Stress-Free Family Vacations: Start With Our Smart Packing Tips
Travelling with kids can be a wonderful and enriching experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. The key to a successful family holiday lies in meticulous planning and preparation, especially when it comes to packing and managing the needs of your children throughout the journey. Here’s an in-depth guide filled with practical tips for packing and travelling with kids, as well as recommendations for the best luggage options from JLY Luggage.
1. Start with a Detailed Plan
Create a Comprehensive Packing List
The first step in preparing for your family trip is to make a detailed packing list. This should include everything each family member will need, from clothing and toiletries to medications and special items like favourite toys or comfort blankets. A well-thought-out list helps ensure that you don’t forget any essentials and can significantly reduce last-minute stress.
Plan Outfits Ahead of Time
Consider the weather at your destination and the activities you’ll be engaging in. Plan outfits that are versatile and can be mixed and matched to save space. Packing outfits together in ziplock bags can help you stay organised and makes it easier to find clothes quickly.
2. Pack Light and Efficiently
Prioritise Versatility
When packing for kids, opt for clothes that are versatile and easy to layer. A few pairs of trousers, shorts, and tops that can be combined in different ways will take you further than a separate outfit for each day. Lightweight and wrinkle-resistant fabrics are ideal for travel.
Use Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are a great way to keep everyone's belongings organised within the suitcase. Assign a different colour cube for each family member so that everyone can easily find their items without creating a mess.
3. Select the Right Luggage
Choosing the right luggage can make a significant difference in your travel experience. Here are some excellent options available at JLY Luggage:
Family-sized Suitcases
Large Suitcase, durable suitcases with multiple compartments can help you keep everyone's belongings organized. Look for features like 360-degree spinner wheels for easy manoeuvrability and hard-shell exteriors to protect your items.
Carry-On Bags
A good carry on bag is essential for keeping important items within easy reach. Choose lightweight carry-on bags with plenty of pockets to help organise essentials like snacks, a change of clothes, and travel documents.
Backpacks for Kids
Encourage older children to carry their own small backpacks. This gives them a sense of responsibility and helps keep them occupied. Choose backpacks that are lightweight but spacious enough to hold their favourite toys, snacks, and activities.
4. Pack Essentials in Your Carry-On
Always pack essential items in your carry-on luggage. This is crucial in case your checked luggage is delayed or lost. Here are some must-haves:
Medications and Health Essentials
Include any necessary medications, along with a basic first aid kit containing items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Don’t forget prescription medications, and pack a few extra days’ worth just in case.
Change of Clothes
Pack a complete change of clothes for each family member. This can be a lifesaver in case of spills or delays.
Snacks and Drinks
Keep a good supply of healthy snacks and water bottles in your carry-on. Non-perishable items like granola bars, dried fruit, and crackers are excellent options. Having familiar snacks can help keep kids content and prevent hunger-induced meltdowns.
Important Documents
Ensure that all your important documents are easily accessible. This includes passports, travel insurance, tickets, and any necessary visas. It’s also a good idea to have digital copies stored on your phone or in the cloud.
5. Keep Kids Entertained
Long journeys can be particularly challenging for children, so it’s essential to have a variety of entertainment options:
Books and Activity Kits
Pack a selection of books, colouring books, and travel-sized games. These can keep kids occupied during flights, train rides, or long car journeys.
Electronic Devices
Tablets and smartphones loaded with games, educational apps, and their favourite movies or TV shows can be a lifesaver. Don’t forget headphones, chargers, and any necessary adapters for foreign countries.
Comfort Items
Bringing along comfort items like a favourite blanket or stuffed animal can help children feel more secure and relaxed, especially in unfamiliar environments.
6. Snacks and Hydration
Healthy Snacks
Pack a variety of healthy snacks that are easy to eat on the go. Think about options that don’t require refrigeration and aren’t too messy. Apples, nuts, cheese sticks, and snack bars are all good choices.
Hydration
Travel can be dehydrating, so make sure to keep water bottles handy. For younger children, consider spill-proof sippy cups. Staying hydrated is particularly important on flights, where the air is very dry.
7. Ensure Comfort and Safety
Comfortable Clothing
Dress your children in comfortable, layered clothing for travel. This way, they can easily adjust to changing temperatures, whether in the airport, on the plane, or at your destination.
Safety Gear
If you’re travelling by car, ensure you have the appropriate car seats or booster seats. Even if you’re renting a car at your destination, it’s often best to bring your own car seat to ensure it meets safety standards and your child is comfortable.
Identify Essential Items
Before you leave, make a list of essential items your children need daily and ensure they are packed. This includes favourite toys, special bedtime items, and any specific toiletries your child prefers.
8. Be Prepared for Emergencies
First Aid Kit
A small first aid kit is a must-have. Include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relief medication suitable for children, and any prescription medications your family needs.
Emergency Contacts and Information
Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your family doctor, local emergency numbers at your destination, and your travel insurance details. It’s also wise to have a copy of this information on your phone and in a paper form.
9. Involve Your Kids
Give Them Responsibility
Allowing children to have a say in what they pack can help them feel more involved and responsible. Let them choose a few toys or books they’d like to bring along. This not only makes them feel important but also ensures they have items they enjoy.
Teach Packing Skills
Use this opportunity to teach your kids some basic packing skills. Show them how to roll their clothes to save space or how to use packing cubes. This can be a fun and educational activity that prepares them for future travels.
10. Stay Flexible and Positive
Expect the Unexpected
Travel plans can change unexpectedly due to delays, cancellations, or other unforeseen events. Maintaining a flexible attitude can help you manage these changes without too much stress. Have a backup plan for entertainment and snacks in case you need to spend extra time in transit.
Keep a Positive Attitude
Your attitude can greatly influence your children’s behaviour and perception of the trip. Stay calm and positive, even when things don’t go as planned. Your children will take cues from you and are more likely to stay calm if you do.
Recommended Luggage from JLY Luggage
Having the right luggage can make travelling with kids much easier. Here are some top recommendations from JLY Luggage:
Large Family Suitcases
For family trips, large suitcases with multiple compartments are ideal. They help keep everyone's belongings organised and protected. Look for features like sturdy construction, hard-shell exteriors, and spinner wheels for easy manoeuvrability.
Cabin Bags and Carry-Ons
A well-organised cabin bag is essential for keeping important items within reach. JLY Luggage offers a range of lightweight and durable carry-on bags with multiple pockets and compartments, perfect for storing snacks, a change of clothes, and travel documents.
Kids' Backpacks
Encourage older children to carry their own small backpacks. This helps distribute the load and keeps them engaged in the travel process. Choose backpacks that are lightweight but spacious enough to hold their favourite toys, snacks, and activities.
