Traveling is all fun until you have to pack. The most hectic part is packing for a family trip. We have curated a packing list of what to put in your bag for any type of trip, no matter your vacation destination. Here are the most essential 18 items to bring on holiday with the family:
1. Important documents
You might have heard the story of someone facing some sort of trouble at the airport because one of their family members forgot their passport at home. So don’t be like them and always keep your important documents with yourself if you are travelling.
If you are planning an international trip then put your passport and your other important documents like travel insurance right next to you to make sure that you don’t forget to carry it with yourself. Also if you are planning for an international trip then make sure if you might need a visa. prepare all your important documents in advance as some of the applications take up to 4 to 5 weeks to be finalized.
On the other hand if you are travelling to a domestic place then make sure you carry a proper identification proof in case you need it.
2. Cash
We all know that it is a digital era but don’t forget to keep cash with yourself as the cash is equally important. It doesn’t matter if you’re going for an international trip or a domestic one, it’s always suggested to carry a certain amount of cash with you. You can never be sure whether all restaurants and hotels you are going to have a working digital payment mode, so better be safe.
3. Printed and Digital copies of your tickets
For a hectic free trip, we suggest you keep both a printed copy and a digital copy of your travel ticket with yourself and your trip partner. This will only benefit you as if you lose the paper you have a ticket on your phone or if your phone dies you always have a backup of printed copies.
4. Medicines
If you have any prescribed medicine don’t forget to keep it with you. If you are travelling to some adventure place, it’s always a best idea to carry a few essential items like cough drops, pain killers, gastric pills if you have stomach issues, and maybe motion sickness pills.
5. Essentials in the carry-on
By essential things we just don’t mean the essential documents. You should also pack extra clothes and one extra toothbrush and toothpaste. This will help you if by any chance you lost your back then you have a fresh T-shirt to get changed in until your suitcase is delivered to you.
6. Face masks
If you are allergic to something then we suggest you carry a face mask with yourself. you don’t know what atmosphere you might encounter while travelling to different cities, states , counties, provisions or countries. By carrying an extra face mask you will be able to participate in all the fun activities that require the use of a mask.
7. Travel-friendly products
We suggest you to opt your items wisely for travelling If you are a Friends series lover then you might remember the episode where Rose from Friends has suffered from not just one but two Big shampoo explosions while travelling. skincare products that have strong package and guaranteed that they don’t leak would be idle to pack
8. First aid kit
A first aid kit is one of the essential items to carry with yourself while travelling whether it is an international trip or domestic. First aid kit will be your saviour if you by any chance get any injury. Having a first aid kit with you can quickly nurse anyone back to health and continue enjoying your time on holiday.
9. Off- and online entertainment
If you are travelling at a longer distance then it might become more after a certain point, especially if you are travelling with your kids.
So if you want to pass your time then we suggest you carry some sort of playing cards or keep your kids’ favourite bedtime story books. If you want to enjoy ME time then you can download some of the interesting movies or your favourite shows and can also play some of the off-line games which you like.
10. A compact backpack
If you are planning an adventurous trip then we suggest you carry some of your favourite sports equipment with you to make your adventurous trip more fun. Carry folded sports equipment that can easily fit inside your pocket. This makes it best to easily fit in your luggage and then carry it with you when you’re out.
11. Refillable water bottles
While travelling, keeping yourself hydrated is very much important, it is advisable to carry a water bottle with yourself in case you might encounter dehydration. Not only is it the more environmentally friendly choice, but it will also save you a lot of money.
12. Extra bag for dirty laundry
We suggest you to either take a plastic zip bag or light duffle bag which you can use for your dirty laundry. This way you will not feel shame in your hotel room where you pile up all your clothes. Moreover, you will be happy that you can easily seal up all those worn socks.
13. Hats and sunglasses
If you are travelling in summer, it is good to carry a summer-wear hat and sunglasses to avoid a sunstroke during summer. On the other hand, if you are travelling in winter, it’s always best to have something to cover your head to avoid catching a cold. Sunglasses work for every season: in summer they protect from the direct sunlight, while in the winters they protect the eyes from the light reflected by the snow.
14. Sunscreen
If you are on holiday with your family, then most of the time you’ll be outside a lot. Whether it’s a day on the beach, hiking, or hitting the slopes these all sound like great fun at the moment but getting a sunburn is not.
15. Trail snacks
If you are going for a longer destination then there are chances that you can ruin your good mood by feeling a little hungrier. Or it can be worse: your kids are getting hungry. It is best to carry with a few packs of trail mix, some fruit or sandwiches, to avoid anyone getting their mood spoiled.
16. Your kid’s favorite toy
If you are travelling with your kids then this is something that might slip your mind, so don’t forget to add your kid’s favourite toys in your packing list. This way you and your kid will enjoy your journey peacefully with their favorite teddy.
17. Plug converter
It is surprising how many of us forget about this as we are traveling abroad. So before leaving, check what power plugs types are used in the country you are going. Or a better option: to buy a universal plug converter.
