Packing guide
The no-stress family packing list
Pack smarter, not heavier. Everything your family actually needs — and a few things you'll be glad you remembered.
7 min read
Documents & essentials
- Passports (check expiry — many countries require 6 months validity)
- Travel insurance documents (printed and digital)
- Booking confirmations — flights, hotel, transfers, activities
- Emergency contact list (separate from your phone)
- EHIC / GHIC cards (for European travel)
- Copies of all documents stored in cloud storage
Clothing
- Fewer outfits than you think — most places have laundry facilities
- One smart outfit per child for nicer restaurants or events
- Lightweight waterproof layer for every family member
- Comfortable walking shoes that are already broken in
- Flip flops or sandals for beach and pool
- Swimwear (two sets per child — one is always wet)
Health & safety
- Children's paracetamol and ibuprofen
- Antihistamine (liquid for young children)
- Plasters, antiseptic wipes, and a small first aid kit
- Prescription medications with a doctor's letter
- Insect repellent (DEET-free for young children)
- High-factor sunscreen — more than you think you'll need
- Oral rehydration sachets — a lifesaver for tummy bugs abroad
Baby & toddler
- Nappies for the journey plus two days' supply (buy locally after that)
- Portable travel cot or check hotel provides one
- Baby monitor if staying in a villa or apartment
- Familiar comfort toy or blanket — do not forget this
- Portable high chair or clip-on seat
- Baby food pouches for the journey (check liquid rules)
Entertainment & tech
- Tablet or device loaded with offline films, shows, and games
- Noise-cancelling headphones for each child
- Universal travel adapter
- Portable power bank (fully charged)
- Small activity packs or colouring books for flights
- A few small wrapped surprises for long journeys
Beach & outdoors
- Beach tent or UV shelter for babies and toddlers
- Snorkel and mask (kids' sizes are hard to find abroad)
- Reusable water bottles for every family member
- Dry bags for phones and valuables at the beach
- Lightweight day backpack for excursions
- Compact travel umbrella
Packing pro tips
Roll clothes instead of folding — you'll fit 30% more in the same bag.
Pack each child's outfits in separate zip-lock bags labelled by day. Morning chaos eliminated.
Leave one empty bag folded in your luggage for souvenirs and things you buy on the trip.
Weigh your bags at home before you leave. Overweight luggage fees are a painful surprise.
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