family travel checklist

Free Packing Lists for Family Vacations

Packing Ideas, Kids Activities, and Travel Gear for Families

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Getting ready for a family trip can feel overwhelming with so many last-minute tasks. We've got you covered with our handy, printable packing lists, travel tips, and travel gear guides—all which will save you time and help keep you organized. 

Pack activities that will keep everyone from getting bored in the car or on the plane. We have included lots of free games and things to do that you can print out before you leave.

Packing List for Family Beach Vacations

 travelwithkids

Going to the beach is a classic family vacation destination. While it may seem like all you need are some t-shirts, shorts, and a swimsuit, there is much more you need to pack. And, you wouldn't believe the price of something like aloe vera or sunglasses at a beach resort. It's better to buy these things before you leave.

This free printable packing list will make sure you have everything you need for your sand-and-surf getaway .

Packing List for Family Cruise Vacations

travelwithkids

Taking a cruise on a ship geared for families can also be an ideal vacation. Read up on your cruise ship's children's programming and itinerary for clues to specific items you might need.

Typically, you will pack activewear, smart casual wear, and at least one dressier outfit for each family member. This free printable packing list will make sure you don't forget anything for your adventure at sea.

Packing List for Family Ski Vacations

Heading for the slopes in winter is exciting for all ages. Think through how you'll spend time both on and off the mountain, including whether you'll be hanging out in a cozy condo or exploring a chic ski town.

This free printable packing list will make sure you have everything you need to keep warm on your family ski vacation.

Packing List for Disney Cruise Vacations

 Suzanne Rowan Kelleher

The kids will certainly get excited when they hear that they are going on a Disney cruise. While you can dress casually for this cruise, you may want to pack a few special outfits for dinner in one of the upscale restaurants. Reviewing your itinerary will also help you pack for theme days and parties.

This free printable packing list will make sure you're covered for events like pirate night and a whole vacation filled with onboard fun.

Free Printable Travel Games for Kids

Some family vacations involve hours of driving or long plane and train rides. To keep the little ones entertained, print out an assortment of travel games.

Our games include scavenger hunts, bingo, a license plate game, hangman, word searches, connect the dots, and more.

Free Disney Printable Activities for Kids

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For families heading off on a Disney vacation , get kids excited for the trip with free printable activities to do in the car or on the plane.

Our games include Disney-themed word searches, mazes, word scrambles, and more.

Must-Have Travel Toys and Games for Family Road Trips

There are some great things to keep kids entertained on a road trip that doesn't create too much noise, take up too much space, or make a mess.

One fun thing to bring is a deck of scavenger hunt cards. The whole family can compete as they all try to spot objects listed on the cards. In addition to cards with objects such as "red car" or "license plate with the letter Z", some special “Hear It”, “Feel It” and “Smell It” cards encourage kids to use all their senses to explore their surroundings.

Our toy and game suggestions are sure to keep backseat boredom at bay.

Essential Travel Gear for Babies and Toddlers

If taking a vacation with a baby or toddler feels overwhelming, it's time to streamline your load with gear that's portable and lightweight. We've put together some essentials.

Find out about lightweight strollers and travel beds, an FAA-approved harness for flying, and a light-weight travel high chair.

Best Day Bags for All Kinds of Trips

It's not easy to find one perfect bag that can get you through an airport, museum, national park, theme park, and around town—but we've put together a tried and true collection of terrific bags for all kinds of trips.

Organization is key to fitting necessities in fanny packs, backpacks, and messenger bags and our selections are known for packing in what you'll need for the day without being bulky.

Seriously Stylish Luggage for Kids of All Ages

Packing for that much-deserved family vacation is way more fun when you've got the right gear. We can help you find the perfect luggage for all ages.

How about a ride-on suitcase for a little one or fun and colorful designs for the older kids? These luggage ideas will bring smiles to your kids' faces as they pack for a trip or vacation.  

What to Pack in Your Carry-On Bag When Traveling with Kids

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When you pack for a trip with children, there will be a lot to think about.

It's important to think through what to pack in your checked luggage and what you'll want to keep with you on the plane. We provide a list of must-have items for your carry-on bags so you have those children's necessities with you on the plane.

Most important are documents and medications but children like the familiar tech game or teddy bear when they are flying, too.

Foolproof Tips for Wrinkle-Free Packing

It's such a bummer to arrive at your destination, open your suitcase, and find that your carefully packed clothing has been reduced to a rumpled mess. These easy-to-follow packing tips will keep your whole family looking crisp and wrinkle-free.

There are ways to roll, fold and contain clothing that will keep them neat and wrinkle-free. And, for the little ones, packing outfits in zip-top bags can be a great idea.

The Best Travel Apps to Download

Finally, pack essential tools that will help you stay on track during your trip. We've selected the best travel apps to download before you go. They'll help you create your itinerary, find interesting places to visit, navigate the airport, and much more.

If you're going out of the country a language translation app and currency converter app may be lifesavers. And sometimes the most innovative and necessary app you download will be something like the "Sit or Squat" app that tells you where to find public toilets and even rates them.

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• Packing Tips

The Ultimate Family Packing List

Jan 1, 2009

Do you forget something every time you pack for a trip? Get organized with our interactive family packing list, which includes every essential item you’ll need on your next adventure with the kids.

How It Works: Simply scroll down the page or click here for a PDF version  that you can save or print out. The list can easily be customized for your family’s unique needs and vacation plans. Want a mobile-friendly version of the list? Click here and save the file to your phone.

Baby and Toddler Gear

• Baby carrier
• Diaper ointment
• Bottles or sippy cup
• Changing pad
• Diapers and/or pull-ups
• Extra clothes
• Food and snacks
• Travel stroller
• Child’s toilet seat
• Portable highchair/booster
• Nursing pads
• Waterproof sheets

SHOP OUR BABY AND TODDLER GEAR PACKING LIST

First-Aid Kit

• Medications for colds, fevers, allergies, motion sickness and tummy aches
• Prescription medicines
• Vitamin supplements
• Thermometer

SHOP OUR FIRST-AID KIT PACKING LIST

Outdoor Gear

• Anti-itch cream
• Mittens, hat, scarf (winter)
• Rain coat/boots
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat (summer)
• Weather-appropriate footwear (sandals, boots, sneakers)
• Weather-appropriate jacket
• Air mattress
• Beach towel
• Camping stove/fuel Can opener Compass/GPS
• Cutlery/dishes
• Insect repellent
• Shortwave radio
• Sleeping bags
• Trekking poles
• Water bottle
• Reusable water bottles
• Swiss Army knife

SHOP OUR OUTDOOR GEAR PACKING LIST

• Body lotion
• Contact lenses and solution
• Curling iron/hair straightener
• Feminine hygiene products
• Hairbrush or comb
• Hair care products
• Hand sanitizer
• Moist towelettes
• Paper towels/tissues
• Razors and shaving cream
• Toiletry bag
• Toothbrushes
• Towel/wash cloth
• Universal sink stopper
• Woolite or detergent packets
• Shampoo and conditioner

SHOP OUR FAMILY TOILETRIES PACKING LIST

Clothing and Accessories

• Beach cover-ups
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Dress shoes
• Gloves/mittens
• Hiking boots
• Long underwear
• Pajamas/sleepwear
• Pants/trousers
• Sweatshirts
• Wide-brimmed hat

SHOP OUR CLOTHING PACKING LIST

Travel Gadgets and Entertainment

• Camera and charger
• Cell phone and charger
• Converters and adapters
• Extra memory cards or film
• PDA Spare batteries
• Coloring books
• Music or movies
• Board games
• Crayons/markers/pens/pencils
• Kid-friendly camera
• Portable electronics: DS/hand-held DVD player/tablet
• Playing cards
• Stuffed animals
• Travel journal

SHOP OUR KIDS TRAVEL GADGETS PACKING LIST

On the Plane

• Books or magazines
• Inflatable pillow
• Travel blanket
• TSA-approved Ziploc bags
• Chewing gum

SHOP OUR PLANE PACKING LIST

In the Car 

• Ice scraper
• Jumper cables
• Pillows and blankets
• Spare tire or donut
• Windshield wiper fluid

SHOP OUR CAR SAFETY PACKING LIST

Important Documents 

• Passport, visa(s) and photocopies
• Driver’s license
• Copy of airline tickets, hotel reservations, and car rental
• Insurance information
• Medical and vaccination records
• Membership cards (AAA, frequent flier)
• Credit and ATM cards
• Passport/travel document organizer

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Family Vacation Planner (+Free Printable Template)

NOTE*** The content on this page may contain affiliate links, we may make a commission. And, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.   More information: disclosure page .

Even though I was a seasoned traveler before having children, planning family travel is a whole different game.  I had to learn to become an expert family vacation planner for a large family.  That’s why we created this ultimate family vacation planner with a free printable planning template – to help you plan the perfect family vacation.

Just the logistics of moving a large family from one destination to the next is complicated – add flights and car rental and accommodation or RV road trip, campgrounds.  Yikes! I needed an itinerary that I could print and fill in the blanks every time – and so do you.

But the process can be smooth and you can have fantastic family vacations with this ultimate family vacation planner template ! This article is meant to be used with the free printable template. Each step can be recorded on the template once you download it.

In addition, I have added a Google Doc planning template for cooperatively planning your vacation or sharing your itinerary with others.

Gone were the days of pick a location, buy a ticket, reserve a hotel and throw some stuff in a backpack.   Family travel requires more planning, taking others into account.

Seriously when I was in college, my Dad worked for the airlines and I didn’t even buy a ticket.  My brother and I just showed up and the airport, list ourselves on the standby list, and off we went.  Sometimes calling home from a totally different location than we were supposed to be. 

Like when we got bumped off a flight to Tokyo and opted for Manila Philippines instead.  Yeah, probably not going to do that with my baby and toddler in tow.  

1. Keep a Family Vacation Bucket List

As the lead family vacation planner, you should always be looking to the future.  Creating a family travel bucket list will help keep the whole family inspired and looking forward to traveling together.   

Did you know – looking forward to fun times together as well as remember the good times is actually good for your health?  We wrote about why family vacations are important and the science to prove it. 

The actual planning process can be very stressful though. So keeping a list of destinations everyone dreams of will give you the motivation to power through and even enjoy the vacation planning process.

Look on Pinterest, YouTube, google search, and magazines for inspiration.  We keep Pinterest boards for vacation destination ideas in addition to tips and tricks.

Or pull out the globe for a fun lesson in geography.  Keep your ideas organized in a folder, on the computer, in a notebook or on an Ap.  Just don’t bury it. 

Ready to go? Don’t forget to download our free printable to keep your ideas organized. 

2. Travel Companions – Decide Who is Traveling 

Once you are ready to start planning the next vacation.  The first thing to decide is who will be going on this family vacation together.  Will it be just an immediate family?  We travel with extended family so much that sometimes Charles and I just have to close the doors on certain trips and just bend together as a family. 

• Immediate family only
• Should you i nvite extended family
• Will friends be joining the fun?

If you do decide to invite extended family or friends go ahead and ask them along.  You can do this now and include them in the destination and travel dates decision.  Or wait until you have dates and a destination to invite them to come along.

Either way, you will want to have an idea of the headcount before moving forward with plans.  

3. How to Choose a Vacation Destination

Its time to pull out the family travel bucket list or start a lively group discussion around a map about where to go.  You will need a destination, which might be a country or a general route to follow through states if you are doing a road trip.  

This is the time to start filling in your family vacation printable in a notebook or use the vacation planning template in Google Docs that we created. We have been using Google Docs templates to collaboratively plan travel with extended family.

To use the free copy of the Google Doc template – use this link to access the Google Doc.

Then save it to your own drive. From there, share it with others. If you want them involved in the planning process – share it with the rights to edit. If you want to simply give them a copy of your itinerary – share as a read only file.

When I plan a travel itinerary I pick a county – say Japan- or general area for a road trip – say Oregon/Washinton Coast

.  If I know I just want to go to one place and stay put on a beach – the Florida Keys for example- thats OK too. 

If you are looking for international family destinations we have an article with 22 amazing places to travel in the world .   We asked expert travel bloggers to reccomend places to travel that they had been to with toddlers.

Once I have a destination established, I wait for the more detailed itinerary till I decide on the specific locations and activities. 

4. Choose Your Travel Dates

Once you have decided on a location the next step is travel dates.  The more people in the traveling group the more difficult this step will become.  

The destination may have an impact on this decision.  Or you may have chosen the destination based on the time of year you plan to travel.  Like the family beach vacation in the middle winter. 

First decide the length of the trip – days, weeks, months, forever?

Get out the calendar and everyone’s schedule and try to layout a couple of dates that meet the requirements.  This might not be possible but it will help with getting the best deals. 

I suggest using an interactive way to do this.  Get everyone in the room together, to meet their requirements. 

Of course, if you are planning with immediate family only, this meeting will likely be you and your spouse comparing schedules.

5. Do it Yourself vs Travel Agency vs Vacation Package

You might be an avid Do It Yourself family like we are.  For just about, everything including travel and this will be a given.   (Although, Charles and I have gone on a last-minute all-inclusive Hawaii vacation package when it popped up in my email.

I know some busy families like to contact a tour company or find and vacation package.  You will still need to  prov ide information to work with them to build an itinerary and outings.

If you do everything yourself you can customize your vacation exactly the way you want it and possibly save money. We have many travel resources available for the Do It Yourself style travel:

• How to find the cheapest flights for your family
• Rules for Flying with a Baby and Toddler
• How to find the best kid-friendly accommodations
• Tips for planning a road trip with toddlers
• 22 amazing places to travel in the world
• Ultimate packing checklist for family travel

6. Plan Your Travel Budget

You may already have money saved and a budget set or just starting to create a budget and savings plan. 

You need to know “How much will it cost for the trip?” There are books and a quick internet search for cost $ per day per person will be helpful to you.  

 Make sure to include the cost of flights, transportation, cost per day for accommodation, cost per day food and activities and special experiences.  Google Flights and other search engines are a good way to get a quick estimate.

Our budget is generally tight on family vacations so we plan on just one or two special experiences or outings.  Things we have splurged on are whale watching, the bioluminescent bay in Puerto Rico, a Hawk Walk in Ireland. 

7. Save Money for the Travel Fund

This amazing trip will need to be funded and likely from savings – money you already saved or money that you will be saving for travel. 

So you will need to start saving money, earning more money, collecting points and miles or a combination of all everything to get to your goal.

We have many resources to help you save money. Some of our articles that I think will be helpful to you are:

•  How to Save $10,000 in 6 months
• Ways to save money for a family vacation
• How to save money on groceries
• Ninja m ind tricks to help you save money fast

8. Things to Do – How to Choose Vacation Activities

Get the whole family involved and discuss the important experiences with your travel companions.  The kids love dreaming about all the fun they will have on vacation.

This is a collaborative effort and can be done around the kitchen table, over the phone, on FaceTime or Skype, or with collaborative software.   Google Docs or Mac file sharing are my go-to file-sharing tools for collaborating on an itinerary with my husband or extended family.

Let each family member choose destinations and things to see that are important to them. 

Of course, the whole trip can’t revolve around one kid’s dreams so let each person choose one or two ideas.  At this point, you might not actually know the available activities so I have everyone choose a category.  

For example, on our multigenerational trip to Costa Rica, everyone chose an animal they wanted to see. 

Charles was the sloth, mine was the cayman, my Dad the toucan, the 2-year-old wanted to see a monkey, and so on.  

Later, in the planning phase, we choose activities and accommodations based on the most likely place to see each animal. 

Other categories can be location or geography – beach, sand dunes, mountains.  Activities – horseback riding, museums, art gallery, zip line.

9. Outline the Itinerary for your Family Vacation

Start to build an itinerary based on the locations that each family member chose and a wish list of activities. 

At this point, your itinerary will look like a rough outline of travel dates, destinations, and some notes about transportation, accommodations, and activities.  

You can use paper and pencil, a word processor, cooperative that looks like Google docs or Mac share, or an app like trip it.   

Get out a map and other resources and research things to do and see in the area.   Here are some ideas of places to look for activities for your family.

• Blogs, Google
• Trip Advisor
• Tourism boards
• Family and friend
• Social media
• Guide books

Compare to the list of ideas for the trip to everyone’s must-have experience. 

