Please help, what do I need to take on this holiday?

[BarbaraVineFan]

I'm a single mum going on my first ever all-inclusive holiday with 4 year old DD in a couple of weeks. The resort is quite fancy I think and I'm going to be meeting a friend and her family there who are a lot wealthier than me. This shouldn't matter, but I've put on quite a bit of weight lately and I'm self conscious about that, also the fact that my clothes aren't very high end. I saw a thread recently recommending buying a really good coat to make yourself look put together, but not sure what the beach equivalent of that is!

Also just not sure about things like whether to take inflatables - will the hotel have them?- how much cash to take, tipping etc. If anyone could help with a little list of things I might need that I haven't thought of, I'd be really grateful!

It really does depend where you are going. We went to Lanzarote in February - long trousers for men for dinner, I needed a cardi in the evening. We're going to the Caribbean this month - much more casual vibe, shorts in the evening, quite humid, alcohol more free flowing.

Do not tip save your money to spend on you and your child you will find inflatables everywhere. Cheaper outside of the hotel …there are lots of pretty kimonos online and girl just be yourself anyone who judges isn’t worth your time have a lovely holiday enjoy it and remember don’t tip I never do life is just too expensive as it is

A few sarongs to wrap around your waist when you go to the pool bar or the toilet. Also a few beach toys for your DD if there is a beach as buying them at the resort shop will be very expensive. This will also ensure she gets friends quickly. A few new toys , barbies if she is into them, a few animals, floating toys like a sail boat, ...
Yes to sun screen and don't forget an after sun in case you burn a bit on the first day.
Resorts have pool towel, but I always put a few in my suitcase. The pool hut might only open at 9 and I am an early bird.
In an all-inclusive resort, even 4 stars, nobody will look at you. A fancy hotel with served meals in dining room would be different, so don't worry about that.

You would get surprised how far north mosquitoes have got, eg Spain. I always pack insect repellent (there are kids versions) and a plug in for the room as they love biting me!

If you're not sure how dressy evenings will be, the long floaty dresses mentioned above, plus some summery jewellery that you can choose to wear or not and a pretty pair of sandals will work almost anywhere. And a white linen shirt can be an evening top with jewellery, daytime top or pool coverup if needed. Also totally echo the previous suggest to stick to a colour palette if possible for easy packing, mixing and matching.

Other essentials - first aid kit, baby wipes and an extension cable if there's anything vital you really need beside your bed.

Of course medications, handbag stuff, paperwork, phone charger and a few essentials in case your case goes AWOL all go in hand luggage.

I remember a thread a while back that suggested a rucksack as your hand luggage to keep hands free for child wrangling and suitcase manoeuvring.

What time does your DD wake up? I ask this as we were caught out by the fact that breakfast often doesn't start until 7.30 if not 8.00 so we always took some snacks (Asda do individually wrapped croissants which have a scarily long life ... I'm sure other supermarkets do too) and some quiet toys for our DC to play with in the rooms. Otherwise, there wasn't much for them to do other than give them screens.
On our first AI, I was surprised at how dressy people were for dinner. Holidays traditionally were a change for me to not bother for a week or so but I ended up upping my game after our first AI when everyone was going for dinner with full make up, hair done and nice clothes. When I say "nice" clothes, I don't mean designer or even expensive but just looking as though they'd made a bit of an effort.
If you DD is one of those children who always spills food down them, take 1001 t-shirts for her. Each meal is in public so they can't just be in their pants as mine often were at home and, if they get tomato pasta down the top they're wearing, the chances of you begging another wear out of it are limited. DS flew home in his PJ top one year as it was the cleanest top we owned!

Anthisan cream for bites and stings it’s the best I promise

Look at Made in Italy and SHEIN for floaty dresses that will see you through to the evening. Cheap as chips.
2 x bikinis.one decent sarong or hammam towel.
One pair of nice sliders/flip flops and a pair of gold espadrilles for the evening.
Couple of pairs of shorts and vests for day trips. Top or dress which covers knees and shoulders for visits to sites etc.
bits of chunky jewellery to dress up anything.
X

I am very chubby legged, so I bought a tankini with longer length tummy control swim shorts.
You will need fewer items than you think - you can take a handwash and do a quick rinse of your smalls, but the liquid soap provided works just as well. Everything dries quickly.

