What to Pack for a Summer Holiday with Kids
From the journal of Summer Wanderlust…
Planning a summer escape with the kids? Whether you’re beach-bound, heading to a national park, or hopping over to a dreamy island, having the right essentials in your suitcase can make or break the magic.
Here’s our tried-and-tested Summer Wanderlust packing guide, because adventure loves the well-prepared!
The Essentials (Don’t Even Think About Leaving Without These!)
- Passports + IDs
- Travel insurance
- Printed itineraries & reservations
- Credit cards + a little cash
- Medications + first aid kit
Summer Wanderlust Tip:
Keep travel documents in a bright, zippered pouch so you can grab them fast in airport chaos.
Clothing for Sunny Days & Spontaneous Play
- Light, breathable t-shirts & dresses
- 2–3 pairs of shorts/swimwear
- 1 lightweight hoodie (because evenings can surprise you)
- Comfy sandals + 1 pair of walking shoes
- Hats for everyone! Sun safety = happy holidays
- Pajamas + extra socks/undies (you’ll thank us)
Summer Wanderlust Tip:
Roll clothes to save space AND make packing feel like a game for the kids!
Beach + Pool Must-Haves
- Beach towels or compact microfiber towels
- Swimsuits + rash guards
- Waterproof phone case
- Sand toys + floaties
- Sunscreen (reef safe, please )
- Aloe vera gel (for when you “forget” the sunscreen)
Summer Wanderlust Tip:
Pack a separate “beach bag kit” so you can hit the sand the second you arrive.
Snacks & Sippy Cups (AKA Peacekeepers)
- Healthy snacks (dried fruit, bars, crackers)
- Water bottles for each child
- A few “treat snacks” for those travel tantrums
Summer Wanderlust Tip:
Bring reusable snack bags, less mess, less plastic, more fun.
Entertainment for Transit Time
- Crayons + coloring books
- Audiobooks + kids’ podcasts
- Tablets with movies (downloaded!)
- Small toys or card games
- Neck pillows + cozy travel blankets
Summer Wanderlust Tip:
Wrap small surprise toys for the plane ride, instant joy bombs!
Toiletries & Little Extras
- Toothbrushes + paste
- Wet wipes (always useful!)
- Hand sanitizer
- Hairbrush + hair ties
- A couple of reusable bags for dirty clothes
- Bug spray + bandaids (adventures = scraped knees)
Summer Wanderlust Tip:
Use travel-sized refillable bottles, and label everything!
Don’t Forget the Fun Stuff!
- Camera or GoPro
- Journal or travel scrapbook
- A polaroid camera for the kids to take their own pics
- Mini travel games
- Your family’s favorite travel playlist
Summer Wanderlust Tip:
Let the kids create their own mini travel journals, you’ll treasure their drawings forever.
When preparing for your summer family holiday, a well-stocked first aid kit is a must-have to keep your adventures stress-free and safe. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, lounging on the beach, or discovering new cities, having the right supplies on hand can make all the difference. Your kit should include essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, allergy medications, pain relievers, and any prescription medications your family may need. Keeping a small, compact first aid kit in your bag ensures peace of mind, knowing you’re prepared for any minor bumps or scrapes that might come your way!
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Pre-check expiration dates before you leave, and don’t forget a list of emergency contacts for your destination, safety first, always!
Final Packing Tip from Summer Wanderlust:
Let the kids help! Give them their own little packing cube or backpack. It teaches responsibility and adds to the excitement. Trust us, even if they pack three stuffed animals and zero socks, they’ll feel part of the journey.
Wishing you blue skies, ice cream breaks, and belly laughs all the way.
