and woman to make sure you are ready for the sunshine.

First, and most importantly, you need to pack plenty of sun cream to protect your skin from the rays. Boots have Soltan Protect and Repel lotion for £6.00, which as well as protecting your skin from UVA rays, also protects you from insect bites – with no odour. A two-in-one win, win.

Want a gorgeous, golden glow in time for summer? Try St. Tropez gradual tan for an instant healthy glow.

Don’t forget a hat! Summer is here and straw hats have never looked so cool. H&M have great straw hats for both men (£6.99) and women (£9.99), which look great on the beach or an evening stroll.

Getting a new pair of sunglasses always gets you in the mood for holiday. We’ve selected two amazing pairs from New Look.

Round sunglasses are making a serious comeback this summer for men. The shapes are nodding to the ‘70s. The retro-inspired accessory has literally come full circle. We’ve selected a cool green pair to turn heads by the pool.

 For women a pair in the on trend metallic, rose gold, practically bring the sunshine with them. And even if the sun isn’t guaranteed through the whole of summer, these are a nifty way to at least make it feel like the sun is shining.

Gingham is the IT print. You’ve bought the dress, the skirt and maybe even the bag – time to get the bikini. New Look have this cute wrap front bikini set for £22.98.

If you need a bit more cover and want to channel a 90's super model, also from New Look for £22.99, this swimsuit ticks the pineapple trend and will keep you looking catwalk ready by the water.

For gents, swim shorts are getting shorter and New Look have some red swim trunks for £12.99 that we love. This year’s hot summer movie is the Baywatch remake so feel like Zac Efron or Dwayne Johnson and try a cherry pair on the short side.

But it’s not all about the pool. Check out some of these on-trend outfits for those warm summer nights.

For men, pink is the colour of the season. New Look have pink shorts £14.99 and a matching pink granddad collar shirt for £19.99. Pair this look with some white canvas trainers £22.99 and you are ready to either explore your destination or go for a meal.

This white cold shoulder playsuit at £17.99 for the girls, works both as a poolside cover up and an outfit. Pop on some cream metal ring toe post sandals (£8.99) and you have an easy pretty summer look.

Let pom-poms and tassels start a party on your feet. These fun sandals for £25.99 will make sure you are noticed.

A good holiday read is the ultimate holiday essential. These best-sellers from WH Smiths will have you on the edge of your sun bed for hours. 

Firstly, a gripping thriller The Couple Next Door by Sharie Lapena

A couple’s worst fear is brought to life when their infant daughter goes missing while they were only next door at a neighbours with a baby monitor. This book will have you gripped from the very first page.

This Must be the Place by Maggie O’Farrell is a novel that crosses time zones and continents to reveal an extraordinary portrait of a marriage.

So if you have a holiday on the horizon, why not pop into your local Mall for some inspiration. We’ve got plenty of choice to make holiday shopping stress free.