Take your own sun cream, holiday prices are scandalous. I have always bought Boots Soltan which around now comes in offers. Get one spray on all-day waterproof type - 4 year olds can be wriggly. Use it even if not sunny.
If hot, you will want to change from day wear to evening, but go for mix and match to save space, and do not forget a cardigan type to cover up - the further South you go, the earlier it gets dark, and can be cooler. You could go for a large fabric square, which can double as a beach sarong, a skirt and a shawl, (and a smaller one if your 4yr-old is female) Depending on how easy you find it to do your hair with you DC around, a smaller scarf for winding around your sun-&-swim hair. Your favourite hair conditioner is a must - and you can get smaller bottles.
Plastic bags - you will need a seethru bag for your make-up items at the airport, and very useful for tucking your phone and other small items like paracetamol and snacks on the beach ( and even loose change).
Little one could do with a towel tabard for intermittent cover-up/warming up/changing

Just an aside to the advice you requested, if this is your first all inclusive with your little one, watch out for the free ‘juice’ that the kids can normally help themselves to. We went away a few years back and another family couldn’t understand why their child was so hyper all of the time. I had to point out that the orange drink the child was helping himself to was made to a different recipe for the country, and consequently full of sugar and other additives not found in the uk. His sugar crash after the mum stopped him drinking it was quite an incident, but after that he was fine for the rest of their visit

firstly I wanted to say have a brilliant time. Your Daughter will have such amazing memories of your holidays so enjoy every minute. Also, indulge- You’ve paid for that all inclusive so enjoy it!
As for tips:
2 x swim suits etc so that you have one drying and one wearing.

You won’t be be only person conscious of their weight so don’t worry about it! But I’ve invested I a couple of really nice floaty throw over dresses, kimono type and so during the day I walk around in these when I’m not lying on a lounger. A big sun hat, big sunglasses- I don’t know why but I always feel more glamorous and confident with these!

Not sure where you’re going but you might be better to shop there for that sort of thing, far cheaper. Eg Zara & I’ve also brought some lovely bits from little local shops.

Enjoy x

I live in an all inclusive destination. I can tell you that when I beach walk most days, I usually go past at least 5 or 6 all inclusives till the mutts and I head streetside home (they like to go street side home, as some of the restaurants know them well, and a waitress will pop a bowl of water out and usually they get a sausage as well lol. ) So I can tell you. There are ALL shapes and sizes and the only one judging you, is YOU. As for clothing. You really should have 3 bathing suits as if you change for lunch or an outing, you will want a dry one for later in the day. 3 means you always have 2 dry. Floaty dresses, a coverup or sarong for the beach and pool. I always used to take 2 of our own brightly colored towels. Not that the resorts don't supply , they do , but your brightly colored ones are easier to spot when you come out of the ocean or pool. Sunscreen is incredible expensive here , on the resorts (in town in the non tourist areas it is much more reasonable.) Floaties take no room in your suitcase but will be triple the price on any resort. Enjoy your vacation. OH also. Insulated cups as the pool and beach bars serve drinks in tiny little cups that are empty before you reach your lounger (what..just me??? LOL) also if you have an insulated mug make sure the straw is not metal. Ask me how I know . Those bastard things get piping hot in the sun (at least here , like right now it is 8:44 am and it is already 27 degrees celcius)

It’s worth mentioning that you’re going to the caribbean, it’s common for the 4 and 5 star AIs to require men to wear long trousers and collars for dinner. I know this doesn’t directly affect you, but indicates the corresponding dress code for women too.

I hope you and your daughter have a wonderful time!

I would take at least 2 swimming costumes if beach/pool holiday. Maybe some long/floaty dresses for evening with nice sandals/flip flops and some strappy sun dresses or shorts/t shirts for daytime. If you are conscious of your weight then sun dresses are more forgiving and you can just pull them over your costume to go back up to the room. Don't forget a sun hat, comfy shoes and maybe some loose trousers and cardigan for cooler evenings.

just a word of warning @Cyclingmummy1 Not sure where in the caribbean you are heading, but if it is punta cana, there are still some resorts that , while buffet is relaxed dress code, they have long pants for men and closed toe shoes for men in the gourmet restaurants. Some of the restaurants are relaxed, but those top ones that are really fancy, can be picky. Women could go in in a see thru dress and flip flops..men, not as lucky. AND..right now it is very warm and has not had much rain (we had some overnight last night) I do wear a cardigan some nights (just very light one) but I am acclimatized so anything under 24 feels cool to me lol. just wear a little cardi on the plane then hang in your closet, if you don't need it , you will still be thankful for it for the plane ride

You are worrying too much. Be yourself and enjoy it. Don't try and much their spending money, give yourself a budget. You do t have to be envolved in everything they do. Spend alone time with your child. Most of all enjoy yourself!(

You can buy inflatables there but they are horribly overpriced normally. If you have a home bargains or b and m, get one from there. Agree with an earlier post, have 2 costumes each!
Just try to relax as much as possible. DD will have a wonderful time...but even more so if she knows mumma is relaxed too. My children absolutely love holidays- it's their favourite time, especially all inclusive. If you are planning to eat at the hotel for most of your meals - you don't need to tip all the time. There is normally a tip pot at reception which you can give a contribution too at end of your holiday. Have a wonderful time! Xx

The jacket equivalent is a Sun cover. Bring two. They are also awesome.

two plus swimsuits - you’ll probably be in and out, some places make you dress for lunch. No one likes putting back on a soggy swimsuit- and they take up no room.
two summer dresses - or as you like- I just love them for throwing on and heading to lunch, or market.

bring an insulated coffee mug for you and dd. For hot or cold drinks. Even water, the cups there are often small.

a small inflatable and some colouring for the room might be nice, but they usually have all the kid pool toys.

tips are good. No idea on how much. Depends on country you’re in and how much you want to spend. And what you value.
I.e. you want prompt service at the bar, give the bartender something early in the evening every day. You like to sit in the sun at the restaurant, or an extra clean room.

