Top 10 holiday packing essentials

Top 10 Holiday Packing Essentials – Travel Clinic Guide

Whether you’re heading for a sunny escape, a winter city break, or an adventure abroad, packing the right essentials is crucial for a hassle-free trip. Here’s a comprehensive list of the top 10 things you should pack, with a focus on travel health and preparation — including when to contact our Travel Clinic for vaccinations, antimalarials, and travel treatments.

1. Travel Documents

Make sure you have:

  • A valid passport (check expiry date well in advance)
  • Flight tickets or boarding passes
  • Travel insurance policy (with cover for healthcare abroad)
  • Visa documents if applicable
  • Accommodation confirmations
    Keep both printed and digital copies, and store the originals in a waterproof travel wallet.

 

2. Personal Medication & Travel Health Kit

Never travel without your prescribed medicines — carry them in their original packaging and bring enough to last the full trip (plus a few days extra in case of delays).

We strongly recommend packing:

 

Tip: If you’re unsure what you might need, our Travel Clinic can advise and supply suitable travel medicines based on your destination.

 

3. Vaccination Records & Travel Health Documents

Some countries require proof of vaccinations such as Yellow Fever or Hepatitis A.
Visit our Travel Clinic at OnlineChemistUK to:

  • Get destination-specific vaccine advice
  • Receive any required or recommended vaccinations
  • Obtain antimalarial tablets if travelling to high-risk regions
  • Get personalised travel health guidance

📍 Visit us at: 82 Middleton Road, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, NR31 7AH
📞 Call: 01493 600610
📩 Email: info@onlinechemistuk.net

4. Currency & Payment Methods

Bring a combination of:

  • Local currency (for taxis, small purchases)
  • Debit/credit card with international use
  • Travel money card as a backup

Notify your bank before travelling to avoid card blocks. Use an RFID-blocking wallet for added security.

 

5. Mobile Phone, Chargers & Travel Adaptors

  • Power bank for charging on the go
  • Country-specific plug adaptor
  • SIM card or roaming package if needed
  • Download key apps: maps, translator, local transport guides

 

6. Toiletries & Personal Hygiene Items

Pack a small, travel-sized kit with:

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Deodorant
  • Suncream (SPF 30 or higher)
  • Insect repellent (with DEET if visiting mosquito-prone areas)
  • Sanitary products
  • Face masks and hand sanitiser
    All available online or in our store at OnlineChemist.

 

7. Weather-Appropriate Clothing

Always check the forecast before packing. Essentials include:

  • Light, breathable clothing for hot climates
  • Waterproofs for tropical regions
  • A jumper or fleece for cooler evenings
  • Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
  • Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection

 

8. Travel Insurance Details

A comprehensive travel insurance policy should cover:

  • Emergency medical treatment
  • Lost or delayed baggage
  • Cancellation and curtailment
  • COVID-19 or infectious disease cover
    Print your policy and keep a digital version saved on your phone.

 

9. Snacks & Refillable Water Bottle

Great for flights, delays, or day trips:

  • Healthy snacks like mixed nuts, protein bars, or dried fruit
  • A collapsible or insulated water bottle
    Many airports now have refill stations past security.

 

10. First-Night Bag in Your Hand Luggage

Prepare for luggage delays by packing a small kit including:

  • Change of clothes
  • Basic toiletries
  • Travel health essentials
  • Chargers and documents

Planning a Trip? Let Us Help You Travel Safely

Before you travel, it’s essential to protect your health. Our Travel Clinic offers:
✅ Vaccinations for travel abroad
Antimalarial medication
✅ Clarithromycin for chest, ear, or sinus infections
✅ Motion sickness, diarrhoea, and bite-prevention products
✅ Full travel health check-up and advice

We serve Great Yarmouth, Gorleston, Lowestoft, Norwich and surrounding areas, with appointments available at your convenience.

👉 Book your Travel Clinic appointment here
Or call us on 01493 600610

Share the article:

Facebook
Twitter
WhatsApp
Email
Print

Written & reviewed by our qualified team

Authored by:

Picture of Obaidullah Zaman

Obaidullah Zaman

BPharm, MPharm, PGDip (Pharmacy), MRPharmS, IP
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber