Packing for Your Family Vacation

Many people love to travel, but they hate to pack. They end up waiting until the last minute, and then either pack way too much, or leave out something that they really need, like their passport or toothbrush. It doesn't have to be that way, if you plan accordingly, and start packing early; it is possible to get everything that everyone needs, even if you are packing for the entire family. Think about your trip, the weather, what you will be doing, and then start packing. It is best to do it when you won't be distracted, so that you can make certain you get everything you need, without packing up the entire house.

One of the most obvious parts of packing is your clothing. It isn't really that difficult for adults, as you likely will only need one outfit per day, and then underwear, pajamas, and maybe a bathing suit or jacket, depending on the weather. With children, you never know how many outfits per day they will need. Some children have to change clothes every time they eat, because they are so messy. Others get outside and sit in the grass, run and play, and get dirty. One thing that can make packing for children a little easier is if you stay at a hotel that offers on site laundry areas, so that you can do a load as needed. If this is the case, then you can get by with packing a lot less, which will save you time, and keep you from having to drag a lot of luggage around as well. If you are unable to find such a hotel, then you will need to pack at least two outfits per day for each child, and maybe even a few extras. In this case, it will probably be better to have a little more than you need than not enough.

To get by with packing less, if you pack outfits that are interchangeable, such as jeans and t-shirts, you might be able to wear an article more than once, meaning that you can pack less, and have fewer luggages to carry around. Try to think of ways to get by with less clothing, so that you can really narrow down your packing. Again, this trick may not work for children.

For younger children, you also have to remember to pack diapers, wipes, changing pads, baby bath, baby shampoo, etc. You can take your baby bathtub with you if you choose, although it will take up a lot of space. Your best bet might be to use washcloths and water from the sink to get baby clean. If you are going to an area that has plenty of stores available, you can probably get by with taking less diapers and wipes, since you can buy them as needed. You definitely should pack enough for the trip though, at least until you reach your destination.

You also don't want to forget to pack your personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soaps, deodorant, etc. In many cases, you may be able to purchase travel packs that contain smaller sizes, saving room in your suitcase. If you or a family member take daily prescription medications, you should remember to pack those as well. Rather than take the entire bottle, you can take just enough to do for the expected duration of the trip, and then a few extra, just in case the unexpected pops up and you are gone longer than you planned to be. If you have children, you should also make certain to pack insect repellent, sunscreen, etc.

It is quite possible to take some of the pain out of packing, if you give yourself plenty of time, and think about everyone's needs as you pack.

Alaska Airlines Vacations Announces 'Kids Fly Free to Disneyland ... - MarketWatch

Alaska Airlines Vacations Announces 'Kids Fly Free to Disneyland ... MarketWatch - Nov 19, 2008 Vacations must be booked before March 18, 2009, and are valid for travel Jan. 7 through June 17, 2009. Sample package prices include: $657 from Flagstaff ...

No sun? No problem - Toronto Star

No sun? No problem Toronto Star,  Canada - Nov 20, 2008 This applies to just about every Sunquest, Holiday House and Fun Sun Vacations destination, for vacations between three and 21 days in duration. ...

Alaska Airlines Vacations Announces 'Kids Fly Free to Disneyland ... - International Business Times

Alaska Airlines Vacations Announces 'Kids Fly Free to Disneyland ... International Business Times, NY - Nov 19, 2008 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Alaska Airlines Vacations today launchedits newest "Kids Fly Free to The Disneyland(R) Resort" program, offering greatsavings on family ...

Alamo and Disney Parks Are Giving People a Reason to Celebrate ... - MarketWatch

Alamo and Disney Parks Are Giving People a Reason to Celebrate ... MarketWatch - Nov 18, 2008 The Alamo.com online sweepstakes begins today and runs through January 18, 2009, and will award 20 vacations to the winner's choice of either Disneyland(R) ... Alamo and Disney Parks Are Giving People a Reason to Celebrate ... International Business Times all 21 news articles

Two hours late, charged for an extra day - MSNBC

Two hours late, charged for an extra day MSNBC - Nov 18, 2008 Christopher Elliott is the ombudsman for National Geographic Traveler magazine and the host of “What You Get For The Money: Vacations” on the Fine Living ...