Packing for a family trip is no small challenge – especially when children's logistics are involved. Whether you're planning lazy days on the beach, walks along the seashore, or playing in the sand, it's good to have a tried-and-true list of things you'll definitely need. This way, you'll avoid packing "just in case," save space, and most importantly – have peace of mind. Check what to take on vacation with children and forget about pre-holiday stress!
The list of things for a vacation with a child starts with... a plan
Before you start throwing things into your suitcase, pause for a moment and ask yourself a few simple questions. How many days will you spend by the sea? Are you planning just beach time, or maybe also trips, forest walks, museum visits, or relaxation at the hotel SPA? The more you know about your plans, the easier it will be to avoid unnecessary items and unwanted stress.
It doesn't have to be a detailed schedule – a general vision of how you want to spend your time is enough. Thanks to this, packing will become easier, and you will take what will definitely come in handy. No overloaded bag and no forgotten essentials.
What clothes to take on vacation with children? The essentials list
By the Baltic Sea, the weather can change from hour to hour, so when packing your suitcase for a seaside holiday, it's worth preparing for every option – from sunshine to significant cooling. What to take on vacation with a child? Here's a tried-and-tested set:
- short-sleeve t-shirts (one for each day plus one spare),
- long pants and shorts – preferably those that can be combined,
- a sweatshirt or sweater with long sleeves – for evening walks or cooler days,
- a light rain jacket (or a plastic poncho – takes up less space),
- headwear (a cap, hat),
- swimsuit (even two – a dry one always comes in handy),
- underwear and socks – better to have a few extra pairs than too few,
- sports shoes, sandals, and flip-flops – useful to alternate.
For younger children, include also a set of "emergency" clothes because even the best-planned day can end with an unexpected bath... in a puddle.
What to take on vacation with children? Cosmetics, hygiene items, and first aid kit
The toiletry bag for a family trip is not a place for experiments. It's better to rely on trusted products (just like in hand luggage) that the child uses daily – this will help avoid irritation and surprises. When packing, think practically: what might be needed in the bathroom, on the beach, on the road, and in emergencies. The family's toiletry bag should include products such as:
- gentle wash and shampoo (suitable for the child's skin needs),
- UV sunscreen – with high protection, especially for sensitive skin,
- hygienic tissues and wet wipes – always good to have on hand,
- diapers (if needed), paper towels, and sanitary pads.
Before going on family holidays by the sea, you will also need a first aid kit. It should contain:
- painkillers and antipyretics (with an applicator suitable for the child's age),
- sunburn remedies,
- something for insect bites and allergies,
- saline solution, plasters, swabs, dressings,
- disinfectant, e.g., hydrogen peroxide or antibacterial spray,
- optional: thermometer, mosquito and tick spray, tick remover tool.
Child accessories useful on vacation
Family vacations are more than just a suitcase full of clothes – especially if you're traveling by car with a small child. Some items simply cannot be skipped because they increase safety and ease daily functioning.
Let's start with the journey. A car seat is an absolute must-have – and it's not just about regulations but real safety. If you install the seat in the front, remember to deactivate the airbag. For the youngest children, it's also worth bringing a stroller – even if you plan to carry the child a lot, wheels will eventually save your legs (and yours).
On-site, a travel cot comes in handy – unless your hotel provides one. Increasingly more properties, including family-friendly seaside ones, offer full equipment: from a baby bath, bottle warmers, to changing tables and high chairs. It's worth checking this before the trip. Depending on your needs, you can also add the following to your carry-on luggage:
- a baby monitor,
- the child's favorite sippy cup or bottle,
- a thermos or food storage container,
- several cloth diapers.
What else is worth bringing on vacation with a child? Toys, books, and other entertainment
Even on vacation, a toddler needs familiar rituals and entertainment they know from home. Beloved toys, a favorite cuddly toy, or books can work wonders, especially in a new place where everything smells like adventure (and a little uncertainty). It's worth packing:
- a favorite toy or stuffed animal (preferably just one, not a whole set),
- a favorite blanket – perfect for naps, the beach, and the car,
- books – especially those that can be read repeatedly without losing patience,
- coloring books, crayons, puzzles – light but engaging,
- a small board game or cards – great for an evening in the room, especially for older children.
For the beach or hotel pool, the following will be useful:
- inflatable arm bands or vest,
- bucket, shovel, and sand molds (minimum builder’s set),
- a small ball or frisbee.
What not to forget when packing for vacation?
There are small things that seem obvious – until you run out of them. Then it leads to searching stores, borrowing from neighbors next door, or improvising quickly. To avoid this, before closing your suitcase, take a look at this list:
- chargers (for phone, tablet, camera – and power bank, if you have one),
- batteries (e.g., for a baby monitor or toys),
- the child's favorite pillow or cushion – if they sleep better "in their own".
Less packing, more enjoying amenities!
Before you start stuffing half the children's room into your suitcase, check what the hotel where you'll stay offers. More and more places – including seaside ones – are catering to the needs of families with children. Travel cots, baby baths, bottle warmers, chairs in restaurants, and sometimes even potty steps, potty seats, or toilet adapters – all this might be available on site. In the summer season, hotels also often organize entertainment for children.
And if the weather isn't good for beach time? Family attractions on-site come to the rescue – an outdoor playground or a wellness zone with a pool, which is perfect for cooler days. So before you pack everything "just in case," check the hotel's website or call – this quick consultation can save a lot of space in your luggage and make the whole trip easier.
If you're worried about unfavorable weather at the Baltic Sea, check out our article about what to do in Świnoujście when it rains and plan a day full of attractions regardless of the weather!
Family holidays are above all about spending time together, not endless packing. A well-prepared list lets you bring only what you really need – and leave room for relaxation. Instead of worrying whether everything will fit in your suitcase, focus on returning from vacation with great memories – and with our list, you'll surely take what is essential.
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