Summer is just around the corner and anticipation for family vacation is growing. But how do you prepare best so that the trip becomes an unforgettable experience for everyone? We all know advice like "Pack a travel pharmacy" or "Don't forget sunscreen." That's why we have some special tips for you today that you almost certainly didn't know yet:
1. Waterproof bag(s)
A so-called wetbag (or maybe even two) can help you in two situations: in a smaller version, it keeps your valuables free from sand and water. A larger version is perfect for transporting the wet swimwear of the whole family from the pool or beach to your accommodation without getting all your other belongings wet. This leads us straight to our next tip..
2. Travel clothesline
A small, portable clothesline can be very practical, especially if you're traveling for longer periods. It takes up hardly any space in your suitcase, but it's a real game changer. You can quickly and easily dry wet swimwear or washed clothes on the balcony or terrace of your accommodation. This way you don't have to worry about your swimsuit blowing off the balcony railing if it gets windy.
3. Small cooler bag
Weighs hardly anything and folds up compactly: pack a small, portable cooler bag. Even if you usually don't have a freezer for cooling packs in your accommodation, the bag still insulates a bit and water bottles stay pleasantly cool at the pool or beach – especially important on hot days or during longer trips.
4. Night light for the accommodation
A small, portable night light can work wonders. It helps your children feel more secure in the unfamiliar environment and helps with a relaxed night's sleep. Particularly practical are models that can be charged via USB.
5. Child-friendly headphones
Children from about three years old are delighted with child-friendly headphones. These have a decibel limit and protect the ears of the little ones from excessive noise exposure. They are not only safer but also more comfortable for little ears and allow children to enjoy their favorite music or movies without disturbing others.
6. Change of clothes for arrival
Sometimes the trip starts with rather mixed weather at home. If the trip is to a warm place, pack an airy t-shirt and short pants for the kids. You can change the kids when you arrive, so no one has to sit sweating in long clothes on the bus/car (bad mood guaranteed).
7. Water shoes
Are flip-flops constantly coming off or slipping from feet? Water shoes are not only practical at the beach but also on trips to lakes or rivers. They protect your children's feet from sharp stones, shells or hot sand and stay firmly on the foot - hard to shake off 😉
8. Travel high chair
An inflatable or folding travel high chair is perfect for meals on the go. It's lightweight and compact and allows your baby or toddler to sit safely and comfortably at the table, even if there's no children's high chair in the restaurant.
9. GPS tracker for children
Train stations and airports are exciting and very busy places. Children suddenly discover something and run off – sometimes you can't look fast enough. On the outbound and return journey by train or plane, a small GPS tracker (such as an Apple AirTag) can provide you with additional security. It can be attached to the wrist with a bracelet or in a keychain attached to a shoe and allows you to quickly locate your child at any time.
10. Phone number on the arm
When you're in confusing places, a little creativity doesn't hurt: write your phone number on your child's arm with a waterproof marker. If something should happen, your child can show the number to an adult and you can be called. Special tip: Teach your child that if they lose you, they should ideally approach other parents with children, as they may be best able to assess the situation and act quickly.
11. UV protection swimwear (in bright colors!)
A UV protection suit not only protects against sunburn but is also a practical alternative to conventional swimwear. Why practical? Because it covers more skin than a bathing suit or swim trunks, and you can finish applying sun protection products much faster. Combine it with a sun hat for optimal protection.
Important: Choose swimwear preferably in bright, eye-catching colors such as neon orange or signal pink. These colors are more visible in the water and make it easier to keep your child in sight, even in a busy pool or on the beach.
Enjoy your vacation - don't forget sun protection products ;-)


