Family vacations come in all shapes and sizes and are created to the needs and desires of the family. Whether you are embarking on a road trip adventure, traveling with long haul flight, travelling afar, or camping close to home; packing for a family holiday can be a challenging task. This means coordinating each family member's luggage and making sure everyone is well prepared for the trip. To relieve some tension, Eminent has created the ultimate holiday checklist for families. Through creating a guide for families, we'll cover all the necessities for a family trip away.  Whether you travel as a family often or you are embarking on your first adventure with little ones in tow, we hope to reduce some stress and give you a better idea of what to pack and how to pack!

Family Luggage

The right choice of luggage can make a huge difference in your travel experience; supporting your family holiday checklist by having a bag that lasts the duration of your travel experience, and for many more journeys to come! Eminent luggage, known for its durability, high quality workmanship and versatility offers a great range of bags for any sort of family holiday. Eminent offers a range of sizes, from compact carry-ons to spacious checked bags, ensuring you have the perfect fit for your family's needs. Some families consider packing all of their luggage in an XL bag, and using cabin luggage or durable backpacks as their day packs. Others find it easier to buy separate bags for all. Whatever you choose you will want to make sure your luggage is high-quality and will be convenient for all of your family members to use.

Kid-friendly Luggage

When embarking on a family adventure, choosing kid-friendly luggage options makes travel easier for all. Consider things such as the size of the luggage and who might be carrying/wheeling the luggage. Also consider how many additional items you may be travelling with that might impact your ability to travel with ease (such as car seat, prams etc.). You want to ensure that your luggage is manoeuvrable, and won’t let you down during your travels. Some parents enjoy bolder or more colourful designs on their luggage, to add excitement with their child the travel adventures. Also, consider luggage with wheels and retractable handles, giving your child independence as they navigate travels with you.

Documentation and Money

Documentation and money are an essential part of your family holiday checklist. Passports, photo ID, visas, credit/debit cards, cash and travel insurance are essential items for any travel situation.  This means you are prepared with formal documentation and any money you may need on your travels. Also make sure you are diligent in safeguarding your essential documents. Keeping money, cash and identification in a secure pouch or pocket in your bag.

Kids' Essentials

Travelling with children can provide a whole different dimension to your packing. Strategically consider the appropriate items for the ages of your kids. This may mean packing nappies, baby and toddler appropriate entertainment for the little ones.  If your child has a favourite blanket or toy that is part of their home routine this should also be essential for your packing. Entertainment options to keep older children engaged such as ebooks, books, travel games and tablets also should be a consideration depending on your family demographics.

Clothing Essentials

A holiday checklist for families should also include comfortable and practical clothing choices for all family members. When it comes to clothing essentials for your family vacation, comfort and practicality are key. Regardless of your chosen destination, consider packing versatile items, including breathable t-shirts, lightweight pants, and weather-appropriate layers. Comfortable footwear for your adventures and more than one pair per family member is important. Accessories to consider include sun hats, sunglasses, and swimwear for sunny destinations, or scarves and thick jackets for cooler weather. Plan your outfits to suit the plans of your family and the weather conditions of your travel destination.

Family Toiletries

When planning a family trip, it is important to pack the correct toiletries for all your family. Here are a few items that should be considered in your packing list:

• Sunscreen and skincare essentials: It is likely that your family may choose to enjoy outdoor activities. Keeping sunscreen, moisturiser, lip balm and other skin protection essentials readily available, helps to protect from the sun's rays and keep your family’s skin hydrated on holiday.
• Medications and first aid supplies: Be prepared for minor cuts, scrapes or health issues. A simple first aid kit that includes band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary prescription medications.
• Baby care items: If you have infants or toddlers, pack nappies, wipes, baby lotion, baby wash, and any other baby care products that are used daily for your child/children.  Being over prepared is always helpful when travelling with young children.

Family Travel First Aid Kit

A well-prepared family first aid kit ensures safety and security on your family adventure. This helps to handle any minor mishaps and keep your loved ones healthy for the duration of your trip. Include items such as band aides, antiseptic wipes, paracetamol or ibuprofen, asthma inhaler and any necessary prescription medicines.

Entertainment for Kids

When it comes to keeping kids entertained on your journey and in down times here are some options of entertainment to consider:

• Tablets and electronic devices: Before embarking on your holiday add kid-friendly apps, movies, and games to your device.
• Books and audiobooks: Pack their favourite books or consider audiobooks for an alternative storytelling experience.
• Comfortable headphones or Airpods.
• Colouring books and crayons.
• Puzzles and activity book.
• Travel-sized board games.
• Snacks for the journey

Tips for Packing for a Family Vacation

Packing for a family holiday can be an overwhelming experience. With meticulous planning and a helpful list to keep track of your items, the task of packing becomes more bearable. Start packing early, create checklists, and prioritise essential items like documents, medications, and entertainment for the kids. Choose to pack travel-sized toiletries, additional family entertainment and keep your valuables in carry-on bags. Leave some space for shopping and enjoy your travel experience with a lightweight, high-quality, durable suitcase!