Get set for summer

Summer always seems to arrive faster than we expect. One minute we’re planning half-term activities and the next we’re packing suitcases, organising day trips and wondering where we put last year’s beach towels. Whether you’re heading overseas, exploring the UK or simply making the most of weekends in the garden, having the right products can make family life that little bit easier.

We’ve pulled together some of our favourite finds to help you get ready for the season ahead. From travel gadgets and outdoor essentials to family-friendly treats, practical accessories and a few well-deserved little luxuries, these are the products that have caught our eye and deserve a place on your summer shopping list.

At Globalmouse Travels, we’re always looking for products that genuinely make travelling and family adventures simpler, more comfortable and more enjoyable. Every item featured in this guide has been selected because we think it offers something useful, whether you’re setting off on a big summer holiday, planning a staycation or simply enjoying long sunny days closer to home.

So grab a cooling drink, start dreaming about summer adventures and discover some brilliant ideas to help you and your family make the most of every sunny moment.

Summer Essentials 

1. LEVEL8 Voyageur luggage set – the perfect family suitcase for your next holiday

£509 from LEVEL8

Packing for a family holiday is no small task, especially when you’re trying to fit everything from beachwear and trainers to evening outfits, toiletries and the inevitable collection of souvenirs you’ll be bringing home. That’s where the LEVEL8 Voyageur Luggage 2 Piece Set really comes into its own. Combining generous packing space with thoughtful design and premium materials, these are suitcases built to make family travel easier from the moment you leave home.

One of our favourite features is the clever handle design, which sits outside the main packing area to maximise every inch of internal space. That means more room for everything a family needs without making the suitcase any larger. Inside, you’ll find two spacious compartments, an interior compression system to keep clothes neatly in place and a practical wet and dry separation pocket that’s perfect for swimwear, toiletries or anything that needs to be kept apart from the rest of your luggage.

Built from tough German-made Makrolon® polycarbonate, the Voyageur cases feel reassuringly robust while remaining lightweight enough to manoeuvre with ease. They glide effortlessly thanks to whisper-quiet 360-degree spinner wheels, making those long walks through airport terminals, train stations and hotel lobbies far less of a chore. Premium touches such as the TSA-approved lock, puncture-resistant YKK zip and elegant Micro-Diamond finish add peace of mind as well as a stylish, contemporary look.

To make packing even more straightforward, the matching six-piece Packing Cube Travel Set (£69.99 from LEVEL8) is an excellent addition. Different-sized cubes help separate clothing, shoes, underwear, swimwear and accessories, making it easy for each family member to stay organised throughout the trip. They also help compress clothing to make the most of your suitcase space, while the durable, water-resistant fabric protects your belongings and is easy to wipe clean after your adventures.

Whether you’re heading abroad for a fortnight in the sunshine, embarking on a road trip or enjoying a UK staycation, the LEVEL8 Voyageur suitcases and packing cubes are a combination that takes much of the stress out of packing. Stylish, practical and exceptionally well designed, they’re an investment that families will appreciate holiday after holiday.

3. Explore further with the Komperdell Carbon Ultra Zero Comp trekking poles

189 euros from Komperdell

For anyone who loves getting outdoors, the right equipment can make all the difference, whether you’re tackling mountain trails, exploring countryside paths or enjoying a family hiking adventure. The Komperdell Carbon Ultra Zero Comp trekking poles are designed for walkers who want reliable support without adding unnecessary weight to their pack.

Made from ultralight carbon, these poles are impressively lightweight while still offering the strength and stability needed for longer adventures. The compact three-section design makes them easy to carry and pack away, while the strong Powerlock 3.0 aluminium locking system provides confidence and security with every step.

Comfort has also been carefully considered. The soft cork foam Trek Pro 280 grip extends further down the pole, making it particularly useful when navigating steep terrain where you need to adjust your hand position. The Air Padded strap adds another level of comfort, with soft internal padding designed to reduce pressure during longer walks.

Practical details make these trekking poles suitable for year-round adventures too. The quick-change vario basket system allows you to switch between summer and winter baskets depending on the conditions, making them a versatile choice for everything from woodland walks to more challenging mountain routes.

