Holiday packing essentials for families | Everything you need for a stress-free trip in Provence

Essential travel documents

Before packing clothes and accessories, ensure all necessary travel documents are in order. Check passports and visas in advance and keep digital and physical copies of key documents, including travel insurance, accommodation confirmations, and transport tickets. If hiring a car, an international driving permit may be required. Carry a small amount of local currency, and consider a backup payment method in case of emergencies.

Clothing and footwear for Provence

The Mediterranean climate means warm, dry summers and cooler evenings in spring and autumn. Light, breathable clothing is ideal for daytime, while layers are useful for early mornings and nights. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for cobbled streets and countryside walks, while sandals or espadrilles suit beach trips and relaxed dining. If visiting a vineyard or a high-end restaurant, pack a smarter outfit. A hat, sunglasses, and a lightweight scarf provide added sun protection.

Toiletries and personal care

A travel-sized toiletry kit saves space. Sun protection is a must, especially in summer when the Provençal sun is strong. Insect repellent is useful for evenings outdoors, particularly near vineyards and waterways. A basic first-aid kit with plasters, antiseptic cream, and pain relief is always a good idea. For those visiting in cooler months, a moisturiser and lip balm help protect against dry air.

Entertainment and activities for children

Long journeys and relaxed afternoons by the pool require entertainment. Tablets or e-readers pre-loaded with books and films can be useful, while notebooks and pens allow children to document their trip. A small bag of travel games and a favourite soft toy help younger children settle in. Binoculars are great for spotting flamingos in the Camargue, and a bucket and spade are handy for sandy riverbanks and coastal visits.

Baby and toddler essentials

For those travelling with young children, a lightweight stroller or baby carrier is useful in villages with steep, narrow streets. Pack enough nappies, wipes, and baby food for the journey, but note that most supermarkets stock familiar brands. A portable changing mat, muslin cloths, and a favourite comfort item can help with naps on the go.

Beach and poolside must-haves

For those heading to the coast or staying at a villa with a pool, quick-drying towels, UV-protection swimwear, and swim shoes for pebble beaches are useful. A waterproof phone pouch keeps devices safe, while an insulated bag ensures drinks and snacks stay cool. Many beaches have strong sun exposure, so a small pop-up sunshade can be a good addition for families with young children.

On-the-go essentials

Exploring Provence often means being out all day. A lightweight day bag should include refillable water bottles, hand sanitiser, snacks, and a portable charger. A picnic blanket comes in handy for countryside walks, while a foldable shopping bag is useful for markets. Offline maps or a local guidebook help in areas with limited reception.

Special items for Provence

A few additional items make the experience even better. A French phrasebook or translation app is helpful in more rural villages. An insulated picnic bag is perfect for transporting market purchases back to the villa. Those planning to cycle in The Luberon or Mont Ventoux should bring suitable gear. Provence’s landscapes are an artist’s dream, so sketchbooks or watercolours can be inspiring additions.

Packing tips for a smooth trip

Using packing cubes helps organise clothing, and rolling clothes instead of folding saves space. Limiting shoes to a pair for walking, a smarter option, and sandals keeps luggage manageable. Keeping a laundry bag separates clean from worn clothing, and leaving some space for local purchases allows room for items such as lavender, olive oil, or handcrafted ceramics.