What to Bring on a School Trip

Last updated: Mar 26th, 2025


Have you wondered what are the things needed for a school trip? Being prepared for when you embark on your tour is all in the planning, and an easy way to do this is making a list of items you need to pack that can be ticked off once it’s in your suitcase! Whether you’re venturing far and wide or going on a trip closer to home, here is a list of items that should be on every student’s packing checklist 

 

What to wear on a school trip 

Your clothing options for any school trip should be comfortable and practical. We recommend checking the weather and excursions to ensure you pack the correct items. This can include a waterproof coat, layers for when it drops cool, appropriate footwear and clothing that is suitable for the days you’re out wandering. You may also want to pack loungewear or outfits for downtime and evening meals, and of course pyjamas. Don’t forget to pack enough socks and underwear for each day too!  

 

What personal care items to pack 

Packing a toiletries bag containing shampoo, body wash, deodorant, sanitary products, a hairbrush, a toothbrush and toothpaste is a must to keep clean and fresh throughout the trip! It’s also important to pack enough medication, along with the prescription if required, as some medications may be restricted in the country you’re visiting.  

It’s also worth checking airline baggage and liquid allowances for carry-on luggage as this can be different with each airline provider. Small travel bottles can be purchased at health and beauty retailers such as Boots or Superdrug.  

To make going through security seamless and stress-free, place your electricals at the top of your bag so they can be removed and replaced easily once checked.  

 

What environmental protection is recommended?  

 No matter where you go on your school trip, protecting yourself from environmental stressors is key. Whether you’re visiting a hot country or hitting the ski slopes, sun protection is crucial as you can still get burnt on the snowy mountains! We also recommend packing lip balm, sunglasses, a cap or hat and insect repellent.  

For the colder destinations, we suggest a woolly hat, scarves, thermal layers and a thick warm coat and gloves. Here is our list of essential gear you’ll need for the peiste 

 

Passports with country stamps

 

Travel Documents for international travel  

The most important item to pack for a school trip is your passport! Ensure you check the expiry date and keep it in a safe place on the lead up to your trip. It’s also beneficial to check if the country you’re travelling to requires visas and acquire them in advance.  

We recommend that students get a global health insurance card (GHIC) for where they are accepted, such as the European Union and other territories with similar health arrangements. This card doesn’t replace the requirements for travel insurance, but it sometimes can speed up the process of treatment and reduce the costs overall.   

 

Other items needed for a school trip  

Other items students may need to pack are chargers for electricals, travel adapters, spending money, towels if not provided and a bag for dirty laundry to help them stay organised. Students may also need to take a notebook, pens and a water bottle for when they’re out absorbing new landscapes and soaking up new information.  

Card games, books, and portable gaming devices can keep students entertained during the journey or downtime. They are great items to pack and share with others! 

 

Young man packing clothing for vacation, flip flop, camera and other things on hardwood floor.

Lastly…  

Packing the right clothing, environmental protection, personal care items and travel documents can ensure you’ll be prepared for the exciting days ahead. Get one step closer to packing like a pro and start filling up your suitcase!

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Amazing experience which students will remember for the rest of their lives! Thank you to Rayburn Tours!

Mr. Adam Firth

School trip Packing Checklist 

 

Travel documents: 

  • Passport 
  • Visa (if required) 
  • GHIC card 

Clothing: 

  • Socks 
  • Underwear 
  • Tshirts 
  • Shorts/trousers 
  • Waterproof coat 
  • Jumper 
  • Pyjamas 
  • Outfits for downtime/ evening meal 
  • Appropriate footwear 

Personal care 

  • Toiletries- shampoo, bodywash, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, sanitary products 
  • Medication  

Environmental protection items 

  • SPF 
  • Hat/cap 
  • Lip balm 
  • Insect repellent 
  • Woolly hat  
  • Scarf 
  • Gloves 
  • Thermal layers 

Other 

  • Chargers for electrical devices 
  • Plug adapters 
  • Card games 
  • Book 
  • Portable gaming device  

 

Explore where our trips can take you!

wherever you go, with this packing list, you’ll be ready for any destination.

Find out more

 

Author

Helena Southwood

Marketing Executive

Helena has 4 years of marketing experience, having previously worked in the construction and financial services sectors. Her journey took an exciting turn when she joined Rayburn Tours, where she discovered her passion for history and education. Since then, she’s immersed herself in building content and gaining skills in finding relevant sources through research, internal people, and associations. Helena has also been involved in user research to gain a greater and broader understanding of teachers’ needs. As Helena develops in her role, her interest, creativity and commitment to education will continue to grow.  

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