Quick summary: Pack your documents and medication first, check airline rules before you travel, and keep essentials in your hand luggage to avoid stress at the airport.
Packing for a holiday should feel exciting, not stressful. This simple holiday packing checklist will help you stay organised, avoid last-minute panic, and make sure you have the essentials before you leave.
Before you go
- Check your passport is valid
- Check visa requirements if needed
- Buy travel insurance early
- Check travel advice
- Book parking, hotel or transfers
- Download airline apps and boarding passes
- Check baggage allowance
- Check if vaccinations are needed
Documents and money
- Passport
- Boarding passes
- Travel insurance
- Accommodation details
- GHIC or EHIC
- Bank cards
- Local currency
Top tip: Keep all documents in one travel wallet so they are easy to access at security and boarding.
Hand luggage essentials
- Passport and boarding pass
- Phone and charger
- Medication
- Headphones
- Snacks
- Reusable water bottle
Medication checklist
- Keep medication in hand luggage
- Original packaging where possible
- Prescription copy
- Doctor’s letter if needed
Clothing checklist
- Tops and outfits
- Underwear and sleepwear
- Swimwear
- Light jacket
- Comfortable shoes
Toiletries and health
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo and toiletries
- Sunscreen
- Pain relief
- First aid basics
Family travel checklist
- Nappies and wipes
- Food and bottles
- Spare clothes
- Toys and activities
Carers and accessibility
- Request special assistance
- Medication list
- Medical equipment
- Support documents
Accessibility tip: Book airport assistance in advance to help everything run more smoothly.
Before leaving home
- Lock doors and windows
- Turn off appliances
- Empty bins
- Arrange pet care
Packing tips
- Roll clothes to save space
- Use packing cubes
- Keep valuables in hand luggage
Related travel guides
If you’re looking for more support when travelling, these guides from our community section may help:
Explore more: Visit our community hub for more accessible travel advice and helpful guides.
FAQs
The most important items are your passport, travel insurance, payment method, phone charger, and any essential medication. Without these, it can be difficult to travel or resolve issues abroad.
Your hand luggage should include travel documents, valuables, medication, a phone and charger, snacks, and a few spare essentials in case of delays or lost luggage.
Most UK travellers use a GHIC, while some may still be eligible for a UK EHIC. These cards give access to state healthcare but do not replace travel insurance.
Yes, essential liquid medicines are allowed in hand luggage. If they exceed standard liquid limits, you may need to provide proof such as a prescription or doctor’s letter.
You should check travel health advice around six to eight weeks before your trip so you have enough time to arrange any recommended vaccinations.
You can request airport assistance through your airline or airport. It is best to do this as early as possible, ideally at least 48 hours before departure.
Plan outfits in advance, choose clothes that can be mixed and matched, and avoid packing for unlikely situations. Rolling clothes and using packing cubes can also help save space.
Toiletries are usually limited to small containers in hand luggage. Rules can vary by airport, so it is best to check current guidance before travelling.
Families should pack nappies, wipes, food, spare clothes, medication, and entertainment such as books or games to keep children comfortable during the journey.
Before leaving, make sure doors and windows are locked, appliances are turned off, bins are emptied, and arrangements are in place for pets or deliveries.
Make your airport trip easier
Start your holiday stress-free by booking your airport parking, hotel, or Meet & Greet in advance.