Komperdell has a long history of innovation in outdoor equipment and also offers a free, no-questions-asked three-year repair service for its touring and trekking poles, giving extra reassurance that these are built to accompany you on many adventures to come.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply love exploring the outdoors, the Carbon Ultra Zero Comp trekking poles are a lightweight, durable and thoughtfully designed addition to your adventure kit.

4. Bring hotel comfort home with the Velistra® Hotel Bamboo Pillow Twin Pack

£44.99 from Martian Made

A great night’s sleep can make all the difference, especially before a busy day of travelling, exploring or enjoying family adventures. The Velistra® Hotel Bamboo Pillows are designed to bring that luxurious hotel-style comfort into your own home, creating a soft, supportive and relaxing sleep environment night after night.

The secret is the high-loft down alternative cluster fibre filling, which delivers the plush feel of traditional goose down while being completely hypoallergenic and suitable for those who prefer a more allergy-friendly option. Unlike pillows that quickly lose their shape, the Velistra® design is made to maintain its loft and bounce back after washing, helping you enjoy consistent comfort for longer.

The bamboo rayon and polyester blend cover adds another layer of luxury, with a silky-soft feel that’s breathable and moisture-wicking to help keep you cool throughout the night. This makes it particularly appealing during warmer summer months when a comfortable sleep can sometimes be harder to achieve.

With a naturally dust-mite resistant design and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification, the pillows are created with both comfort and peace of mind in mind. Whether you’re refreshing your own bedroom, preparing a guest room or simply want to recreate that wonderful feeling of sinking into a hotel bed after a day of adventures, the Velistra® Hotel Bamboo Pillow Twin Pack is a simple upgrade that can make everyday life feel a little more luxurious.

5. Stay stylish in the sunshine with the Sunday Afternoons Sol Seeker hat

£32.95 from Sunday Afternoons

A reliable sun hat is one of those holiday essentials that you’ll find yourself reaching for time and time again, and the Sol Seeker from Sunday Afternoons strikes a lovely balance between style and practicality. With its relaxed floppy brim and woven design, it’s just as at home exploring a seaside town or wandering around a summer market as it is on countryside walks or lounging by the pool.

Offering UPF 50+ sun protection and a generous 9cm brim, the Sol Seeker helps shield your face from the summer sun without compromising on style. We particularly like the subtle leather-look hatband, which adds a smart finishing touch, while the breathable woven construction and soft internal sweatband keep it comfortable to wear, even on the hottest days.

Travel-friendly features make it a great companion for holidays too. The packable design means it can be tucked carefully into a suitcase, backpack or beach bag, while the internal adjustable sizing ensures a secure, comfortable fit throughout the day. Whether you’re sightseeing, enjoying an outdoor concert, heading to a picnic or simply relaxing in the garden, it’s a versatile accessory you’ll wear all summer long.

If you’re looking for one stylish addition to your summer wardrobe that also offers excellent sun protection, the Sunday Afternoons Sol Seeker is well worth packing for your next adventure.

Get creative this summer

1. Capture your best summer memories with the Insta360 Snap Selfie Screen with Light

£82.99 from Amazon

From family holidays and city breaks to beach days and weekend adventures, summer is packed with moments you’ll want to remember. The Insta360 Snap Selfie Screen with Light makes it easier than ever to capture high-quality photos and videos using your phone’s powerful rear camera, so you no longer have to compromise on image quality when taking selfies or filming content on the move.

The clever magnetic 3.5-inch touchscreen mirrors your phone’s display, allowing you to frame every shot perfectly while using the rear camera. Whether you’re taking a family photo with everyone in the frame, filming a travel vlog or capturing memories with friends, you can see exactly what you’re recording in real time for a true “what you see is what you get” experience.

Ideal for creators and travellers alike, the Snap Selfie Screen is ready to use straight away with no charging required – simply plug it in and start shooting. The Light edition, developed in partnership with beauty-tech specialists AMIRO, also features three lighting colours and five brightness levels, helping you look your best whether you’re recording indoors, at sunset or during an evening meal on holiday.

