The Ultimate Family Holiday Packing List

Packing for a family holiday can feel like a challenge in itself. With little ones to think about, different activities planned, and the unpredictability of travel, it’s easy to worry you’ll leave something behind. A clear, simple list makes all the difference. Having everything ready, from passports to plasters, helps the whole trip run smoothly and gives everyone more time to enjoy the fun.

Travel Documents & Essentials

Paperwork is the first thing to organise. Keep passports, travel insurance, tickets, and booking confirmations together in a safe, easy-to-reach folder. It’s also useful to carry health cards, vaccination details, and a short list of emergency contacts.

If your holiday plans involve children taking part in kids’ clubs or camp-style sessions, bring copies of allergy information or medical notes. Handing these over at check-in saves time and reassures staff that your child’s needs are noted.

Clothing & Footwear

Clothes often take up the most space, so planning outfits in advance can really help. Light layers are best, especially for mixed weather. Pack plenty of everyday wear, a jumper or cardigan for cooler evenings, and a waterproof jacket just in case.

Shoes deserve extra thought. Comfy trainers for walking, sandals for the beach, and a smarter pair for meals out will usually cover everything. If your child is taking part in sports, outdoor play, or camp-style games, include an outfit they can move around in comfortably.

Toiletries & Health Items

A small toiletries kit can be a lifesaver. Sun cream, after-sun, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and hairbrushes are all essentials. Add insect repellent if you’re heading somewhere hot, and tuck in a travel-sized first-aid kit with plasters, wipes, and children’s medicine.

Tech & Entertainment

Long journeys and quiet evenings are much easier with entertainment ready to go. Tablets or e-readers loaded with books, films, or games are ideal for travel days. Don’t forget headphones, chargers, and a power bank.

A few non-digital options are worth packing too: colouring books, cards, or a favourite toy can fill the time when screens aren’t practical.

Snacks & Food Prep

Snacks are one of the simplest ways to keep everyone happy. Pack a mix of healthy bites and a few treats, plus refillable water bottles for every family member. Reusable tubs or pouches make it easy to carry fruit, crackers, or sandwiches without fuss.

A small picnic set is handy if you’re planning beach days or afternoons at the park, and it can save money on meals out.

Special Items for Younger Kids

Travelling with younger children often means a few extra essentials. Nappies, wipes, and a changing mat are musts for little ones, along with plenty of spare clothes. A pushchair or lightweight stroller is useful for longer outings, while a carrier can be helpful in crowded places.

Don’t forget the comfort items that make bedtime easier. A teddy, blanket, or familiar pillowcase can help children settle in when sleeping somewhere new.

Packing for Activities & Excursions

Family holidays often include more than just poolside relaxation. If you’re planning beach days, boat trips, or sightseeing, be sure to bring the right gear. Swimsuits, towels, goggles, and flip-flops are essentials for the water, while sturdy shoes, hats, and lightweight backpacks are ideal for exploring.

Many resorts also offer sports sessions, kids’ clubs, or short camp-style activities where children can try something new. Having trainers, spare clothes, and swim gear ready means they can take part without any stress. It’s also worth checking trusted resources such as the NSPCC’s advice on keeping children safe away from home for extra reassurance before kids join organised sessions.

Kids’ Clubs & Organised Activities

Kids’ clubs and holiday camps are often highlights of family holidays. They give children the chance to make friends and try new things while parents enjoy a little time to themselves.

Before booking, it’s sensible to ask how children are signed in and out, what the staff-to-child ratio is, and what training team members have. Most clubs and camps are very well run, but parents feel more at ease when they know the basics.

If a child ever feels uncomfortable or shares a concern, it helps to know that expert support is available. In rare but serious situations, speaking with a camp sexual abuse lawyer can guide families through their options and provide advice that prioritises a child’s wellbeing.

Packing Hacks for Parents

A few simple tricks can make packing much easier. Packing cubes or zip bags help keep clothes organised, while rolling items instead of folding them saves space. A small “day bag” with wipes, plasters, and snacks is worth preparing so you’re ready for outings without digging through the main suitcase.

Labelling clothes and belongings is another useful step, especially for children taking part in different activities. It reduces the chance of things going missing and saves time at the end of the day.

Final Checklist Before You Leave

Before heading out, run through a quick checklist. Passports, tickets, chargers, and travel money should be close at hand. Check that comfort items like favourite toys or blankets are packed, and make sure water bottles and snacks are ready for the journey.

If children are signed up for any kids’ clubs or holiday camp sessions, confirm you have the right paperwork and outfits packed for those, too. For even more travel inspiration, these road trip tips with kids share extra ways to keep journeys smooth and stress-free.

Holidays with Children can be fun if you organise!

Holidays with children can feel like a lot to organise, but a well-prepared packing list makes everything easier. From clothes and snacks to activity gear and comfort items, having it all ready means less stress for parents and more time for making memories together. With everything in place, families can simply enjoy the adventure ahead.

See our full packing list here for your next family hoilday vacation.

• Passport
• Visa (if required)
• Hotel Document
• Driver’s license
• Any medication items you may need.
• Plasters
• Packing cubes
• Safety Pins And Mini Sewing kit
• Small Medical Kit
• Beach bag
• Cross body bag
• Reading Sunglasses
• Sunblock lip balm
• Sunscreen 
• After Sun
• Book 
• Gym wear
• Lightweight, breathable tops ( check the weather )
• Shorts or skirts
• Trousers
• Water proofs
• Swimwear
• Sun hat
• Sunglasses
• Light jacket or sweater
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring.
• Sandals or flip-flops for the pool or beach
• Sneakers for the gym or other active pursuits
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Body wash or soap
• Deodorant
• Razor and shaving cream
• Feminine hygiene products
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Small toys or games
• Smartphone with a camera
• Tablet or e-reader for reading, watching movies, or playing games
• Camera for capturing memories
• Laptop
• A multi-port USB charger so that you can charge all of your devices at once
• Remember to pack the charging cables for each of your devices
• If you’re traveling internationally, you may need a power adapter to use your chargers in foreign outlets
• A power strip
• Pen and small notebook
• Small umbrella 
• Lightweight jacket or something to cover your shoulders should you need too
• Small pack of hand wipes
• Pack of tissues
• Antibacterial gel 
• Wallet with local currency including loose change.
• Packing a laundry bag can help keep dirty clothes separate from clean ones and make it easier to do laundry
• Packing a small fan can help keep the cabin cool, comfortable, and noise-free, especially during the hot summer months
• Waterproof phone case
• A nightlight
• Towel clips to keep your towel on the lounge chair
• Over-the-door storage holder to keep electronics and toiletries organized
• Refillable water bottle