Half-term packing list with kids

For a half-term break with children, pack one outfit per day plus a spare for each child, a waterproof and a warm layer, and a separate day bag with snacks, water, wipes and a change of clothes for the journey. Add documents, medicines and chargers, then split the list between both parents so each of you owns part of it.

Half-term dates vary by council and school, so check your local dates on GOV.UK before you book. Then use the lists below, whether you're off to the grandparents', a UK cottage or abroad.

Last updated: 20 October 2026

Clothes (per child)

One outfit per day, plus one spare (two for babies and toddlers)
Pyjamas
Underwear and socks for each day, plus extras
Waterproof coat and a warm jumper or fleece
Wellies or walking shoes, plus everyday shoes
Hat and gloves for October and February breaks
Swimwear if there's a pool

The day bag (for the journey)

Snacks and refillable water bottles
Wipes, tissues and hand sanitiser
A full change of clothes for younger children
Nappies, changing mat and bags, if needed
Something to do: books, colouring, a downloaded film and headphones
Comforter or favourite toy
Sick bags and a towel for car journeys

Health and first aid

Any regular medicines, in their original packaging
Children's paracetamol or ibuprofen suitable for their age, with the dosing syringe
Plasters and antiseptic wipes
Thermometer
Your GP surgery number and NHS numbers saved in your phone

If your child takes prescribed medicine, ask your pharmacist or GP if you're unsure about taking it away with you.

Documents and money

Booking confirmations and addresses
Passports, if travelling abroad (check expiry dates well ahead: GOV.UK passports)
Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for travel in the EU, and travel insurance (GOV.UK GHIC)
Car documents and breakdown cover details if driving
Bank card and a little cash

Tech

Phone chargers and a battery pack
Tablet and headphones for each child
Plug adaptors if going abroad

Before you leave the house

Bins out, fridge cleared of anything that will spoil
Plants and pets sorted
Windows locked, heating set
Keys with someone you trust, if needed

Who packs what

Split it so one person isn't packing for everyone:

Parent A: children's clothes and the day bag
Parent B: documents, medicines, tech and the house checklist
Each older child packs their own entertainment bag

FAQs

How many outfits should I pack for a week away with kids?

One outfit per day plus one spare is a good rule, with two spares for babies and toddlers. If you'll have a washing machine, you can pack for half the trip and do a wash midway.

What should go in the day bag for a long car journey?

Snacks, water, wipes, a full change of clothes for younger children, nappies if needed, something to do, a comforter and sick bags with a towel.

When are the half-term dates?

They vary by local council and by school, including academies. Check your council's dates through GOV.UK and your school's own calendar for INSET days.

Do I need a GHIC for my children?

Each person, including children, needs their own GHIC for state healthcare in the EU. It's free from the official GOV.UK and NHS sites (GOV.UK). It isn't a replacement for travel insurance.

Plan it in ParentDeck — start free

ParentDeck is a shared family organiser for both parents, so packing isn't one person's job:

Shared packing lists: save this list once and reuse it every half-term. Both of you can tick items off.
Schedule: add half-term dates, travel times and bookings to one shared calendar.
Responsibilities: decide who owns which part of the packing, so nothing is forgotten.
Caregiver Pass: if grandparents are helping over the holiday, send them routines, allergies and emergency contacts in a couple of taps.

Start free

Want more? ParentDeck Pro is available as an upgrade.

Sources

GOV.UK. School term and holiday dates.
GOV.UK. Apply for a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC).
GOV.UK. Apply for or renew a passport.

ParentDeck guides are written to be practical, not medical advice. For health questions, speak to your health visitor, midwife or GP.