Family Motorhome Road Trip Packing List: 25 Essentials for UK Families
Planning a family motorhome road trip across the UK is one of the best ways to make lasting memories. But with limited space, unpredictable British weather, and the challenge of keeping everyone happy, packing can feel like a puzzle.
After years of the usual family adventures abroad and to holiday parks, we are soon to be packing up and heading out on the road. With the limited space in mind (and a few packing fails!), here’s my tried-and-tested list of absolute essentials, plus clever space-saving tips, snack ideas, and fun games to keep the whole family smiling.
Why Packing Smart Matters on a Family Motorhome Holiday
- Space is precious: Every item needs to earn its place.
- Organisation is key: Less clutter means less stress.
- Happy kids = happy parents: Snacks and entertainment are just as important as clothes!
The Ultimate Family Motorhome Packing Checklist
1. Clothing & Comfort
- Weather-appropriate layers (think: t-shirts, jumpers, raincoats)
- Waterproof jackets & wellies (a must for UK trips!)
- Comfy shoes/trainers for exploring
- Warm pyjamas and extra socks
- Sun hats and sunglasses
- Cosy blankets for chilly nights
2. Toiletries & Health
- Family-sized toiletries in refillable bottles
- Toothbrushes, toothpaste, hairbrush
- First aid kit (plasters, antiseptic, pain relief)
- Suncream & insect repellent
- Any family medications/child’s inhaler
3. Kitchen & Food Essentials
- Reusable water bottles for everyone
- Compact pots, pans, and utensils
- Travel mugs (for those early starts!)
- Quick-dry tea towels
- Washing up liquid & sponge
- Foldable cool bag for snacks
4. Bedding & Sleep
- Sleeping bags or lightweight duvets
- Pillows from home (for comfort)
- Fitted sheets for motorhome beds
- Eye masks (if anyone’s sensitive to light)
5. Tech & Safety
- Phone chargers and power banks
- Torch or headlamp
- Plug adaptors (if hiring a motorhome)
- Emergency contact list (paper copy)
Keeping Kids Happy: Best Road Trip Games & Entertainment
- Travel board games: Magnetic chess, Connect 4, or mini Snakes & Ladders. These no longer need to be expensive as we have so much variety on the market; there is always a deal to be had.
- Card games: Uno, Top Trumps, or a simple deck of playing cards.
- Audiobooks & playlists: Download favourites before you go—great for winding down or rainy days
- Colouring books & pencils: Mess-free and calming
- Outdoor toys: Frisbee, small football, skipping rope
- Tablet with films/series: Downloaded in advance for WiFi-free zones
Snack Ideas for Family Road Trips
Pre-packed snack boxes (one for each child = no squabbles!)
- Non-perishables: cereal bars, rice cakes, dried fruit, popcorn. If you have teens, Toast’em Pop-Ups are the perfect road trip food, can be eaten cold, but are delicious when warmed up! These can be purchased on Amazon Toast’em Pop-Ups Frosted S’mores 288g, Toast’em Pop-Ups Frosted Strawberry 288g, Toast’em Pop-Ups Frosted Cookies & Creme 288g, Toast’em Pop-Ups Frosted Chocolate Fudge 288g
- Fresh options: apple slices, grapes, carrot sticks (in reusable tubs)
- Easy lunches: wraps, sandwiches, pasta salads
- Treats: a few sweets or chocolate buttons for special moments
- Don’t forget if you are taking your 4 legged friends to make sure you pack them some natural dog treats to enjoy on the way.
Space-Saving Packing Tips for Motorhomes
- Use packing cubes, vacuum bags or soft bags—easy to squish into cupboards and a great way to take more with you than you planned.
- Collapsible storage bins for toys, shoes, or laundry
- Hanging organisers for toiletries and shoes
- Keep a laundry bag by the door for muddy clothes
- Store shoes in a basket to avoid muddy footprints
FAQs: Family Motorhome Packing (UK Edition)
What should I avoid packing for a motorhome trip?
- Bulky suitcases (opt for soft bags)
- Too many “just in case” outfits—stick to mix-and-match layers
- Large toys or anything that only gets used once
How do you keep kids entertained on a long UK road trip?
- Mix up activities: games, audiobooks, sing-alongs, and outdoor stops
How do you store food safely in a motorhome?
- Use airtight containers, keep perishables in the fridge or a cool bag, and plan meals in advance
What are the best space-saving tips for family travel?
- Multi-use items (like a blanket that doubles as a picnic rug)
- Use every nook—under-seat storage, over-cab cupboards, and hanging pockets
Final Tips from Our Family
- Involve the kids in packing—give them a checklist and let them choose their favourite game or cuddly toy.
- Don’t stress about perfection! If you forget something, most UK towns will have a shop nearby.
- Most importantly: enjoy the journey, not just the destination.
Do you have your own must-pack item? Share it in the comments below—I’d love to hear your family’s road trip essentials!
