Traveling With Kids

This week I embark on another trip with my two small children.  As I mentally prepare myself for the trip, I start making notes about the things to pack, leave home and buy before we leave. 

The first think I do before packing is to check my computer and see what the weather is going to be like where we’re going.  Then I start a list of clothing for the kids and me. Sorry Dad, you’ve gotta pack your own bag!  

I begin with footwear and outerwear.  Two (2)  pairs of shoes per person is the limit and I pack each shoe in a plastic bag to help keep other items in the suitcase clean.  I pack one light to mid-weight coat and a sweater or sweatshirt to go underneath it for each child.  I also pack a hat and pair of gloves.  You’ll probably be outside quite a bit when you’re traveling, so pack a small umbrella for each person.  Kids love umbrella and I just found a great one from Totes that has a small flashlight built into the handle which is great for being out at night.

Next, I start the packing list for clothes.  One factor to consider before you pack is whether you’ll have a washer/dryer where you’re staying.  You’ll need only about half as many clothes if you have a washer/dryer.  It’s also important to think about the activities you’ll be doing on your trip and which ones will require a change of clothes after.  

I also have a few items that I always travel with.  First is the PediaPak travel medicine kit.  It comes with the essentials you’ll need to handle cuts, scrapes, colds, coughs, fevers, sunburns, other minor burns and more.  It even comes with a thermometer, tweezers, scissors, cold pack, bandages, and more.  I’ve had mine for 3 years and the only things I’ve replaced are medicines (Advil, Tylenol, etc) and band aids.  I also pack the kids tooth brushes and toothpaste in the PediaPak case.

I also travel with a small flashlight and two (2) night lights.  I put the flashlight on my nightstand and the night lights in the bathroom and where the kids are sleeping.   When you’re in an unfamiliar hotel or home, a flashlight can come in handy, especially if you have any unexpected emergency. 

Now the clothes are packed.  Tomorrow, I’ll pack other needed travel gear and the carry-on bag for the airplane!