Garden tours involve more time outdoors, more walking and more changes of surface than many general sightseeing holidays. The most useful packing list therefore starts with the actual itinerary: check the activity guidance, countries visited, expected weather, airline baggage allowance and any joining instructions sent for your departure.
Start with your itinerary
There is no single packing list that fits every GardenTours journey. A May itinerary in England has different conditions from April on the French Riviera or spring bulb season in the Netherlands. Read the day-by-day programme and the suitability section on the tour page before deciding what to bring.
- Check how much walking, standing, uneven ground and stair use the itinerary describes.
- Check the forecast shortly before departure and plan for changeable conditions.
- Use your airline's current cabin and checked-baggage rules rather than a general allowance.
- Check the accommodation and meal information on your tour page instead of assuming laundry or a dress code.
Footwear and clothing
Comfortable, already-worn walking shoes with reliable grip are the most important item for most garden itineraries. Garden paths may include gravel, grass, slopes, steps and damp or uneven surfaces. Choose footwear that suits your own needs and the activity guidance for the tour.
Layers are usually more useful than one heavy garment. A light insulating layer and a packable rainproof outer layer can adapt to changing temperatures without taking much room. Add a sun hat, sunglasses or warmer accessories when the destination and forecast justify them.
Bring clothing you are comfortable wearing for a full day outdoors. If your itinerary includes particular restaurants, hotels or events, use the joining information for any dress guidance. There is no need to buy a wardrobe specifically for garden touring.
A practical day bag
A small, comfortable day bag can hold the things you need between leaving the hotel and returning in the evening. Depending on the day, that may include:
- a refillable water bottle, where venue rules permit;
- rain protection and an extra layer;
- sun protection;
- a notebook and pen;
- a phone or camera, spare power and a lens cloth;
- essential personal medication; and
- the day's itinerary and emergency contact details.
Photography equipment should match how you actually like to travel. A phone is sufficient for many guests. If you bring a larger camera, check each garden's current rules before packing a tripod, monopod or other equipment that may be restricted.
Medication and personal needs
Bring enough regular medication for the journey and any reasonable delay. Keep essential medication accessible during travel and retain the packaging or documentation required by your airline, transit countries and destination. Rules for controlled medicines and medical equipment vary, so check official guidance and ask your doctor or pharmacist when necessary.
Pack personal items that you know you use. Hotel toiletries, laundry services and nearby shops vary by property and destination; consult the tour information or ask GardenTours if a particular facility matters to you.
Documents, money and insurance
Passport, visa and electronic travel-authorisation requirements depend on your nationality, destination and itinerary. Do not rely on a general rule about how many months a passport must remain valid. Check your government's current travel advice and the official immigration guidance for every country on the itinerary.
Keep your tour documents, flight details and GardenTours emergency contact information accessible. Our booking conditions require guests to hold comprehensive travel insurance; carry the policy and emergency-assistance details supplied by your insurer.
Check with your card provider before departure and keep a separate way to contact it if a card is lost. The amount and currency of cash that is useful depends on the destination and your own preferences.
Power and connectivity
The United Kingdom uses Type G electrical sockets. Other European destinations use different socket types, so check every country on your itinerary and confirm that your devices support the local voltage before choosing an adapter. A plug adapter does not convert voltage.
Download any maps, tickets or travel documents you may need offline. Mobile roaming, eSIM and local SIM options depend on your provider and phone.
Before you close the suitcase
- Review the final joining information and day-by-day itinerary.
- Confirm current airline and airport rules, including liquids and battery restrictions.
- Check official passport, visa, ETA and medicine guidance.
- Check the forecast and adjust layers, rainwear and sun protection.
- Put essential medication, documents, valuables and one change of clothing in your cabin bag where permitted.
- Weigh and label your luggage.
Pack for the journey you booked
The useful essentials are simple: suitable footwear, adaptable clothing, weather protection and the documents and personal items you need. Everything else should follow the specific tour. If an activity level, hotel facility or packing requirement is unclear, ask GardenTours before departure.