Holiday park and caravan packing list for families

A holiday park break is easy to pack for once you know what is provided. Beds are often made up, but towels, toiletries and cleaning bits vary by grade, and you will want the cooking and cleaning basics in a self-catering place. This list covers what families usually take, and the things worth checking in your booking first.

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Zipi builds it around the trip, the weather and who’s going, and keeps it for next time.

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Check these first

The things people forget most. Everything else can be bought, borrowed or worked around.

Passports and tickets
Medication, with the doses
Phone chargers and a multi-plug
Comfort toy (and a spare if you have one)
Glasses or contact lenses
Toothbrushes
Headphones
Sun cream, if it’s sunny

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Check your booking first

Grades and parks differ. Beds are usually made up, and towels are often included only at higher grades. Confirm everything for your booking before you pack.

Are beds made up on arrival?
Are towels included, or do you bring your own?
Is there a cot or highchair, and does it cost extra?
What is provided in the kitchen (pots, kettle, toaster, dishwasher)?
What is included in the price: pool, shows, activities?

Bedding and bathroom

Towels, if they are not included
Toiletries and any medication
Extra pillows or blankets for pull-out beds
Flannels and a bath mat
Toilet roll for the first night

Kitchen basics

Tea, coffee and milk for the first morning
A first-night meal and snacks
Tea towels, washing-up liquid and a sponge
Washing tablets or powder, if there is a machine
Bin bags and kitchen roll
A cool bag for the journey

Swimming and activities

Swimwear, two per person
Goggles and swim aids
Beach towels
Trainers and a waterproof jacket
Games, books and a pack of cards for evenings

Clothes (per person)

A change of clothes for each day
Underwear and socks, plus spares
A warm jumper or fleece
One smart-ish outfit for an evening out
Wellies if the forecast looks wet

For babies and little ones

Travel cot and bedding, unless provided
Highchair or a booster seat, unless provided
Nappies, wipes and a changing mat
Sterilising kit and bottles
Night light and monitor

You can usually buy these when you get there: Milk, bread and basics, Snacks, Sun cream, Small toys. Leave them at home to save space in your case.

Tips

Shop for the first night online and have it delivered, or stop at a supermarket on the way.
Pack a box or crate for the kitchen basics, so you can unload in one trip.
Keep a bag of wet swim kit separate from clean clothes.
Ask the park what the check-in time is, and what happens if you arrive early.

Common questions

Do I need to bring towels to a holiday park?

It depends on the grade and park. Higher grades often include towels, while entry-level caravans often don’t. Check your booking.

Is bedding provided in a holiday park caravan?

Beds are commonly made up on arrival, though pull-out beds can differ. Confirm what applies to your booking.

What food should I bring for the first night?

Something easy for everyone: pasta or a ready meal, bread, milk, tea and snacks. It saves a shop on arrival.

Can I bring a travel cot?

Yes, and many parks also hire cots and highchairs. Ask when you book, as numbers may be limited.

One list per person, one link for whoever helps.
Send the children’s list to a partner, nanny or grandparent. They tick things off on their phone.

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This is general guidance. Check your airline, destination and your child’s own needs before you travel. Privacy · Terms