Compatible with iPhone 15 and newer models (excluding certain variants) as well as many USB-C Android phones that support DisplayPort Alt Mode, it also works with popular third-party camera apps for added flexibility. Compact enough to slip into your day bag and supplied with a protective cover, the Insta360 Snap Selfie Screen with Light is a brilliant companion for anyone who wants to capture polished holiday memories all summer long.

2. Stay organised in style with the Filofax Saffiano Compact Zip Organiser

£45 from Pen Heaven

Whether you’re planning a summer holiday, juggling family schedules or simply trying to keep on top of everyday life, a good organiser can make all the difference. The Filofax Saffiano Compact Zip Organiser in Aquamarine combines timeless style with practical features, making it a thoughtful gift or a well-deserved treat for yourself.

Its fresh aquamarine finish and textured leather-look cover give it a smart, contemporary feel, while the zip-around design means it doubles as a compact organiser and wallet. Inside you’ll find plenty of room for cards, notes and everyday essentials, along with a pen loop and a range of useful inserts including a week-to-view diary, contacts section, to-do lists, ruled paper and page marker, making it easy to keep appointments, travel plans and family activities all in one place.

One of our favourite touches is the option to personalise the organiser with embossed initials or a special message, transforming it into a memorable gift for a birthday, graduation, a new job or someone embarking on an exciting new adventure. The included 2026 diary refill means it’s ready to use straight away, helping you stay organised from day one.

Stylish enough to slip into a handbag or carry to meetings, yet practical enough for busy family life, the Filofax Saffiano Compact Zip Organiser is a classic accessory that proves staying organised never has to be boring.

3. Brighten your day with the DesignWorks Ink Bold Stripe Pen & Pouch Set

£15 from Pen Heaven

A great stationery set is one of those simple pleasures that can make everyday tasks feel a little more enjoyable, and the DesignWorks Ink Bold Stripe Pen & Pouch Set certainly brings plenty of personality. Whether you’re heading back to school, starting university, returning to the office after a summer break or simply love beautiful stationery, this colourful duo is both practical and stylish.

The set includes a sleek ballpoint pen with a smooth matte lavender finish and contrasting rust-red clip, paired with a vibrant zip-up pouch featuring bold stripes in warm shades of mustard, lilac, blush, olive and brick red. Compact enough to slip into a handbag, backpack or laptop case, it’s ideal for keeping pens, pencils and small essentials neatly organised wherever the day takes you.

As well as looking good, the set has sustainability in mind. Made from cruelty-free, eco-friendly materials and featuring a refillable black ballpoint pen produced with sustainable soy-based ink, it’s a thoughtful choice for anyone looking to reduce waste without compromising on style.

Whether you’re writing holiday journals, making travel plans, jotting down ideas or tackling your daily to-do list, the DesignWorks Ink Bold Stripe Pen & Pouch Set adds a cheerful splash of colour to every page and makes a lovely gift for stationery lovers of all ages.

4. Make writing more fun with the Legami Fur-ever Friends Erasable Pen Set

£7.99 from Pen Heaven

Whether you’re stocking up for the new school term, looking for a thoughtful little gift or simply can’t resist cute stationery, the Legami Fur-ever Friends 2026 Limited Edition Erasable Pen Set is guaranteed to raise a smile. Featuring adorable Golden Retriever, Bulldog and Poodle designs, these playful pens bring plenty of personality to every pencil case.

As practical as they are fun, each pen writes with smooth thermosensitive gel ink and includes a built-in eraser on the end, allowing mistakes to disappear with a quick rub and leaving the page clean and tidy. With red, blue and black ink included, they’re ideal for colour-coding revision notes, planning family activities, journalling or adding a little creativity to everyday writing.

The comfortable 0.7mm tip glides effortlessly across the page, making these pens a pleasure to use at school, university, in the office or at home. Their limited edition 2026 designs also make them a lovely stocking filler, party bag gift or small treat for stationery enthusiasts of any age.

