Packingly Perfect In Every Way
A Practical Guide to Packing for Children on Vacation
We all wish we could have a bag like Mary Poppins when packing for vacation, that endless space for every last thing. Unfortunately, we have spatial limitations and packing for children requires some strategy. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We put together packing lists with all the essentials to get you started and make your vacation prep as seamless as possible.
As we wrap up our summer series on traveling with children, this article will give you comprehensive packing lists for Infants, Toddlers, and School Age Children, as well as some tips to customize your list for your child & destination. Summer vacation should be a time to relax & enjoy; Village has your back to help you avoid all the little stresses along the way. Check out our blog to grab your packing list and learn all about packing!
Infant Packing List
Infants have specific needs and, unfortunately, this means they require a lot. Feel free to ditch the stroller if you’re more comfortable with a baby carrier or sling. You can save yourself some space by researching your destination to find out what items will be available when you arrive. However, if you’re going to a resort or out of the country, brands and items you’re used to may be difficult to find so make sure to pack extra diapers, wipes, and baby sunscreen.
Toddler Packing List
Toddlers are certainly more active and require more things for entertainment. If you have a picky eater, remember to pack snacks for the destination. Even traveling within the states, you might struggle to find a favorite brand or item. Trust me on this one - you don’t want to spend your valuable vacation time hunting down Annie’s S'mores Graham Bunnies. If there will be an opportunity for swimming, consider your child’s swimming ability and adjust accordingly.
School Age Packing List
Packing does get easier as your children get older. You can involve them in the process or even make a list of things you’re comfortable letting them pack on their own and let them do it themselves! This will give your child a sense of autonomy, help their self-confidence, and give you time to pack for yourself. Ask them to lay everything out on their bed so you can inspect before it goes in the suitcase. Just remember to check their bag after to make sure everything actually made it in.
For You to Pack
For Them to Pack
Tips to Customize for Your Child & Destination
Things can get lost when you travel! Pack toys & games that are okay to lose. If you bring one of your child’s favorites, make sure you have a backup at home.
In the weeks leading up to your trip, make a list of everything you use in a day for your child. Track the item and quantity (e.g. diapers, 2-3 per day). This will help you make a complete list of items and not forget any of the little things.
At least one week before your trip, pull any items you might have tucked away out of storage so you know if you have to make any last minute purchases.
Children grow fast! Try on bathing suits & summer clothes before packing if they’ve been in storage. You never know if that suit you bought two months ago still fits!
Plan for indoor activities. We all want our summer vacations to be all surf, sand, and sun, but sometimes it literally rains on our parades. Pack games & entertainment for days when you might be stuck inside.
Check the temperature! You might assume it’s summer and therefore warm, but that’s not always the case. Light jackets, rain gear, pants for the evening might be necessary.
Happy Travels!
We hope these lists help you when planning your next vacation with your children. As Og Mandino said, “the greatest legacy we can leave our children is happy memories.” Traveling is a beautiful way to create magical memories for everyone in your family. Staying organized, prepared and open minded will lead to the best memories. Happy Traveling!
This article focuses on warm weather, summer vacations. Stay tuned for more lists this fall to help you prepare for winter & holiday travels!
