Since many of you will be traveling over the holiday weekend, we have put together a series on Traveling with Children.
If you are headed out on a vacation this summer that includes children you might want to check out our handy guide on how to pack for a child when traveling. Every child is different but I found this method of packing bags to be the easiest to maneuver and use while on the road for any period of time. Just as you want your bag to be easy to access and navigate you want your child’s to be even more convenient to access. Check out our tips below and adapt for your child’s needs.
How to Pack for a Child When Traveling
(1) PLASTIC STORAGE BAGS ARE YOUR FRIEND. Invest in a box of gallon sized plastic storage bags with the easy zippered tops. These are great for multiple purposes but I love using them in my kids luggage to keep small loose items together. We use one for socks, one for underwear, one for shoes and of course one for toiletries. They make packing and grabbing what you need when you arrive at your hotel very simplistic.
(2) PACK FOR ALL WEATHER CONDITIONS. Most vacations in the summer you only need shorts and t-shirts but weather is unpredictable. It’s important to pack at least a few items that are easy to layer for cooler temperatures. For children I recommend packing 1-2 pairs of pants, at least 1 long sleeved t-shirt and a light weight hoodie for summer travels. For winter travels include 1-2 t-shirts and one pair of shorts.
(3) ONE SET PER DAY +1. Pack one set of clothes per day plus one extra set to be kept in their carryon or back seat bag for the occasional need if accidents occur. Most locations will have laundry facilities but it is always nice to have at least one complete outfit per day. I do tend to pack 2 extra pair of underwear and socks than needed. Pack at least 2 pair of shoes. One for comfort in walking and one for ease of slipping on and off in airport and/or on beach if included in travel plans.
(4) PACK LUGGAGE IN LAYERS. For children it is much easier to pack in layers that are easy to navigate. I prefer having shirts on one side and pants on the other side of luggage with shoes, underwear and miscellaneous items (pj’s, swim gear) in the middle. Easy to grab one off the top of each side, dress and go. If packing from home items like blankets or extra jackets they can be folded or laid across the top of other items.
(5) BRING HOME WITH THEM. Don’t forget to pack their favorite blanket or stuffed animal as well as their toothbrush, favorite shampoo, soap or lotions. Although many items can be picked up at discount stores along the way if your child has any allergies or sensitivities it may be important to bring specific products from home. Favorite snacks, videos, toys and games can also be included in this list depending on manner of travel and duration of trip.
Learning how to pack for a child when traveling can be very easy. As every child has a different personality some aspects may need to be fine-tuned to your specific situation but overall these 5 tips will lead you down the path to a successful vacation with a child in tow.
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