The Ultimate Family Vacation Checklist

As summer approaches, many of us are looking forward to a vacation. It’s a chance to get away from everyday stresses, take some time off work, and reconnect with your family, all while exploring new places, trying new food and having great new adventures. However, packing, especially if you are traveling with a young family can be quite stressful. Use this ultimate checklist to make sure you’ve got everything you need ready to go.

Clothes

Most of us over-pack when we go on vacation and there’s really no need. Make a list of everything you need to remember to include underwear, socks, warm clothing, waterproofs and sunhats. Then add an extra sunhat for when the first one gets lost. Even if you are visiting a hot destination, it’s a good idea to be prepared for inclement weather so it can’t ruin your vacation.

Towels

If you’re heading for a beach vacation you will need plenty of towels. You’ll need at least two each so they have a chance to dry. Ponchos make a brilliant option for children as they can carry on playing while they dry off. They also take us less room in your suitcase.

Swimwear

Like towels, you’ll probably want to pack two sets of swimwear for everyone so you’re always ready to hit the beach. All in one suits with arm and leg cover can be great for young children as they’ll protect them from harmful rays and help to avoid sunburn. For the adults make sure you’ve got something comfortable and flattering, so you can fully relax and enjoy yourself. If you are a little worried about stripping off on the beach, plus size bikinis can help you to feel confident and stylish.

Toiletries

Most toiletries can be bought all over the world, but are often more expensive in tourist hotspots so it’s a good idea to take as much as you can. The things you don’t want to forget are:

• Sunscreen. If you are traveling with very young children, make sure it’s a high SPF and waterproof. This wouldn’t hurt adults either.
• After sun. After sun is great for healing your skin if you burn, but even if you don’t, your skin can easily become dry in hot weather and after sun makes a great moisturizer.
• Medication
• A basic first aid kit
• Shampoo
• Soap
• Makeup
• Deodorant
• Face wipes
• Toothbrushes and paste

If you’re only traveling for a few days sample sizes make a great option. However, for a family of four on a two-week vacation, full-size products are more cost effective.

Documentation

Make sure you keep your documentation in your handbag to keep it easy to reach always. Depending on where you are traveling you may need:

• Passports
• Visa
• Boarding passes and tickets
• Accommodation confirmation 
• Health insurance information

If your children need passports or yours need renewing, be sure to leave plenty of time to get them back after you apply. Check online for current guidance.

Currency

If you are traveling abroad you’ll need some currency. Make sure you change your money in advance as rates of exchange at the airport aren’t always good value. If you are worried about traveling with large amounts of money or just want a backup, a prepaid travel credit card is a great idea.

Emergency Numbers

Make sure you’ve got emergency contacts stored in your phone and written down in your bag. These numbers should include your next of kin, your home number, your doctor’s number, the hotel you are staying at and numbers for any other places you plan to visit. Hopefully, you won’t need any of these, but it’s a good idea to be prepared. 

Electronics

Electronics are quickly becoming a much bigger part of travel. You’ll need your smartphone at least but you may also want to take a camera to take some better photographs of your trip, a tablet or lightweight laptop if you want to work while you are away, and a games console or portable DVD player to keep the kids occupied. Don’t forget to take some headphones, and spares just in case these get lost. Another thing you definitely don’t want to forget are your chargers and a travel adaptor. You will probably find that your batteries die at the worst possible moments so a portable phone charger might be a good idea for when you are out and about. 

If you do forget anything, don’t panic. You will be able to buy most things at your destination and if you can’t, you will find alternatives and ways to manage. Have a lovely vacation and a fantastic summer.

For Related Articles Try:

• 5 Disruptive Luxury Travel Trends
• 4 Reasons You Should Visit Niagara Falls
• West Mexico Vacation Destinations