Packing before Traveling
Traveling with the kids is fun. But packing can be chaos. There are so many things that seem to be needed to bring. Not to mention those kids want to bring all of their toys and other stuff. Here are some ideas so that your packing can be more organized.
· One to two weeks before the trip make a note of what will be needed on the trip. As you gather these items, store them in grocery bag or box.
· Provide all family members with their own case for toothpaste, toothbrush, comb, shampoo and soap. Trial size baby bath works well in place of bars of soap.
· Make a list of like items that each family member will be responsible for packing. Have them check off the items as they pack. (ex. 5 pairs sox, swim suit, jacket …)
· Allow each child to bring a small bag or games, toys, stuffed animals or other personal items to make them feel comfortable.
· Several months before a trip, find a few small toys that your child enjoys, but hasn’t played with in a while and pack them away. Bring these toys with you on your trip for something ‘new’ to play with. Small toys like the ones found in happy meals work well with this idea.
· Should bring items: Band-Aids, antiseptic hand gel, small tissue packs, sun screen, Dr.’s phone numbers, Tylenol - children’s & adults, a rubber door stop can provide extra security for a hotel room door, small plug in nightlight - to help find the bathroom in the middle of the night, Crayons, mechanical pencils, highlighter - good for word search games, paper, deck of cards, zip lock bags (collecting shells, storing food, wet clothes), sun glasses, hats/visors, light weight wind breaker, umbrella, camera with extra film, keep a photo of your child in your wallet - incase you loose them in a crowed area , extra copy of birth certificates, photo id, travel reservations, airline tickets.
Happy traveling!