At this point, I use sticky notes on the map with the location and to do. With a physical map and notes right on it, I can see the lay of the land.

You can now decide the best route to take for the vacation.  This might include one or more locations on your itinerary. 

Armed with your travel dates, accommodations, and vacation activities you can create an outline of an itinerary based on a number of days and locations.

10. Book your Travel 

Now gets the fun part. Actually booking and reserving travel for your family trip.

Knowing the traveling group, destination, travel dates will help you know which mode of transportation will be the right choice.   You probably will need a combination of driving, flying, riding the train, or taking a boat to arrive at your final destination.  

To research and book flights good tools include google flights, Skyscanner, Travelocity, kayak,  and the airline’s website. Kiwi is another great site to search on that I have found good deals.

If you are using miles and points you will be looking at the airline’s website or researching partner airlines. 

I search for all the above sites and if I have time, I wait for a good deal and book when the time is right.  You can enter alerts on various sites to let you know of a price drop. 

Then it’s time to book your travel!  This for me is one of the most stressful parts of the family travel planning process! 

Hitting the buy button is really unnerving for me when I am looking at thousands of dollars in airline tickets and bring to get just the right itinerary to suit my family.  

The travel to your destination will anchor the family vacation so it’s time to start filling in a finalized itinerary.  The destination, travel mode, and dates will be the first things to fill in.  

Don’t forget to record the tickets information on the itinerary: flight number, company, depart, arrive, points FF numbers, and login information.  

11. Book Accommodations with Best Value

Armed with the outline of your itinerary in hand and notes on your map, it’s time to book accommodation.  This might be one place to stay the whole time or many locations as your move around.  

You will face some challenges like the number of people in the group, your budget, and the needs of each group member.  

There are 6 or more of us that travel together so one hotel room is often too small and against the rules.   We have stayed in hotel suites, rented houses, rented an RV, stayed in hostels, tent camped, drove our own RV, and more.   On a trip to Canada, CanaDream was having a special on RV rental that ended up being the same cost as a van rental and hotels.  

We wrote this article on finding the best kid-friendly accommodations for your vacation. and this one on 9 Frugal Ways to Rent an RV for Cheap

So be creative for the best value and fits everyone and their needs. My favorite site to find a variety of options for accommodation is booking.com. The search function is easy to use, there are no booking fees and free cancellation on most rooms.

Some ideas for accommodations include:

• Hotels 
• Rental Property
• AirBnB , VRBO or Apartment
• RV rentals, RVShare , Outdoorsy
• Campgrounds- check at the national ( forest service ), state, city and county levels.
• Cruise lines
• Overnight parking for RV trips

And I always check reviews of the location on internet search, TripAdvisor, and more. 

I look at some good reviews and then head to the bad ones and see if any of them matters to me.   Someone complaining about kids having fun – that’s not negative – that’s my kind of place! 

I have canceled more than one place where the reviews were of unsanitary or unsafe conditions. 

Once the accommodations are booked make sure to record the details in your itinerary.

Dates, contact information, confirmation #, price, check-in and out times.  Print and save a copy of your confirmation and directions to the location.  You will want a hard copy when your phone dies or something happens to the cell service and you’re trying to check in or verify the price. 

12. Getting Around – Book Local Transportation

If you are on an amazing road trip your local transportation will have your own car for local transportation.  Otherwise, you will need a way to get around and see this on your amazing adventure.  

In the US, cars are the standard mode of transportation but there are more ways to get around.   Think about the location, culture, and options available. 

We traveled around Ireland with 6 of us and reserved a car with enough seats.  Cars in Europe are small, so they really meant seats 6 people or 4 and luggage but not both. Here are some ideas:

• Walking, biking if you are in a city center
• Train, Subway or light rail
• Bus tickets
• Boat or Ferry

Check the cancelation policies.  Car rentals in the US tend to be very flexible and do not even gather credit card information.  It’s worth booking right away and canceling later if you find a better deal. 

And don’t forget to write it all down in your itinerary and print hard copies.

13. Plan Your Family Vacation Activities

For me, this is where the fun starts.  Charles loves flying and looking through pictures of really cool places to stay.  It’s actually stressful for me and I am relieved to start moving on planning things to do and see on vacation. 

Look back at the list of what everyone wants to see and do and the map of all the locations.  Research fun activities within these parameters that you have.  

Consider your family travel rhythm.  We move slowly in the morning – leaving before 9 Am is difficult.  We like to alternate days between big adventures and staying close to our temporary “home.”

Of course, traveling on a budget you must take cost into consideration.  We generally have one day or activity we splurge on that is more expensive and be really frugal on the other activities.  That’s why we love playgrounds – free fun!  If you can afford a formal tour, it’s a great way to fit the things in you want to see and get a local’s expertise on the area. 

Make sure to schedule a recovery day after a long travel day or a big adventure.  Something a little more low-key and relaxing.

Book any tours or plan activities and record important information on the itinerary. 

Have a backup plan and extra activities on the list too.

On my itinerary, I have information about the planned activity for the day and a list of backup activities.  My backups are other things that seem interesting and options for inclement weather.  

Add your ideas and any reservations to your itinerary for the day that it is planned.  Don’t forget to bring out hard copies of the ideas. 

14. Places to Eat and Drink

When traveling with kids, meals, snacks, and rest stops have to be planned.  Leaving a plan for dinner until everyone is hungry is a recipe for disaster.  

Take into account will you will be traveling.   If you will be in the car you can take more supplies than if you are traveling by subway or foot.   

In general, we like to plan breakfast at the hotel, rental, or in our RV and lunch is a packed picnic.

Grammy and I made sandwiches on the tailgate of our rental car almost every day on our Ireland trip. 

Dinner is where we are more creative and might be dinner at a restaurant, home-cooked at the RV, take out on the beach, or with friends, we are visiting.  That’s our rhythm but of course, we are flexible too. 

And I always have snacks on hand to head off meltdowns.  If we are out sightseeing I carry a backpack or a bag on the stroller with food and drink.  

Think about your rhythm and budget.  Cooking at your temporary home (even in a hotel room) and on lunch on the road is cheaper and sometimes quicker than taking a crew of 4, 5, 6, or more in a restaurant.  Don’t forget with a big group you may need reservations.

Write notes on your itinerary about restaurants, picnics, street vendors, and even 7-11 in Japan.   

If you get caught off guard and need to find a restaurant fast, TripAdvisor has a cool feature that will let you know the “highest rated restaurants near me.”

Tools to use when looking for local places to eat include: 

• Trip advisor, blogs, google, Pinterest
• family and fiends, social media
• Hotel receptionist, other accommodation contact, tour guides

At this point, most of the itinerary should be filled in.  You can keep the file and add more details.  Make sure to have all the details in a location easy to access on your family vacation.  You will need the details to plan each day and you can add notes about each location.  Your notes will already be organized for your arrival home. 

Since your travel is coming soon you need to start preparing all of your plans and documents. 

15. Check passport and visa requirements 

• Get one now – processing times and wait time can be longer than expected

If you are traveling internationally and need a passport you need to start the process right away.   Wait time for the US can be 2 to 3 months.  Follow this process for US passports. 

• Check that your passport will be valid for 6 months on return

Each country has its own entry requirements for the validity of passports. Some countries require that a passport be valid for at least six months from the date of entry others in Europe require 3 months. 

• Check the Visa requirements 

Some countries require visas for people to enter the country.  And the requirements for each country are different so make sure to check visa requirements and get one if necessary.

• Know the rules for flying with a baby and toddlers

The rules for flying with a baby can vary based on the country you are in, the airline you are flying, and other factors. We have a comprehensive guide to the rules and policies you need to know when flying with a baby.

16. Health and immunization  requirements

Travel vaccines or immunizations are shots that travelers travel to areas of the world to protect them from illness.

Travel vaccines fall into two categories, recommended and required. 

For example, some countries in Africa and South America require proof of the yellow fever vaccine before entering the country. 

The vaccines you need to get before traveling will depend on where you plan to travel and your own health.  Check the  World Health Organization or the CDC in the US for more information. 

Read more in our article about Travel Fever and How to Stay Healthy on Vacation

17. Arrange for Travel Insurance

Insurance coverage changes when you are traveling. Your family may need some additional coverage for travel-related emergencies and expenses. Double-check with your health and car insurance companies what will be covered during your trip.  

Then decide what additional covers you need and arrange for travel insurance.   Roadside services such as AAA or RV insurance are useful when traveling by car or RV for your family vacation.  

Buy family travel insurance that will cover any travel-related emergencies that could arise.  Short-term travel insurance is available to purchase and covers expenses of family travel such as sick kids, trip interruption or cancellation, evacuation, car rental. 

Here is a good review of family travel insurance . 

18. Make Copies of Important Travel Documents

In this digital age, you still need to have hard copies of important documents while traveling.  Even when on a family vacation close to home or a road trip you should have hard copies of important travel documents. 

The US state department recommends making 2 copies of each in case of emergency.  Hopefully will never need to visit an embassy to replace a passport but activities with kids might require a birth certificate. 

Even something as simple as taking our 8-year-old to get her ears pierced in our home state required a birth certificate that we didn’t have. The experience ended in tears. 

Here is a list of important travel documents that you should have copies of on a family vacation. 

• Passport and Visa
• An extra passport picture to expedite replacement
• Consent for Travel with Minors
• Travel insurance 
• Driver’s license or international driving permit
• Health information including insurance, doctors contact, prescriptions, allergies, 
• Credit cards
• Travel itinerary
• Airline tickets
• Rail passes and transportation documents 
• Hotel or lodging reservation confirmations
• Car rental reservation confirmation
• Cruise tickets
• Vaccination certificates

You may not need all the above important travel documents.  If you are on a road trip close to home you won’t need a visa but you will need birth certificates and driver’s licenses. 

19. Phone and Internet Access

Before you leave home make sure you think about and have a plan for phone and internet access. 

Depending on where you travel cell service coverage and the internet will vary in availability and reliability.  

Hotels frequently have internet access as well as internet cafes and libraries.  In an RV, camping or boat internet access may not be available but you can arrange for mobile options before leaving home. 

20. How to Access Money while Traveling

A family vacation will require money and sometimes reloading the funds.  Although you have saved money for travel you should not travel with all that cash in hand. 

Take a small amount of cash that you might need and some for emergencies and figure out how to access money while traveling on your adventure. 

As far as I know, you can still get traveler’s cheques but with so many other modern options, I don’t know anyone who uses these anymore.  Credit cards, debit cards, and prepaid currency cards are much better options. 

ATMs are everywhere and a much better way to access funds on your vacation. Prepaid currency cards are another option.   

One more note – make sure you have enough money in the correct bank account.   You don’t want to be stuck on a family vacation trying to access money and no money in the bank!

21. Preparing to Leave Home

Preparing your home life for your departure is important too!  So don’t forget to prepare your home and regular life.

Make arrangements for any home maintenance such as lawn and garden care.  Let your neighbors know of your family travel plans and any people that might be coming by the house to help.

Make sure bills are up to date and automate anything that needs to be paid while away. Turn on auto-response on emails.

22. Finalize House and Pet Sitting Arrangements

I am actually terrible at this step and put it off way too long.  Good house sitters or pet sitters are hard to come by and their schedule can be really full. 

Try out a pet sitter before you leave on an extended vacation.  A couple of days or walks to see how they interact with the pets. 

On a 3 week vacation to Costa Rica, we were scrambling to figure out if the dogs were being taken care of.  Not something you want to worry about on a fun family vacation. 

23. Packing for Your Trip with Kids

I have been traveling forever and I can tell you a little preparation goes a long way in packing for a family vacation with kids. Read our packing checklist here

Back in the day, I stayed up late the night before travel, threw some clothes in a bag, and headed off the airport the next day.  When I transitioned to mom/family travel coordinator that method didn’t work anymore.  

Instead of waiting till the last minute, I started to ask, when should I start to pack for a family vacation?  It seems that 2 weeks before the family trip is a good timeframe to start planning what to pack.  Although longer trips might require purchasing more supplies and you should get to work much sooner. 

Start by thinking of the number of days, the weather, the activities, and the dress code for each activity.  Will you do laundry along the way? Will stores be available or do you plan to buy new clothes while on vacation?  You should plan on doing laundry based on your accommodations. 

After some experience in large family travel, I started following a standard packing checklist.  I fill in the number and type of outfits and check them off as they get packed.  As I get the packing finalized, I use sticky notes on top of each pile with notes about missing items. 

The optimal situation is If you have a dedicated space to start packing.  I start laying things out in the guest room on the bed.  When this room is not available I have set up a long table in a space that is off-limits to kids.  The key here is a separate space and off-limits to the kids. 

It’s madding to lay something out and turn around and the piles are mixed up or a favorite shirt is now being worn and sticky. 

My luggage system includes 

• check through luggage that goes under the plane or in the trunk of the car
• Bags for en route travel.  Each kid has a carry on bag or backpack with extra clothes,  jammies.  For road trips, I might separate the jammies into a bag that I have easy access to.   
• A cooler with snacks and food for travel.  Depending on the amount of time we travel this generally includes lunch or other meals too. 
• A larger cooler with more food for road trips if we are stopping at hotels or food in the RV fridge
• Separate electronics bags and camera equipment

Start with packing the luggage that will hold the majority of your clothes and the necessities.  I love cubes and ziplock bags for separating clothes into kids, outfits, or days depending on the plans. 

After that, I move to the en-route travel bags. Everything gets laid out and packed into the bags.

24. Prep for Your Return Home

In the excitement of planning for your upcoming family vacation don’t forget to plan for your return.  When you arrive home exhausted from your adventure, having things in order at home will make your transition back to normal life much easier.  

Here are some of my best tips to make life easier when you return home:

• Clean the house or my favorite – arrange for a cleaner to come while you are gone
• Put baking soda or vinegar in the toilets 
• Clean out the fridge and wash the shelves
• Leave a meal or two in the freezer/fridge ready for your return home
• Stock non-perishable items 
• Leave notes of what to do when you get home – like turn up the water heater and adjust the heat
• Turn down the heat, down the water heater, check appliances
• check in with neighbors, leave a key
• Close up windows and lights off – one time my neighbor came to turn off the 6 lights!

25. Confirm Flights and Check in Online

Once I failed to check-in online and rather show up at the airport with 3 kids and 6 months pregnant.  Which led to 2 days on airport floors – you can read about it in our bio.

The night before travel double check your flights, check-in online, check the first night accommodations, gas, and fluids in the car, check the weather. 

More than once, I failed to check the weather when a big winter storm was slamming right in my travel path.  

Most of all get everyone to bed early and have a good night’s rest before heading out on your family travel adventure!  Racing around the night before traveling just stresses the whole family out and makes it hard to rest – I know.  The kids are already excited and maybe a little nervous so slow down and set a relaxed rhythm for the night. 

Final Thoughts on this detailed step-by-step family vacation planning guide.

After reading through this whole comprehensive guide to planning family travel, I hope you are ready to get going on your next trip!

Don’t forget all the resources we have created for you:

• Family vacation planning printable template and checklist
• Packing for an RV Vacation
• Google Docs vacation planning template
• The ultimate printable packing checklist for your next vacation

Let me know if you can think of anything I missed in this detailed family vacation planner. What are your favorite tips for planning family travel?

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Thanks for the tip of creating an itinerary of all the locations for planning a family vacation. I agree that having savings specifically for the travel fund and earning more money is crucial to have the best vacation experience. My youngest sister just graduated high school, so the whole family is taking a dream vacation around the country and I decided to go to Pittsburgh because I am a huge Steelers fan. We want to make the trip amazing and hopefully, we can find some good car rental companies that accommodate our whole family.

Wow sounds like a fun adventure with the whole family. We travel with extended family all the time – which makes us quite a large group of 6 kids plus grandparents.

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What to Pack For a Family Vacation + Free Printable Checklist

The Intentional Mom Planning System is where you need to start with our incredible collection of product options. It will help you establish the basics for your life & home so you’ll finally have a plan, save yourself time, and go to bed feeling like you accomplished something every day (because you did). Save up to 60% HERE !

Wondering what to bring on a family trip? As a mom of 9, I can say that I have packing for a family of 11 down to a science. Family vacations are so much fun no matter your family size, but having to shop for forgotten items only takes away from the precious moments you have to spend as a family on vacation. I’ve got the perfect ideas for what to pack with this family vacation checklist with a free printable checklist with plenty of space for you to make your own notes.

