A great family vacation doesn’t happen by accident. If you’ve decided to visit a great city like London with your family, it will take a bit (or a lot) of planning to make sure things go fairly smoothly and you stay under budget. Even then, there are no guarantees. But with a plan that includes this great packing list for London, you’ll increase the chances that you’ll have a spectacular vacation in the British capital.

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Quick Reference Checklist
Here’s a handy summary of must-haves to get you started:
- Clothing: Layered outfits, waterproof jackets, comfortable shoes
- Rain Gear: Foldable umbrella, compact ponchos
- Electronics: Universal power adapter, portable charger
- Essentials for Kids: Snacks, entertainment, travel strollers
- Documents: Passports, travel insurance, tickets
- Miscellaneous: Reusable water bottles, shopping bags, first-aid kit
Luggage
Choosing the right luggage can make your trip more manageable and stress-free. Here’s what to consider:
- Lightweight Suitcases: Opt for durable, lightweight suitcases with wheels for easy navigation through airports and train stations.
- Carry-On Bags: A carry-on is perfect for short trips or keeping essentials like travel documents, electronics, and a change of clothes within reach.
- Backpacks: For day trips, a compact backpack is ideal for carrying snacks, rain gear, and any souvenirs you pick up along the way.
- Packing Cubes: These are invaluable for keeping your luggage organized, especially when packing for multiple family members.
- Laundry Bag: A small, foldable laundry bag can help separate dirty clothes from clean ones, making unpacking easier when you return home.
Clothing Essentials
London’s weather can vary drastically in a single day, so versatile clothing is key to staying comfortable and prepared.
- Layers: Pack lightweight layers like t-shirts, cardigans, and sweaters. These allow you to adapt to fluctuating temperatures and move seamlessly between outdoor sightseeing and indoor attractions.
- Outerwear: Waterproof jackets or coats are essential, particularly during spring, fall, and winter, when rain is more common (which in London is nearly always!)
- Comfortable Footwear: With so much to explore on foot in London, from cobblestone streets to Hyde Park, supportive shoes like sneakers or weatherproof boots are a must. In summer, breathable footwear will keep you cool.
- Seasonal Additions:
- Summer: Light fabrics, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses for sunny days.
- Winter: Thermal layers, scarves, gloves, and warm hats to stay cozy.
Check out our style guide for men visiting London for more ideas.
Rain Gear
Rain is an integral part of London’s charm, but it’s important to be prepared to enjoy your day regardless of the weather:
- Compact Umbrellas: Lightweight and foldable umbrellas are easy to carry and deploy quickly when needed. Our umbrella saved us on our trip to London!
- Ponchos: Great for full-body rain protection, especially for kids who might find umbrellas tricky to manage.
- Waterproof Covers: Use protective covers for strollers or backpacks to keep belongings dry during unexpected showers.
Electronics and Tech
Staying connected and powered up is vital for navigating London and capturing memories:
- Universal Power Adapter: UK outlets differ from those in many countries, so a universal adapter is necessary to charge your devices.
- Portable Charger: Long sightseeing days can drain batteries quickly; a portable charger ensures your phone, camera, or tablet stays powered.
- Smartphone Apps: Pre-download apps like Google Maps, Citymapper, and mobile ticketing apps to simplify navigation and access to attractions.
- Camera: While smartphones are handy, a dedicated camera can capture higher-quality photos of iconic landmarks.
- Headphones: Noise-canceling headphones or comfortable earbuds are great for keeping kids entertained during travel or enjoying some quiet time on public transport.
Family-Friendly Items
Traveling with kids requires additional planning to keep them entertained, comfortable, and happy:
- Entertainment: Tablets loaded with movies, travel games, coloring books, or audiobooks can keep kids occupied during downtime or transit.
- Snacks: Pack non-perishable, easy-to-carry snacks like granola bars, crackers, or dried fruit for quick energy boosts.
- Stroller: A lightweight, foldable stroller is invaluable for younger children, especially when exploring large attractions like parks or museums.
- Diapers and Wipes: If traveling with a baby, ensure you have enough supplies for the trip.
- Comfort Items: Bring favorite toys, blankets, or stuffed animals to provide familiarity and comfort.
Health and Safety
Staying healthy and prepared for minor mishaps is crucial for a stress-free trip:
- First-Aid Kit: Include essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications your family may need.
- Travel Insurance: Accidents can happen; having insurance provides peace of mind. Keep digital and printed copies easily accessible.
- Reusable Masks: While optional, they can be useful in crowded areas or on public transport.
Documents and Travel Essentials
Having your travel documents organized ensures smooth transitions throughout your trip:
- Passports and Visas: Double-check expiration dates and visa requirements.
- Travel Insurance Details: Carry both digital and printed copies.
- Attraction Tickets: Print tickets for attractions or tours to avoid relying on digital access.
- Hotel Reservations and Itineraries: Keep these handy for quick reference at check-ins.
- Currency: Bring a mix of credit cards and some cash in British pounds for small purchases.
Sustainable Packing Tips
London is a city that values sustainability, so consider eco-friendly choices to minimize your environmental impact:
- Reusable Water Bottles: Stay hydrated and save money by refilling at free water fountains.
- Reusable Shopping Bags: Avoid extra charges by bringing your own bags for shopping.
- Eco-Friendly Toiletries: Opt for biodegradable travel containers and solid shampoos or soaps.
BE PREPARED FOR YOUR FAMILY’S TRIP TO LONDON
London is guaranteed to have to have something for everyone in your family. It’s one of the reasons why it’s so popular with family travelers. While you’re preparing your trip check out our comprehensive planning guide, find out when you should avoid visiting London and get some tips on how to visit on a budget. Safe travels!