The summer holiday is just around the corner, and the right preparation is the key to a relaxed start to the most beautiful time of the year. In this detailed guide you will learn all about the perfect Packing list for your summer vacation. From essential documents to practical hygiene articles to Special tips for families – we have put together all the important things so that you can start your holiday well prepared.
Table of contents
Packing list Summer holiday: download PDF now!
So that you can start with the packing directly, we have a clear Checklist as PDF Prepared for downloading.
Here is the detailed packing list for the summer holiday
Money and Finance
- If possible: cash in local currency
- EC and credit cards
- Medical insurance abroad
- Emergency contacts and important telephone numbers
Hygiene
- Toothbrushes and toothpaste
- Shower gel and shampoo
- Razors and accessories
- Disinfectants on the go
- Deo
- Hairbrush
- Make-up and make-up cloths
- Care cream
- Nail care kit
Clothing
Depending on the holiday location and planned activities, you should pack different outfits:
- 7-8 sets of underwear and socks
- 5-6 T-shirts/tops in combinable colors
- 3 shorts/short pants
- 2 long trousers (1 jeans, 1 light fabric pants)
- 2 summer dresses or skirts
- 2 bathing outfits (bikini/bathsuits plus sheath)
- 1 chic outfit for special occasions
- 2 light sweaters or jackets for cooler days
- 2 sets of sleeping clothes
- Accessories (sun hat, sunglasses, scarf)
Medications / Pharmacy
A small travel pharmacy with personal medicines belongs in the hand luggage:
- Sun protection with high sun protection factor
- Mosquitoes
- Plasters and dressings
- Travel sickness medications
- Medication for gastrointestinal diseases
Papers and documents
Always have important documents and travel documents at hand:
- Identity card/passport
- Booking confirmations
- Driving licence
- Vaccination passport
Backpacks and bags
The right choice of luggage is crucial:
- Rolling suitcases for the main items
- Hand luggage for important documents
- Daypack for excursions
Footwear
Suitable for your holiday activities:
- Comfortable sandals
- Light sneakers
- Water Shoes or Flip Flops for the Beach
- Hiking shoes if you want to go hiking
Other
- Sunglasses
- Socket adapters
- Charging cables for all devices
- Laundry bags
Bathing / Beach
For the perfect beach day:
- Beach towels
- Air mattresses or floating wings
- Beach toys such as Frisbee or Waterball
- Diving glasses and snorkels
Technical equipment
So that you can capture the most beautiful moments:
- Camera / Underwater Camera
- Powerbank
- Smartphone and charging cables
Are you planning an active summer vacation on two wheels? In our article "Bicycle Tour Packing List for Cycling Tours and Bicycle Travel" You will find all the important tips for your bike trip.
Packing list for the summer holiday as a family
Those who travel with children have special requirements. Ours Packing list for holidays with children: Extra checklist for babies offers more details. Above all, it is important that:
- Diapers and wet wipes
- Painting and games
- Cuddlefish
- Snacks for on the go
Packing list for summer vacation as a woman
For a relaxing holiday as a woman, you need these special things in addition to the basic equipment:
Cosmetics & Care:
- Day and night cream with UV protection
- Make-up Basics (waterproof mascara, BB cream, lip care)
- Hair care products (shampoo, conditioner, hair oil for salt water stressed hair)
- After-sun products
- Bandages/tampons in sufficient quantity
- Moisturizing face masks
- Rubbers and hair clips
Clothing and accessories:
- 2-3 light summer dresses for dinner or sightseeing
- 1-2 blazers or light cardigans for cooler evenings
- Jewelry (few, selected pieces)
- Towels or scarves as accessories
- Beachwear (2-3 bikinis/swimsuits to change)
- Beach dress or kaftan as a cover
- Sun hat or cap for the beach
By the way: If you are planning a beach holiday, you will find more helpful tips in our article Packing list beach holiday: Everything for sun, sand & sea.
Packing list for summer holiday over 10 days
For longer trips, you have to pack especially thoughtfully:
Clothing:
- At least 7-8 underwear sets per week
- 8-10 T-shirts/tops
- 4-5 shorts/skirts
- 2-3 long trousers
- 2 light sweaters
- 1 light jacket
- 3-4 pairs of socks
- 2-3 pyjamas/nightwear
And whoever has booked a holiday home will find it in the "Packing List Holiday Apartment: Practical Checklist to Print" other useful information.
Frequently asked questions about the packing list for the summer holiday
What do you often forget when packing?
Among the most commonly forgotten things are adapters for sockets, charging cables for electronic devices and medicines. Sun protection is also often bought at the holiday resort, where it is usually more expensive.
What should not be missing on a beach holiday?
In addition to the usual bath equipment such as swimwear and towels, especially sun protection with a high sun protection factor, a sun hat and sufficient beverage bottles are important.
How do I pack space-saving for longer trips?
Roll your clothes closely together, this saves space and prevents wrinkles. Use packing cubes or vacuum bags for even more order and space. Shoes can be filled with socks or small parts. Also plan washing options, then you have to take less with you.
What are the special features of hand luggage for air travel?
For hand luggage, you have to pay attention to the liquid rules: a maximum of 100ml per container, all in a transparent, reclosable 1-liter bag. Important documents, valuables and medicines always belong in hand luggage. A replacement clothing is also useful if the main case arrives late.
