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THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN PACKING FOR A FAMILY VACATION
After countless hours of traveling with kids, I’ve compiled a list of things I like to consider when packing. There are so many factors that play a role in what and how I pack. I usually make a list on my phone and note which items will already be at our destination. If you need extra help staying organized, help is HERE. Staying organized with packing cubes has also been a game changer. I used to try and pack separate bags or suitcase for each person, but I found it easier with younger kids to use one larger suitcase and packing cubes. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
LOCATION/DESTINATION: What’s the weather like? Not just compared to where you live, but at the time of your visit. Check the weather ahead of time and pack appropriate clothing. Just because you’re heading to a warmer climate doesn’t mean it will actually be warm. I always pack my kids a light jacket or sweatshirt—even if we’re going somewhere warm.
WHERE YOU ARE STAYING: Are you staying with family? At an Airbnb? Or in a hotel? All of these details determine what I pack when traveling with kids. Questions to consider include: Will there be a washer and dryer available? Is there a pack-and-play, crib, or high chair available—or available to rent? You might be able to avoid having to travel with larger equipment that is needed for young kids.
TRAVELING: Are you driving or flying? If you’re flying, see my blog post How to Make Flying With Toddlers Easier. If you’re driving, you can pack a little differently since you don’t need to worry about security restrictions and airline regulations. When driving with kids, I personally keep a bag of snacks readily available, as well as toys for entertainment.
ENTERTAINMENT: Will there be enough to entertain your kids? If we’re going somewhere with a beach or a warm climate, I might bring pool or beach toys. If we’re staying in a hotel or I know there will be a lot of downtime, I pack easy, compact games and toys to keep the kids occupied. I also have loved letting my kids pack these digital cameras to capture photos from their point of view. They’re fairly small, and the kids have a blast with them!
KIDS ENTERTAINMENT I PACKED ON A RECENT TRIP:
- My Quiet Book
- Uno
- Coloring Books
- Books
- Interactive Talking Book
- Digital Cameras
- Rainbow Scratch Books
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ACCESS TO NECESSITIES: Will you be in the city? Or a small town? If you are camping in the middle of nowhere or going to a small town, consider packing extra essentials – especially for kids. I’m talking about diapers, wipes, food, etc. While you can always run to a store if needed, I personally don’t want to pay more than I typically would. I once forgot something in a touristy town, and of course, the prices were marked up. When staying with family, I’ve even ordered diapers and wipes to their house ahead of time to save space when flying.
No matter where you’re going and how long, either way packing for your family can be stressful. If you are packing for a family vacation soon, I hope you have a wonderful trip!
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