Packing Kids for the Family Vacation
What to Bring when Traveling with Infants and Children
It is the night before a long-awaited family vacation. The kids are whining to bring favorite toys that are far too big and heavy to pack. Suitcases and bags are bulging with stuff the kids might not even need. Here's how to be selective and smart about packing and traveling with kids.
Pack Ziploc Bags
The Disney Princess suitcase is cute, but very small. Pack fewer, larger suitcases unless kids can carry or roll their own suitcase. Pack one empty duffel bag in each suitcase for holding souvenirs on the way back from vacation. Tuck plastic grocery bags into a Ziploc bag and remove as much air as possible. Tuck the Ziploc bag into a corner of the suitcase. Those plastic bags will come in handy for soiled clothes, diapers and more.
What to Pack for Young Children
When traveling with children under the age of 5, it is necessary to carry so many extra sets of clothes, it becomes overwhelming. Some hotels such as Embassy Suites, have coin-operated laundry facilities. If there is access to do laundry during the vacation, consider packing fewer outfits per child and doing laundry once in the middle of the trip.
Pack layers no matter what the season. Hoodies can double up as cushions or pillows when traveling in the car or plane. Pack disposable bibs to save outfits from disaster at mealtime. Choose as many solid colors as possible for both tops and bottoms to mix and match. That way, when a shirt gets dirty, another shirt is sure to go with the remaining pants.
Bring a few favorite toys and pack some new toys the kids haven't yet seen. This trick is particularly good for the airplane to keep kids occupied (and quiet)! When bringing along a DVD player, purchase one new movie for the trip, but keep it a surprise until after the trip has started.
Dealing with Diapers on Vacation
Diapers can take up a half of a suitcase for a one-week trip. When traveling for more than one week, consider the availability of diapers at the destination and pack accordingly. If making one trip to the grocery store during the trip is convenient, pack fewer diapers and buy diapers at the destination.
What Snacks to Pack for Children on Long Trips
To reduce stress during travel, pack snacks for the entire family. For air travel, carry extra cash to buy drinks after passing through security. For a road trip, bring a supply of juice boxes and water bottles. These dry snacks can come along on any trip and they're light and small to pack:
- crackers
- pretzels
- chex mix
- animal crackers
- raisins
Involve older children in the packing and trip planning process. Start packing early if possible, but calmly follow the tips above if packing is left to the last minute. Remember that some items can be purchased at the destination and resist the urge to overpack. Most of all, enjoy time together as a family!
Involve Kids in Packing
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