We all love to travel but for most of us packing is something we put off until last minute. Mostly because it’s a pain to do. Travelling for work in the past I managed to always fit everything in a carryon despite having a full itinerary for my trips. This taught me how to pack more effectively without bringing my entire closet with me.
Fast forward to years later and travelling with my children things got a bit more challenging. Our first trip when my son was a baby I found it hard not to pack everything he owned lol. I feared not having enough onesies, toys, etc. After a couple trips we managed to figure out what was actually necessary to bring and what wasn’t.
Here’s a few tips on how and what to pack for your little one.
- Vacuum Sealable Bags – These are great for keeping all of your lil baby clothes/toddler clothes organized. They’re great for us adults too. If you have access to a vacuum at your destination you can buy any sealable vacuum bags. However there’s a great travel set that comes with bags and a lightweight vacuum to pack in your suitcase: https://a.co/d/dp12c6u This has become a favourite of mine. I always bring a few extra bags as well to keep dirty laundry separated.
- Plan Most Outfits and Keep Them Rolled Up Together – Roll up your pants, onesies, socks, etc for each outfit. Saves so much time! All you need to do is pick the outfit you’d like your little to wear and everything is all wrapped up together. It takes the guesswork out of what to wear when you get to your destination. Your older kids are able to just grab a bundle and get ready on their own without you having to piece everything together. (insert pic) When it comes to shoes, they take up a lot of space and can weigh things down. Try to keep it down to only a couple of comfortable pairs and some sandals for the beach.
- Make a list – having a travel checklist done in advance will ensure you don’t forget anything. Download our free travel checklist here (link). Also have a last minute/night before packing list with things that you’ll use until you leave ie. phone chargers, baby monitor, etc
- Comforts of Home – we like to bring a couple of toys and stuffed animals from home to help out littles settle in at our hotel or Airbnb. Some books are always great to bring to read especially before bedtime. Also a toilet seat or potty if your LO is potty trained.
- Car seat, strollers, carriers – I always bring each one. Most airlines allow you to check a stroller and carseat complimentary on your flight. However, you are also able to take them to the gate. Strollers are great for navigating through the airport. Also, make sure it has a nice shade, easily collapsible, lightweight and can recline so your LO can take naps while you are sightseeing or hanging out at your resort. Some travel with their carseat on the plane as it is considered the safest option for your LO and recommended by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). If your child is under 2 years old and you choose not to purchase a seat for them, you can ask if there are any extra seats available on the flight. If so you can easily take the carseat on the flight with you. However check to make sure its airplane compatible. Some people like to rent their baby equipment at their destination which greatly minimizes the amount of the luggage they need. I personally bring my own but here is a company that has great reviews and is available at many popular destinations (https://www.babyquip.com/)
- Pack according to your itinerary– this is key when it comes to not overpacking. Take a look at what activities you have planned for each day and pack outfits accordingly. Of course it’s always a great idea to pack an extra outfit or two for each day for your children just in case accidents happen.
- Check the weather – Ensure that you packed according to the weather at your destination. It’s usually a great idea to pack sweaters, hoodies, and othering layering pieces to be prepared for anything.
- Travel Crib – Most hotels or Airbnbs have cribs and bassinets to use during your stay. There’s also an array of options for travel beds for toddlers. Inflatable beds https://a.co/d/4HOGRmP, foldable travel cots https://a.co/d/5abdbe3 and tents https://a.co/d/ejEhf9Y to block out light have become very popular. I’d recommend trying them out at home and having your kids sleep on them first before taking them on your trip.
- Pack in advance – Personally I find it super helpful to pack my kid’s suitcases at least 3 days in advance. Not everything needs to be done at once. Just do a bit at a time. Having our Luggage n Littles travel checklist in hand (download here) and maybe a glass of wine in the other really helps take the stress out of packing 😉 Remember we still have to pack for ourselves too!
- Do a Final Check and Weigh Everything before you go! – The night before you leave, do a quick skim over your travel list with suitcases and ensure your suitcases are not too heavy.
Planning your packing methods in advance of course takes some time and effort but is well worth it once you’re on vacation. As moms we always have something to do or prep for our families BUT by doing a lil extra legwork in advance I hope you’re able to relax a little more on your trip.
luggagenlittles.com 