The ultimate travel packing checklist

There’s nothing we love more than counting down the sleeps until our next holiday. That said, when it comes to preparing to go away, the packing household to-dos can become a little overwhelming. It’s why we’ve put together our top tips in this blog, together with a useful PDF guide to ensure you don’t forget anything. From who’s looking after the pets to switching off your electrical devices, our holiday checklist includes everything you need to get your trip off to a great start.

Going on holiday should be something to really look forward to. But the pre-departure process can often leave us feeling more stressed than excited. That’s why having a detailed list of things to do can be a brilliant way to alleviate the anxiety. Ticking off jobs and suitcase items one by one helps us feel productive and ready to jet off in a positive place. Along with lots of practical advice below, we’ve linked our travel checklists here. They’re easy to download and print off, so you can stick them to your front door, on your suitcase, or wherever you feel they’ll be most useful.

Alternatively, just tick them off online as you go – whatever works best for you.

Tick off the essentials as you go

It’s really important to fully research where you’re going. Visas, currency, travel restrictions, seasonal weather, cultural requirements (including what to wear and what to say) – all are worth paying attention to before you head off.

Many destinations have certain rules, such as making sure there are six months left on your passport when you travel, or ensuring there are at least two blank pages left. Others are happy if the passport is simply good for the duration of your stay. Each country is different, so don’t assume anything. If in doubt, go to the Foreign Office web pages at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice, and search for the relevant destination.

Banks and credit card companies should be contacted before you travel to pre-empt any problems that you might encounter using them while away. They’ll also be able to advise you on what transaction charges you can expect, and the safest way to use your money abroad. Also, don’t forget to check what your mobile phone provider says about roaming fees. It’s always best to find out in advance so you can avoid a costly invoice on your return home.

It’s a good idea to unplug electrical appliances and switch off anything that might unnecessarily eat into your electricity bill while you’re away. Also, clean out the fridge to avoid perishables going off, and leave a spare key with a family member or trusted neighbour so someone can visit your house if you need them to.

Book this as soon as possible to cover yourself against unexpected cancellations. Always read the small print, including the excess you might need to pay, any pre-existing medical conditions and any activities you might choose to participate in abroad which might need additional cover. On our Hosted Holidays and Escorted Tours, insurance is included, meaning one less thing to worry about!

Aside from the obvious – underwear, shirts, skirts, dresses, tops, footwear, and trousers – consider clothing that’s going to be suitable for the weather, as well as excursions and activities.

For instance, are you going to be doing a lot of walking? Will formal dress be required? Will you need to protect yourself from the sunshine or will it be chilly at the time of year you’re travelling?

Also, are there going to be any evenings out or extra special celebrations that you might want to dress up for?

Although you might be able to buy your toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and skincare products abroad, there’s nothing worse than forgetting those vital toiletries. Just remember the rules on what you can take in your hand luggage – in a clear plastic bag – and what you can place in the luggage hold.

Make sure you have a universal adapter so you can charge your tech gadgets while away. Phones, electric toothbrushes, iPads, cameras, and Kindles, will all need charging at some point. Also, remember to upload any films, audio books, and music for those long-haul flights and afternoon siestas.

A travel pillow or comfortable neck cushion is a must. An eye mask and ear plugs are also handy, as are reuseable water bottles and a few snacks for the journey. Also, make sure medication is clearly labelled and close at hand if your need it. Wherever you’re going and whatever you’re looking forward to, our travel checklists will help you on your way. They’re a great means of taking control and getting organised and will ensure you don’t forget to take your favourite dress for a special occasion, or those important medical and travel documents.

Click here to download your travel packing checklist and pre-departure checklist.