What to Pack for a Summer Holiday with Kids
The Ultimate Summer Checklist
Whether you’re jetting off to the Mediterranean, heading to the Cornish coast or planning a countryside staycation, packing for little ones can feel like a challenge. The key? Choosing versatile, beautifully made pieces that keep children comfortable while ensuring they’re ready for every adventure.
Here’s our ultimate family holiday packing guide:
1. Lightweight Cotton Dresses
For girls, nothing beats a soft cotton dress on warm summer days. Breathable, comfortable and effortlessly stylish, they’re perfect for sightseeing, lunches by the beach and evening strolls.
Choose dresses that can easily transition from daytime exploring to dinner with a simple change of shoes or cardigan.
Top tip: Pack one dress for every two days of your trip, plus one special occasion style.
2. Smart Shorts & Shirts for Boys
From family lunches to holiday photographs, classic shorts paired with a lightweight cotton shirt create an effortlessly polished look while keeping boys cool in the sunshine.
Neutral colours and timeless prints make mixing and matching easy.
3. Swimwear You’ll Reach For Every Day
Whether they’re building sandcastles or splashing in the pool, comfortable swimwear is a holiday essential.
Don’t forget:
- Two swimsuits or swim shorts
- Rash vest for extra sun protection
- Lightweight cover-up
- Sun hat
Having a spare swim outfit means one can dry while the other is ready to wear.
4. Layers for Cooler Evenings
Even the warmest destinations can become breezy after sunset.
Pack:
- A lightweight cardigan
- Fine knit jumper
- Cotton leggings or lightweight trousers
- A versatile jacket for travel days
These extra layers ensure little ones stay comfortable from morning through to evening.
5. Comfortable Shoes
Your holiday wardrobe isn’t complete without the right footwear.
Include:
- Sandals for everyday wear
- Trainers for exploring
- Smart shoes for special dinners or celebrations
Comfortable feet make happy travellers.
6. Holiday Outfits for Special Moments
Summer holidays are full of memorable occasions - from family dinners to weddings, birthdays and sunset photographs.
Pack one or two special outfits that help make those moments even more memorable. Timeless styles never date and look beautiful in family photographs you’ll treasure for years to come.
7. Accessories That Make Life Easier
The smallest items often make the biggest difference.
Don’t forget:
- Sun hats
- Sunglasses
- Hair accessories
- Lightweight blanket for travel
- Muslin cloths for babies
- Reusable water bottles
8. Leave Room for Memories
While it’s tempting to pack everything, a thoughtfully curated wardrobe means less luggage and more room to bring home holiday treasures.
Choosing quality pieces that mix and match effortlessly allows children to stay comfortable while looking their very best throughout the trip.
The Rachel Riley Holiday Edit
Summer holidays are all about making memories together.
From beautifully crafted cotton dresses and classic boys’ outfits to timeless swimwear and heirloom-quality pieces, our Summer Edit has everything little ones need for sunshine-filled adventures.
Wherever your family is travelling this season, pack pieces made to be worn, loved and remembered.
Ready to pack for your next adventure? Discover our Summer Edit, with up to 60% off selected styles, and find timeless holiday favourites for every little explorer.