Before you go any further, save time, stress, and money by printing off the most complete family vacation checklist you’ll find. Just tell us where to send it!

Most times, our family is taking a road trip when we’re going on vacation. So we’ve got a list of family road trip essentials. You can read about that checklist for our family road trip must haves HERE.

What I’ve got for you today is not only a packing checklist, but also the process we use to get everything together throughout the week or weeks leading up to the family vacation.

What makes having a complete vacation checklist so essential is that the family is able to work together on getting everything packed. My rule of thumb is that anyone taking the vacation can help prepare for the family vacation with a heavy emphasis on the word family.

Here’s what it looks like to be packing for a family road trip or vacation without forgetting anything!

(this post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you)

While my process starts with this printable checklist, that is only one small piece of making sure we get on our way with everything we need.

Some of the things you see on our printable checklist wouldn’t apply if you are traveling via plane, train, or something else.

But for the most part, this checklist is handy whether you’re packing for toddlers, adults, teens, or somewhere in-between.

First, designate an area for things to collect

Generally, I like to have all the kids clothes and things in one area, and all the adult things and clothes in another. Then I also have a separate place for foods, kitchen items, and other random things to collect.

This makes it not only easier to live with since no one space is overrun, but it also makes it easier to check and double check once you’re ready to actually pack.

Have a variety of packing essentials ready

Typically, I find it’s easiest to pack clothing items in soft bags, totes, and backpacks. I prefer to pack foods and other things in Rubbermade totes like this one HERE

I love packing clothes in totes like this one HERE and HERE

Gather first, pack later

Avoid actually packing anything until you’ve got everything together. Otherwise, you’ll likely be packing and unpacking several times as you gather more or less things than you originally thought. You’ll also figure out the most space efficient way to make everything fit once you have it all together.

Pack family members’ things in a way that makes sense

We have girls who share rooms, so we pack their things together. I also find that it makes sense to pack things like swim suits, sunglasses, and sometimes extra shoes and things like this all together rather than with each individual person’s things.

Did you know we also have the perfect road trip game to help pass the time? Just enter your email below to have it sent right to your inbox.

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Think about packing for the trip home

I like to bring dirty clothes home separately from the clean home. So, I plan for this ahead of time by making sure that I bring extra bags along. You can read more about the easy way to unpack from a family vacation HERE.

Start working with your packing checklist at least a week before leaving

This gives you the most time to work through things as you go. It also allows you to get everything packed and ready without ever having to devote a large block of time to it.

Packing a little bit each day helps the task to not feel overwhelming.

Work with the checklist as you go

I like to cross things off the family packing checklist as I go. That way, I’m not wasting time checking and rechecking. When I am certain I have something from the list in the gathering area, it gets noted on the packing checklist.

Make sure that if others are helping pack, they are also marking things off the packing checklist as they go. Otherwise there will be just too much wasted time.

Don’t forget to grab your free printable checklist by entering your email below.

Pack efficiently

Sometimes this means unpacking things or taking them apart to make them fit most. In most cases, I fid rolling clothes to save the most sense when packing.

You can see some really good examples of that in my video about how to pack a suitcase like Marie Kondo.

Smaller bags and toes are usually better for packing

Not only are smaller bags, totes, and bins easier to put things into, they are also easier to fit into the car for a family road trip. We find packing the car for a road trip to be a bit like playing a game of Tetris.

But, it is nice to have as much room as possible for the people in the car by minimizing the amount of “stuff” you’re packing and then packing it all in the most efficient way.

Do you have a family vacation or a family road trip coming up. Packing for that family vacation efficiently and thoroughly takes time and effort, but it is time that will always be well spent.

Looking for more help on taking a vacation or road trip with a family? Be sure to read these:

How to make unpacking from a family vacation a snap, how to pack for a family road trip & not lose your mind, similar posts.

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Vacation Packing List – The Ultimate Packing Checklist (Free Printable)

by Jac of All Things | Sep 13, 2019

The anticipation of a family vacation is one of the best parts of the trip. Packing, and sometimes even the anticipation of packing, in my opinion, is one of the worst. For whatever reason I often used to add to that stress by waiting to finish packing the night before a big trip.

Shoving as many items as possible into a bag the night before a flight is a form of packing I once used to indulge in. As I’ve become responsible for an increasing number of smaller travel partners that call me Mom, that airy style of packing just isn’t going to fly.

Shoving the last item on my list into my suitcase is a great feeling. Shoving the last item on my list into my suitcase and knowing that everything is organized and accounted for, is an even better feeling.

To be clear, I don’t enjoy packing and the responsibilities that come with it, period. However, I’ve mastered the task and I want to share my tricks of the trade. Below I’ve created an easy to follow vacation packing list that will have you organized, prepared, and sleeping peacefully the night before your trip, knowing everything that is needed is packed and ready to go.

Related: The Best Stocking Stuffers for Travelers

Read more to access the free printable vacation packing list to make your packing be a breeze.

VACATION PACKING LIST AND TIPS

This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read the  full disclosure here. 

THINGS TO DO BEFORE PACKING

Do your laundry.

Do your laundry at least the day before you have to pack. If you wait until right before, and your clothes are still warm from the dryer, they are going to wrinkle much more when you roll/fold/shove them into your suitcase.

Take a look at my Ultimate Vacation Packing List days (or weeks) before your next trip and take an inventory of what you already have and what you may need to buy, borrow or locate.

THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU NEED FOR YOUR TRIP

Before packing ask yourself the following questions:

• Are you going somewhere where you will need multiple outfits each day? (And if you have young kids, this answer may be yes regardless.)
• Do you plan on wearing the same clothes during the day as you will to dinner?
• Will you be doing anything active that requires active wear, sneakers, bathing suit, snow suits, etc…?
• Will you be staying in a hotel that offers complementary toiletries and provides linens, or will you need to bring your own?

Before putting anything in suitcase, write down what you need. (The Ultimate Vacation Packing List I’ve created should make this step easy for you to do.)

DECIDE HOW YOU WANT TO ORGANIZE YOUR “STUFF”

There are several different approaches on how you can pack your suitcase. I’ll share some of my favorite ways to pack and keep both my clothes and my family’s clothes organized and wrinkle free.

Watch the video below where I walk through my favorite ways to pack my suitcase.

PACKING CUBES

My favorite way to pack is to use compression packing cubes . I’ve tried several types of packing cubes but these ones consistently come out as a winner to me. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes perfect for every trip. You can also choose from multiple different colors so you can have one color for each member of your family.

As you can see in the video, these packing cubes can fit an incredible amount of clothes.

I prefer the compression packing cubes rather than standard packing cubes because they slim down a bit more and make packing in a backpack easier. My husband and I each have an  Osprey travel backpack  that makes traveling with kids easier as we can be hands-free. (And the removable day-pack backpack is an added bonus!)

ZIP-LOCK GALLON BAGS

You can also use gallon zip-lock bags or plastic grocery bags and pack each outfit in a different bag. This works well if you prefer to pack by the outfit rather than by type of clothes.

For example, rather than packing all of your shirts together, shorts in another pile, socks in another, you would pack everything you need for an outfit together. Under this approach, when it’s time to get dressed, you just have to take out the one bag you’ve conveniently labeled for that day, and it includes everything you need.

You can also include your jewelry for each outfit in each bag and can even clasp your earrings through the bag to keep them with each outfit.

These compress nicely, and allow you to fit a good amount of clothes in a suitcase.

HANGING CLOSET/DOOR ORGANIZER

Hanging door organizers like  this one  work great for packing for children. I like to prepare outfits for my children, roll them up, and then stuff them into a compartment in a handing closet/door organizer. To keep our outfits straight, I’ll take a piece of scotch tape and write “Day 1 outfit”, “Day 2 outfit”, “Spare outfit”, etc…

When it’s time to pack in our suitcase, I’ll throw the door organizer on a hanger, fold it in half, and place in our bag. Unpacking is literally just a matter of taking it out of the suitcase, and hanging the organizer in the closet when you arrive at your destination.

This is great for kids, but harder for adults where clothes may not fit in the smaller sizes.

As an alternative, you can purchase a hanging closet organizer like  this one  which is a bit bigger.)

Here you can see how I packed my daughter’s clothes for a recent trip to Disney. This took any confusion out of the equation. It reduced the amount of time it took everyone to get dressed and kept a sense of organization in our hotel room. And my husband was able to get the girls dressed without asking me a single question!

If you are flying, don’t forget to check the weight limit restrictions for your airline and weigh your bag in advance of getting to the airport.

Finally, if flying, remember to pack a change of clothes, your valuables, and anything you must have in the first day in your carry on. Mistakes sometimes happen and airlines lose bags. (I have fond memories of the first 48 hours of our honeymoon without any clothes…due to our lost luggage.)

VACATION PACKING LIST –  THE ULTIMATE PACKING LIST FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

EXCLUSIVE FOR SUBSCRIBERS!  Access your free printable PDF vacation packing list checklist. (As well as access to the Jac of All Things Resource Library for FREE!)

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ARE YOU TRAVELING TO DISNEY WORLD?

If so, be sure to check out my post on  packing for Disney  for additional items that you may need when traveling to this magical place.

READ MORE TRAVEL TIPS

• 10 Secrets to Booking Cheap Flights
• Genius Hotel Hacks for Families
• 5 Things You Must Do Immediately When You Check Into a Hotel Room
• Tips for Flying with a Toddler
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17 Comments

Jac this site is amazing!

Awesome information, love this!!!

I’m going on vacation soon and I’m going to try it, I think it’s a hit for me and my son gets us on the go I hate rushing anywhere so this should save me time!

This is awesome! Thank you. I’m a frequent traveler but even with your tips, I’ll be able to keep myself and children more organized.

They are a little hard to find but the 2 or 2.5 gallon ziplock bags are perfect for putting a whole outfit into and you can compress it flat. Also GPS under electronics. I know that a lot of phones have them but I love my Garman. It has favorite hotels from areas I visit frequently. I have found that I am not loosing the use of my phone if I carry both. Plus I can customize entrys so I always know were to look .

Where did you get the organizer for the clothes? I love that idea!!

Thanks for sharing this helpful information. I’m sure most people can take notes from this article. One thing most people lack experience of before backpacking while traveling. I have a couple of young friends that are going to travel soon. Well, this post gives us some good ideas for packing properly before traveling.

This article is so awesome and informative. And the packing list is very helpful. Thank you for sharing.

OMG LOVED THIS LIST!! Seriously hate packing and this article was so helpful!

Great thanknu

Ultimate packing list for the whole family. Really found it very helpful. Thanks and keep sharing.

This packing checklist is everything!

Looks like a lot of help for our family

This post is so informative. I love this and found some amazing packing list ideas. Thanks and keep posting.

Just what I need

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Welcome Friend!

I’m so happy you are here.

Allow me to introduce myself – I’m Jaclyn – I’m a mother to two sweet little girls, wife (to my high school sweetheart), sister, daughter, and hopefully a fun and resourceful friend to all! I am in corporate business by day, e-commerce and blogging by night, and living life’s adventure during whatever hours remain! Some may say, I am a Jac(k) of all things!…

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Ultimate Family Travel Packing List

This ultimate family travel packing list will help keep you organized and ensure you don’t forget anything before you leave on your next trip.

There are so many things to think about when travelling with kids.

To make the process easier, it’s always best to have a packing list handy.

It can be hard to remember everything you need for an overnight trip or long flight, let alone all of the little details that will keep your family happy and comfortable!

That’s why we’ve created this blog post – packed full of useful tips and items that will help you pack like a pro next time you’re travelling with kids.

This family travel packing list covers everything from your clothes and travel gear to all the little things that will keep your kids happy while you are travelling.

To make it easy to read, we’ve included links in each section so you can easily find what you’re looking for.

We’ve also included links to Amazon, in case you want to learn more about certain products. (We only recommend products that we personally use and love!)

Before You Go

Before you even start packing, there are some preparations to be made. In addition to the obvious ones like booking travel tickets and accommodation and ensuring passports are up to date, there are a few other things to do before you leave.

• Book travel tickets
• Check if visas are needed
• Ensure passports are up to date and valid for 6 months past your return date
•  Check if vaccinations are up to date, or needed for travel
• Purchase travel insurance
• Organize documents and photocopy an extra set
• Book accommodations , at least for the first few nights
• If you own a home, turn down the heat, close and lock all windows and doors, arrange for mail to be picked up, empty the garbage and arrange for someone to check on your house

Read more | 16 Things to Do Before Leaving for Vacation

How long of a trip is this family travel packing list good for?

This family travel packing list is perfect to use for any length of travel, whether you are going away for one week or a few months.

We’ve noted where things may be added or not necessary, depending on how long you are travelling for.

For instance, if you are travelling for a week you won’t need to bring laundry soap, but if you are travelling for a few months, laundry soap will come in handy!

Family Travel Packing List at a Glance

Documents: Passport, ID, Driver’s License, tickets, flight/train/hotel reservations, visas, International Drivers license, health insurance, travel insurance, credit card, emergency contact info

Carry-on Essentials: phone, book/magazine, gum, pen, snacks, water bottle, lip chap, sunglasses, tissues, activities for kids

Luggage: backpack or suitcase, carry on or personal bag, packing cubes, travel organizers

Clothing: tanks, tees, sweater, pants, skirt, dress, shorts, bathing suit, hat, scarf, undies, bras, socks

Shoes: walking shoes, hiking boots, shower shoes or flip flops

Accesories: coat, hat, mitts, warm scarf

Toiletries: shampoo, soap, toothpaste & brush, hairbrush, elastics, face moisturizer, makeup, deodorant, quick dry towel

First Aid Kit: – bandaids, gauze, ointment, scissors, tweezers, thermometer, pain relievers

Electronics: camera, lens, memory card, battery charger, USB Flashdrive, portable speaker & cord, laptop & charger, phone & charger, external hard drive, headphones/ear buds, tablet

Other travel accessories: door stop, water purifier, travel clothesline, clothespins, laundry soap, laundry bag, Ziploc bags, umbrella, sunscreen, aloe vera gel (for after sun!)

Apps: booking.com, airbnb, google maps, google translate, maps.me, XE currency, whatsapp, skype

Read more | 15 Great FREE Travel Apps for Families

Types of Luggage

You will also need to decide what kind of luggage you are using.

This may depend on how long you are travelling for – if you are heading away for a week, you may only need a carry-on bag but if you are travelling for a few months, you may want a larger suitcase or backpack.

Read more | How to Travel with Carry On Only: 11 Tips to Pack Light

Other things to consider are the ages of your kids. Can they carry their own things or you need to pack their clothes as well?

Depending on the answer, you may need a bigger suitcase or if your kids are carrying their own suitcases, you may only need a smaller one.

We travel with either a 55L Osprey backpack (that holds all the clothes as well as the extra travel stuff), or a small carry-on size backpack, two small carryon suitcases (for the boys’ books and toys), two small backpacks (boys’ carryon bags) and a larger carryon (mom) with the camera and carry-on things.

Travel Gear for Family Travel

Adult Luggage : Backpack versus suitcase is a great debate and it really just comes down to personal preference. I’ve used both and prefer having a backpack, especially with young kids, so that my hands are free.

The Osprey Fairview is what I use now.

I love that it opens up similar to a suitcase so you can access everything inside, not just what’s at the top. It also has a handy day pack that zips off when needed. 

I have both the 40L and the 55L and use the larger one when we travel for more than a month.

Kids luggage: Kid luggage is a bit trickier. Depending on the age (and size) of your child, traditional carry-on luggage may be too heavy and awkward for them to use.

There are plenty of suitcases designed for kids, but some aren’t practical for travelling.

We’ve found that wheeled suitcases are good, but two wheels work better than the 4 wheeled suitcases.

The boys use these lightweight fabric suitcases , which are a touch smaller and lighter than a regular carry-on size suitcase. They’ve been carrying their own suitcases since they were 4 and these were perfect size for them to manage.

Read more | The Best Carry-On Luggage for Family Travel in 2022

Daypacks: We all have a carry-on backpack that doubles as a daypack. Mom carries a Neewer Camera Bag that holds the cameras, while the boys carry their own daypack with the things they need (activities, change of clothes, water and some snacks).

