I love packing for a short riverside stay almost as much as the stay itself. There’s something intimate about deciding which comforts to bring that will turn a single night into a restorative escape: the right toiletries, a little technology for convenience, and a sleep kit that helps you sink into calm. Below I’ve pulled together the essentials I pack when I’m staying at Fevershamlodge Co — items I’ve tested during many overnight visits and recommend because they genuinely make a difference to how I wake up the next morning.
Carry-on and day bag: what I never leave behind
For an overnight stay I favour a single carry-on or a neat weekend bag so I can move easily along the riverside and keep things simple. In that bag I always tuck:
Lightweight weekend bag: a canvas tote or soft duffel — easy to fold and slip under the bed if needed.Wallet and travel documents: ID, booking confirmation (I keep a screenshot and a paper copy), and any membership cards.Reusable water bottle: I refill at the hotel. Staying hydrated helps with jet lag and keeps me bright for a sunset walk along the Ouse.Small umbrella or packable raincoat: York weather can change by the hour — better to have it and not need it.Comfortable shoes: one pair for walking ( trainers or sensible flats) and a smarter pair if you’re dining riverside.Toiletries and self-care items
Fevershamlodge Co provides many hotel comforts, but I pack a few favourites that make me feel at home and help keep my restorative routine intact.
Clean, travel-sized toiletries: shampoo, conditioner and body wash. I favour brands with natural ingredients — Neal’s Yard Remedies and L’Occitane are two I often reach for. Keep everything leak-free in a clear toiletry bag.Moisturiser and face oil: riverside air can be brisk; a lightweight day cream and a travel face oil (a few drops at night) keep skin calm.Toothbrush and toothpaste: an electric toothbrush if you use one; a small tube of toothpaste is all you need.Minimal makeup kit: tinted moisturiser or BB cream, mascara, lip balm. I like to keep things natural for an overnight stay.Deodorant and a small perfume or roller: just enough to feel fresh for dinner.Feminine hygiene items and any prescription medications: I always pack a day extra in case of travel delays.Small first-aid kit: plasters, pain relief, and any personal remedies.Sleep kit: how I ensure a truly restful night
Sleep is the heart of a restorative stay. Even in wonderfully cosy lounges and rooms with river views, I bring a few items that help me fall asleep quickly and sleep more deeply.
Silk or cotton sleep mask: light-blocking masks are compact and dramatically improve sleep quality in unfamiliar rooms.Travel pillow or a small lumbar cushion: I bring a slim, inflatable neck pillow or a foldable memory foam option so my head is supported on the chaise or when relaxing in the lounge.Earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones: I prefer soft foam earplugs for overnight, and keep noise-cancelling buds for evening podcasts or calm music while I unpack.Portable white-noise app: I’ll use a phone app or an old-fashioned white noise machine if I expect street sounds; gentle river water sounds help me sleep beautifully.Favourite pyjamas and layers: a breathable set (cotton or modal) and a lightweight throw or shawl for cosy reading in the evening.Tech and extras that make life easier
I aim to be present, so I pack minimal tech — just the essentials that make the stay smooth and let me capture the feeling without being chained to my devices.
Phone and charger with a UK adapter if needed: I bring a portable battery pack for long walks or photography sessions along the riverside.Compact camera or a good phone camera lens: for close-up shots of cosy interiors and the river reflections. I enjoy using a small tripod for steady low-light shots during golden hour.Lightweight e-reader or a physical book: I love lingering in a lounge with a paperback; a Kindle is perfect if you’re trying to travel light.Plug adapter and a multi-port charger: one outlet by the bedside is often shared between devices — multi-port chargers save time.Bluetooth speaker: small and discreet, perfect for soft late-night music or a guided breathing meditation before bed.Clothing: a simple capsule for an overnight riverside escape
My packing philosophy is layers and versatility. The riverside can be breezy in the evening and surprisingly warm in the day, so I keep options that move easily from walking to dinner.
Layered outerwear: a light jacket or trench and a scarf — classic for York’s variable weather.Smart-casual outfit: one nicer outfit for riverside dining (a dress or smart trousers and a blouse). I prefer neutral colours that work for photographs, too.Comfortable daywear: jeans or chinos and a soft jumper for wandering the medieval streets.Socks and sleepwear: warm socks if it’s chilly; breathable pyjamas for a good night’s rest.Packing checklist table
| Category | Key items |
| Bag | Weekend bag, day tote |
| Documents | ID, booking screenshot, wallet |
| Toiletries | Travel shampoo, moisturizer, toothbrush, deodorant |
| Sleep kit | Eye mask, earplugs, travel pillow, favourite pyjamas |
| Tech | Phone, charger, power bank, camera, e-reader |
| Clothing | Layers, smart-casual outfit, walking shoes |
| Extras | Water bottle, umbrella, small first-aid kit |
When I pack like this, I find that an overnight stay at Fevershamlodge Co becomes more than a convenient stopover — it becomes a deliberate pause. The little rituals, from unpacking a familiar toiletry bag to settling in with a book and a cup of tea by the window, create the restful rhythm that turns one night into a true restorative break. If you’d like a printable version of this checklist or recommendations for local shops near the river where I source many of these items, I’m always happy to share more details.