Cute, colourful and wonderfully practical, the Legami Fur-ever Friends Erasable Pen Set proves that even everyday writing can be a little more enjoyable, making it a perfect addition to our Get Set for Summer gift guide.

5. A timeless gift: Cross Bailey Red Lacquer Fountain Pen

£50 from PenHeaven

Some gifts never go out of style, and the Cross Bailey Red Lacquer Fountain Pen is a perfect example. Whether you’re marking a graduation, celebrating a new job, thanking a teacher or looking for a thoughtful birthday present, this elegant pen combines classic craftsmanship with everyday practicality.

Finished in a rich, jewel-inspired red lacquer with polished chrome accents, the Bailey has a sophisticated look that feels far more premium than its price tag suggests. The beautifully engraved centre band is a distinctive design feature, while the smooth stainless steel medium nib makes writing a pleasure, whether you’re signing important documents, keeping a journal or simply putting pen to paper.

Presented in a smart Cross gift box, it makes an impressive present straight out of the box and can even be personalised with engraving for an extra-special touch. Supplied with a black ink cartridge and backed by Cross’s lifetime manufacturer warranty, it’s a gift designed to be treasured and used for years to come.

In a world dominated by keyboards and touchscreens, there’s something wonderfully personal about giving a quality fountain pen. The Cross Bailey Red Lacquer Fountain Pen is a stylish keepsake that marks life’s milestones with elegance and is a thoughtful addition to our Get Set for Summer gift guide.

Inspiring reads for the summer

1. Inspire your next adventure with Lonely Planet Secret Wonders of the World

£17.79 from Amazon

If you’re always looking beyond the usual tourist attractions, Lonely Planet Secret Wonders of the World is the perfect book to fuel your wanderlust. Showcasing 385 extraordinary destinations across the globe, it celebrates the fascinating, unusual and often overlooked places that make travel so rewarding.

From an island in Japan where cats outnumber people to magical glowworm-lit caves in New Zealand and mysterious ghost towns with stories to tell, every page reveals somewhere that most travellers have never even heard of. Alongside stunning photography and beautiful illustrations, the book explores the history, culture and intriguing tales behind each destination, making it just as enjoyable to read at home as it is to use when planning future adventures.

As you’d expect from Lonely Planet, there are also practical travel itineraries and handy ‘Top 10’ lists to help inspire real-life trips, while the bite-sized format makes it easy to dip in and discover somewhere new whenever the travel bug strikes. It’s the sort of book that has the whole family gathered around, pointing out places they’d love to visit one day.

Whether you’re searching for inspiration for your next holiday or looking for a thoughtful gift for the traveller in your life, Lonely Planet Secret Wonders of the World is packed with enough weird, wonderful and unforgettable destinations to keep your bucket list growing for years to come.

2. Spark children’s curiosity with Lonely Planet Kids Where in the World Can I See?

£14.24 from Amazon

Travel isn’t just about the places we visit – it’s also about the incredible things we discover along the way. Lonely Planet Kids Where in the World Can I See? is a brilliant introduction to the wonders of our planet, taking young readers on a journey to find some of the most fascinating sights, creatures and experiences around the globe.

From exploding volcanoes and mysterious lost cities to dinosaur fossils, giant waterfalls, rockets launching into space and some of the world’s most unusual animals, this colourful guide is packed with facts that will inspire curious minds. Beautiful maps, photography and imaginative illustrations bring each discovery to life, making it the perfect book for children who love asking questions about the world around them.

Organised into four exciting chapters covering the Physical World, the Natural World, History and Culture, and the Modern World, it explores everything from incredible landscapes and fascinating wildlife to amazing inventions and human achievements. Each page is filled with surprising details and stories that make learning feel like an adventure.

Written by award-winning children’s non-fiction author Clive Gifford and brought to life with illustrations from Beth Walrond, this is the kind of book that encourages children to dream about future adventures and start building their own travel wish lists.

A wonderful gift for young explorers, budding geographers or children who simply love discovering how extraordinary our world can be, Lonely Planet Kids Where in the World Can I See? is a passport to adventure from the comfort of home.

