Your Complete Family Holiday Packing List

Jetting off on holiday? Avoid any last-minute dashes around duty free with our ultimate packing guide for a family holiday with kids

Content editor

Sarah Lafarge

Our top packing tips for stress-free travel

Making sure you’ve packed all the essentials isn’t exactly the most fun part of a family holiday, but we’ve got some handy hacks to make it easier. Give yourself peace of mind by laying out everything on your bed before you go, and making a separate packing list for each family member. Put beach towels and kids’ swimsuits at the top of your case, so they can dive straight into the water after a long journey.

Maximise suitcase space by bringing pieces that work for multiple occasions (and will fit into your summer wardrobe next year), such as a midi dress or an oversized shirt. For men, focus on hard-working favourites. A printed shirt can be worn buttoned up or open over a T-shirt, while our super-lightweight chino shorts will be light and comfortable, no matter how hot your destination. For ultimate peace of mind, read on for our women’s, men’s and kids’ holiday packing checklists.

Visit the holiday shop

Must-packs for her

Swimwear (we love this plunging brown swimsuit)

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

Visit the women’s holiday shop

Holiday essentials for women

£35

With a flattering plunge-detail front and tummy control

£39.50

Go from beach to bar in this colourful cover-up

£35

Invest in sunglasses with a timeless aviator style

£25

Linen-blend trousers will keep you cool and comfy

Must-packs for him

Sunglasses (see our favourites, here)

Hat

Swim shorts

T-shirts

Shirts

Shorts

Linen trousers

Footwear (trainers, sandals, and flip flops/sliders)

Underwear

Socks

Toiletries

Washbag (this leather version is a must)

Sunscreen

Hoodie/overshirt

Travel documents

Wallet

Visit the men’s holiday shop

Holiday essentials for men

£14

Available in six muted colours to match all your outfits

£22

A multi-pack of T-shirts is always a good idea

£20

Made from a quick-drying fabric

£32

With Freshfeet technology to help minimise odours

Must-packs for kids

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

Visit the kids’ holiday shop

Holiday essentials for kids

£12

Made with added stretch for greater comfort

From £8

The perfect footwear for the beach or pool

£10

With an adjustable waistband for ease

£8

Protect their eyes with cute flower-shaped sunnies

How to choose the right type of luggage

Take some of the stress out of packing by planning ahead and taking simple steps to avoid any mishaps. Choosing the right luggage for your trip is important. Our suitcases come in either a hard or soft finish: choose hard if you want something sturdy and soft if you can’t help but overpack and need a little more space. Check out our suitcase-buying guide for more tips.

Our three-piece make-up bag set is also great for keeping your products neat and tidy. Rolling, rather than folding, bulkier items can be a quick way to save space. Children love having their own travel bags, so keep little travellers happy with something comfy and practical, like one of our stylish backpacks, and fill it with everything they’ll need on the plane.

Watch the Live showRead our luggage buying guide

Must-have luggage for holidays

£69

A soft-shell suitcase is perfect for overpackers

£16

Clear plastic = no more rummaging for make-up

£59

Travel in style with the slick Amalfi range

£29.99

Plenty of room for kids’ on-the-go toys and essentials