What to pack for a school trip—your essential kit list

What to pack for your child's school trip

The countdown to your child’s school trip can bring a mix of emotions—excitement, nerves, and plenty of questions. Maybe it’s the first time they’ve been away from home, or the first time travelling abroad with school. Whatever the case, one thing’s for sure,  packing the right kit can help ease everyone’s worries.

At Voyager School Travel, we want parents to feel confident that their child is well prepared for their educational adventure. So we’ve put together this handy school trip packing list to help you get organised—and avoid any last-minute panics over forgotten sun cream or socks!

 

School trip packing list for parents

Rather than a hard-shell suitcase, we recommend using a soft bag or rucksack that can be easily stowed under a bed.

Your child will be expected to carry their own luggage, so avoid overpacking. Just stick to these essentials, and they’ll be good to go.

Travel documents

• Passport – Double-check that it’s valid for travel using our handy guide
• GHIC card – Apply in advance of your trip a GHIC, which provides free emergency healthcare in EU countries
• Visas (if applicable) – check the FCDO website for your destination

Day essentials

• Small rucksack or daypack for excursions
• Reusable water bottle - make sure it's distinctive or named 
• Pocket money – a small amount in the local currency, as advised by the school
• Any personal medication, clearly labelled

Toiletries & personal care

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush/comb, deodorant, shampoo, etc.
• Waterproof sun lotion (high SPF)
• Insect repellent
• Towel - these are often not provided by hostels and residential centres 

Gadgets

• Mobile phone, charger and adapter - check first with the school that phones are permitted on the trip
• Head torch - useful for navigating the dorm at night
• Travel alarm clock or digital watch with alarm - essential if phones aren't permitted in the children's room overnight! 

Clothing

(Quantity will depend on the length of the trip – check with the teacher in charge)

• Casual clothes – T-shirts, shorts, jeans/trousers
• Tracksuit bottoms or leggings
• Jumper or hoodie
• Light long-sleeved top for sun protection and certain activities
• Pyjamas
• Underwear and socks
• Swimwear
• Trainers
• Slippers, crocs or sliders for indoor use
• Wind/waterproof jacket
• Sun hat and sunglasses
• A bag or bin liner for dirty laundry

Top tip

Encourage your child to pack their own bag with your help, rather than packing it for them. If they know where everything is before they travel, they’ll find it much easier to stay organised during the trip and repack for the journey home.

 

Your child is in safe hands with Voyager School Travel

Packing is just one part of getting ready. Rest assured, your child’s wellbeing is our top priority throughout the trip.

Our robust safety management systems, trusted by thousands of schools across the UK, ensure that everything runs smoothly—from the moment they board the coach to the final wave goodbye. With over 36,000 students travelling with us every year, you can relax knowing they’re in expert hands.

You might also be interested in

• Essential checklist for your EU school trip
• Our top tips for students travelling by ferry
• School trip behaviour & code of conduct
• Voyager's school travel insurance
• Financial protection from ABTOT & ATOL explained