Whether you’re heading to the beautiful Cornish coast at Tregoad Holiday Park or enjoying seaside fun at Bowleaze Cove, Chesil Beach, or Osmington Mills in Dorset, a bit of preparation can make all the difference.
At Waterside, we’re all about making your family break as easy and enjoyable as possible - starting with the packing. Here’s your go-to guide to make sure you bring everything you need (without packing the kitchen sink!).
Create a Family Packing Checklist
Before you even unzip a suitcase, take a moment to plan. A family checklist helps you stay organised and avoids that sinking “we forgot the…” moment. Divide your list into sections like:
-Clothing
-Toiletries
-Essentials (booking info, medications, etc.)
-Activity-specific items (e.g., swimwear for pool days or wellies for exploring nature trails)
Top Tip: Download and print your own Waterside family packing checklist.
Pack for the Weather (and Then Some!)
British weather can be famously unpredictable, so it’s wise to bring layers. Even in summer, a jumper and a waterproof jacket can be essential.
If you’re staying at Tregoad Holiday Park, Cornwall’s coastal breezes can be fresh, especially in the evenings. Over in Bowleaze Cove, beach days are a must - but don’t forget a windbreaker just in case.
Don’t forget:
- Sun- hats, glasses and cream
- Lightweight raincoats
- A warm hoodie or jumper for cooler evenings
- Comfy shoes for walking (perfect for the nearby South West Coast)
Think Entertainment for Downtime
Even with the packed activity calendars across our parks, you’ll want to be prepared for chill time in your holiday home.
Pack a small entertainment kit:
- Colouring books or travel games
- A tablet loaded with shows or audiobooks for quieter moments
- A few favourite toys or comfort items from home
At Bowleaze Cove, don’t miss Southside Funfair, Arcade & Softplay - perfect for keeping kids entertained come rain or shine!
Swimwear and Towels: A Must for Every Park
All Waterside parks feature pools and many accommodation options feature private hot tubs, so swimwear is a non-negotiable! At Chesil Beach and Bowleaze Cove, there’s even an indoor pool with a splash zone perfect for little ones. And with the coast just moments away from every park, there’s a very good chance someone in the family will want to take a dip in the sea!
Depending on the accommodation grade you book, you may be provided with bath and hand towels, but you’ll still need to pack beach towels for days out, sea swims, and pool fun.
To Pack:
- At least two sets of swimwear per child
- Swimming goggles
- Waterproof swim nappies for younger guests
- Flip flops or water shoes
- Beach towels
Kitchen & Mealtime Bits
Our holiday homes are fully equipped with everything you need for family mealtimes, but a few familiar items from home can help, especially with fussy eaters:
- Reusable drink bottles
- Bibs and toddler utensils
- Your child’s favourite cereal or snacks
- Food containers for picnics or days out
Don’t feel like cooking? You’re spoilt for choice with our on-park restaurants - Stargazy Bar & Grill at Tregoad, The Country Club at Osmington Mills, Breeze Bar & Grill at Chesil Beach and the brand-new Drift Bar & Grill at Bowleaze Cove, among others.
Baby and Toddler Must-Haves
If you’re travelling with babies or toddlers, these items are essentials:
- Travel cot
- Baby monitor
- Night light
- Pushchair or baby carrier
- Plenty of nappies, wipes, and cream
If you’re unsure, call our friendly reception team to ask about suitable accommodation options when booking - perfect for a comfortable family stay.
Don’t Forget the Little Extras
- First-aid kit (including child-friendly medicine)
- Bug spray and after-bite cream
- A beach bag and sand toys
- A laundry bag for muddy clothes
- Chargers and power banks
Use our park Wi-Fi to upload your holiday snaps - don’t forget to tag us @watersideholidaygroup
Top Tip: Check what’s included in your accommodation type before you pack. Some of our lodges and holiday homes include extras like hairdryers, towels, and other essentials.
Need to pack light?
Many of our parks offer on-park or nearby shops for essentials, and you can pre-book baby and toddler equipment.
Ready to Pack and Play?
With so much to see and do across our parks, from wildlife walks in Cornwall to funfair thrills at Southside Funfair in Dorset, packing smart means you can focus on making memories.
Book your family adventure today and discover what makes Waterside a favourite for fun-loving families.
Travelling with a baby? Check out this blog for tips on how to pack for a trip with a little one!
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