While everybody should take care to wear sunscreen, adventure-seeking travellers who will be outdoors most of the time should be extra vigilant in applying sun protection. It is essential to stay protected from the sun’s rays since overexposure could lead to long-term skin issues. Choose an SPF50, broad-spectrum sunscreen with water-resistant properties for maximum protection, and apply generously to all exposed areas of your skin before heading out into the sun – then reapply often.

With so many devices to juice up, it is now de rigueur to travel with a universal travel adaptor. Before your next trip, update your tech by investing in an adaptor with an integrated USB port so you can plug cables directly into it. You’ll be able to leave behind all those bulky plugs, saving you precious luggage space and weight.

When you have an exciting line-up of activities in the great outdoors, the last thing you want is to be derailed by a minor injury or ailment and have to head back to the nearest town to pick up medical supplies. At minimum you should carry some common first-aid items such as bandages, antiseptic cream and over-the-counter medication (think charcoal tabs and painkillers) to treat minor issues, so you can continue on your adventure.

A colourful sarong or shawl can work wonders dressing up a limited travel wardrobe. Not only does it work as a cover-up or blanket when it gets chilly, or form a protective cocoon when you travel on less-than-stellar public transport, it can also be artfully draped to double up as a skirt or top. It’ll even work as a dress when the occasion calls for some sartorial flair.

Leave your bulky makeup kit at home, because being on vacation will naturally bring a radiant glow to your visage! Instead pack just one or two of your favourite lipsticks, if you absolutely cannot step out of your room without some face paint. A bright and cheerful hue in tangerine or pink, for example, will instantaneously dress up your face with minimal effort.

It can be difficult to stick to a balanced diet while on the road, so pack some multivitamins to ensure your family’s nutritional needs are met. Most multivitamins are formulated with comprehensive blends of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and herbs to meet the varying needs of men, women and children. It is also beneficial to pack a high-quality formula that includes vitamin C, zinc and copper to help maintain your body’s natural defences and aid in the relief of tiredness and fatigue.

Vacation time is bonding time with your family, so even if you’re not much of a shutterbug it won’t hurt to pack a camera to capture priceless memories. It can be a smartphone camera for candid shots, or pack a waterproof point-and-shoot for carefree durability or a high-tech DSLR for serious techies – just don’t forget to pack a spare battery and memory card. Years from now, when the kids grow up, you’ll be glad you’ve got some snaps to reminisce over.

It is rewarding to see the world through a child’s eyes, but perhaps a little less romantic when kids spill food and drinks on their clothes, or worse – soil their pants. Always carry around a few waterproof bags (even a large ziplock or two can do the trick) so you can clean up in a jiffy and keep any wet items separate from the rest of your stuff.