Spring is here, Summer’s around the corner, and that means one thing – more exploring, and more travel. With travel comes planning, even for a day trip. God forbid you forget the snacks or wipes! We’ve all been there. Packing up for a family trip can seem daunting – girls, boys, babies, different ages, different needs – ugggh! But I think we all can agree, the more organized you are, the less stressful your trip will be. Below are fifi + hop’s Top Packing Tips and Checklist (and trust me, this is a reminder and guide for myself as well…always).
Make Lists
I can’t stress this one enough. Traveling with kids, there’s just too many things to remember, especially when they’re babies. If you make lists, the packing will go that much quicker. Just check the items off, and you’ll be done sooner than you think.
Charge/Remember all devices
You do not want to be caught with your Ipad for the kids at 8%! Or your phone! On that note, remember to pack all chargers and devices as well, including a car phone charger, which comes in handy with all those GPS drives that suck up your phone’s battery. Also remember headphones, and if you’re flying internationally, don’t forget the converter!
Guide Books
I still have yet to buy guide books geared toward children, but that’s ok because I can still peruse through the adult ones and show my kids photos and maps. It’s a good way to get them excited about the trip, and get a feel for where they’re going and what to expect.
Plastic Bags
For all that junk and trash that accumulates on trips. And you never know when one of the kids might get motion sickness, such as my older daughter. Having a plastic bag at the ready has saved me many a time!
Cardigan Sweaters and Pashminas
This may sound random, but I find these to be the best articles of clothing to pack for my kids. Temps can vary widely when you’re traveling, and a cardigan is great for those changing temps. And pashminas can serve as a mini blanket when needed.
Good Walking Shoes
Essential!
Toiletries
No brainer, do not leave home without purell, wipes, any medications, travel sized creams and shampoos (if you can – so much lighter), and the kids’ toothbrushes and toothpaste. Can’t tell you how many times I’ve forgotten those last two!
Games
Games vary widely according to age but our favorites are Spot It, Uno, Cards (Crazy 8’s, Old Maid, Go Fish), coloring books, mini board games, Mad Libs, the list is endless.
Snacks
Another no brainer – pack a variety, and pack a lot.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hats, protective bathing suits, etc. are imperative for a smooth vaca in the sun. The face stick sunscreen is a god send.
For Babies
If traveling with babies, it goes without saying – diapers, creams, etc. But also, I remember Phil and Ted’s products being my absolute go to, especially their portable crib and high chair. So compact, and so easy!
And those are my top packing necessities. If you have any you’d like to add, please do so in the comments section. I’d love to hear.
Great tips – especially the plastic bag!! We’ve got caught out with the sickness one with our son and always when we didn’t have a bag…. not good.
Author
Just arrived back from FL and wouldn’t you know it – my daughter got sick on the plane and had to use one. She’s fine now. Happy Easter!
Good planning to have it!!! Happy Easter to you and your family too.
I’m with you on the pashmina. After a trip they’re usually a bit gross!
Author
Yup. I buy the cheap ones in NYC so always have a stash.
How are you doing, Corey? Are you mobile this Easter or still struggling? Hope it’s a happy one! 🙂
Author
Thanks Jo and Happy Easter to you too! Very mobile and feeling good..surgery this week..thanks for asking:).
Excellent! Glad to hear it 🙂
That’s some really great packing tips. The charger is one of the things I always make sure I don’t forget, because being without a phone these days is like being without an arm and a leg. I’m also a big fan of those new powerbank, which make sure that you never run out of battery, even when you’re far from a power socket:)
Author
Yes, I need to get one of those!
Perfect advices! ^_^
Author
Thank you!
Great packing list – I am so with you on plastic bags – they are so useful! I always take tons with me!
Author
I know! One trip I forgot and I gasped out loud and my husband was like you are being ridiculous! But an hour later cleaning out our car, he got it..
We always take a couple of portable chargers as a teen without a device is a nightmare, but yes lists are key. I feel so much better if I am organised, and lots of call tablets in case of an emergency fever. We once had to pay a fortune to get a taxi for calpol x
Author
A teen without a device does sound like a nightmare! Thanks for stopping by:).
Great list! A lot of these items are things I’ve forgotten to take and regretted! Thank you 😄