Despite all evidence to the contrary, I still pack the kind of washbag that is more suited to a carefree single woman than a married mother of two. There is a world of difference between what I actually need on holiday (Calpol, plasters, insect repellent, arnica, Savlon) and what I desire. And so I concoct a washbag of impractical luxury, stuff that I fondly imagine will assist me in long, languorous days of leisure. The fact that there is little call for shimmering body oil in the rain-lashed Western Isles of Scotland, or that I am more likely to be taking a bath in three fingers of tepid brown water than a sky-blue Jacuzzi, doesn’t put me off: a bag full of optimism is all part of the holiday experience.

Very vital is the multi-use product. Newly beloved is Acqua di Parma Face and Body Repairing Concentrate (£30, 01932 233861). It smells of a pine grove somewhere on the Riviera (useful if you are heading for chillier climes) and has a thick, balmy texture – but goes on to the skin quite matt. Having tried it for a couple of weeks I find it has soothed my skin so well I can almost dispense with foundation. And you can also use it on the décolletage, dry elbows and beyond.

Next is a flexible, all-purpose oil. I like to make my own: add five drops each of lavender and camomile essential oils to an almond oil base. Neal’s Yard does very good base oils, as does Body Shop (both from around £5). Use as straightforward bath oil, or a soothing body oil, or, even more brilliantly, as a cleanser: simply massage into face and remove with warm, damp flannel.

A mask is important on holiday, since it is the only time you can properly indulge in such things. Best ever is Guinot Masque Essentiel Nutrition Confort (£24, 0800 590094): it smells of lavender and other essential oils, does not dry and gives the skin a radiant happiness. I feel lost if I go away without it. Another faithful companion is Sisley Eye Contour Mask (£61, 020-7591 6380), a tiny drop of which smooths the eye area and is excellent for skin dehydrated by air-conditioning or long-haul flights.

If amid all the excitement you find that your skin has become a little troubled, Darphin Aromatic Care Camomile Oil (£30, 0870 0342566) is wonderful for calming things down and comes in a tiny bottle, perfect for the washbag. For older skins, the Organic Pharmacy Rosehip seed oil (£20, www.theorganic-pharmacy.com) is something of a mini-miracle.

Finally, regular readers will know that I swear by a good scrub. Origins Incredible Spreadable (£20, www.origins.co.uk) is my favourite: all minty and salty to get you in the holiday mood, and it comes in a light plastic tub rather than an unwieldy glass jar. A washbag isn’t a washbag without it.

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