I also take this carry-on bag that holds the camera bag, plus anything else we need to keep handy. It’s pretty large and can also double as a day bag on our travels, if we aren’t taking the camera bag.

Packing Cubes: We love compression packing cubes and everyone has a different coloured set, which makes it easier for us to stay organized. 

If you’re not using packing cubes yet, here’s a whole post on why you should use them .

Cord Organizer: This Bagsmart cord organizer has been a lifesaver for me! It holds all the cords, chargers, USB sticks, SIM cards and earphones and it zips closed, keeping everything neatly in one spot.

Passport and Document Organizer: This travel wallet is handy to keep everything together, all the passports, tickets, boarding passes etc. We also carry a few other documents, including a reference card and emergency contact card. You can find a list of essential documents here.

Other Gear You May Want to Pack

Laundry Bag:   We just use an extra pillow case to hold the dirty laundry but you can find specific laundry bags to use. Really, anything that will keep the clean and dirty clothes separate works!

Wet Bag: If you’re planning on spending some time at the beach or a pool, a wet bag may come in handy! We use ours to put wet bathing suits in, whether to come back from a day at the beach, or if we are leaving the hotel before our bathing suits are fully dry.

Clothespins: Clothespins are handy for a few different things! Many places won’t have a dryer, so you might need to hang laundry to dry. Clothespins are also great for clipping curtains together to keep out the light!

Travel Towel: If you’re staying at a hotel, you may not need a travel towel, but if you’re staying at a hostel or other type of accommodation, you may need one!

There are so many different options, from a small, compact travel towel to larger, but AMAZING, Turkish towels.

Decide which works best for you, depending on how much room you have in your luggage!

Dishes: We travel with two small bowls, two plastic plates and two plastic cups.

If you’re staying in apartments or airbnb’s on your travels, they probably have dishes, but they may not have kid-size dishes.

I always feel better taking our own non-breakable ones for the boys to use.

They also come in handy if you are eating a meal in a hotel room!

Laundry Soap: While we don’t always carry this, if you’re planning on being away for more than a few weeks and need to do laundry, you can always bring a bit of your own laundry soap.

We used to carry a small Ziploc bag of laundry powder, measured out to do a few loads while we are away, but recently I’ve switched to using these amazing laundry sheets !

Reusable Bag: Many places are not providing plastic bags anymore, so having your own reusable bag is a good idea!

There are many small bags that fold up into a small pouch and easily fit in your purse or daypack.

They’re great for getting groceries or to use as an extra bag when your kids decide they don’t want to wear their sweater/hat/sunglasses anymore!

Door Stop Alarm: As a solo parent travelling with kids, I feel much safer bringing this door stop alarm along! We’ve used it in hotels as well as apartments and it just makes me feel a touch safer!

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Clothing to pack for family travel.

Much of this list will depend WHERE you are travelling to and the climate there.

Use this family travel packing list as a basic list, omitting what you don’t need.

Keep in mind that you will inevitably overpack and you won’t need everything you pack!

You can always do laundry or rinse clothes out in the bathroom sink.

Tops: Aim for 7 tops, a mix of t-shirts, long sleeve and tank tops, depending on the climate

Bottoms: 4 or 5 bottoms, a mix of shorts and pants (jeans, dress pants, comfy pants)

Sweater: one zip up sweater (if you’re flying, wear this on the plane!) and one fleece (depending on climate)

Coat: Chances are you will need at least one type of jacket, whether it’s a rain jacket or thicker winter jacket. I like the puffer style winter jackets, as they pack really well.

Scarf: I always bring a scarf with me. It’s great for those chilly airplane drafts and can be worn over the hair/head if needed in certain places.

Underwear: 7 to 10 underwear – This is where we overpack a bit, but it saves me doing as much laundry and underwear is small enough that I think it’s ok to bring a bit extra! 

Socks: 2-5 pairs of socks. Depending on the climate that you are travelling to, you may not need socks at all, but I always pack at least one pair to wear with my running shoes.

Shoes: Everyone will have different ideas about how many shoes are needed! We travel with at least 2 pairs, wear one and pack the other. We usually try to bring a pair of sandals and a shoe or boot. The boys take a pair of keen sandals and a pair of crocs (lined in the winter, unlined for the summer). I love my Birkenstocks and will wear them unless it’s snowing! A pair of flip flops or water shoes are also a good idea if you are heading to the beach or a pool.

Hat: sun hat or baseball cap for warmer weather and a winter hat for colder temperatures.

Sunglasses: Winter or summer, sunglasses are a good idea to pack!

Bathing Suits: If you are heading somewhere with a pool, be sure to pack a bathing suit! Googles are also a good idea for kids, and a travel towel. My guys have this microfiber towel from Dock & Bay that’s great to travel with!

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo/Conditioner – many hotels will provide shampoo (but not all!) and if you are staying at an apartment or airbnb, you will need to bring your own.
• Soap – again, most hotels will provide some, but you will need to provide your own at some other accommodations.
• Other daily care items – deodorant, brush, moisturizer, qtips, hairdryer, etc.
• Travel Towel – most places WILL have towels, but I still carry one, just in case!

Optional: You may also want to bring sunscreen or bugspray, depending on where you are travelling to.

**Keep in mind that any liquids, shampoos, etc that are larger than 100ml (3.4oz) will need to be packed in checked luggage. If you are travelling with only carry-on, make sure to have travel size containers and have them readily available in a Ziploc bag to pass through security.

First Aid Kit:

If you don’t have a first aid kit for travelling yet, head over to this post to see what you should have in a travel first aid kit. You can also find some premade on amazon .

• Charger for everything!!  Laptop, phone, camera, tablet, whatever device you bring, make sure to bring the charger too!
• Camera and charger
• Laptop and/or tablet and charger(s)
• Phone and charger
• Universal Travel Adaptor
• Optional: USB Flash Drive, extra memory card, earphones

**We use this electronics organizer to keep all the cords, memory cards, SIM cards and USB cards together in one place.

Extras Items to Pack when Travelling with Kids:

Blanket: It’s great for the plane and to provide a bit of comfort away from home Books: yes, you can get books online, but we still enjoy paper books as well! Colouring or activity book – and crayons! A few small toys if your kids are young

Read more | What to Pack in a Carry-on When Travelling with Kids

Snacks: I always pack a few snacks in the carry-on bag for the beginning of the trip, but also bring a few extra in my bag. While you can buy snacks wherever you are travelling to, it’s nice to have a few ‘from-home’ snacks that you know your kids will like, and it will save you from having to go shopping the first day or two or your trip!

Car Seats: Depending on the ages of your kids, you may or may not need car seats. If you are planning to rent a car while you are travelling, you may want to bring your own car seat! Here are some of the best car seats for travel , including booster seats and alternatives to car seats. We love the mi-fold – it’s really compact and lightweight, easy to install and safe for kids 4+ who are over 40lbs.

Documents to Pack:

• Credit Cards, debit cards
• Travel Insurance – take the pocket size card with the details and contact info
• Visas – check ahead to see if a visa is needed
• Drivers License
• Birth Certificates for kids – **Bring a photocopy and leave the original at home!
• Emergency Contact Info

*Both of the boys carry a photo copy of their birth certificates and a copy of all the passports, as well as an emergency contact card with several phone numbers, just in case….

After having my purse stolen once, including my wallet with the photocopy of their birth certificates which meant we had a hard time re-entering Canada, I now keep an extra copy of birth certificates, passport numbers and health card/travel insurance in each of the boys backpack, as well as a copy in my backpack. 

Read more | Essential Documents to Travel

Other Useful Packing Tips:

• Less is more!  Plan what you think you need to pack, then cut it in half. You can always pick up things along your travels.
• Practice before you go. And I don’t mean the hour or two before you leave. Pack a few days ahead of time, make sure it all fits AND that you can carry it!
• We’ve used this list for everything from one week vacations to 3 month trips in several climates.
• Be sure to pack any liquids larger than 100ml/3.4oz in checked luggage. If you are taking a corkscrew or pocketknife, that needs to go in checked luggage as well!

I hope this family travel packing list was helpful!

If you’d like to know more about any of these items or if there’s something missing, be sure to reach out and let us know! We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Have a great trip with your family!

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Erin Martin is the founder and sole writer for Wanderlust with Kids. Together with her twin boys, they have travelled to over 20 countries and five provinces within Canada. Erin is responsible for planning and facilitating all of her family's travel itineraries and adventures, whether locally or internationally. An explorer at heart, Erin aims to make any travel adventure kid-friendly and shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do, both in Canada and abroad.

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Posted on Last updated: April 18, 2024 Categories Kids Travel Gear

By: Author Kate

The Ultimate Printable Family Vacation Packing Checklist

This post may contain affiliate links.

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All you need on your family vacation packing checklist!

Looking for the ultimate family packing list? We’ve got you covered with this super comprehensive family travel checklist. We cover what you need for travel with babies, toddlers, and older kids.

We’ve thought of everything with this family packing checklist that I’ve also made it available as a free pdf packing list. I typically print out this packing list pdf template right before my trip and use it to make sure I’ve got everything on the list.

I’m a little organization obsessed when it comes to packing for my family and I could not live without my list!! I’ve been using this list since our first trip with kids and I just love that I know I won’t forget anything when I use it!  

This packing list sample pdf is a compilation of my list of toddler travel essentials , baby travel essentials , my travel first aid kit checklist , AND I’ve also list of packing essentials for moms and dads!

If you’re headed on vacation with your family I hope you enjoy this free printable vacation packing list!

Ultimate Family Vacation Packing List

Baby travel checklist.

In this section, we’ll be going through all the items you need for travel with a baby. This baby travel packing list comes in a handy pdf below. If you’re not traveling with a baby, skip down the to toddler section for exactly what you need!

Here’s our ultimate traveling with a baby checklist:

Baby Clothes

Obviously, clothes are one of the most important must-have items for traveling with baby. We always pack more outfits than there are days because of many baby messes and spills!

This is one of the reasons we love staying in an Airbnb with young kids , it usually means we will have laundry so we can pack less! I tend to pack about two outfits per day.

I always bring one fancy outfit for taking pictures of the family on vacation. Check the weather in advance to decide whether to bring t-shirts/shorts or long sleeve items.

Baby Sleep Essentials

We were blessed with some terrible sleepers, so we do everything we can to get our kids to sleep on vacation! We like to make the room as much like home as possible, so we bring blackout curtains and a noise machine . We love using sleep sacks both at home and while traveling and for babies, I am a huge fan of the Merlin’s sleep suit , it was magic for our second!

When it comes to feeding, there is a lot of gear to bring a long with baby! Feeding baby on the go is easy when you remember all the right stuff!

We used baby food pouches as snacks and these were great for feeding baby on the plane. I also brought along my electric breast pump so that I could have a chance to have dinner with hubby while the kids were with a babysitter (another great reason to bring grandma on vacation !)

Baby Diaper Bag Checklist

I would recommend a backpack style diaper bag for travel with baby. These diaper bag essentials made it easier to take care of our baby on the plane.

We packed a few diapers in our diaper bag and in general, brought 10 diapers per day of travel. Baby wipes are one of the best travel items with a baby as they are good for almost all messes!

Bringing disposable diaper bags is key as many hotel rooms have open garbages and your room can quickly become quite stinky!

Since we are often traveling in hot and humid weather, we’ve run into problems with diaper rashes on a few occasions. I recommend a spray diaper cream and some yeast treatment in case of a severe rash.

There is lots of baby travel gear to bring on vacation. We have an entire article on the best portable car seats for travel and why you might not need a travel stroller on vacation.

We also cover all the best baby carriers for travel in this article. If your hotel or resort does not come with a baby crib, check out our article on the best portable cribs for baby.

For the Pool

Hanging out by the pool is absolutely the highlight of most of my vacation with young kids! Our kids have loved splashing in the water from an early age.

We have got a great guide to the best baby floaties here . These baby floats make it easier to enjoy time in the water with your little one. Don’t forget to pack a mineral sunscreen that is safe for babies!

Baby Toiletries

Babie’s don’t need a lot when it comes to the toiletry department. A good all over body wash can work for hair and body. We don’t go anywhere without our Frida nasal aspirator . This thing is amazing for little babies when they have a cold!

A few packable baby toys for travel can be helpful, especially on when trying to keep baby entertained on the plane. Here’s my entire list of the best travel toys for vacation.

Toddler Packing List

Our toddler travel packing list has some of the favorites from our baby essentials as well as some specific items that are essential for traveling with toddlers. You can find the checklist for traveling with a toddler in pdf at the bottom of this article.

Our packing list for toddlers:

Toddler Clothes

Of course, number one on our travel checklist for toddlers is some clothing. Just like with babies, I like to pack more outfits than there are days since my toddlers have always been quite messy!

We always put these waterproof toddler shoes on our toddler travel list, as they are super convenient for hanging out at the pool or the beach.

Toddler Sleep Essentials

Having our kids sleep well is the number one key to a great vacation with kids! We have lots of tips for getting our kids to sleep in this article .

We now bring a noise machine on vacation even when its just adults, I love how it drowns out any extra street noise or hallway noise when I am staying in a hotel.

Toddler Feeding Essentials

The key to a successful vacation with a toddler is UNLIMITED snacks! We love our yumbox for storing a variety of snacks whenever we are on the go.

We even bring it with us when we are at an all-inclusive resort for kids and fill it up in the buffet before we check out the beach or the pool! Definitely add a snack container to your kids travel list!

Toddler Diaper Bag Checklist

Toddler gear.

For the plane, we LOVE our Kooshy Kids inflatable footrest that turns your airplane seat into a toddler travel bed for the plane . Our son was able to sleep really well on this thing until he was 4 years old!

We also usually bring our Cosco Scenera Next car seat , which is hands-down the best toddler travel car seat , as it’s super lightweight and helps keep our toddlers contained on the plane.

If you don’t already own a puddle jumper , you have got to get one as it is absolutely the best toddler floatie . For a while, it was literally the most important item on our family vacation packing checklist.

We also like to pack some wet bags for swimsuits and it’s nice to be able to keep your wet clothes away from everything else when you are hanging out by the pool or beach.

Toddler travel toiletries include some body wash and toddler toothbrush and toothpaste. Don’t forget some natural sunscreen that is safe for kids!

Our kids still need some downtime to play with their toys when on vacation. We bring some of our favorite toddler travel toys on vacation and our kids like to bring their toys out to restaurants.

For the plane, keeping toddlers entertained can be tough! I tried out all the tricks, and these are the best toddler toys for the airplane!

Mom and Dad Packing List

Don’t forget mom and dad! Here’s our family vacation packing list template for the adults. For our free printable vacation checklist, check out the packing list template pdf at the bottom of this post!

I usually bring 1-2 outfits per day, including some casual rompers and sundresses for the beach or pool and a few nice outfits for dinner.

If you want to keep your clothes smelling fresh on vacation, pack a few dryer sheets into your luggage!

We pack using packing cubes , its awesome to have a different color for each member of the family and makes it so easy to unpack when we arrive at our destination!

Electronic Gear

Don’t forget a travel adapter and your charging cords for your electronics! We use an iPad to help keep our kids entertained on the plane and love this super durable kidproof case .

You can read about our favorite educational iPad apps for kids here.

We usually bring our own inflatable floaties on vacation as well like to be able to lounge in the pool.

I am obsessed with this portable travel safe that allows you to lock up your personal belongings by attaching it to a beach or pool chair. This is so convenient on a family vacation where I want to be focusing my energy on my kids and not worrying about someone stealing my wallet!

For the Plane

You’ll feel like your flying first class with all these plane travel essentials. I especially love the foot hammock on long red eye flights.

Bringing chewing gum helps me a lot with the pressure on the plane, I also usually bring lolllipops for my kids.

Important! Don’t forget!

Before we leave for a trip we always say ‘Wallet, Keys, Passports, Phone?’ to make sure we have everything that we 1000% need on our trip. Now with kids we’ve changed it to ‘Wallet, Keys, Passports, Phone, iPad, Puddle Jumper’ because without those two items our vacation would be ruined!

First Aid Kit Checklist

Looking for the family vacation packing list pdf.

Ultimate Family Packing List (CLICK HERE FOR PDF File)

When you’re done with my list head on over my post on how to rock packing with kids .

