Photo Credits: Vila Vita Parc
Planning a family vacation can be a rollercoaster of excitement mixed with a wee bit of stress, especially when it comes to packing for your little ones. If you’ve ever found yourself staring blankly at your suitcase, wondering if you’ve packed enough snacks, entertainment, or comfort items to survive a flight or a day at the beach, you’re not alone! Our aim to make your travel less agonising and more fun doesn’t end with planning your itineraries or booking your stays and travel—it actually starts there and comes a full circle with expert-led advice and insights as shared via the Lighthouse.
Parents, Take Note! The Kids’ Club managers and experts from luxury resorts like Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, Vila Vita Parc, Forte Village Sardinia, Four Seasons Langkawi and The Gleneagles Hotel, Scotland share their expertly advice and recommendations on what to pack to keep your little nomads happy and entertained, safe and sound when on holidays.
Vila Vita Parc, Portugal
Juliana Fredl, Kids Club Manager: “For an unforgettable journey to Vila Vita Parc and our stunning Algarve, families should never forget to pack some essential items! Sun cream is paramount to shield against the sun’s embrace, while swimwear will guarantee the enjoyment of the full family in our pools and beach. Sunglasses should always be packed to safeguard the eyes of everyone. Our Kids Club will provide all the youngest with some Panama hats to prevent sunburn during our outdoor activities. Likewise, active families can enjoy sports activities, so sneakers are also a must! For the evenings, pack some fancy clothes to enjoy family dinners among our diverse restaurants. And of course, never forget to pack and bring LOTS OF ENERGY!”
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam
Mr. Ho Quoc Tuan, Guest Experience Manager: “Packing for a vacation with kids requires thoughtful preparation to ensure everyone has a fun and safe experience. Here are some tips that Six Senses Ninh Van Bay recommends parents consider when packing for their kids before the holidays:
For children aged 0-4 years, essential items include swim diapers, baby sunscreen, and sun protection like a hat and sunglasses. A baby carrier or stroller is crucial for easy transportation and napping, while lightweight swimwear and water shoes keep them comfortable. Don’t forget baby wipes, diaper-changing supplies, and plenty of snacks and water. While staying at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, our little guests can easily find a soft toy of Langur, the resort’s mascot, to bring home as their forever friend. However, bringing their favourite toys and comfort items can help keep them entertained and content. Additionally, a baby blanket or mat provides a soft play area, and an emergency first aid kit ensures you’re prepared for minor mishaps.
For kids aged 4-12 years old, pack swimsuits and comprehensive sun protection, including high SPF sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective sunglasses. Beach toys like buckets, shovels, and frisbees keep them entertained, while water shoes protect their feet from hot sand and sharp objects. Healthy snacks and ample water are vital for staying energized and hydrated. A change of clothes is useful for after swimming, and a lightweight, waterproof beach bag helps carry their belongings. Our Grow With Six Senses program at Vooc Village offers many fun and educational activities for children between 4 and 12 years old, from beach treasure hunts and creative art sessions to cookie or pizza making, specially curated theme nights, and movies, along with short sessions in the Earth Lab. Don’t forget to pack their favourite books, magazines, or portable games for downtime at the villa at night. A basic first aid kit for minor injuries doesn’t take much space but can be helpful just in case.”
Forte Village, Sardinia
The Forte Village Kids Club Manager recommends packing these must-have items for your kids’ next beach holiday:
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Kids Digital Camera: Let your little explorers capture all the excitement and memorable family moments, ensuring memories last a lifetime.
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Snorkelling Mask: A must for kids to discover the amazing marine life beneath the waves, guaranteeing hours of endless fun.
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Sunshades: Keep those eyes protected from the bright sun with comfy and cool sunglasses.
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Bucket and Spade: Spark creativity and build magnificent sandcastles; there’s no limit to your imagination.
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Beach Read: Keep up reading by bringing along a captivating book for your kids to enjoy while soaking up the sun.
Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, Malaysia
The Lutong Kids’ Club Team shares: “Pack appropriate clothing for both daytime and evening activities, including casual wear, swimwear, and outfits for dining at our restaurants. (We don’t have any dress code at our resort!)
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Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing to shield children from the sun.
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Swimwear, water shoes, goggles. (Items are available to purchase at our lobby boutique)
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Favourite Sand toys/ Floaties (We do provide sand toys at our Lutong Kids Club)
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Stuffed animals. (Bring your kid’s favourite toy and they will leave with a new favourite from us J)
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Favourite Books, toys, games, and colouring supplies to keep children entertained.
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Childproofing supplies if travelling with infants or toddlers.
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Any preferred insect repellent.
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Additional space in the luggage for seashells (We have plenty) and souvenirs.
The most important:
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Passports, travel insurance information, and any required travel documents for children should be kept organized and easily accessible.
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Any necessary medications, first-aid supplies, and a copy of children’s medical records in case of emergencies.
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Let us know if any dietary restrictions in advance to prepare accordingly.
The Gleneagles Hotel, Scotland
Colin Farndon, Director of Leisure: “Here at The Glorious Playground, we believe that there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad attire! So, when packing for a kids’ holiday at Gleneagles, focus on essentials while knowing that many items such as waterproofs and welly boots are provided by us to make your stay easier. Our new children’s experience will keep curious minds entertained and screen-free, with age-tailored Adventure Guides, embracing bug hunting and ecology, fostering a connection with the outdoors. Bring a kid’s camera to capture these special memories and their favourite book for quiet time, even though our indoor activity space The Den offers a selection of books as well. And while our Strathearn breakfast buffet and sweetie trolley fuel young explorers ahead of their day of adventures, you can never pack enough high-energy snacks. Above all, pack a sense of adventure, wonder, and curiosity, ready for the exciting activities and explorations that await.”
So, the next time you’re packing for a family adventure, consider these expert recommendations your holy grail for happy little wanderers. Book your stay at any of the above properties with us and get exclusive deals for a spectacular time, and so worth it. Contact us to know more.