3. Discover London differently with Lonely Planet Neighbourhoods of London

£15.29 from Amazon

London is a city that rewards curiosity. Even after countless visits, there are always new streets to explore, hidden corners to discover and fascinating stories waiting to be uncovered. Lonely Planet Neighbourhoods of London: 50 Ways to See the City is a brilliant companion for anyone wanting to experience the capital beyond the usual landmarks.

Presented as a stylish card deck with an accompanying mini guidebook, it features 50 carefully chosen experiences across some of London’s most distinctive neighbourhoods. From enjoying a picnic in Hyde Park and exploring the cultural highlights of the West End to discovering lesser-known activities such as making your own doughnuts at Borough Market, it offers plenty of inspiration for both visitors and London locals looking for fresh ideas.

Each card highlights a different experience, with practical information including maps, travel tips, the best times to visit and details about what makes each area special. Covering everything from the City of London and South Bank to Notting Hill, Richmond, Kew and Hampton Court, it’s a wonderful way to plan a day out, a weekend adventure or a spontaneous exploration when you have a free afternoon.

We love travel guides that encourage families to slow down and really experience a place, rather than simply ticking off a list of famous sights. This beautifully presented deck makes a thoughtful gift for London lovers, frequent visitors or anyone who enjoys discovering the stories, food, culture and hidden gems that make the city so unique.

Special summer treats to make the best of season

1. Treat yourself to Popcorn Shed’s Salted Caramel Popcorn Mini Gift Tin

£12 from Popcorn Shed

Some snacks just feel like summer, and Popcorn Shed’s Salted Caramel Popcorn Mini Gift Tin is one of them. Whether you’re heading off on a staycation, packing a picnic, settling down for an outdoor movie night or looking for a thoughtful little gift, this award-winning treat is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.

Each piece of popcorn is coated in a rich, buttery sea-salted caramel with smooth milk chocolate flavour, creating the perfect balance of sweet and salty that earned it a coveted Great Taste Award. Made in the UK using all-natural ingredients and completely gluten free, it’s a deliciously indulgent snack that’s ideal for sharing – although you might find yourself wanting to keep it all to yourself!

Beautifully presented in a reusable gift tin finished with a ribbon, it makes a lovely present for teachers, hosts or anyone who enjoys a quality sweet treat. Once the popcorn has disappeared, the attractive tin can be used again for storing everything from biscuits and baking ingredients to craft supplies and keepsakes, making it a gift that lasts beyond the final handful.

Perfect for popping into a picnic basket or enjoying on a sunny afternoon in the garden, the Salted Caramel Popcorn Mini Gift Tin is a simple way to add a little extra indulgence to your summer.

2. Make summer cooking effortless with the Microplane Adjustable V-Blade Slicer PureCut

£49.95 from selfridges.com

Summer is all about fresh, colourful food, whether you’re putting together crisp salads for a barbecue, preparing vegetables for an al fresco feast or creating beautiful fruit platters to enjoy in the sunshine. The new Microplane Adjustable V-Blade Slicer PureCut makes preparing those seasonal ingredients quicker, easier and beautifully precise.

Its extra-wide, ultra-sharp stainless steel V-blade delivers consistently smooth slices every time, while the easy-to-use adjustable thickness dial lets you choose anything from wafer-thin slices to a generous 8mm cut. It’s perfect for everything from paper-thin cucumber ribbons and crunchy radishes for salads to potatoes for homemade dauphinoise, colourful peppers for stir-fries and neatly sliced citrus fruits for refreshing summer drinks.

We love how versatile it is in the kitchen. Use it to prepare strawberries and kiwi for breakfast bowls, apples for tarts, onions for burgers, courgettes for roasting or slices of cheese for picnics and sandwiches. The consistent results not only look impressive but also help ingredients cook evenly, making meal preparation that little bit easier.

Available in stylish Cashmere Beige, Eucalyptus and After Dark Grey finishes, the Microplane Adjustable V-Blade Slicer PureCut combines professional performance with sleek design. Whether you’re cooking for a family barbecue, hosting friends in the garden or simply making everyday meals a little easier, it’s a kitchen gadget you’ll find yourself reaching for throughout the summer and beyond.

