Red Equipment's 2026 Staycation Essentials

More Brits are thinking differently about their next trip abroad in 2026. Ongoing international uncertainty, increasing fuel prices, and the rising cost of flights are persuading many families that a different type of break might be better suited - a staycation.

Some UK holidays could even be more convenient and more versatile than a long-haul journey. But do you know what to pack for a staycation? If you aren’t sure, don’t fret. We’re here to help. Red Equipment has been developing fantastic products specifically designed to support an active, outdoor lifestyle. Let’s highlight some of Red Equipment's top staycation essentials.

Quilted Lightweight Water-Resistant Adventure Blanket

The Quilted Lightweight Water-Resistant Adventure Blanket is a must-have piece of kit for any UK staycation packing list. Its quilted construction provides lightweight warmth and also includes a water-resistant treatment - perfect for wet grass, breezy coastal spots or cooler evening times outdoors.

You can use this quilted blanket for picnics, beach seating, or to wrap yourself up at sunset. It’s a key part of your staycation essentials, so make sure that you have one on hand before you go away.

2L Insulated Stainless Steel Canteen Bottle

Staying hydrated is a major aspect of any active trip, especially if you are planning to spend plenty of time outdoors. Red Equipment's Stainless Steel Canteen Bottle will quickly become one of your most important staycation essentials if you are. You will be able to carry enough liquid to last the entire day. It is perfect for families, long hikes, or beach days where opportunities to refill may be few and far between.

Microfibre Quick-Dry Adventure Towel

If you plan on doing any form of water-based activity whilst on your trip, a compact travel towel will be one of your staycation essentials. The Microfibre Quick-Dry Travel Towel dries extremely fast and folds away very compactly - perfect for stuffing in luggage where space is tight. Whether you need a personal drying towel or something to quickly dry off with after swimming/paddling, this microfibre towel is a great pick.

Soft Waterproof Cooler Bag

Keeping food and drink fresh during day trips is really important for any lengthier staycation trips. The 30 Litre Soft Waterproof Cooler Bag is made to protect and chill your food/drink whilst being fully waterproof.

This soft cooler bag is perfect for taking along on different kinds of family outings, being both extremely durable thanks to its recycled 420D nylon fabric, and highly ergonomic and easy to carry. 

Adventure Waterproof Backpack

No list of staycation essentials could be complete without including our Adventure Waterproof Backpack. Unpredictable weather means that waterproofing becomes an absolute necessity rather than an option, whether you’re visiting Cornwall or the Lake District. A waterproof backpack is perfect for transporting items between outdoor activities. With plenty of different storage options available, the breathable back panel and cooling form shoulder straps, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more comfortable, practical backpack.

Children’s Waterproof Change Robes

For families in particular, UK-based staycations always include a beach trip or some other water activities. Children’s Waterproof Change Robes help them keep warm, protected from the cold and give them privacy during changes after getting out of the water. It’s an underrated piece of kit, but we think they’re true staycation essentials.

Poncho-Style Waterproof Quick-Dry Change Robes

Changing robes aren’t just for kids, they’re staycation essentials for the whole family. This Poncho-Style Waterproof Quick-Dry Change Robe is ideal for quick drying and ease of changing on the go, especially after swimming, surfing or any other kind of watersports. They dry off incredibly quickly, letting you use them multiple times throughout the day.

330ml Insulated Stainless Steel Adventure Flask

Rounding out our list of staycation essentials is the 330ml Insulated Stainless Steel Adventure Flask. For those looking for smaller, more portable drinkware, this flask is the perfect solution. With its insulating properties, it is capable of maintaining hot/cold temperatures throughout most of the day, ideal for having a hot/cold drink on the go.

Did you find this staycation packing list helpful? We hope so. If you have any questions about any of the highlighted staycation essentials we’ve discussed above, you can reach out to the experts on the Red Equipment team for assistance. We’re always happy to help.