Packing for Your Family Vacation

Many people love to travel, but they hate to pack. They end up waiting until the last minute, and then either pack way too much, or leave out something that they really need, like their passport or toothbrush. It doesn't have to be that way, if you plan accordingly, and start packing early; it is possible to get everything that everyone needs, even if you are packing for the entire family. Think about your trip, the weather, what you will be doing, and then start packing. It is best to do it when you won't be distracted, so that you can make certain you get everything you need, without packing up the entire house.

One of the most obvious parts of packing is your clothing. It isn't really that difficult for adults, as you likely will only need one outfit per day, and then underwear, pajamas, and maybe a bathing suit or jacket, depending on the weather. With children, you never know how many outfits per day they will need. Some children have to change clothes every time they eat, because they are so messy. Others get outside and sit in the grass, run and play, and get dirty. One thing that can make packing for children a little easier is if you stay at a hotel that offers on site laundry areas, so that you can do a load as needed. If this is the case, then you can get by with packing a lot less, which will save you time, and keep you from having to drag a lot of luggage around as well. If you are unable to find such a hotel, then you will need to pack at least two outfits per day for each child, and maybe even a few extras. In this case, it will probably be better to have a little more than you need than not enough.

To get by with packing less, if you pack outfits that are interchangeable, such as jeans and t-shirts, you might be able to wear an article more than once, meaning that you can pack less, and have fewer luggages to carry around. Try to think of ways to get by with less clothing, so that you can really narrow down your packing. Again, this trick may not work for children.

For younger children, you also have to remember to pack diapers, wipes, changing pads, baby bath, baby shampoo, etc. You can take your baby bathtub with you if you choose, although it will take up a lot of space. Your best bet might be to use washcloths and water from the sink to get baby clean. If you are going to an area that has plenty of stores available, you can probably get by with taking less diapers and wipes, since you can buy them as needed. You definitely should pack enough for the trip though, at least until you reach your destination.

You also don't want to forget to pack your personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soaps, deodorant, etc. In many cases, you may be able to purchase travel packs that contain smaller sizes, saving room in your suitcase. If you or a family member take daily prescription medications, you should remember to pack those as well. Rather than take the entire bottle, you can take just enough to do for the expected duration of the trip, and then a few extra, just in case the unexpected pops up and you are gone longer than you planned to be. If you have children, you should also make certain to pack insect repellent, sunscreen, etc.

It is quite possible to take some of the pain out of packing, if you give yourself plenty of time, and think about everyone's needs as you pack.

Annette, two mommies, and me - Washington Post (blog)

Annette, two mommies, and me Washington Post (blog) We???ve shared slow dances in the living room, vacations with in-laws, diaper duty, mortgage payments, the loss of loved ones, cheap wine, fine food, ... and more »

Carma's Cafe is cool and cozy - Baltimore Sun

Baltimore Sun

Carma's Cafe is cool and cozy Baltimore Sun "I wanted it to be cool enough for kids but also the place they bring their parents," she said. She feels she has succeeded, and from what I saw, ...

Group rides coaster 10 hrs straight for charity - abc7.com

Group rides coaster 10 hrs straight for charity abc7.com The money will go towards "Give Kids the World," a non-profit organization that provides family vacations for children living with life-threatening ... Knott's launches coaster marathonOCRegister all 2 news articles »

The Presidential Planner - ABC News (blog)

The Presidential Planner ABC News (blog) The Obama's are like kids in a 'candy store'. Elaborate / expsensive vacations on the tax payers dime. This is so out of touch - in the middle of high ... and more »

Why Summer Vacation Won't Make You Happier - Newsweek

Newsweek

Why Summer Vacation Won't Make You Happier Newsweek ... sharp memories of kids fighting constantly in the back seat of the rental car; and sadness that the next vacation will not arrive for months, ... and more »