There are three things moms know (or quickly find out) about traveling with family. 1) Manage your expectations (relaxation, really?), 2) Be flexible (kids = unpredictability) and 3) Be ready for anything (and we mean ANYTHING).
There are so many things to consider, it’s easy to pack everything but the kitchen sink in an oversized, overweight suitcase. To avoid packing misery before and during your trip, develop a list of what you know you must have to make your trip pleasant. Keep the list in your suitcase so it’s handy when you pack.
*No-Brainers
- Itinerary (leave a copy with family or neighbors)
- Tickets (air, boat, bus, train, etc.)
- Drivers License/Passport (keep it handy for security)
- Hotel Info
- Car Rental Info
- Cell Phone
- Medications
- Emergency Phone Numbers
- Wallet (only what you need: credit card, insurance card, etc.)
Clothes for Each Traveler: Consider how many days you’re traveling, and we suggest packing two outfits per day, especially for kids.
- Shirts
- Pants
- Dresses
- Skirts
- Blazers
- Socks
- Sleepwear
- Undergarments
- Shoes
- Workout Clothing
- Sneakers
Hygiene: Invest in refillable travel sizes, and don’t forget you are only allowed 4 oz or less of liquid on board an airplane.
- Dental (Toothbrushes, Toothpaste, Floss)
- Hair (Shampoo, Conditioner, Comb/Brush, Styling Products)
- Body/Face Lotion
- Cleansers
- Deodorant
- Razor / Shaving Cream
- Blow-dryer / Curling Iron
- First Aid Kit
Baby / Kids (*extra items for carry -on)
- 1-2 Outfits for each day Pajamas
- Socks
- Shoes
- *Underwear/Diapers
- *Wipes
- *Food / Snacks
- *Formula
- Bath (tear-free shampoo & body wash cleansing cloths)
- *Bottles / Sippy Cups
- *Pacifiers
- *Medicines
- Thermometer
- Toothbrush / Toothpaste
- Stuffed Animals
- *Toys
- *Books
- *Blankets
- Stroller
- Car Seat
- Diaper Bag
- DVDs
- CDs
- Sound Machine (a must for noisy hotel rooms)
Digital Stuff for the High Tech Family
- Cell Phone Charger
- Camera
- Video Camera
- iPod
- Laptop
- Power & charging cords
- *DVD Player for long flights / rides
Miscellaneous
- *Eyeglasses
- Contacts
- Sunglasses
- *Jewelry
- *Books / Magazines
Winter Weather Gear
- Thermals
- Hats
- Gloves
- Boots
- Scarves
- Coats
- Ski Suit
- Helmet
- Goggles
- Socks
- Sweaters
- Ski Equipment (can be rented there)
(*things to keep handy in a small bag/carry-on)
