The UK has plenty of brilliant beaches, beautiful countryside, quaint towns and exciting attractions which make it perfect for a family holiday.
When you take a self-catered family holiday in the UK, you have to think carefully about what you take with you.
Although there is likely to be a supermarket just down the road, it does feel like you’re wasting your holiday a bit trying to navigate an unfamiliar Asda, so it’s better to be prepared!
I’ve written a post about things to remember when going on a summer holiday abroad, but there are some things you need to consider for a UK staycation.
1) Clothes for all weathers
Ah, the good old British weather; you can’t beat it and you can’t predict it either. It can feel odd packing wellies when it’s been 30+ degrees all week but it can change so quickly! Fortunately you don’t have a strict luggage allowance when you’re driving.
2) Washing up liquid & sponges
When you’re self catering, you need to make sure you have washing up liquid and sponges. Some places like holiday cottages supply these, but if you’re going to a caravan park then you need to remember to take your own or face the over-inflated prices in the site shop.
3) A first aid kit
You should really take one everywhere with you, but we left our family first aid kit in our large suitcase in the loft and therefore when my oldest came off her scooter onto her nose, we realised we didn’t have anything to hand. This 20 piece personal first aid kit from Engelbert Strauss contains everything you need in an emergency including plasters, scissors and dressings.
4) Dressing gown and slippers
Caravans get chilly in the evening and first thing in the morning and I wish I’d remembered to bring mine with me!
5) Towels
Some places supply towels but others don’t. It’s easy to assume, so make sure you know for sure unless you want to end up having to buy more, this includes tea towels!
6) Books
Once the kids are in bed, long evenings without Wi-Fi are a distinct possibility. What even are those, you ask? I know. I wish I’d taken books; I’m not foolish enough to think I’d get them read while the children were awake (perhaps laying on a beach…) but I could probably have finished one instead of watching repeats of Bones.
Here are some other really handy suggestions from other bloggers!
7) Antibacterial wipes
They make it really quick and easy to wipe over the bathroom or kitchen surfaces. Jennie from Ricecakes and Raisins
8) Toilet Roll
Always take your own loo roll! They only usually provide one roll and if they do it’s usually so thin it’s see-through. Emily from Emily and Indiana
9) A camping stove
Handy for beach or forest barbecues. Lianne from Ankle Biters Adventures
What are your must-pack items for holidaying in the UK?
This is a collaborative post
Definitely an extension lead; there are never enough plugs for whatever you need! I also take a pack of cards wherever we go; they’re really small but able to keep kids occupied with a number of games while food is coming or while waiting for something.