Holidays mean more time outside, often in stronger sun than at home: closer to the equator, higher up, or by the sea. A little planning before you pack keeps the whole family comfortable and protected. Here's our checklist.
The essentials for everyone
- ☐ Sunglasses for each person, with 100% UV protection. Polarized lenses cut glare from water, sand and roads.
- ☐ A spare pair for each child. Kids' sunglasses get lost, sat on and left at the pool.
- ☐ Hard or soft cases so sunglasses survive the suitcase.
- ☐ Wide-brimmed hats or caps with neck flaps.
- ☐ Broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, plus SPF lip balm. (For babies under six months, rely on shade and clothing, and ask your doctor about sunscreen.)
- ☐ UV-protective clothing: rash vests and long sleeves for the beach.
- ☐ Water bottles for every family member.
For the little ones
- ☐ Baby sunglasses with soft, flexible frames for 0–3 years.
- ☐ A stroller canopy or sunshade.
- ☐ Eyewear straps for kids 3 and up, so sunglasses stay on during play.
Destination extras
Beach and pool
- ☐ Sport sunglasses that stay on in the water and sand.
- ☐ Fresh water to rinse sunglasses after salt water or chlorine.
- ☐ Beach umbrella or pop-up tent for midday shade.
More in choosing sunglasses for water sports and beach days.
Mountains and snow
- ☐ Ski goggles for the slopes; sunglasses for everything else.
- ☐ Extra sunscreen for ears, nose and under the chin.
More in protecting kids' eyes on ski trips.
City breaks
- ☐ Light, comfortable everyday sunglasses for long days of walking.
- ☐ A small bag for each child's sunglasses when you go indoors.
Flights and road trips
- ☐ Sunglasses in the carry-on, not the checked bag.
- ☐ Window shades for the car.
- ☐ Screen glasses for teens on long screen sessions.
Tips for keeping kids' sunglasses on (and found)
- Make it routine: sunglasses go on with sunscreen, every time you head out.
- Wear yours too: kids copy what they see.
- Let them choose: a favourite colour makes them want to wear it.
- One home for every pair: a case clipped to the beach bag.
- Check the fit before you go: faces grow fast, and last summer's pair may be too small. See our size guide by age.
Remember the timing
UV is strongest between about 10am and 4pm. Plan beach time and long walks for mornings and late afternoons, and look for shade in the middle of the day.
