In a recent post, I covered indispensable car essentials for road trips. Today, drawing from years of family vacations—from winter sports to beach getaways—I'm sharing our core holiday packing list. These aren't exhaustive, but they're tried-and-tested items we always double-check, blending personal necessities with practical gear from trusted sources like Bol.com, Engelbert Strauss, Greenjump, and our local optician.
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Whether heading for winter sports, a quick weekend escape, or summer sun, these items are non-negotiable for our family. Your list might differ, but ours—proven across countless trips—includes gear from reliable retailers.
These versatile jackets from Engelbert Strauss are a staple. Perfect for DFDS ferry crossings, Tenerife flights, snowy slopes, or beach rain showers, they layer well without bulk. Ideal for short hikes or variable weather, they're always on our list.
We learned the hard way: forgetting them meant trekking the Weissee glacier in flip-flops during summer. Now, sturdy hiking shoes are packed for every adventure, ensuring comfort on unexpected trails.
Natural sunscreen from Greenjump is essential year-round—even for weekends away. We don't burn easily, but consistent protection prevents issues, a lesson from sunny holidays and snowy peaks alike.
Crucial for my daughter Lotte, and me on winding mountain drives or boat trips. We rely on Primatour tablets, and she's now trying Sea-Band glasses (have you heard of Seaetroën?). They keep trips enjoyable.
This compact card game fits any luggage, including carry-on. Great for 15-minute waits or full evenings, the kids love it, and so do we. A fun, space-saving essential for family downtime.
Backup for when remedies fall short, these are stashed behind the passenger seat. Lotte insists on a full stock before we hit the road—preparedness from real travel mishaps.
Not for slime experiments, but for dry eyes after napping in the car or plane. A small extra bottle from the optician restores comfort fast, preventing irritated blinks mid-journey.
This is just our curated selection; passports and basics go without saying. We prioritize these because they're reliable brands not always available abroad—like that trusted lens solution. Our summer staple? The Easybreath snorkel mask—you raved about it too! What's your can't-miss item for holidays or getaways?