If Mexico/Cuba I’d say 3$ a day minimum. And that’s not generous. Again, people still do their jobs and tips are appreciated not expected (unless you found an all inclusive in the states). But where do you put cash when your living in a swimsuit?

bring spare Cash for market days and buying crafts/souvenirs or excursions.

sunscreen and conditioner!!! Bring extra. It’s expensive or non existent at the resorts, and you will use more than anticipated. Lip balm with sunscreen too.

extra hat for kiddo. One of those giant dorky ones. (They blow off into the ocean or get left somewhere) And three of everything for her - three covers, three suits, three dresses. There will be sand stains, or soggy bottoms.

bring one big book with multiple stories for a high sun break/nap/chill time.

a daytimer or diary. Just to quickly jot down peoples names and basic things you did. Don’t have to write a story, but you will not remember by the time you look at photos (no matter how many times you think you will).

two pairs of sandals each. One to get filthy on the beach, one for the room/resort, nicer one for dinners (can be room one, but whatever you like).

a hobo or beach bag can be handy. Can also be a pain.

Do you have like a winners/marshals/tjmaxx? That’s my fave place for sun covers. Great options this time of year. Great for giving confidence when you feel like you’re carrying a few extra pounds. But know you’ll look back at these photos and think ‘damn, look how good I looked! I remember being concerned’ so just rock it girl. Confidence is hot!

good luck, have fun. Don’t forget a hat for you!

See if there is a FB page for your hotel - it will tell you lots
Inflatables are often left by other guests or passed on when in resort.
SPF 50 - eg ASDA Banana scented - is waterproof
(I watched people with spray sunscreen last week -it was going all over the floors and over other people in the light breeze)
Matalan often have decent bra-sized swimwear and good beachwear.
Crocs shoes - invaluable for poolside, beach, rocks, sea swimming, walking, in the shower - and best of all - considerate for people in neighbouring rooms as they are quiet on tiled floors

Thanks for the advice. It's not our first rodeo 😁

Things to think about with all inclusive are that they are usually larger than other resorts.
You may find you change clothes a lot.
So an easy to throw on outfit to wander down for breakfast. A sundress, floaty trousers, long shorts etc etc. Comfy sandals.
Remember that you might be sat on rattan or plastic so something to cover the backs of your thighs is a comfortable idea.
Also - you need something you can drape over a chair to save your place. A scarf you carry, a light weight cardi.
Then you'll go back to your room. So you'll want your swim suit and something to cover up to amble down to the beach. I like to avoid undressing from tight clothing by the pool. (I'd be the one going flying as I took tight shorts off) So a sarong, or the long light shirt, or a loose dress etc come in here. Things you can grab a snack in when it's time for lunch. Personally, I like swim suits with a skirt - feel less exposed. Sliders, beach shoes.
For the evenings back to the room and upgrade to nice sandals and a few sundresses (not the breakfast ones).

@Chickdaft liquid talc is a game changer!!

Vinted is your friend here. I'd go for plain natural fabrics in black, white, neutral and some metallic accessories. It won't look too cheap even if it is. Everything will work together. Maybe a couple of bits in a bright colour as an accent.

A little bag for evening, flat sandals, flip flops, chargers, hat, sunglasses, basic medical kit, beach bag, carrier bag for wet laundry, bit of costume jewellery for evening.

Enjoy!

Primark does lovely overshirts and beach cover ups!! It's quite cheap but the stuff is nice!! I swear by a floaty dress fr days out sightseeing, and my embroidered denim jacket over the top for evening. It makes me feel 'dressed'. Have a try on of stuff and see what feels nice and looks good!!
Don't spend all your money on your DDs stuff 😄!! Enjoy yourself!!

I’ve now stopped wearing bikinis as I’m fed up of having to suck in my stomach. I’m not overweight, but I had 3 children in rather quick succession and I am now over 50. M&S do some lovely ‘sculpting’ swimming costumes. I take 3-4 for a 2 week holiday. Wide brimmed straw hat, sunglasses, linen long sleeved cover up dress, sliders & my Kindle. Holiday sorted. Also, factor 50 sunscreen, none of the family use anything lower.

We go in a few days.. I have plain and patterned loose fit trousers, plain T-shirts, vest tops, and shorts.. all mix and matchable plus a few nicer dresses for the evening. I currently only have one swimsuit, but hopefully will find another I like in time (I also recommend tankini style.. you have the cover of a one piece but easier to go to the toilet!) We only have hand luggage so are packing light and will probably buy sun cream at the airport. Hotel shops are expensive, but local supermarkets (love a foreign Spar!) are good value.