Getting ready for a holiday is exciting but packing can for it can be surprisingly stressful. It’s too easy to forget the small essentials that you’ll only realise you’re missing when you get to your destination. A little planning goes a long way and having a holiday packing list will mean you are covered for any type of trip.
Below you’ll find a comprehensive holiday packing list covering everything from travel documents to electronics. We’ve also included advice on car hire essentials as well as why you consider purchasing a car hire excess insurance policy to avoid unexpected costs if something goes wrong.
Travel Documents and Essentials
Passport, Visa & Photocopies
If you’re travelling abroad, your passport is the one item you can’t forget. Double-check it’s packed, valid, and easy to access.
If your destination requires a visa, make sure you’ve arranged this well in advance and have both digital and printed copies. It’s also wise to keep photocopies of other key documents such as hotel confirmations, booking references, and itineraries in case your phone dies or you lose signal.
Travel Insurance Documents
Travel insurance is essential for any trip abroad. Emergencies might feel unlikely but there’s no point risking it. Make sure you shop around for a policy that suits your circumstances and offers the right level of cover.
Print or download your proof of insurance so, if you need to, you can show it to medical staff or authorities without stress.
Driving Licence and Other IDs
Some destinations require multiple IDs for car hire, bar entry and other age-restricted attractions. Make sure your driving licence is packed, particularly if you plan to rent a car. As some hire companies may also request a second form of identification you should check this in advance so you can pack a second form of ID.
Boarding Passes and Other Transport Tickets
Although boarding passes are usually stored on your phone, don’t rely solely on technology – it’s worth keeping a printed copy just in case.
Similarly, save or print any additional transport tickets, such as airport shuttles, pre-booked tours, ferries, or internal flights.
Emergency Contact Information
In the event of an accident or medical emergency, having the right contact information easily accessible can make a huge difference. Carry a small card with emergency details, including next-of-kin, allergies and important phone numbers. Keep it in your day bag, especially for adventurous activities like hiking, kayaking or skiing.
Car Hire Details
Car hire desks can be slow which means that arriving with all your documents can make the process smoother. Print or save your reservation, booking number and any other emails with additional information from the rental company.
As car hire can become expensive if you’re charged for damage you didn’t cause, you should consider purchasing car hire excess insurance before you travel. It protects you from high excess costs and may save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
Clothing
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Of course your destination determines your wardrobe. For UK staycations, pack rainproof layers, a good coat and sturdy walking shoes. For a beach trip, pack light clothing but don’t forget cover-ups or smart outfits for evenings out.
Underwear
Easy to forget but essential to pack. Bring more than you think you might need.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Even if you expect to spend your holiday poolside, you might end up doing more walking exploring your destination than you anticipated. A comfortable pair of trainers could be a lifesaver and can be worn on the plane to save suitcase space.
Swimwear
Whether you’re heading to a beach, hotel pool, spa, an Airbnb with a hot tub or you decide to visit the leisure centre on a rainy day, swimwear is always handy and takes up minimal space.
Pyjamas
Often overlooked, but crucial especially if your accommodation gets cold at night. Pack at least one reliable pair.
Jacket or Hoodie
Temperatures can drop unexpectedly, even in tropical climates which is why bring a lightweight jumper, jacket or hoody is a good idea. Again, wearing it during travel will save room in your luggage.
Accessories
The particular accessories you’ll want to pack will vary by destination, but generally include sunglasses, hats for sun protection or to keep warm and other warm accessories like scarves and gloves for colder climates.
Toiletries
Toothbrush, Toothpaste & Floss
This trio is among the most commonly forgotten items. Pack them early, along with floss or interdental brushes and consider a travel-size mouthwash if you’re going hand-luggage only.
Shampoo and Conditioner
Your accommodation may provide complimentary shampoo, conditioner and body wash but this isn’t guaranteed. It’s worth bringing your own; bring travel-sized products or secure full-size bottles in a plastic bag to them leaking inside your suitcase.
Deodorant
Small and easy to forget but essential.
Razor & Shaving Cream
If you shave regularly, don’t forget your razor. Pack shaving cream or if you’re travelling with hand-luggage only there are solid alternatives available.
Hairbrush
Another item that’s small and easy to forget!
Makeup & Perfume
Pack only what you’ll realistically use. A scaled-down version of your usual routine should plenty and will save space. Don’t forget your perfume or cologne either!
SPF
Sun protection is important in all climate as the UV rays can still cause sun damage on cloudy days. Apply suncream daily and keep it alongside an SPF lip balm in your bag.
Medication, Prescriptions & First Aid Kit
If you take regular medication, pack more than enough for your trip. Keep prescriptions with you in case airport security requests documentation.
You should also pack a small first aid kit stocked with things like plasters, antiseptic cream, bandages, and pain relief can save time, hassle and money abroad.
Electronics
Mobile Phone, Charger & Mount
Phones are rarely forgotten but chargers often are. Pack your charger and a travel adapter, as plugs vary worldwide and buying one at the airport will be expensive.
If you’re hiring a car, it’s also worth packing a phone mount so you can turn your mobile into a sat-nav. This way you’ll avoid having to pay extra to hire a sat-nav too. Most map apps let you download routes in advance so you won’t need to use mobile data.
Power Bank
A fully charged power bank keeps your devices running when you’re out exploring or between flights so you won’t have to wait for a wall socket to free up.
Headphones
Headphones are definitely an inflight essential, particularly if you have noisy fellow passengers. If they require charging, pack the cable too.
Travel Gear
Travel Pillow & Eye Mask
Ideal for long flights and overnight journeys. Inflatable pillows save space and eye masks help you sleep through bright cabins and get some sleep to avoid jetlag if you’re changing time zones.
Locks & Luggage Tags
Keeping your luggage safe is important. A sturdy lock will help protect it and a bright, distinctive tag helps you spot your suitcase instantly at baggage reclaim. If you add your name, address and contact details to the tag, this will help airline staff return your bag to you quickly in the unfortunate scenario that your luggage gets lost.
Miscellaneous
Money & Travel Cards
Research typical costs at your destination (food, drinks, excursions) so you can budget properly. Bring a mix of cash, travel cards and digital payment methods. Make sure to also research if any of your cards will charge you for spending money abroad.
Translation App
If your Duolingo streak hasn’t quite paid off and you’re not yet fluent in the local language, a translation app will allow you to converse with locals easier and avoid misunderstandings. It will be quicker than flipping through a phrasebook and far less awkward than guesswork.
Final Thoughts
Being prepared means having everything that will allow your trip to go that bit smoother. From the right documents and reliable luggage to the security of car hire excess insurance, taking the time to read over this list before you go can save you money and time later.
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