3. Find everyday magic with Glimmer’s Affirmation Colouring Book

£10 from Snugshine

Keeping children entertained on holiday, during rainy afternoons or quiet moments at home can sometimes be a challenge, and we love finding activities that are not only fun but also encourage creativity and confidence. Glimmer’s Affirmation Colouring Book from SNUGSHINE combines the joy of colouring with positive messages, creating a lovely screen-free activity for young children.

Featuring Glimmer the Glowing Unicorn, this beautifully designed book invites children to explore over 40 magical illustrations while discovering the little moments that bring happiness, calm and confidence. From spotting a rainbow to trying something new or sharing a smile, the idea of “glimmers” encourages children to notice and celebrate the everyday moments that make them feel good.

Alongside the colouring pages, children will find uplifting affirmations and creative prompts designed to support imagination, self-belief and emotional awareness. The single-sided pages are perfect for colouring pencils, crayons and felt tips, making it a great companion for travel days, quiet time after busy adventures or a relaxing activity before bedtime.

Ideal for children aged 3–8, this charming unicorn colouring book makes a thoughtful gift for little artists and anyone who loves magical worlds. Whether tucked into a suitcase for a family holiday, added to a rainy-day activity box or given as a special treat, Glimmer’s Affirmation Colouring Book is a wonderful reminder that even the smallest moments can bring a little extra sparkle.

4. Travel light with the yoose Mini Shaver

£87.99 from Yoose

When you’re travelling with hand luggage or simply trying to keep your wash bag as compact as possible, every bit of space counts. The yoose Mini Shaver has been designed with travel in mind, offering a premium electric shaving experience in a remarkably compact package that’s easy to slip into a backpack, suitcase or even a jacket pocket.

Crafted from a sleek alloy body with a stylish mirror-metal finish, this is a travel gadget that looks as good as it performs. Despite its small size, it packs in plenty of impressive features, including a fast USB-C rechargeable battery that delivers up to 30 days of shaving from a single one-hour charge, making it ideal for holidays, business trips or weekends away without the need to carry extra charging cables.

The IPX7 waterproof design means you can use it for both wet and dry shaving before rinsing it clean under the tap, while the powerful high-speed motor and dual-ring shaving head are designed to provide a close, comfortable shave wherever your adventures take you. A handy travel lock prevents it from accidentally switching on in your luggage, and the included leather storage case keeps everything neatly protected.

Whether you’re heading overseas for the summer, packing for a festival or simply want a compact grooming solution for life on the go, the yoose Mini Shaver is a smart travel companion that combines style, convenience and performance in one pocket-sized device.

5. Get creative anywhere with the Posca Marker Pens and Pouch 12 Set

£33 from Hobbycraft 

Summer adventures often inspire creativity, whether it’s decorating holiday souvenirs, creating artwork on a rainy afternoon or keeping children entertained during travel days. The Posca Marker Pens and Pouch 12 Set is a brilliant addition to any family craft kit, offering vibrant colours and endless possibilities for creative projects.

Known for their bold, opaque colour, Posca pens use water-based, acid-free ink that works beautifully across a huge range of surfaces. From paper and card to wood, fabric, glass, metal, ceramics and stone, these versatile markers allow children and adults alike to personalise everything from craft projects and travel journals to keepsakes and handmade gifts.

The opaque ink means colours stay bright even when used on darker backgrounds, while the water-resistant and fade-resistant formula helps creations last. Whether you’re filling in large areas, adding detailed outlines, scrapbooking or designing your own artwork, the different nib sizes provide flexibility for every kind of project.

This handy set includes 11 PC-5M markers with a 1.8–2.5mm tip, one wider PC-7M marker with a 4.5–5.5mm tip and a practical pen pouch to keep everything organised. It’s perfect for taking on holiday, bringing along to family gatherings or simply having ready for those moments when inspiration strikes.

A must-have for budding artists and creative families, the Posca Marker Pens and Pouch 12 Set turns everyday objects into blank canvases and adds a splash of colour to summer adventures.