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Getting ready for your family holiday

Family holidays can be overwhelming and that can start before you even step on the plane. Don’t let the packing spoil your holiday anticipation – this A&K family guide to packing should mean your suitcase is full of the right items, so you can leave your worries back at home.

We know you won’t leave behind those essential swimsuits or sunglasses. But forgetting to check if everyone’s passports are valid or to carry a proof of relationship (if your surname is different from your child’s), could cause unnecessary hiccups. Don’t forget to source that clear bag to display all your 100ml liquids which you need to show before boarding the plane.

To ensure you enjoy the feelgood factor from the moment you book your luxury family holiday with A&K to the final sundowner on the beach, our experts have compiled an essential guide on preparing for your next family holiday.

For those who book in the A&K Harrods boutique, you can schedule a personal shopping experience with the Harrods stylist team who will ensure your holiday wardrobe is complete.

The beauty of booking with A&K is there will always be someone to help you when you arrive at your destination. So, if your toddler losses his favourite beaker or your teenager has lost those vital headphones, we are here to find a replacement leaving you free to start your holiday. 

Pre-holiday checklist 
  • Check passports are valid
  • Obtain proof of relationship if your surname is different from your children’s
  • Take out travel insurance
  • Apply for visas
  • Check validity of, or apply for, European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
  • Book jabs if necessary
  • Arrange malaria protection
  • Pre-order any medication for your child or yourself
  • Ensure you have a doctor’s letter for the airline if you carry an auto-injector device for allergies
  • Order currency 
  • A&K final documentation & essential information 
  • Put driving licence in your hand luggage
  • Set aside a spare mobile phone and charger, as well as travel plug adapters
  • Check the roaming on your mobile
  • Book your pets into cattery or kennels

Hand luggage
  • Backpack or another hands-free bag
  • Toiletries; decanted into 100ml plastic bottles and stored in clear bag
  • Glasses or contact lenses plus case and lens solution
  • Books and magazines for all ages
  • Tablet loaded with programmes viewable offline for planes or cars
  • Pads and colouring crayons 
  • Playing cards
  • Water bottle to refill
  • Plug converter / travel adapter
  • At least two changes of clothes for babies or toddlers
  • First aid kit with copy of prescriptions
Babies
  • Carry-on luggage or in-car bag: two changes of clothes; in-flight entertainment; snacks
  • Baby monitor (both parts) though many places provide these
  • Closed beaker and cutlery that your child likes
  • Dummies, if appropriate for your child
  • Bibs
  • Bottles/formula, and muslins just in case
  • Nappies, nappy cream, wipes
  • Swim nappies
  • Buggy – the lighter in weight, the better
  • Sling
  • 50+ sunscreen for kids 
  • Sun-protection vests, hats and cotton clothes 
  • Toiletries including any prescribed shower gels or moisturisers to soothe skin
  • Don’t forget the cuddly toy!
 
School children
  • Bucket and spade
  • Frisbee or beach games
  • Sun-protection vests, hats and cotton clothes
  • Toiletries; to include any prescribed shower gels or moisturisers to soothe skin
  • Snorkelling kit
  • Insect repellent
 
Teenagers
  • Lightweight bag for hand luggage
  • Toiletries decanted into 100ml plastic bottles
  • Devices; mobile and iPad with headphones and charger
  • Plug converter / travel adapter
  • Glasses or contact lenses
  • Gum for take off or landing to relieve ear pressure
  • Homework/textbooks
  • Accessories such as caps, scarves or jewellery
  • Sportswear
  • Water bottle to refill
 
For more inspiration and to start planning your next trip, explore our family holidays.