In collaboration with Chums
When you’re getting ready for a family holiday, whether it’s a weekend away in the UK or a week in the sun, it can be hard to know what to pack. With the possibility of limited luggage space, unpredictable weather and the need for comfort, it’s important to be practical when it comes to packing.
Over the years, we have been on so many different trips from all inclusive holidays, a cruise, Walt Disney World and even glamping. I’ve put together some of our top tips to help you pack smarterm and dress more practically for travel.
Practical Clothes for Travel
When it comes to packing for a family trip, comfort and practicality are key, especially if you’ll be out exploring all day or experiencing various kinds of weather. Choosing clothing that’s easy to wear, layer and re-wear is one of the best ways to make packing more efficient. You don’t need to go for designer brands, in fact it is sometimes better to for brands that are highed quality but more affordable, such as brands like Chums
Here are some essential items we always include in our suitcases:
For women:
- Comfortable leggings or joggers for travel days
- A breathable top or t-shirt that works for layering
- A cosy jumper or cardigan
- A pair of ladies corduroy trousers. These are perfect for cooler weather, practical for walking, and stylish enough to wear out for dinner depending on what you choose to pair them with
- A lightweight waterproof jacket
For men:
- Smart-casual trousers or jeans
- Shorts for warmer weather
- Plain t-shirts or polo shirts for versatility
- A fleece or hoodie for added warmth
- Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
For children:
- Easy-to-wear leggings or joggers
- A couple of long-sleeved tops for layering
- A hoodie or zip-up jacket
- Waterproofs and wellies if you’re heading somewhere muddy or wet
- Spare clothes for those inevitable spills or adventures!
When you stick to mix-and-match basics and choose clothes that are both comfortable and functional, you’ll find you can pack less while still being ready for all types of weather and activities.
Start with a list
It might sound simple, but making a packing list really helps. I can’t really cope anymore without a good list, and it’s the best way to make sure you don’t forget anything. I once forgot ALL of my clothes on a holiday to Center Parcs and I’ll never make that mistake again.
Start with essentials like passports, travel documents and medications, then move on to clothing and toiletries. Having a checklist ensures you don’t overpack or forget something important. I tend to have a master copy on my computer, and change it slightly depending on where we’re going.
Think in outfits
Rather than packing lots of individual pieces, think in terms of full outfits. Choose tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched, and make sure each item goes with at least two others. This will help you keep your packing minimal without feeling like you’re wearing the same thing every day. I find this especially good for children, as you can pack something like trousers and a t-shirt, as well as a jumper so everything goes together somehow.
Pack for the weather (but be prepared)
Always check the weather forecast before you pack, but bring a few extras just in case. A lightweight raincoat, a sunhat and a cosy jumper are often worth including, even if you don’t think you’ll need them. The weather can change so fast and we’ve been caught out in a downpour more than once. If you’re travelling by car, you usually have enough space to add a couple of extra coats, just in case.
Use smart packing techniques
Rolling your clothes (instead of folding them) can help save space and reduce creasing. Packing cubes or large zip bags are also brilliant for keeping things organised, especially if you’re sharing a suitcase or travelling with kids.
If you’re flying for your next holiday and taking multiple cases, remember to split clothes between them all. This way, if a bag goes missing, you will all have some clothes rather than one person having everything.
Limit your footwear
Shoes can take up a lot of room in your suitcase, so try to limit each person to two or three pairs. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as well as a smarter pair and something easy to slip on, like sandals or flip-flops if you’re heading somewhere warm.
Don’t forget the little extras
Some of the most helpful travel items are the ones that are easily overlooked:
- A lightweight laundry bag for dirty clothes (or one of those pop up baskets)
- A reusable water bottle
- A mini first aid kit
- Plastic or fabric bags for muddy shoes or wet swimming gear
Final thoughts
Packing for a family trip doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With a bit of planning, a realistic packing list, and some clever clothing choices, you can the whole thing a lot easier. Keep your list up to date and with reusable sections and this will save you a lot of time and effort.
The key is to focus on comfort, versatility and weather-appropriate layers for everyone, because whether you’re exploring a new city or heading off for a countryside break, being well prepared means fewer worries and more time to enjoy your holiday.