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What to Pack for a Family Vacation – FREE Packing Checklist Printable

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Published April 26, 2022 | Updated April 30, 2022 | By Katelyn Fagan | 6 Comments

Heading out on a family road trip or vacation for the holidays soon? Here’s a family vacation packing checklist so you won’t forget anything!

This list will remind you of all the important items that you need to take on your trip! From personal items to ones that you’ll want in your car and hotel room, these essential items will help to make your family trip a breeze! This is the ultimate packing list that will help the whole family be prepped and ready to travel!

Using these helpful tips are a great way to make family travel awesome. Having a travel packing list is great for taking the first steps out the door! The more that you plan, the more that you’ll have a great time! Hitting the open road no matter if you have small children or older children is easy with this printable list!

Hate cleaning but love a clean house? Pick up this printable Spring Cleaning Bundle and you'll be able to clean it all without feeling overwhelmed!

This post is sponsored by Pampers at Sam’s Club but all opinions are my own.

Taking Long Road Trips To See Family

We are not native Texans. In fact, we’ve only lived here for the past three years. Both my family and my husband’s family live in other states, which makes traveling for the holidays (and other occasions and vacations) difficult, especially as we have four kids, and I am currently pregnant with baby number five.

My brother lives in Omaha, Nebraska. That’s at least 13 hours away.

We made this trip at the beginning of June this year, but I was barely pregnant at the time. And it went well (minus the vomit in the car on the way there). My family has made several long road trips together, and minus sickness, they went great. Our kids haven’t gone too crazy in the car, and we don’t usually forget too many things.

*RELATED: 6 Tips for Taking Long Road Trips with Toddlers in Tow *RELATED: 16 Smart Things To Do Before Vacation So You Won’t Dread Coming Back

Family Vacation Packing List

As you can tell, we are experienced road trippers. And in all that time, I’ve made the packing list a thing of science. It is thorough and helps me not forget a single thing.

And I’m sharing it with you!

I made this family vacation packing checklist after our June road trip. You can use it if you are traveling for Thanksgiving, Christmas, a family reunion, or whatever, whenever.

What to Pack vs. What To Buy When You Arrive

This packing list is mostly only the stuff you will need when you get to your destination, not necessarily what things to bring in your car to keep everyone entertained (that is another post for another day), nor is it a list of foods and drinks to pack for a long road trip .

This is your checklist of all the clothing, toiletries, medicines, and baby stuff you will likely want to bring with you.

How To Print the Free Packing Checklist

You can download a handy travel packing checklist for family printable  HERE (along with additional vacation checklists) or via the form below:

Family Vacation Packing Checklist

Here’s everything that I usually pack for vacation. Some of it I will mark “buy when we get there” so we don’t have a car full of stuff with no room to relax.

Everything here is on the printable list you can download above.

Vacation Clothing Checklist

Obviously, appropriate clothing, shoes, and accessories are one of the most important things to pack for your vacation! No one wants to get stuck paying more than they need to for items they already own but just don’t have with them. Check the weather before you leave for vacation and plan your entire vacation clothing accordingly.

Generally, you’ll want at least a new set of clothes per day, unless you’re going on an extended stay vacation and know you’ll have access to a washing machine and dryer (like if you’re going to a family member’s house) as that will allow you to pack lighter. However, an extra pair of underwear is good to have too.

 Be sure to pack the following for every member of your family:

• Shirts/Tops
• Undershirts
• Light Jacket
• Suit/Dress Clothes
• Workout Clothes (including undergarments)
• Dress Socks
• Dress Shoes/Heels
• Tennis Shoes
• Sweatshirts

Personal Care Packing Checklist

What you’ll need here will depend on what you personally use or don’t use. I tried to list various options so you don’t forget anything that you do use regularly! As you aren’t flying, you won’t have to bring travel-sized bottles, but it’s still good to bring smaller bottles in order to conserve luggage space. Also, some supplies may be at your destination, depending on where you are driving on vacation.

• Toothbrush (and charger station if electric)
• Toothpaste (travel size)
• Cotton Swabs
• Nail Clippers
• Lip Gloss/Lipstick
• Makeup Remover
• Makeup Remover Pads
• Facial Cleanser
• Facial Moisturizer
• Body Wash (travel size)
• Shampoo (travel size)
• Conditioner (travel size)
• Razor (and charger if electric)
• Shave Gel/Cream
• Body Lotion
• Perfume/Cologne
• Hair Straightener
• Hair Curler
• Blow Dryer (if needed at destination)
• Hair Ties and Accessories
• Mousse, Gel, or Hair Spray
• Glasses Case
• Glasses Cleaning Spray and Cloth
• Contact Cases
• Contact Solution
• Extra Pair of Contact Lenses
• Feminine Care Products

Swimming Supplies

If you are going to a hotel with a pool, the beach, waterpark, lake, or river, you’ll need to pack swimming supplies for your family! You may or may not need all of the following items, depending on where you are swimming.

• Beach Towels
• Bathing Suits/Swim Trunks
• Bathing Suit Cover
• Floaties/Life Jackets
• Pool Toys/Accessories
• Beach Umbrella

Medicines Packing Checklist

While there are usually pharmacies wherever you may go, bringing your own supply of some basic medicines and supplies will keep you from having to find one or pay full price. If you have any prescription medicines, be sure you have enough for your trip ahead of time, or have the script in-hand and a pharmacy near your vacation destination that will be able to fill it for you.

• Daily Vitamins
• Supplements
• Prescription Medicines
• Pain Medicine (Kids and Adults)
• Allergy Medicine
• Cough Drops
• Cough Medicine
• Anti-Nausea Medicine
• Anti-Itch Cream

Important Information and Papers Checklist

The following are things you should always have with you when you travel. If you are crossing into another country, be sure to have your passports, and it’s always a good idea to keep cash (and change) on hand for various activities and things you may need it for.

• Driver’s License
• Health Insurance Cards
• Emergency Numbers
• Car Insurance Cards
• Passports (if needed)
• Cash (change for tolls)
• Credit Cards
• Hotel Reservation
• Prescription Refill Notes

Baby Vacation Checklist

If you are taking a baby on vacation, it’s helpful to know what to bring specifically for them! While they are small, they often require special care as they’ll be sleeping in a new environment. You’ll want to help them sleep as normally as possible while on vacation.

Ask to see if your family member or friend already has various baby supplies you can borrow while there like a Pack ‘n Play, stroller, high chair, or swing (if vacationing to a family member’s house) rather than having to lug yours there as well, because they start to take up a lot of precious packing space in your vehicle!

Strollers can be optional too, depending on what you’re doing on your trip. Many vacation venues and attractions offer strollers or wagons you can rent if you are tight on space in your car.

Also, if you will be on vacation a long time, you may consider having diapers and/or wipes shipped to a relative’s/friend’s house rather than having to bring your own box.

Sam’s Club has fantastic deals on stuff like these. I just picked up two boxes – Pampers Cruisers  for my 2-year old, and Pampers Swaddlers for our upcoming addition in January. I always use and buy the Pampers Sensitive Wipes too, but we’re currently stocked on those!

Just be sure you have plenty of Pampers diapers and wipes in your diaper bag or otherwise accessible during your road trip!

• Pampers Diapers
• Pampers Sensitive Wipes
• Favorite Blanket(s)
• Pack ‘N Play
• Favorite Snuggly Object
• Stroller or Wagon
• Baby Carrier
• Bottles and Nipples and Inserts
• Bottle Cleaning Tools
• Nursing Cover
• Breast Pump and Charger/Car Charger
• Breast Pump Cleaning/Sanitizing Supplies
• Portable Booster Seat or High Chair
• White Noise Machine
• Baby Monitor

Electronics

We live in the 21st Century, so electronics will most likely be among your family vacation packing list! It’s always important to make sure whatever you bring, you have batteries and charges for them, including chargers for the car.

• Other Lenses
• Replacement Batteries
• Battery Charger
• Upload Cable (to share vacation pictures while there)
• Phone Charger(s)
• Car Phone Charger
• iPads/Tablet
• iPad/Tablet Chargers
• Laptop Charger
• Stereo Audio Converter (to play things through your car’s stereo from your phone/tablet)
• Fitbit/Wearable Pedometer
• Fitbit/Wearable Pedometer Charger
• Portable DVD player and Cords/Charger

Other Items to Pack

• Blank Notebook
• Sleeping Bag(s)
• Small Scissors or Pocket Knife
• Favorite card or board games

Even though you may not feel like you need specific items, you don’t want to under pack at all either! Trust me – being prepared is less stress for the entire family so this printable checklist can help! It has the necessary items that you’ll need to make your travel days that much better! Even if you’re going for a couple days, this free printable vacation packing list can help!

Whether or not you are going somewhere far or near for Thanksgiving or Christmas this year, I hope you found this family vacation packing checklist super helpful! I know I’m glad I finally took the time to write it all down so I won’t forget something next time we go on a family vacation!

When will you be traveling next?

This conversation is sponsored by Pampers at Sam’s Club. All opinions are my own.

Related Posts:

Jenny @ Unremarkable Files says

November 7, 2017 at 8:06 PM

Thanks! Is it nerdy of me that I actually have a checklist like this on my computer that I use to help me pack??

Katelyn Fagan says

November 7, 2017 at 8:27 PM

Nope! I used the Excel Template already there and tweaked it for a family and road trips. It’s awesome!

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Essential Family Vacation Packing List – Must-Haves For Traveling with Kids

It’s your first vacation as a family, and you may be at a complete loss for how to get started. Vacations are meant to be constant times of rest and relaxation, but for families with young children, they can often feel additionally complicated due to the different packing restrictions and requirements you’ll need to deal with in order to have everything in place for your little ones. Travel packing lists for a baby and packing list for travel with kids are helpful guides when determining just what you need to have a good experience on your latest trip.

Travel essentials for families can range the gamut from simple to complicated depending on where you’re traveling and for how long. If you are traveling around the US with a baby , you are likely to find most essentials you need, but in other countries, you might not be familiar with the local items, so packing what you need might be helpful, especially at the beginning of the trip.

Everything from suitcases to portable strollers and highchairs needs to be considered so that your family can experience a restful vacation that doesn’t disrupt your baby’s schedule. Wherever you’re headed, make sure to check our travel checklist for a family to ensure you’ve got everything you need to have a great time.

Table of Contents

Travel Essentials For Family Trips

Carry-on and suitcases.

Perhaps the most obvious but most important suggestion to remember, carry-on bags and suitcases are essential for successful travel. Adults need large and sturdy bags to pack not only their own clothes and supplies into but also additional supplies for children and babies traveling. Tucking extra diapers, baby wipes, creams, including diaper rash remedies , medicines, and extra blankets into suitcases provides a solid and reliable way to store your little one’s needs without having to rely on a hundred smaller bags that are difficult to manage in an airport or on the road.

As for your toddlers or older children, they might begin to feel left out if they don’t have their own carry-on for kids to tow. If you’re juggling multiple children of multiple ages, giving your older kids suitcases of their own not only gives them a way to feel like they’re contributing but also helps distribute packing so you’re not lugging everything around in addition to your children.

Travel Neck Pillow

Travel on airplanes, cars, buses, or trains can be hard on the body, and often when in transport you might find yourself wishing you could just close your eyes and take a nap. Transportation is famously uncomfortable and not predisposed to good sleeping locations, so a good way to minimize your discomfort and still catch a few hours of sleep as you fly or ride is to pack travel neck pillows . Compact but comfortable, these neck pillows pad your sleep and are useful anywhere.

Neck pillows for children also make comfortable resting spots for them to use when they fall asleep for their daily nap or evening rest. Neck pillows can also double as regular pillows if you don’t have the space or luxury to fit a full-size pillow on your journey. Wherever you’re headed, your neck pillow will be a comfortable and cushioning addition.

Packing Cubes

When you’re planning slightly longer trips, even international such as a tour to Italy or a European tour , you might find your list of must-pack items growing larger than the space you have afforded for storage. If you’re nervous about fitting all the clothes, toiletries, and other essentials for your trip, packing cubes are the perfect answer. The space-efficient storage tools can organize and maximize your storage space and packing space as well as provide good sorting and storage use when you’re on vacation, as you could take them out and use them as extra storage or shelving in your room.

Packing cubes that are vacuum sealable are extremely space efficient and can help fit any number of clothes, towels, or bedding into even the smallest of bags. Keep toiletries isolated and protected in the case of spills with weather-resistant polyester bags and use an extra large cube for storing dirty laundry. Packing cubes have endless uses and are helpful everywhere you go!

Travel Backpacks

Traveling with children often means having a few travel must-haves for families immediately accessible and ready everywhere you go at a moment’s notice. This could include diapers, food, milk, water, a change of clothes, nappies, and more, not to mention a seemingly endless supply of comfort items such as toys, books, coloring tools, or stuffed animals and blankets. If your little ones need a lot of entertainment and necessities on the go, travel backpacks are a must-have item.

Travel backpacks are useful tools for both adults and kids. Adult travel backpacks can hold any number of parenting essentials and you can even find backpacks that double as baby holders for when your little one needs a break. Children-sized travel backpacks help your little ones feel autonomous and give them access to their own immediate needs whenever they want them. On hikes, day trips, flights, or other excursions, travel backpacks are a true lifesaver for families.

Tent for camping

If your family loves camping, one of the essentials to have is a solid 4-person tent. To make sure your trip runs smoothly and without awkward breaking, you want it durable and strong. To make sure you have it always ready when needed, you want it lightweight and easy to set up.

Truth is, you never know what type of terrain you are going to set it up on. While it’s recommended to have some pre-travel plan, it’s not always easy to predict everything, including the weather conditions.

If this is the first time you are purchasing such an important travel item for your family travel, you really need to make sure you do enough research on what are the best 4-person tents for different types of budgets and trips. Depending on the size of your family, you will also need to consider the different sizes and capacities of your future camping tent.

Folding travel water bottle

Staying hydrated on the go is an absolute must. Not only will your travel plans likely require a fair amount of physical activity, but they often involve different climates or locations than you’re used to, some of which could have hotter temperatures that dehydrate you faster.

However, you don’t have the space or luxury of packing the many water bottles or glasses you use on a regular basis, especially if you’re going on a nature-based adventure with your family and little ones. In the event of a family excursion, you’re going to want a folding travel water bottle or two with you.

Folding travel water bottles collapse easily into flat and compact bottles that rest comfortably anywhere. Great for flying with, these folding bottles flatten out to make it through security and expand again comfortably during plane rides. You can find these in many different sizes to accommodate both adults and children, and they wash easily for efficient and hygienic transport.

Toiletry bags, TSA-approved travel bottles and containers

Traveling with cosmetics and other toiletries is a nightmare for many. When you’re flying, you’re only allowed to take certain sizes of items in carry-ons due to safety concerns, and the rest must go in stored or checked luggage. In checked luggage, however, your bag is tossed and stacked a bit more roughly, meaning loose bottles can easily spill and damage or destroy many of the clothes you’ve so carefully packed. Travel bottles and toiletry bags are designed to secure cosmetics and other loose toiletries on the go so you won’t have to worry about spills.

I use small travel bottles and containers to carry different things, from my day and night creams to my toner, mouthwash, and all the stuff that usually I have in bigger sizes at home. When I travel, I carry everything “travel-size” that won’t add too much weight but that will still last long enough until I go back home.

Travel Toys and Games for Children

Children can easily become bored on travel, and when little ones are bored, things can become a hassle very quickly. The last thing a tired parent needs is a child asking “are we there yet, are we there yet, are we there yet?” as they travel or to be constantly entertaining their child and managing airport or other transportation plans. Travel toys and games are compact and easy sources of entertainment for your children that will keep them entertained and distracted so parents can focus on getting from place to place in one piece.

Travel toys and games can be themed on all sorts of other things, including road-trip style, flight style, or more. Designed to fit into tight spaces and travel easily without requiring a lot of time or energy to set up, travel toys and games will be a traveling family’s best friend and are must-have travel essentials for family.

Digital Luggage Scale

When you’re packing up to fly for a vacation, you might find that your luggage is beginning to weigh a lot more than usual. The additional essentials you require when you’re traveling with a little one begin to add even more weight to your suitcase than you might have predicted, saddling you with overage fees and heavy bags that are expensive to fly with and impossible to maneuver around airports or in taxis. Digital luggage scales give you an idea of what to prepare for and help you plan your packing smartly from the get-go.

