Camilla Jessen
What the royals must pack every time they travel.
The British royal family travels constantly as part of their diplomatic work, but behind the polished images and formal tours lies a strict set of protocols.
Some rules are practical, others unusual, and all apply from senior royals to the monarch himself.
They travel with their own blood
One of the most striking rules concerns medical emergencies.
On trips to countries where access to advanced healthcare may be limited, King Charles III carries a supply of his own blood. This ensures a safe transfusion can be performed if required, without concerns over local availability or screening.
The Royal Navy’s medical and security teams map out every royal route in advance.
They assess the nearest hospitals, evacuation options and any medical risks so that treatment can be delivered immediately if needed.
Personal alcohol only
Charles is said to prefer gin and tonic, while Queen Camilla often chooses red wine. But they rarely rely on local supplies.
They bring their own alcohol, handled only by bodyguards, to prevent the risk of tampering.
Work, not sightseeing
Royal tours may look glamorous, but free time is almost nonexistent.
Engagements are tightly scheduled from morning to evening, and any sightseeing typically lasts no more than 30–40 minutes.
Behind the scenes, every movement, speech and photo call is planned in advance. Royals often never return privately to the places they officially visit.
Travelling with an entourage
Senior royals require a full support team.
Private secretaries, security officers, doctors, hairdressers, nannies and logistics staff accompany them to ensure every part of the trip runs smoothly.
The Prince and Princess of Wales generally travel with between seven and twelve staff members.
When journeys take them across the UK, they often use the Royal Train for added security and privacy.
Protocol abroad
While they rarely speak extensively in foreign languages, royals learn basic greetings and polite phrases for every country they visit.
This gesture has become a staple of diplomatic protocol.
The mourning outfit rule
Every royal must pack at least one black outfit.
The tradition began in 1952 when Queen Elizabeth II returned from Kenya after her father’s death without suitable mourning clothing and had to wait on the aircraft until one was provided.
A coded luggage system
To keep track of dozens of suitcases, each royal uses colour-coded tags: yellow for the Princess of Wales, red for King Charles and Prince William, green for Princess Anne, and blue for Prince George.
Despite their status, royals must still go through border control like all other travellers and present their passports.
Heirs travel separately
Although not written into law, it is customary for two direct heirs to avoid flying together.
The practice was introduced during Queen Elizabeth II’s reign to protect the line of succession during a period when air travel was less reliable.
Royals also pack duplicates of key outfits so that any stains, tears or accidents can be quickly resolved, ensuring they always appear immaculate.
Presentation and cost
Even after long flights, members of the royal family are expected to step off the plane looking polished.
Tracksuits and casual clothing are avoided during public travel.
The cost of royal trips remains significant. In 2017, official travel expenses reached $5.8 million.
Source: LA.LV