18. Power bank
You are going on a holiday, of course, it is necessary to take a lot of pictures to remember your awesome vacation. But taking pictures, your kids playing on your phone, using the navigation app, the battery might likely get drained. This is why it is best to have a power bank on hand.
Types of Travellers and Their Packing Essentials
1. The Weekend Getaway Traveler
Packing Essentials:
- Clothing:
- 2-3 tops can be mixed casual and dressy.
- 1-2 bottoms such as pants, shorts, or skirts.
- Light jacket or sweater.
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Swimsuit (if visiting a pool or beach)
- Sleepwear and underwear for 2-3 days
- Toiletries:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste
- Travel-size shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
- Skincare essentials (moisturizer, sunscreen)
- Hairbrush or comb
- Makeup (if desired)
- Accessories:
- Sunglasses
- Hat (for sun or style)
- Scarf or shawl for layering
- Reusable water bottle
- Tech:
- Phone and charger
- Headphones or earbuds
- Camera (if you plan on taking high-quality photos)
- Documents:
- ID or passport (if traveling internationally)
- Reservation confirmations (hotel, events)
- Credit cards or cash
2. The Business Traveler
Packing Essentials:
- Clothing:
- 2-3 business outfits (blazers, dress shirts, slacks, skirts)
- Casual clothes for downtime (t-shirt, jeans)
- Comfortable yet professional shoes (flats or dress shoes)
- Sleepwear and socks
- Belt, tie, or other accessories for formal attire
- Toiletries:
- Basic toiletries in travel-size containers
- Deodorant, cologne/perfume
- Travel grooming kit (razor, comb, etc.)
- Tech:
- Laptop and charger
- Portable power bank
- USB drive or business cards
- Noise-canceling headphones for work or relaxation
- Documents:
- Travel itinerary and meeting schedules
- Business contracts, presentations, or other work documents
- International power adapters (if needed)
3. The Adventure Traveler
Packing Essentials:
- Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking base layers (for hot or cold climates)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Hiking pants and durable shoes/boots
- Quick-dry socks and underwear
- Hat and gloves (for colder climates)
- Swimwear (for adventure-based activities)
- Camping Gear (if applicable):
- Tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Lightweight backpack for hiking
- Water filter or purification tablets
- Toiletries:
- Travel toothbrush, toothpaste, and biodegradable soap
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Insect repellent
- Tech:
- Portable charger and solar-powered devices
- Camera (preferably rugged or waterproof)
- GPS device or hiking map
- Health & Safety:
- First aid kit (bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers)
- Travel insurance info
- Snacks or energy bars
- Documents:
- Passport/ID, permits (for specific outdoor activities like climbing or trekking)
- Travel insurance details
4. The Luxury Traveler
Packing Essentials:
- Clothing:
- Elegant, wrinkle-free outfits for dinner or formal events (dresses, suits, etc.)
- Swimsuits and poolside attire (designer if you prefer)
- Comfortable shoes for walking and evening outings
- A lightweight cashmere sweater or shawl for cooler evenings
- Toiletries:
- Premium skincare (serum, moisturizer, eye cream)
- Fragrance (your signature scent)
- Travel-size luxury beauty products (shampoo, conditioner, body lotion)
- Tech:
- High-end camera for capturing scenic moments
- Noise-canceling headphones for flights or relaxation
- Tablet or e-reader for in-flight entertainment
- Power bank and luxury phone case
- Accessories:
- Sunglasses (designer brands)
- Hat, scarf, and gloves (if needed)
- Jewelry, watch, and other accessories
- Documents:
- Passport/ID, luxury booking confirmations (private transfers, villas, etc.)
- Travel insurance (covering high-end services)
5. The Digital Nomad Traveler
Packing Essentials:
- Clothing:
- Versatile clothes which are comfortable, and professional for remote work.
- Light jacket or sweater for cooler climates.
- Comfortable shoes for long walks or workdays in cafes.
- Tech:
- Laptop and charger
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Portable hotspot or SIM card for internet connectivity
- External hard drive or cloud storage for backups
- Toiletries:
- Basic hygiene items
- Quick-dry towel for remote locations
- Hand sanitizer and wipes
- Travel laundry detergent
- Documents:
- Passport, visa (if applicable), and copies of important documents
- Travel insurance info
- Co-working space memberships or digital nomad community details
- Other Essentials:
- Reusable water bottle
- Power bank and travel adapter
- Fitness tracker (for maintaining health on the road)
6. The Family Traveler
Packing Essentials:
- Clothing:
- Outfits for each family member (with extra for kids)
- Comfortable shoes and flip-flops for everyone
- Extra jackets or sun protection hats
- Baby or Toddler Gear (if applicable):
- Diapers, wipes, and baby food/snacks
- Portable crib or stroller
- Baby carrier or sling
- Toiletries:
- Family-sized toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, etc.)
- Sunscreen and bug spray for kids
- Basic health items (band-aids, children’s pain relievers)
- Tech & Entertainment:
- Tablets with downloaded games or movies for kids
- Headphones for each child
- Travel-sized toys or books
- Documents:
- Passports, birth certificates, and any required visas
- Copies of important medical info (e.g., allergies, medications)