A digital luggage scale gives you an immediate and accurate read on your baggage weight, helping you pack to stay under your airline’s suitcase requirements so you’re not caught off guard with an expensive overweight fee you’re not prepared to pay. Use the luggage scale to help you get an idea of where your suitcase is sitting and plot out what can go where for an effective packing strategy. You can also use the scale to figure out how much weight you’ll be lugging around so you can mentally prepare for where and how you’ll be storing your things, another valuable tool to add to your packing list for travel with the kids.

Baby Stroller for Traveling

A foldable and compact stroller is another must-purchase for parents. As you travel, you want a stroller that folds up simply and effortlessly into a small and portable size. Whether it needs to tuck into a plane’s stowaway container or into the trunk of a car, your compact stroller design should be slim, thin, and easy to carry. You can unfold it anywhere and use it on any terrain to help cart baby and baby’s necessities around comfortably without having to rent a stroller or juggle all of your baby’s needs in backpacks or other bags.

As a parent, a secure and reliable baby stroller for travel is a must have part of your new routine. Regardless of your specific needs, a compact design and additional storage features on travel strollers allow you to travel with your stroller and your baby conveniently, taking a burden off your shoulders and allowing you to fully enjoy your travels with your new family.

Camera for Travel

Family vacations are sweet and sentimental moments you’re going to want to capture forever. Your new and growing family is a precious gift, and the early moments and memories you’re making together are things you and your children will look back on for the rest of your lives. Make sure you have a tangible way to remember these sweet moments by packing a camera for travel to ensure you can capture all your favorite moments live and preserve your memories forever.

Disposable or reusable cameras can both provide permanent memories of your exciting new trip. These days many people have good cameras on their phones as well, but you may find that bringing a separate camera designed especially to capture travel memories prods you to take nice-looking photos more often, creating valuable keepsakes you can treasure for years.

Portable High Chair

High chairs are staples of eating with young children. Many little ones are simply too small to support themselves as they eat, especially in unfamiliar locales or places with tables and dining sets that are not meant for children. Having a high chair means your baby or toddler can eat comfortably and safely in a chair they’re familiar with, making the sometimes difficult ritual of eating easy and familiar.

Not every high chair is designed to travel conveniently, however. In this case, a portable high chair is essential to your travel plans. Flying is made easier with a portable and compact high chair that can tuck into stowaway containers on planes. Even driving on road trips is more convenient with a small high chair that’s designed to fold and travel easily.

Baby Carriers to Travel With a Baby or Toddler

Take your baby with you everywhere in a safe and comfortable baby carrier that securely nestles your baby on you as you walk about your latest adventure as a family. When strollers aren’t allowed or are difficult to travel with, a baby carrier can keep your little one close to you and make travel easy, convenient, and relaxing for you and your baby.

A baby carrier that can comfortably handle hot weather, cold weather, stains, sweat, rain, and more will be a versatile and functional part of your family routine. Baby carriers are key parts of your family security and ensure your baby is comfortable and cared for while you go about your day. Picking a supportive, secure, and reliable baby carrier that lasts your child a long time is essential to easing your new family into a relaxing vacation.

Compression Socks For Traveling And Flying

Flying with your family for the first time? Consider investing in compression socks. An underutilized but valuable flying tool for adults and kids, compression socks can reduce the painful clots, circulation issues, and other swelling caused by flying. Preventing swollen legs, aching feet, and the threat of more serious diseases like deep vein thrombosis or other damage is easier than ever thanks to compression socks.

You should check with a doctor to see if your little ones need compression stockings, but adults should definitely purchase a pair or two for your flight. Especially if you’ll be hauling around extra luggage and holding little ones while they sleep, your legs and feet will be tired enough as it is. Compression socks reduce the pain and soreness of flying and standing and promote happy foot health for your entire family.

Toiletry Bags to Pack Your Cosmetics

Cosmetic containers can also make for easy and mess-free storage of baby essentials on the go. If your little one needs certain creams, lotions, or other treatments to help keep them happy and healthy, a cosmetic container can make those readily accessible in the car or in other locations. Toss in sunscreen mess-free and say goodbye to the days of wiping up spilled or excess lotions from every surface in your car. A hanging toiletry bag can organize all your cosmetic supplies immediately and hang on the backs of doors, strollers, or car seats for easy access to what you need when you need it.

You can find all types of toiletry bags, for men, for women, for children, in leather, mesh, with zipping, buttons, waterproof, with pockets and more. After all the years I spent abroad traveling around the world from Italy , Iran , Afghanistan , China , India , I wouldn’t be able to see myself packing without a good toiletry bag. I do carry quite a few cosmetics with me, and I usually have a small bag for TSA-approved containers and a bigger one to pack in the checked luggage.

Portable Blender For Traveling

A portable travel blender is a great tool for parents with young children or babies who are beginning to transition into solid food and eating patterns. Formula and other growth mixes can blend easily anywhere with a travel blender that plugs into hotel rooms or sometimes even car power ports for simple use. You can also mix up other baby foods, vegetables, or other foods and make them into a soft and gentle liquid that’s the right consistency for your baby.

The travel blender can also be a good travel plan for families who eat healthy. Love protein shakes or other smoothies that are staple parts of your diets? It’s easy to save money and whip up some food in the comfort of your own room that meets your diet plan and home routine without costing you money and time.

Traveling with a family is an exciting but complicated process that requires some additional care and forethought in order to execute properly and successfully. Organizing your family vacation is simpler than ever with a travel checklist for family, helping you not to forget important details and keeping you on track for a positive experience. Turn your family vacations into lifelong memories with careful planning and thorough preparation thanks to our packing list for families.

I'm Angela Corrias, an Italian journalist, photographer, and travel writer located in the heart of Italy's capital. Welcome to my website, your comprehensive source for your travels and expert guidance for crafting your dream travel experience.

Traveling With a Baby in the US – All You Need to Know

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The Ultimate Family Vacation Packing List: Know What to Pack for Your Family Trip (2023)

What to Pack for a Family Vacation Checklist

Ready for your next best family vacation? Below we have created a family vacation packing list for you, your hubby, and the little ones, so the only thing you have to worry about is the flavor of your margarita!

✅ Important Documents

✔️  Boarding Passes - Most airlines allow their passengers to check-in online up to 24 hours before their flight. Make sure to check in within that window so you can choose the best seats for the fam.

✔️  Passport / Visa - Double check the expiration date of your passport and make sure it won't expire in less than 6 months. If it does, best make the arrangements to renew them before your the date of your trip. If you're traveling abroad, check the visa requirements of the country you're going to visit.

✔️  Driver's License / Other Valid IDs  - Only adult passengers 18 years old and above are required to present identification at the checkpoint. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Homeland Security have extended the REAL ID enforcement to October 1, 2021. You can read the announcement right here.

✔️  Hotel / Other Reservations - Confirm your reservations before leaving. Make sure you've reserved the right date and time so you won't have any problems when you arrive there.

✔️  Travel Insurance - Have a safety net when you travel. You'll never know when an emergency happens and when it does, you'll be covered and ready with your insurance.

✔️  Emergency Contact Numbers - Get a list of all the emergency contact numbers of your bank or credit card company, travel insurance company, doctor and others so you know who to contact just in case your phone, wallet, and other important things get stolen.

Pro Tip: Aside from having mobile or digital copies, make printed copies of all your documents. Keep your documents in an easy-access place when needed. After presenting them at the checkpoint, make sure to store them in a safe and secure place to prevent losing or misplacing them.

✔️  1 to 2 Pairs of Jeans, Pants, Leggings - Choose your most comfy ones to make travelling and strolling enjoyable.

✔️  1 Light Jacket - For strolling or going out with the fam on colder nights.

✔️  4 Casual Tops - As a mom, try to balance comfort with style. Pack a variety of tops (short sleeves, long sleeves, etc.) that are perfect for photos and yet cozy enough to let you do your mom duties in peace.

✔️  1 to 2 Dressy Outfits - Going out with the family at night in a nice restaurant deserves a nice dress, don't you think?

✔️  1 Nice Sundress - To wear when the weather is warmer than usual. 

✔️  1 Cardigan - Great to wear over your dress or tops.

✔️  Accessories - Bring your lesser prized jewels and your staple rings, bracelets, and necklaces for traveling. Leave the expensive ones at home. Organize them in this travel jewelry pouch for safekeeping.

✔️  2 Pairs of Shorts - To give your legs some room for more mobility and ventilation while on go.

✔️  Workout Outfits - If you want to squeeze in a yoga session or a quick stretching while the kids are sleeping or playing, bring a set or two of workout outfits.

✔️ Pajamas - Flimsy tops and bottoms that can be easily be folded and rolled would certainly do.

✔️  2 Swimsuits - Pack two so you'll have an extra swimsuit to wear while waiting for the other one to dry.

✔️  Rash Guard - To protect your skin, especially your arms, from too much sun exposure.

✔️  2 Cover Ups - Match them with your swimsuits for a stylish look.

✔️  Sarong or Big Scarf -   Super stylish and can be used as a beach towel, pillow, or blanket.

✔️  Day Bag - Bring a bigger purse or a canvas tote bag that can hold your personal items for going out during the day.

✔️  Bras & Undies - Pack enough and just wash to wear them again the next day.

✔️  Socks - Bring a few pairs to keep your feet comfy while wearing shoes.

✔️  3 Pairs of Shoes - One pair or comfortable shoes for walking, a pair for going out at night, and a pair for strolling.

Pro Tip:   Before you put anything in your bag, decide what outfit you’re going to wear on the plane. That way, you only have to look for it in your closet (and not scramble through your already-packed bag to find one pair of leggings).

✔️  1 to 2 Pairs of Jeans or Khaki Pants - Bring your most comfortable ones for the journey.

✔️  1 Pair of Slacks - For a dressy evening with the fam.

✔️  1 Light Jacket - A sports jacket or a denim one to wear over a shirt.

✔️  4 Casual Tops - Pack a few lightweight and comfy shirts or tank tops.

✔️  2 Pairs of Shorts - Perfect for walking and strolling.

✔️  2 Button-Down Polo Shirts - Go for lighter colors when traveling during the day in summer and earthy neutral tones as change of clothes at night.

✔️  1 Sports Jacket - Can be worn over your shirt for fancy night outs.

✔️  Workout Outfits - Bring a set or two if you're planning on working out  during your vacation.

✔️ Pajamas - Just pack thin shirts and shorts for sleeping.

✔️  Board / Swim Shorts - Choose board shorts that are loose-fitting, but not baggy and tight enough to stay up so you won't worry about pulling them when you swim or dive.

✔️  Rash Guard - To protect your skin when the sun gets too hot in the morning or at noon.

✔️  3 Pairs of Shoes -  One pair or comfortable shoes for walking, a pair for going out at night, and a pair for strolling.

✔️  Socks and Underwear - Store them in their own extra small cube to keep them organized.

For Little Girl

✔️  3 Dresses - Easy to wear over their heads and no need to coordinate outfits.

✔️  Cute Leggings & Tops -  Pack a few comfy leggings and some variety of tops like short sleeves, long sleeves, etc.

✔️   A Few Pairs of Pants & Shorts -  Pack a few in neutral colors to mix and match with the tops.

✔️  Pajamas - Pack the ones they usually sleep with so they still feel at home away from home.

✔️ Undies and Socks - Roll and organize them in their own extra small cube .

✔️ Swimsuits - Pack a bathing suit that matches yours for a classic mom and daughter OOTD moment!

✔️ Rash Guard - To protect her skin from harmful UV rays.

✔️ Shoes and Slippers - Bring one pair for walking, a nice pair for dining out, and slippers for the beach or pool.

✔️  Hair Clips & Other Accessories - Bring a few clips and ties to style your baby girl's hair and look cute for the photos!

For Little Boy

✔️  2 Pairs of Pants - Can be easily washed, dried, and worn again for the next days.

✔️  2 Pairs of Shorts - Alternate with their pants, especially when the weather's a bit warmer.

✔️  4 Tops - Make sure to pack his favorite shirts by letting him pick which ones to bring.

✔️  Pajamas - Bring his favorite set of pajamas for a more comfortable sleep.

✔️ Undies and Socks - Pack just enough for the trip. Wash and dry to be worn the next day so you won't need to bring extras.

✔️ Boardshorts / Swim Trunks -  Pack matching boardshorts with daddy as his 'mini me.'

✔️ Rash Guard - Wear with boardshorts in the morning or at noon when the sun's too hot.

✔️ Shoes and Slippers - Bring a comfy pair for walking, a nice pair for eating out, and slippers for the beach.

Pro Tip: Let older kids help by giving them a note card with the things that they need to pull from their rooms to bring in for packing written on it. Don't pack your things until your kids are finished so you can pack yours in peace.

✔️  2 Long-Sleeved Onesies - Best worn for chilly weather or when staying in air conditioned rooms.

✔️  2 Short-Sleeved Onesies - For warmer days to keep baby comfy.

✔️  4 Tops - Can be easily washed and dried using the bathroom sink.

✔️  2 Pairs of Pants - To protect baby's legs from mosquitoes or other insect bites.

✔️  2 Pairs of Shorts - Match with baby's tops for cute pics!

✔️  A Few Pairs of Jammies -  Pack baby's most comfortable jammies for a better nap.

✔️  Socks and Mittens - Avoid losing a pair by organizing them in an extra small cube .

✔️  Bibs / Burp Cloths -  Opt for those that are made of cotton chenille. It's super absorbent which makes it the best fabric for burp cloths.

✔️  Diapers - If you're traveling somewhere and staying in one place, just take enough for the day and then buy some more when you get there. If you're going to be moving around a lot, pack enough for a week or two.

Pro Tip: Layer clothes and wear the bulkiest shoes / jacket so they don’t take up room in your suitcase.

✅ Family Toiletries

✔️  Shampoo and Conditioner - Bring the brand you usually use at home and pack them in travel-sized containers.

✔️  Body Wash / Bar Soap - You can go for solid bars or liquid options to your liking.

✔️ Laundry Bar Soap / Powder - To wash your undies or your kids' clothes so you can wear them the next day.

Pro Tip: Don't take more than what you need. Make use of the washer and dryer, if it's available where you're staying. If not, pack a laundry soap and wash the garments in your hotel sink or find the nearest laundry shop.

✔️  Toothpaste and Toothbrush - Bring travel-sized toothpaste and toothbrushes for the fam.

✔️ Facial Wash -   Pack one that the whole family can use.

✔️ Moisturizer / Body Lotion - Preferably a brand that everyone in the family can use.

✔️  Sunscreen and Lip Balm - Protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays and lips from getting chapped with your go-to sunscreen and lip balm brands.  

✔️  Aloe Vera - Relieves pain and soothes skin after a day of strolling and other fun outdoor activities with the fam.

✔️  Deodorant - Keep off the B.O. with an organic deo.

✔️  Cosmetics - Pack your go-to travel makeup in a clear makeup pouch to keep them organized.

✔️  Makeup Remover - Pack in a travel size bottle, same as all your other liquids.

✔️  Cotton Balls and Swabs - Can be easily packed in a  Circle Pouch  for safekeeping.

✔️  Comb / Brush - Pack a wide tooth comb to detangle curly or wet hair easily.

✔️  Hair Gel / Spray -  Make sure to bring travel-sized version of your favorite products.

✔️  Curling / Straightening Iron -  For styling hair and looking great for the trip.

✔️  Hair Dryer - In case the hotel doesn't provide one. Best call them before packing just to make sure.

✔️  Nail File / Clippers - When your kids' nails are getting long, clip them off with nail file or clippers to avoid getting scratches.

✔️  Shaving Cream - Must be packed in a travel size container if you're traveling with a carry on only.

✔️  Disposable Razors - Pack with a plastic clip-on for the blades to prevent cuts.

✔️  Contact Lens and Solution - Bring extra pairs of lenses in case your lose them. Some countries might require a prescription before you can buy replacement.

✔️  Tampons / Pads - Keep in a separate clear pouch for mom's personal hygiene kit.

✔️  Hair Accessories - Bring a few ties and clips to keep your hair at bay either when traveling or washing your face.

✅ Family Hygiene Kit

✔️  Alcohol - For sanitizing and keeping things germ-free.

✔️  Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer - Use before and after going out.

✔️  Antibacterial Wipes - Avoid touching surfaces, especially in public areas, that you haven't disinfected with antibacterial wipes.

