Traveling can be exciting and require less hassle when going alone. However, if your kids are coming on board, things can get stressful if you don’t prepare adequately. It involves many moving parts, which can feel daunting if you don’t know where to start. Apart from the stress, packing several bags because you have kids coming along on the trip can be time-consuming and expensive. According to research, each bag costs $30 for domestic flights and more for international travel, making it vital to strategize and adopt feasible packing rules when traveling with kids. Below are a few simple hacks to make the process stress-free.
Make a list
Making a list is the first step when packing for your kids because it helps you have a plan of all the items you want to take along with you on the trip. It allows you to rule out unneeded items and prioritize the essentials. Although you may be tempted to pack many things because of your little ones, that may mean paying more than double for luggage. Thankfully, you can save costs without leaving out the necessities. The first step to creating an effective packing list is to write down all essentials, separating them into various categories like clothing, medications, toiletries, and documents. Remember to include diapers, wipes, formula, treasured blankies, and toys if your kids are babies or toddlers. It is crucial to consider elements like the entire duration of your trip, the destination’s climate, and the activities you intend to participate in with the kids. These factors will guide you in creating a comprehensive list.
Pack light if you can
Packing light may seem nearly impossible, primarily when you’re traveling with younger kids. However, you can achieve this even with young kids in tow by sticking to the things you can’t do without. This way, you’ll find it easier to keep an eye on your kids and things simultaneously, especially when you’re at the airport. Parents who do this say it helps a great deal, especially at the airport, when they must keep an eye on their young kids. Traveling with items like high chairs, cribs, and other baby gear can be arduous, so some people prefer to rent such gear at the destination. Although there are valid concerns surrounding cross-contamination with such baby gear rentals, it is understandable why some prefer this option as it can be convenient. It would be prudent to weigh the options and the cost involved in your case to help you make the best decision. For example, if the cost of renting baby gear at the destination exceeds the airline’s charges, it would be better to take yours along.
Roll your garments instead of folding them
Did you know that folded clothes take up more space in a suitcase than when rolled? Even better, rolling them prevents or reduces the appearance of wrinkles on the fabric. That is why packing experts say it is a better option, especially when traveling with one or two kids. If you don’t want to travel using separate suitcases, a large-sized one will do. In that case, rolling clothes in thin rows will create enough space to include your children’s garments. This strategy works great, particularly when it’s a short trip. Even on longer trips, rolling your apparel will save you at least an extra packed bag, reducing the stress of moving with lots of luggage. The trick to getting the perfect roll is folding each clothing item in half, then rolling it tightly from the bottom up, as a loose roll will fail to create room in your bag. Also, remember to arrange the rolled clothes vertically to give you more room to include cosmetics and bagged shoes.
Pack essential self-care items
Consider what self-care items you use for yourself and your kids when packing. Your self-care kit may include body lotion, hair products, essential creams, and so on. If you have a long list of products, cramming them all into your carry-on may not be advisable. Instead, sticking with the most important ones will be the best idea. The self-care essentials will, however, depend on your destination. For example, a tropical climate or summer travel requires you to pack a few bottles of sunscreen. Remember that babies and toddlers will require more than SPF 30 because of their skin’s thin and sensitive nature. By doing this, you will be protecting your brood from avoidable inconveniences and discomfort. Before your trip, learning the basics of preventing and treating baby sunburn is best. That way, you will know what actions to take if it happens on the trip. Still on the self-care items, remember to check online for what must go into a self-care travel kit if you don’t know where to start, with particular emphasis on kids.
Make efficient use of packing cubes
The packing cube or pouch was originally designed to distinguish items in your luggage. Over the years, they have become useful travel pieces because they are lightweight and help travelers stay organized. More importantly, they help you maximize space in your suitcases. Packing cubes come in various colors, making them convenient to dedicate specific shades to different family members. It is an excellent strategy to use when you want to limit the number of suitcases for the trip. The last thing you want is to be looking for a specific item in your suitcase, having cramped so many things in there, as it can be a frustrating and stressful experience. Thankfully, you will have a positive experience with your packing cubes, making it easier for you and your kids to stay organized with this innovative packing system. They wouldn’t have to dig through the entire suitcase and mess things up for you, giving you one less thing to worry about during your trip.
Finally, remember to include your children’s favorite toys in your carry-on bags. That way, you can have easy access when your child feels irritated on board the plane or train.
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