I thought you were bringing the.....

Packing for a weekend away is usually straightforward.

A few clothes, toiletries, a phone charger and perhaps something suitable for dinner.

But when you're organising a holiday for twenty friends or family members, things can become rather more complicated.

Suddenly, somebody's asking whether they should bring towels, someone else is packing three board games, and nobody knows who's responsible for the tea bags.

Fortunately, a little preparation makes everything much easier.

Check What's Already Provided

Before filling the car with everything except the kitchen sink, check what your holiday house includes.

Large self-catering properties often provide many everyday essentials, but arrangements vary.

Ask about bed linen, towels, kitchen equipment, washing-up supplies and anything else your group might need.

It's also worth checking whether there are facilities for babies, young children or guests with particular requirements.

At Big House Holiday Lets, every property has its own character and facilities, so checking the details of your chosen house before travelling is always sensible.

Share the Essentials

One of the easiest ways to avoid duplication is to create a simple shared shopping list.

Tea, coffee, milk, bread, breakfast ingredients and snacks are obvious starting points.

Then consider any shared meals you're planning.

If you're cooking together, decide who's bringing particular ingredients rather than arriving with twelve packets of pasta and no sauce.

And remember to check dietary requirements before shopping.

Pack for the Countryside

The Wye Valley and Forest of Dean offer wonderful opportunities to explore, whatever the season.

Comfortable walking shoes are a good idea, even if you're only planning gentle strolls.

A waterproof jacket is sensible too.

British weather does enjoy keeping everyone guessing.

If you're bringing children, a few familiar toys or favourite activities can be useful for quieter moments.

And don't forget chargers, medication and anything you wouldn't easily replace while away.

Bring Something to Share

Some of the nicest things you can pack aren't essentials at all.

A favourite board game.

A family photograph.

A playlist everyone remembers.

Perhaps a recipe you've been promising to make for years.

These little extras can create some of the most enjoyable moments of the holiday.

Leave the Stress at Home

The most important thing to remember?

You don't need to pack for every possible eventuality.

A little organisation before travelling means more time to relax once you arrive.

And with everyone gathered in a beautiful house in the Wye Valley or Forest of Dean, the best thing you're bringing is already taken care of.

Each other.

Explore our large holiday houses at Big House Holiday Lets.

email: enquiries@bhhl.co.uk