✔️  Eye Drops - For when your eyes gets dry and itchy during the trip.

✔️  Tissues - Pack travel-sized ones that you can easily refill when you run out.

✅ Medicine / First Aid Kit

✔️  Prescription Medicine - Bring in their original prescription bottles, if not, must be labeled clearly and properly.

✔️  Band-Aids - For minor cuts and scratches.

✔️  Aspirin - To relieve yourself of headaches and other aches.

✔️  Antacid - To treat indigestion.

✔️  Antihistamine -  To keep your allergies at bay.

✔️  Antidiarrhea Medicine - To soothe an upset stomach.

✔️  Motion Sickness Medicine - Pack a few Dramamine and you'll be just fine.

✅ Baby Essentials

✔️ Baby Carrier -  Bring a baby carrier that can be easily folded and packed so you can easily wear your baby whenever needed.

✔️ Wipes - For snots and other mess your cute little baby makes.

✔️ Diaper Cream - Diaper rashes can be very uncomfortable for babies. Pack a travel sized diaper cream to prevent irritation.   

✔️ Food and Snacks - Have a separate container for baby foods so you know where to find them when they get hungry.

✔️ Bottles or Sippy Cups - The last thing you need is having to change your baby multiple times in a day due to spilled water or liquids over their onesies. Bring two bottles or sippy cups and you'll be just fine.

✔️ Swim Diapers - Special diapers that allows your baby to dip in the water.

✔️ Collapsible Stroller - Opt for a stroller that can be easily folded and packed especially when you're traveling.

✔️ White Noise Machine - Helps baby sleep like... a baby even while traveling!

✔️ Pacifiers - Sanitize and clean before and after use.

✔️ Special Blankets / Toys - Make sure you don't lose or leave them behind during the trip.

✔️ Car Seats - Some airlines provide car seats for infants and some don't. Make sure to call your airline ahead of time to confirm.

✅ Entertainment

✔️  Card / Board Games - Bring along snake and ladder, UNO cards, and other games that can be played indoors.

✔️ Tablet - Download educational videos for your kids. Make sure to limit their screen time so they can enjoy more things outside their gadgets.

✔️ Headphones - Can be easily packed and stored in their own clear cubes for safekeeping.

✔️ Coloring Books & Crayons - Makes waiting time during transit fun for your kids.

✔️ Story Books - For your kids who still love to hear a bedtime story, or for putting the baby to sleep.

✔️ Pen and Paper - So they can practice their alphabets, words, and art.

✔️ Small Toys - Keep them organized in extra small cubes so they won't get lost.

✅ Other Necessities

✔️  Packing List - First things first, have a packing list! It will save you time and stress.

✔️  Travel List - Have your itinerary ready but don't close your doors to unexpected adventures that will come along your way.

✔️  Luggage Tags - Very helpful especially if your suitcase looks like everybody else's. It will help you spot your luggage right away at the claiming area.

✔️  Chargers - Make sure all your gadgets have their own chargers packed in one separate storage.

✔️ Travel Shoe Bag - Keep your shoes from spoiling clean clothes by storing them in their own travel shoe bag just like this one.

✔️ Power Strip - This useful tool will allow you to charge or plug in multiple gadgets at once so you won't have to fight over one socket.

✔️  Camera - You've got a camera on your phone, yes, but bring a camera as well so you can save your phone's battery for more important things.

✔️  Snacks - Have all your kids' snack favorites packed and ready to go. Have healthy and fun options like fruits, nuts, candies, and more! Trust us, you wouldn't want hangry kids during the trip.

✔️   Water Bottle - Keep the family happy and hydrated. Pack a few water bottles and just refill along the way. 

✔️  Sunglasses - Get a pair for the whole fam.

✔️  Sun Hat or Baseball Cap - Wear it to keep your head cool or just to complete the look; either way, bring one for everybody.

✔️  Outlet Adapter - So you can plug and charge your gadgets into wall outlets with different-shaped plugs than your own.

✔️ Power Bank - Emergencies happen all the time and the last thing you want is to search for an outlet while you’re out there, exploring places. Carry a portable phone charger in your day bag so you can charge your phone and not miss that perfect sunset photo.

✔️  Waterproof Pouch for Phone - Have one packed and ready to use for your beach or swimming pool escapades.

✔️   Packing Cubes - Packing cubes are a lifesaver especially when you’re putting toiletries and clothes in one suitcase.  You can use the cubes to sort your kids’ clothes into one suitcase - blue for your little prince and pink for your beautiful princess. You can also store your makeup, chargers, kids toys, snacks and so much more.

✔️  Tide Pen - Your instant stain remover to-go. Great to use especially when you have kids.

✔️  Swiss Army Knife - Your all-in-one tool at your disposal for emergency situations.

✔️  Compact Umbrella - The weather can be quite unpredictable. You've got hats for sunny days, why not bring an umbrella in case it rains?

✔️  Earplugs - Helps block out the noise so you can sleep or read peacefully.

✔️  Mini Sewing Kit - To repair minor wardrobe malfunctions.

✔️   Laundry Bag - Separate the dirty clothes from clean ones by putting them in this travel laundry bag.

We know that with the little munchkins running around, knowing what to pack and how to pack can be challenging. We hope that this ultimate family vacation packing list has somehow helped you get ready for your family trip.

You can always use this packing list to help keep your family stay organized, relaxed and happy to be traveling (especially with the kids!)

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Family Vacation Packing List: Kid and Baby Travel Essentials

We haven’t always been experts when it comes to making a family vacation packing list for travel – in fact, Dan and I used to be pretty terrible packers!

A year after we got married, we built in a summer of travel before we had to return to school and jobs. And we took two large checked suitcases. Plus backpacks. For two people. When traveling across multiple continents and using multiple modes of transportation.

I’m horrified just writing it and knew we needed a packing list for vacation with kids.

It took some practice but we’ve really honed in on what to pack for a child when traveling. When packing for kids, it can be so tempting to every thing for every potential situation. I know I’ve been overwhelmed trying to figure out how to pack light with kids and have definitely been tempted to pack kitchen sink when packing for babies.

A family travel packing list for kids and babies has been really helpful in not forgetting essentials and also resisting the temptation to overpack. Plus a kids travel list is easy to put together!

Table of Contents

Packing List for Family Vacation: Baby Travel Essentials

After 11+ years of lots of travel with kids, we’ve managed to get our family packing system down pretty tight. Having a kids packing list for a trip has been so helpful in feeling confident we have all the baby travel essentials.

One summer, we spent 10 weeks in Europe with our family of 6 and took 1 large suitcase & 2 backpacks, plus a lightweight stroller and car seat. Another time, we spent almost 3 weeks in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. We fit our entire family and kids packing list in 2 carry-on suitcases and 2 backpacks plus stroller/car seat/baby cot – largely because we stuck to our family vacation packing checklist.

If you’re wondering what to pack for a family vacation and looking for a family packing list that has every single thing you could possibly need, this is not it. Because honestly, if you really end up needing that Ace bandage or whatever, you’ll probably be able to buy it wherever you are. This baby travel checklist gets us through 95% of situations on trips ranging from 3 days to 3 months.

Kids and Baby Travel Checklist: Minimal Packing List with Kids

A kids travel packing list keeps us organized and focused when packing for family travel. Here’s the minimalist kids packing list we always use to cover our needs but still stay super lightweight and agile. I love knowing that with our kids vacation packing list we have all the baby travel essentials while sticking with minimal packing for babies.

Regarding number of outfits, per our kid packing list, we typically pack 3-5 per person for our family and baby travel essentials. We personally feel comfortable wearing outfits a couple times if they’re not dirty, and sometimes handwash an outfit and air dry if we need something before we can do a full load. That way, we can minimize the number of outfits we pack. Between 3-5 is enough that you have options, especially when mixing and matching, but a small enough number that everything gets plenty of use.

We typically pack the smaller number if going to cold weather destinations (easier to rewear outfits, we often wear base layers under, and have coats on top so they don’t get as dirty), and have more options when traveling to warm destinations.

More detail on what items I chose for her little girl packing list for a summer of travel HERE .

Family Vacation Packing List: Clothing

Here’s our full family travel packing list for kids and families!

Family Packing List: Clothing

• Packing cubes . Absolute must for organization and for fitting everything into a small amount of space. We love these for the kids, and Dan and I sometimes share THIS luggage organizer
• Favorite mom jeans
• Favorite women’s travel pants
• Lightweight skirt with pockets
• Dress (something like this is perfect for travel)
• Super comfortable joggers for men
• Comfortable & lightweight shorts for men
• Tops for men ( button down , long-sleeve , short-sleeve tees )
• These are our very favorite pajamas for kids
• Though they’re pricier, I strongly prefer wool base layers. They’re super comfortable as pajamas, or for layering when it’s cold. And since wool can be reworn several times without washing (just air out in between), they’re perfect for a minimal packing list for kids. My favorites for adults & kids .
• These synthetic base layers are inexpensive and also very warm
• If going somewhere sunny, I like rash guards for my kids ( girls , boys )
• I usually like a 2-piece for myself because they dry faster and take up less room
• I again prefer wool if possible because it doesn’t require as much cleaning ( this one is a favorite)
• Slouchy cardigan
• Kids sweater outfit
• Kids sweatshirt (easy to wash & dry)
• Most comfortable women’s bra
• These are our favorite, super durable wool socks , which can be air dried and reworn without washing as wool is naturally antimicrobial and smell-resistant
• These less expensive wool blend socks are also warm and comfortable, though not as long-lasting as the ones above
• If we’re traveling somewhere not too cold, we love the Uniqlo ones for adults and kids – they smush down well, add barely any weight, and are perfect for layering or wearing alone)
• For colder weather, this is my favorite jacket – super lightweight and packable but also very warm and great for layering. Pricey but worth every penny.
• If we’re going somewhere warm and wet, we love this long and waterproof rain jacket for women , this men’s rain jacket , and this kids rain jacket
• Knit hats /gloves if it’s going to be cold (I also like these mitten clips )

Baby Packing List

Babies do have some unique needs so we follow a slightly different packing list for babies. Namely, we take an extra couple outfits because you never know what will happen!

• 5-6 bodysuits
• 5-6 outfits
• 3 pairs of pajamas (our favorite pajamas for babies)
• 1 pair of base layers
• 2-3 sweaters
• 5-6 pairs of socks (our favorite socks that don’t come off)
• Diapers (If we’re traveling somewhere and staying in one place, we’ll take enough for one day, then buy them there. If we’re going to be moving around a good bit, we take about a week or two worth, since we’d have to make room for them in the luggage at some point, anyway.)
• Swaddle or sleep sack
• 1 jacket (I like the one piece coveralls like this for babies)

Family Packing List: Shoes

We really try to limit shoes as much as possible since they’re bulky and heavy! We don’t usually worry about dress shoes when packing for kids and do our best to limit our family packing to 1-3 pairs of shoes per person, depending on where we’re going. Here’s more about our favorite travel shoes for men & women .

• These are, hands down, the very best walking shoes for women
• One pair of sandals if warm ( these are my very favorites because they can dress up or down, are super comfortable, and very packable)
• If we’re traveling in snow, we have subbed a pair of waterproof shoes or rain boots instead of walking shoes and managed with just one pair before!

Kids Travel Checklist: Toiletries

• Wipes (trust me, you’ll want some even with older kids)
• Toiletries case ( THIS is my very favorite)
• Toothbrush/toothpaste/floss
• Face cleanser (in a mini bottle )
• Shampoo / conditioner (also in a mini bottle )
• Aluminum-free deodorant
• Face moisturizer , night serum , & oil (I pack mini versions; more about my skincare here )
• Hand sanitizer
• Mini hair brush and hair cream
• Mini dry shampoo
• Ziploc bags (a few each of quart size and gallon size)
• Small resealable plastic bag of powdered detergent (for hand washing) or a few laundry pods
• I love this bandana in my hair, around my neck, etc.
• These are the very best hair ties
• I always pack some baby hair ties and some little bows for my girls

Baby Travel Checklist: Medical Items

We don’t go crazy with the medical items when we travel with kids. We’ve found that we’re able to purchase most things in most places, and the likelihood of needing them is slim. Still, we do take along a few things that get more regular use and helpful in emergencies.

• Bandages (the only kind worth buying )
• Anti-bacterial ointment
• Prescription medicines
• Any required vitamins (like prenatals )
• Glasses/contacts/contact solution/contact case
• Pain reliever ( baby , children’s , and adult ) – we often put these in labeled plastic baggies stored safe from children so we don’t have to carry all the bottles
• This kind is the same exact dosage as the children’s specific ones, but is much cheaper and smaller than most kid chewable tablets
• Icy Hot (growing pains come up more when you’re walking a ton)
• Anti-nausea ginger chews or kid’s dramamine if prone to motion sickness
• Insect repellant (we love THIS lotion with Deet when in tropical areas; this also works well)
• Sunscreen (these are my favorites for face & for kids/bodies )
• Lice comb (Trust me, it’s one of those things you hope isn’t one of the baby travel essentials. But it’s small and you’ll be so glad to have it if you need it.)
• Small thermometer

Family Travel Packing List: Electronics

• Photography gear
• Portable charger + charging cord
• Laptop + charger
• Cell phones + charger
• Car vent cell phone mount if you’ll be driving (to view GPS)
• USB car charger (we love our 4-port one )
• Aux cable (in case your rental car doesn’t have Bluetooth, then you can still play audiobooks/music; here’s one that goes Aux to lightning port )
• Travel power adapter

Baby Travel Checklist: Baby & Kid Items

• One stuffed animal for each child
• Baby carrier ( THIS is our very favorite carrier and has been since our oldest was a baby)
• Car seats and/or booster seats (all about our favorite car seats for travel )
• Stroller (our beloved lightweight one apparently no longer exists, but this looks similar)
• Baby cot if needed ( THIS is our favorite super lightweight one)
• Nursing cover if needed ( THIS is my favorite kind that can also cover a car seat, burp cloth, blanket, etc.)
• Bib ( THIS is the only bib that does a thing – we just take one and wipe it down)
• Breast pump if you need it
• White noise app on your phone (one that will run in the background so you can still use your phone if needed)
• Pacifer + clip
• Bottles + formula if needed
• SNACKS. So many snacks. More snacks than you think you could ever consume in a lifetime.
• Reusable water bottles ( THIS is my favorite, and we like THIS and THIS for the kids – leave them empty and fill them up in the airport)
• Each of our older kids carries a foldable backpack that can fold up with their travel necessities – snack, Kindle, stuffed animal, jacket, etc.). It’s also great to have one or two extra of these in case you need to rearrange luggage or carry food or something.
• Dan loves THIS for all it holds
• I usually carry something like this or this as a diaper bag
• Inflatable foot rest (these are so great for kids to sleep on planes…definitely a kids packing list essential)
• Suitcases (more about our favorite luggage for families )
• 1-2 small quick-dry travel towels if visiting the beach or a hot spring

Kids Travel Essentials: Entertainment

• Kids Kindle for each independent reader
• One small bag of Click-a-Bricks or LEGOS
• One small bag of paper and crayons
• Small bag of toy cars
• 2-3 small board books and/or early readers
• If we’re going on a road trip or have extra space, the Cinemood is really small and SO fun

Family Vacation Packing List: Travel Documents

• Driver’s license
• 2 credit cards
• 1 debit card
• Copies of passports stored digitally and in a separate bag
• Copies of birth certificates stored digitally or in a separate bag (airports occasionally ask for proof of baby’s birthdate even when flying domestically so this is good to have on your baby travel checklist)
• Confirmation numbers for airlines, hotels, rental cars, etc.

FREE KIDS PACKING LIST PRINTABLE

I love having a printable kids travel checklist to print for each of my kids. I just fill in the number of items that they need to pack, and cross of anything they don’t need (like gloves if we’re going to a tropical destination, for instance).

Pop in your email below and the free family packing checklist will come right to your inbox!

FREE Family Packing Checklist

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IF YOU LIKED THIS PACKING LIST FOR KIDS TRAVEL ESSENTIALS, YOU MIGHT LIKE THESE POSTS, TOO:

• Ten Tips for Getting Over Jet Lag with Kids
• Mom Capsule Wardrobe for Summer Travel
• Ten Tips for Renting Out Your Home on Airbnb

Pin this post to save my Family Vacation Packing list!

