Planning a family holiday is exciting, but let’s be honest – it can also feel like a military operation! From packing essentials to making sure the kids are entertained, there’s a lot to think about. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our holiday checklist!
This holiday checklist will make sure you have everything you need for a smooth, stress-free getaway – whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or a city adventure! Check out more of our holiday tips and tricks!
Ready? Let’s get packing!
1. Travel Documents & Essentials 📄✈️
Before you even think about packing your suitcase, make sure all your travel documents are sorted. The first step on your stress-free holiday checklist!
- Passports & Visas – Double-check expiry dates and visa requirements for your destination.
- Travel Insurance Documents – A must-have for peace of mind! Remember to get the right travel insurance policy for your holiday – e.g find one with water sports included if that’s what you wish to try.
- Boarding Passes & Flight Details – Whether printed or on your phone, have them handy.
- Accommodation Confirmation – Keep hotel details easily accessible.
- Local Currency & Bank Cards – Some local places may not accept debit cards or credit card payments, so having a little cash is always useful!
- Driving License & Car Hire Documents – If you’re hiring a car, don’t forget your UK driving license.
- Travel Adaptors & Phone Charger – The worst thing is getting to the hotel after a long travel journey and not being able to charge your phone!
📍 Top Tip: Check out our TUI page for more helpful tips and travel hacks!
2. Suitcase Essentials: What to Pack for the Whole Family 🎒
Putting together a family holiday packing list can feel like an impossible mission. You don’t want to pack everything but the kitchen sink, but you also don’t want to miss out on important items. Well, we’ve done the work and put together a handy breakdown to keep your holiday checklist simple:
Clothing & Footwear 👕👟
- Weather-appropriate Outfits – Check the forecast before you pack! From lightweight clothing and waterproof jackets.
- Swimming Costumes & Beachwear – Don’t forget goggles, armbands, and swim nappies if needed.
- Comfortable Shoes – For sightseeing, exploring, and chasing after little ones!
- Evening Outfits – Something a little smarter for dinners out.
- Light Jackets & Jumpers – Even hot destinations can get chilly at night.
- Travel Cot – For the little ones, so they can sleep anywhere.
Toiletries & Health Essentials 🧴💊
- Sun Cream & Aftersun – Protect that precious skin!
- Bug Spray – A must for warm destinations.
- Toothbrushes & Kids’ Toiletries – Little ones may need their favourite bubble bath!
- Travel First-Aid Kit – Plasters, antiseptic cream, pain relief, and motion sickness bands. You never know when medical emergencies will arrive!
- Nappies, Nappy Cream & Wet Wipes – If you’re travelling with little ones, pack extra!
- Glasses & Contacts – For those who wear them make sure you have your glasses and plenty of contact lenses.
- Travel Vaccinations – This will only apply to certain countries, so make sure to check with your GP before travelling!
📍 Top Tip: Rolling clothes instead of folding saves space and stops wrinkles!
3. Entertainment & Travel Must-Haves for Kids 🎲🎧
You can’t put together a holiday checklist without thinking of the long flights, car journeys, and waiting around at the airport! They can feel like forever when you’ve got little ones in tow. Keep them happy and entertained with these essentials:
- Tablets & Headphones – Download films, games, and audiobooks before you travel.
- Colouring & Sticker Books – Perfect for mess-free fun.
- Small Toys & Comforters – Bring their favourite teddy or toy for comfort.
- Handheld Games – Bring card games like UNO, Dobble or Monopoly Deal!
- Snacks & Water Bottles – Keep hunger tantrums at bay with some healthy treats.
- Travel Pillow & Blanket – Great for naps on the go.
- Portable Charger – For those days when you’re out all day, it’s best to keep one handy!
📍 Top Tip: Check out TUI’s family-friendly destinations with kid-friendly entertainment and all-inclusive options to make mealtimes and downtime a breeze!
4. Beach & Pool Must-Haves 🏖️🌊
If you’re heading somewhere sunny, make sure your holiday checklist includes beach holiday-ready essentials:
- Beach Towels & Sand-Free Mats – Because no one likes bringing the beach home with them!
- Bucket & Spade – A beach day isn’t complete without a sandcastle competition!
- Water Resistant Sunscreen – Extra protection for little ones.
- Inflatables & Arm Bands – Safe fun in the pool!
- Cool Bag & Snacks – Keep drinks and fruit fresh for beach days.
📍 Top Tip: Staying at a TUI all-inclusive resort? Many have kids’ clubs, splash parks, and private beaches, so check what’s included before you pack!
5. Travel Day Survival Kit 🛫🚗
The journey can be one of the most challenging parts of any family holiday, so be prepared! Which is why we’ve added some key items to our holiday checklistL
- Hand Luggage Bag – Keep essentials within easy reach.
- Snacks & Reusable Water Bottles – Airport prices are sky-high, so come prepared!
- Change of Clothes for Kids – Spills and accidents happen!
- Baby Wipes & Hand Sanitiser – Absolute lifesavers.
📍 Top Tip: Check for child-friendly flight times and family-focused resorts that make travel days smoother!
6. Things to Do Before You Leave the House 🏡
Before you even think of leaving the house and jetting off, make sure your home is safe and ready for your return!
- Check Passports & Travel Documents Again – Just in case!
- Turn Off Appliances – Unplug chargers and switch off non-essential plugs.
- Empty the Bins – Avoid returning to bad smells!
- Lock Windows & Doors – Check everything is secure.
- Set Outfits for Travel Day – So there’s no last-minute stress!
📍 Top Tip: Leave keys with a friend or neighbour to check on the house while you’re away.
With this ultimate holiday checklist, you’re all set for a stress-free family holiday! From travel documents and packing tips to beach essentials and travel entertainment, this guide ensures you don’t forget a thing.
Need help planning your next family adventure? Check out our TUI page for family-friendly resorts, the best places to go every month, and water park holidays!
Now, grab your suitcase, get excited, and enjoy your best family holiday ever!