GET PACKING:
YOUR COMPLETE FAMILY HOLIDAY CHECKLIST
Avoid any last-minute dashes around duty free with our ultimate packing guide for a family holiday with kids
Must-pack kids’ holiday essentials
Keep things stress-free by laying out everything on your bed before you jet off, and creating a separate packing list for each family member. Place beach towels and swimwear at the top of your luggage – this will mean little ones can head straight into the water after a long trip. This swimming costume with long sleeves and a front zipper allows for easy changing, while our boys’ swim shorts are made from Sun Smart fabric, providing UPF50+ protection. Remember to bring practical shoes for beach or pool days – these lightweight kids’ clogs are easy to wear and remove.
Sun protection for children is crucial, so include a sun hat, protective sunglasses and easy-to-apply sun cream in your packing list. Keep some space free for at least one stylish evening outfit – this ombré tiered dress and cotton Oxford shirt are our top picks.
Kids’ holiday packing list:
- Swim shorts/swimming costumes
- Sun hats
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Casual tops/shorts
- Smart outfits (shirts/dresses)
- Hoodie/light jumper
- Light pyjamas
- Underwear
- Socks
- Sandals
- Trainers
- Goggles
- Toys
- Water bottle
Holiday heroes for her
You’ve booked the flights, got your suitcase down from the attic, counted down the days, and now it’s finally time to pack. Make the most of your suitcase space by choosing pieces that are suitable for a variety of occasions (and will slot into your everyday summer wardrobe post-holiday). This one-shoulder beach dress can be dressed up or down, and will work just as well for sunny days at home. A loose-fitting shirt can be teamed with denim shorts for a relaxed daytime look, or used as a cover-up on the beach. Good swimwear should give you a confidence boost, and this figure-sculpting swimsuit with tummy control technology does just that. Choose your footwear with care: trainers for travel or sightseeing, smart sandals for evenings out and flip-flops for poolside lounging. A functional bag is important, too – this straw tote is roomy enough for all your beach necessities. Finally, make sure to protect your head from UV rays with a stylish sun hat.
Holiday packing list for her:
- Swimwear
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Beach cover-up
- Beach bag
- Toiletries (check out our range of travel minis)
- Make-up bag
- Jewellery
- Sunscreen
- Footwear (trainers, sandals, and flipflops)
- Casual outfits for day trips and sightseeing
- Summer dresses
- Light layers, such as a denim jacket
- Underwear
- Socks
- Purse
- Travel documents
Must-packs for him
Maximise your suitcase space by packing plenty of versatile favourites. A printed shirt always feels summery, and can be worn buttoned up or open over a T-shirt. Light and comfy, our linen-blend chinos will keep you cool in even the hottest destinations. Don’t forget plenty of T-shirts: graphic styles will add a fun twist to your outfit, while a multi-pack of plain T-shirts in classic colours is always handy. Several pairs of shorts are a must: our chino shorts, made from ultra-lightweight and easy-to-iron fabric, are ideal for packing. When it comes to footwear, you can’t go wrong with our slip-on leather sandals, which will work for everything from days at the beach to evenings out. Don’t forget a sun hat – in a light stone colour, this cotton baseball cap will match all of your holiday outfits.
Holiday packing list for him:
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Swim shorts
- T-shirts
- Shirts
- Shorts
- Linen trousers
- Footwear (trainers, sandals, and flip flops/sliders)
- Underwear
- Socks
- Toiletries
- Washbag
- Sunscreen
- Hoodie/overshirt
- Travel documents
- Wallet
Must-know packing tips for stress-free travel
Ease your packing stress by preparing in advance and taking simple measures to prevent any problems. Choosing the right type of luggage is crucial. Our suitcases come in hard or soft finishes: opt for hard if you need something sturdy and soft if you tend to overpack and require extra room. Rolling, rather than folding, bulkier items can be a quick way to save space. Our three-piece make-up bag set will help to keep your beauty products organised. Children always enjoy having their own travel bags, so keep them happy with a comfortable and functional backpack stocked with all their in-flight necessities.
Words: Rebecca Hastings and Sarah Lafarge