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The Ultimate Family Travel Checklist

• July 31, 2023

Going on a family adventure is an exciting and memorable experience. You’re just about to make some core memories as a family, so best make sure everything is in order before you head out. 

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a more extended vacation, traveling with the whole family requires careful preparation and organization. To ensure a stress-free and enjoyable trip, prepare a comprehensive family travel checklist that covers the needs of every member, including your little ones and furry friends. 

With this ultimate family travel checklist , you will get a list of the must-have items, essential tips, and helpful insights for traveling with toddlers, kids, and dogs. So, let’s get started on planning your next unforgettable family adventure!

Before we get into packing essentials, make sure everyone’s passports are up-to-date. Check any visa requirements that you may have. If traveling with a pet, study the guidelines of the airline plus the destination concerning bringing pets. 

1. Packing Essentials for Toddlers

Traveling with toddlers can be exciting and nerve-wracking for you. As the parents, you have to make sure they’re comfortable, and their routine doesn’t get messed up. Plus, if you’re taking a flight with them, there’s the added stress of keeping them entertained and busy for the duration of the flight. So here’s what you must carry when traveling with your toddlers: 

– Diapers, wipes, and diaper rash cream

Make sure you have an ample supply to last throughout the trip. You want to eliminate any runs to the grocery store at your travel destination. Carry as much as possible, and then mark your nearest utility store in case you need any extras. 

– Extra clothing

Pack enough outfits to account for spills, accidents, and changing weather conditions. It’s unpredictable with toddlers. They might need multiple changes of clothing throughout the day. And you don’t want to spend precious time washing, drying, and ironing clothes. Make sure you have enough clothes for your little ones. 

– Snacks and drinks

Keep your little one well-fed and hydrated with their favorite snacks and drinks. You know their eating routines better than anyone. Make a list of their favorite snacks that you can carry on the go, and keep them in your baby bag. 

– Travel-friendly toys and activities

Bring along toys, books, stuffed animals, pacifiers, and games to keep your toddler entertained during the journey. Toddlers can easily be distracted by their favorite items. So carry these with you. 

And of course the last item: your vast baby bag. All the stuff mentioned above goes into a baby bag. So make sure you carry one that follows any airline guidelines etc. 

2. Must-Haves for Kids

Now for your kids, who are a little more independent than your toddlers. They have different needs while traveling. But yes, one thing is for sure, they will be more excited and cooperative when traveling. You have got to work to make them excited about the trip. Tell them about the activities that you’ve planned and the food they will get to eat. As for packing, here is your list: 

– Clothing for various weather conditions

Pack a mix of comfortable clothing suitable for different activities and climates. If you’re going to a destination with bipolar weather, make sure you carry jackets and have multiple layers of clothing for your kids. 

– Medications and first aid kit

Ensure you have any necessary medications and a well-stocked first aid kit for minor injuries or illnesses. Carry your basic over-the-counter medicines and any prescribed medicines or ointments your kids need. Save yourself that trip to the pharmacy when you’re traveling. 

– Electronics and chargers

If your kids enjoy screen time, don’t forget to pack their tablets, headphones, and chargers. 

– Snacks and water bottles

Keep hunger at bay with a selection of healthy snacks and refillable water bottles. You can include them in this decision-making process. Ask them about their favorite snacks and what they’d like to eat on the trip, and pack accordingly. 

– Entertainment options

Bring along books, coloring supplies, puzzles, or travel games to keep the kids engaged during the trip. This is super important, as these will keep your kids entertained while you also enjoy some solo time. 

3. Essentials for Your Furry Friend

And now comes the time for your furry little friends. First things first, are you taking them along on a flight? Make sure you have all the requirements sorted to travel with your pet . Get the necessary permissions, and documents in order. 

– Collar, leash, and ID tags

Make sure your pet is properly identified and secure on a leash during travel.

– Food and water bowls

Pack collapsible bowls that are easy to carry and use on the go.

– Pet food and treats

Bring enough food and treats to last the duration of your trip, ensuring your pet’s dietary needs are met.

– Bedding and blankets

Create a comfortable space for your dog to relax and sleep during the journey and at your destination.

– Waste bags and cleaning supplies

Keep the environment clean by carrying waste bags and cleaning up after your pet. Make sure you make time to take them for a walk or keep their bathroom schedules aligned with your travel itinerary. 

4. Travel Tips and Insights

Traveling with family, toddlers, kids, and pets can be a hand full, but worth all the effort. These 5 tips can help smoothen out the journey for you: 

– Plan for breaks and rest stops

Long journeys can be tiring for everyone. Schedule regular breaks to stretch, use the restroom, and let your pet exercise.

– Research pet-friendly accommodations and attractions

Ensure your lodging accommodations and planned activities are pet-friendly.

– Pack a travel-sized first aid kit

Include items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications for unexpected situations.

– Prepare necessary documents

Have all your documents in one place, so you don’t have to rummage around for them. Plus also bring vaccination records for your pets, as some accommodations or travel destinations may require them.

– Research local pet services/pharmacies/grocery stores 

Familiarize yourself with nearby veterinary clinics or pet hospitals in case of emergencies. Also, look for the nearest pharmacies and grocery stores in case you need some extra items for the kids or yourself.  Traveling as a family can be a rewarding and memorable experience, filled with precious moments and shared adventures. This Family Travel Checklist will give you all the essentials needed to keep your toddlers, kids, and furry friends happy and comfortable throughout the journey. Just remember, organization and pre-planning is the key. So, start planning your next family getaway with confidence, knowing that you have everything in place to make it a truly unforgettable experience

Letisha Jaramillo

Hey there, I'm Letisha Jaramillo, a Mexican blogger who loves to share my experiences and insights about lifestyle, travel, and resources. Through my blog, Road To The Unknown, I offer helpful tips and advice to inspire fellow travelers and adventure-seekers. Join me on this exciting journey and let's discover the unknown together!

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Microsoft 365 Life Hacks > Organization > The Ultimate Family Vacation Packing Checklist

The Ultimate Family Vacation Packing Checklist

Remembering to pack everything you need when you go on a solo trip is hard enough; packing for a family vacation can be even more difficult if you’re not prepared. Make sure you’re keeping track of what each family member needs, the type of weather you’ll be vacationing in, and account for potential emergencies that can arise while you’re away.

What to Include in Your Family Vacation Packing List

If you feel overwhelmed when packing for a family vacation, you’re not alone. Traveling with multiple people requires you to have the different essentials that each person needs. You’ll also want to be mindful of how you pack each item so that you’re not taking up unnecessary space in the luggage. Follow a family vacation packing list to make sure you’re packing everything that you and your loved ones need to enjoy the trip.

Keep track with Microsoft To Do

Keep all your lists handy and organized. Plus, easily share with others to get things done together.

Clothing is the first thing you should pack for each family member. Pack according to each person’s style, but it’s important to take the weather into account too. Tightly fold and roll shirts and jeans or use packing cubes to help you maximize the use of the luggage space. Take care of the larger clothing items first because you can squeeze smaller items on the sides of the luggage. If you’re packing bulky items, like winter jackets, you may want to vacuum seal them to shrink their sizes in your suitcase. Other clothing items you might pack for the family are:

• T-shirts or blouses
• Bottoms, such as Jeans, pants, jumpsuits, rompers, skirts, or shorts
• At least one formal outfit for each family member
• Bathing suits
• Workout clothes
• Jackets or hoodies

Depending on the location and planned activities, you may want to pack different types of shoes for your family vacation. Hiking warrants a different pair of shoes than going to the beach or out to dinner. You’ll want to protect your feet, be comfortable, and wear appropriate attire when you travel. Some shoes you may want to pack for your family are:

• Casual shoes that are also comfortable to walk in, like sneakers
• Dress shoes or heels
• Flip flops or sandals
• Hiking boots
• Swimming shoes
• Winter boots

Even though you may have official living arrangements for your family vacation, it’s important to pack your own toiletries. Hotels may not carry the brands you prefer, and it’s possible that your family can run out of the toiletries that are provided. Aim for travel-size toiletries instead of full-size ones. Full-size items can take up a lot of unnecessary space in your luggage, and the contents can spill if tossed around. Some toiletries you should pack for your family vacation are:

• Shampoo and conditioner
• Body lotion
• Toothbrushes and toothpaste
• Dental floss
• A hairbrush and comb
• Facial cleanser
• Razor and shaving cream
• Contact lenses and solution
• Feminine hygiene products

Personal Items

Whether you’re traveling alone or with your family, you’ll need to pack some essential items that help keep your traveling process smooth. If your family is flying, you may need to pack passports, forms of photo ID, airline tickets, debit or credit cards, and proof of hotel reservations. However, you should also pack non-essential personal items to keep you and your family comfortable and entertained while traveling. Some essential and non-essential items you should pack for your family vacation are:

• Cell phones
• Chargers for all electronics
• Playing cards
• Coloring books
• Stuffed animals
• Books or journals

Outdoor Protection

Unless your family plans on staying indoors throughout the vacation, it’s important to pack items that protect you all from the dangers of outdoor conditions. Even if it’s warm or cold, your family should be prepared with items that help protect their skin while they’re enjoying outside activities. Some items you may pack for outdoor protection are:

• Hats for protection against the sun
• Insect repellent
• Mittens, winter hats, and scarves if you’re traveling in the cold
• Reusable water bottles

Medical Necessities

While a hotel or cruise ship may have first aid kits, you should pack your own if your family is taking a road trip. You can buy a pre-packed first aid kit, or you can create your own based on your family’s needs. Pack medical necessities that can help with emergencies but also pack items that your family members need according to their own health concerns. Some items that your first aid kit should include are:

• Insurance cards
• Medications
• Thermometer
• Disposable gloves
• Hand sanitizer
• Anti-itch cream

Baby and Toddler Items

You can’t forget about the little ones when you’re packing for a family vacation. When traveling with babies, toddlers, or other young children, it’s important to pack for their specific needs. Include items that help you feed them, hold them, and entertain them on your trip. Some items you should pack for your young children are:

• Baby carriers
• Diaper ointment
• Bottles or sippy cup
• Swim diapers
• Formula, baby food, or their favorite snacks
• Extra clothes
• Nursing equipment
• Child-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hats to protect them from the beaming sun

Using a family vacation packing list can help you remember all the things you and your loved ones need to enjoy the trip. Staying organized and following a checklist is a solid way to figure out what’s necessary to pack and what can stay at home. Adjust this list according to your family’s needs, the location you’re traveling to, and the method you’re using to get there.

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Vacation Checklist

Posted on Published: 11/11/2023

Are you planning a family vacation? While vacations are fun, and often help you relax, regroup, and enjoy your family, it can often be stressful before your trip. With everything that you need to do before you leave, you’ll probably need your vacation time just to relax.

Last summer, before heading out on our European family vacatio n , I spent weeks preparing for our trip. Whether you are going on a quick weekend getaway or an epic European vacation, here is a vacation checklist of some of the things that you may need to do before you go for a stress-free vacation including things to pack on your vacation.

Did we leave anything out? Leave us a comment, and we’ll regularly update this post.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you.  All opinions are our own.

Note that this may not be a completely comprehensive travel checklist. We are not responsible for omissions. Use it as a starting point for your next family vacation.

Vacation Checklist For Your Family Vacation

Packing your bags: travel packing list.

This is the most obvious, but also the most stressful. I have the most difficult time figuring out exactly how much I need to bring on my vacation. It’s a delicate balance between packing every single thing you may possibly need and keeping your bags lightweight.

Depending on your plans, you’ll need to decide how many bags to bring. If you are flying, you’ll typically be allowed a personal item and a carry-on bag (although some airlines may charge for the carry-on).

Most airlines (with the exception of Southwest Airline s) charge for checked bags. It’s a good idea to check with your airline before packing so that you can be prepared. This post can give you some ideas when choosing to pack only carry-on bags or include a checked bag .

Before you start packing, take a look at the weather for your upcoming vacation. If you are going to multiple destinations, make sure that you check each spot.

I remember going to Hawaii and San Francisco on our honeymoon, and completely forgetting that San Francisco weather can be chilly. I ended up adding a few San Francisco sweatshirts to my wardrobe during that trip!

Packing lists

We have travel ultimate  packing lists here that you can download. These vacation packing checklists may not include everything that you need, but they should be a good start.

If you are traveling to Europe, you can check out our Europe packing list with some additional items to bring. Our travel packing lists are separated based on the type of trip you are taking (with different lists for a beach vacation , theme park vacation, and city vacation).

If you take medication, make sure you refill your prescription before leaving. If you need a prescription for the refill, you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of time to talk to your doctor.

Packing Cubes

One of our top travel tips is to use packing cubes . They can help you pack light and are a great way to separate out outfits for each member of the family. When we switch hotels on vacation, I find packing cubes especially helpful. That way, we have our outfits divided by location and don’t need to unpack the items that we don’t need.

Find packing cubes to buy here .

If you are flying, you’ll want to pack your carry-on bags with things that you may need on the flight. In addition to things like my phone and charger , I also like to carry a small first aid kit with essential medications (including my daughter’s Epi-Pen), a water bottle, and a snack. You’ll also want to include important paperwork and valuables.

Prepare Your Home When You Go On Vacation

You’ll want to make sure that you have your mail held before you leave. I also generally tell a neighbor that I am going on vacation so that she can make sure that no packages are sitting outside our house while we are away. Even if you hold your mail, some items can show up.

If you have a pet, in addition to arranging pet care, you’ll want to make sure that all shots are up to date. This may involve getting a vet appointment, so do this early. I’ve found that our kennel gets especially booked up during school vacations and holidays, so make that reservation early.

Verify All Plans For Your Family Vacation

I’ve heard nightmare stories of people who accidentally booked their flights for the wrong weekend, or who forgot to book a hotel. Recently, I’ve also had many of my flights changed a bit by the airlines. Before you leave, just re-verify all of your plans, making sure that everything is set exactly as you want it to be.

If you are flying, now is a good time to ensure your seat assignments haven’t changed at all. I’ve experienced a change in seating that I was unaware of, and it’s always better for you to be aware of it sooner, especially if that change means you are no longer sitting next to your kids. Sometimes this is a result of a change of aircraft.

Get All Travel Documents Ready

Check passports, driver’s licenses, and other IDs now. Make sure that your credit cards haven’t expired or won’t expire soon.

I’ve known people who have tried to rent a car with an expired driver’s license and were turned away. It’s easy to miss – so it’s always better to check in advance. Remember that you may need a Real ID to fly soon.

In addition, pull all of the paperwork that you need to bring, including vacation documentation, boarding passes, confirmations, etc. While you may have some of this information in your email, I always find it easier to bring along a printed copy so I’m not stuck looking it up if I need it.

If you are traveling internationally, know the name and address of where you are staying so you can add it to the customs paperwork if that is asked.

Prepare Your Phone For International Travel

If you are traveling out of the country, you’ll want to talk to your wireless provider to find out if you have coverage. If not, you may choose to purchase an international plan. Even if you don’t have wireless coverage, you can still use Google Maps – you just need to download the area that you need to your phone while you are on WiFi .

There are also some apps that you may want to download to make your vacation more efficient. Do this in advance so you don’t have to do it on the road.

How do you prepare to go on vacation? Is there anything else we should add to our vacation checklist?

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The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .

Clothes to Pack

• Dress Shirts
• Casual Shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Laundry Kit
• Leisure Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Dress Shoes
• Collapsible Tote

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

• Dental Floss
• Conditioner
• Styling Tools
• Facial Cleanser
• Face Lotion
• Moisturizer
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Solution
• Shaving Supplies
• Makeup Remover
• Menstrual Products
• Birth Control/Medication
• Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• First-Aid Ointment
• Insect Repellent
• Pain Relievers

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

• Laptop/Tablet
• Film/Memory Card
• List of Medications
• Banking Contacts/Information
• Electronic Chargers
• Emergency Contacts
• Copy of Passport
• Plug Adapter

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

• Books or E-Books
• Travel Blanket
• Travel Pillow
• Disinfecting Wipes
• Change of Clothes
• Empty Water Bottle
• In-Flight Medications
• Passport/Visa/ID
• Credit/ATM cards
• Insurance Cards
• Maps/Directions

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .

Scrubba Untouched Review

Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .

The 5 Most Crowded National Parks (and Where to Go Instead)

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .

The Best Ski Hotels in the US

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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