Family airport packing

A practical checklist for families travelling from Stoke-on-Trent, Newcastle-under-Lyme and North Staffordshire. Pack for the journey to the airport as well as the holiday, so the things you need are not buried in the boot.

 

1. Keep one journey bag within reach

Keep travel documents, your phone, charging cable, essential medicines and any necessary paperwork together. Add a change of clothes for younger children, a comfort item and a quiet activity. Check destination food restrictions before packing snacks.

 

2. Check the rules for your own flights

Cabin-bag size and weight depend on your airline, ticket and route. Measure the whole bag, including wheels and handles. Check both your outward and return airports’ security guidance: liquid rules can differ. Baby food, milk and medicines have specific rules; check the official guidance before packing.

 

Check UK hand-luggage guidance · Manchester Airport security guidance

 

3. Count everything for the transfer

Tell us about large suitcases, cabin rollers, backpacks, pushchairs and any bulky equipment. A cabin roller still takes boot space. With four large suitcases plus any cabin case, our booking rules require a minibus. Check which vehicle fits your luggage before choosing.

 

We do not provide child seats. Tell us if you want to bring your own and discuss storage for the return journey when booking. Send the folded dimensions of a bulky pushchair if space may be tight.

 

4. Prepare the evening before

Check your terminal and airline check-in deadline. Charge phones, put documents in the journey bag, confirm the pickup address and keep the driver’s contact details handy. Let us know about extra pickup stops or changed luggage before travel day. For return flights, provide the flight arriving in the UK and its scheduled UK landing date and time.

 

Use a checklist or a complete planner

Download the free packing checklist (PDF).

 

Want journey details, packing lists, budgeting and children’s activities together? Our 10-page Family Holiday Planner is £4.99. Download, print and complete it by hand; transport is booked separately.

 

Ask about your family transfer · Back to Plan Your Trip

 

Prepared by Andy’s Travel. Guidance checked 10 November 2026; always follow your airline and airport’s current instructions.