Heading off somewhere lovely soon? Whether you have an epic roadtrip planned, a family staycation to look forward to or a tropical beach getaway coming up, we know how frustrating it can be to be left without something you really need when you’re not close to home. We’ve come up with a list of things to take on holiday you might not have thought about, from essentials in emergencies to fun things for the memories. This comprehensive list will put your mind at ease knowing you’ve thought of every eventuality!

15 things to take on holiday that you’ll wish you’d thought of sooner

1. Waterproof phone pouch

First on our list of things to take on holiday you might not have thought about is a waterproof phone pouch, which we think is one of the coolest things we’ve taken away with us! If you’re a fan of going snorkelling or just want to be able to get some fun family pool photos without the risk of damaging your phone, these make a great investment. This Kate Spade collab is a little indulgent but we couldn’t resist the cute pattern! You can pick these up from just about anywhere though, and they will allow you to get some really fun memories for future photo albums! 

2. Empty water bottle 

If you’re flying, you’ll be well aware that you can’t take any liquids over 100ml through security with you – which isn’t enough to keep anyone hydrated! But did you know that you can take an empty, reusable water bottle with you? Most UK airports have water points once you get through to duty free, so you can take your favourite reusable bottle with you as long as it is empty. It will save you some money, it is good for the environment and is a great little travel hack. 

3. Travel journal

It can be so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of a holiday. You want to fully immerse yourself in all of the newness and excitement, but you don’t want to miss documenting the memories either. Pop a travel journal into your suitcase, and take a little bit of time each evening to write down and collect your favourite holiday memories. It’s a great way to look back on all of the amazing trips you have had in one place.

4. Instant camera

To fill your travel journal, you’ll of course want to take some photos! We’re partial to an instant camera because there’s something so nostalgic about analogue film, and getting hold your memories right in the palm of your hand. Unlike taking photos on a phone, you have them with you straight away and ready to pop into your journal or a photo album when you get home!

5. Travel sized quick dry towel 

Towels can be one of the most cumbersome travel essentials and take up so much room (especially if you’re limited to a carry-on!). These Dock and Bay quick dry towels pack up into a super small bag and are also quick drying – so you don’t have to wait too long before you can throw them back in your tote at the end of a long beach day. Did we mention they also come in so many stunning colours and designs?!

6. Mini portable fan

Maybe this one depends on where you’re off to – if it’s a skiing holiday you could give this one a miss! But a summer getaway can get warm, and the last thing you want is to be uncomfortable when you’re supposed to be relaxing. We’ve found a small handheld fan to be blessing when the sun is at its highest and the air feels a little heavy. You can pick them up anywhere and once you have one, you won’t be without it! 

7. A pouch for important documents

Most people don’t know this, but with the rise of everything becoming digital, most airlines still recommend that you print out all of your important documents. Boarding passes, hotel bookings – you should have them with you just in case anything happens to your phone. Depending on where you’re going on holiday, some countries actually require you to have a printed boarding pass, so don’t get caught out! Make sure you have somewhere to keep everything safe for the whole family so you have peace of mind next time you’re travelling, like our handy Vegan Leather Pouch.

8. First aid kit

Next on our list of things to take on holiday isn’t a super fun one, but it’s one you definitely won’t want to have forgotten should anything happen. Packing a little first aid kit with some essentials like plasters, antihistamines and painkillers could mean the difference between a fun-filled trip and one where the memories are overridden by minor pain and inconveniences. Don’t forget to pop one of these little packs into your bag when you’re out and about so you’re prepared in case of any occurrences! 

9. Travel games

Looking for something to keep everyone occupied, whether in the airport, on a long flight or when having some chill time by the pool. Don’t forget to pop a travel game or two in your suitcase! Even a humble pack of cards will be welcomed with open arms when travel boredom strikes. They don’t have to be boring, though – this floral pack from Life of Riley has stolen our heart! 

10. Power bank

Better safe than sorry – if you hadn’t thought of popping a power bank on your packing list yet, let this be your sign to remember! You don’t want to be left without a way of getting in touch with anyone whilst in a new city or country. There are some lovely options available nowadays that connect to your phone via magsafe and aren’t as cumbersome as they used to be a few years ago. They’ll keep the power on so you can snap away your holiday photos and get where you need to go without running out of juice! 

11. A diary or notebook

As journaling enthusiasts, we can’t imagine going anywhere without a notebook – so one that is travel sized is a must. You never know when you might need to jot down some important information, let some thoughts out or write a few pages about your favourite moments of the day. We’ll never be without a pen and paper, so a A6 notebook that we can just throw into our bag is essential. Thank us later!

12. Packing cubes

This is one you’ll want to think about getting before you start packing your bags, but packing cubes might just change your life! If you’re limited for space (or you’re just a chronic overpacker – guilty!) then packing cubes can save you so much space and help you to stay organised. Recently launched small business Pastael have some gorgeous, sturdy options will not only help your luggage stay organised, but look good whilst doing it. 

13. Sunglasses case

We don’t know about you, but we’re prone to losing our sunglasses. That nice new pair purchased at the airport a few years ago? Lost by a pool somewhere near the mediterranean. Since then, investing in a beautiful sunglasses case has been so worth it, to keep them visible at all times and stop them from getting scratched whilst jostled about on journeys! 

14. Beach bag

Picture this: a gorgeous sunny day at the beach is coming to an end. You’ve splashed around in the sea, sunbathed on the sand and made the most of every last minute. When the time comes to packing everything away and making the journey home, packing is the last thing you want to do, and a big beach tote makes life so much easier. Pack one into your suitcase that you can take along with you to throw everything in at the end of a long day, and thank your past self for being so organised!

15. Sewing kit

We have all been there: minutes before heading out to a lovely evening dinner and something rips or a very essential button falls off. Cue trying to find another outfit or changing your plans altogether. Popping one of these into your bag will save you the stress – you’ll thank yourself when you’re desperately looking for a safety pin or two!

Phew – we hope this list helps you when preparing for your next trip (and there’s nothing we’ve forgotten!). Let us know something you can’t be without when you’re travelling that might help other people – pop it in the comments below!

P.S. For little travel luxuries and beautiful summer stationery, shop our Big Summer Sale with up 30% off now.