Vacations are an excellent opportunity to enjoy time with your family. However, if you have kids, you need to think about possible situations and plan ahead what to bring. Moms, the easiest way to make sure you don’t forget anything is by making a list. Learn how to make the ultimate list for a perfect family vacation.
Here are a few things you must always pack for a trip:
Favourite toy
Children can be pretty unpredictable. Their mood changes frequently. However, if they have their favourite toy with them, things can run more smoothly. Every kid has a toy that makes them feel comfortable. I suggest you pack two toys for each kid to have a backup plan if the first toy goes missing. Happy children, equal relaxation time.
First aid kit
Always pack the first aid kit. However, make sure it meets your family’s needs. For example, if your children have allergies, make sure you include the relevant medicine. Prepare for extra cases, like walking into poison ivy or a beasting. Always have some calamine or other anti-inflammatory cream for these types of situations. I suggest packing an insect repellent spray too, not to say the cute band-aids are a must for any type of vacation.
Clothing and shoes
Kids don’t tend to be very attentive with their stuff, meaning they could lose their socks or have an accident. Although it may sound like unnecessary advice, it could really affect your vacation. Whether you are on the beach or in the woods, their clothes can always get ripped or very messy. Better be prepared than sorry.
Extra chargers
We live in a digital world. Even toddlers use electronics nowadays, and although it may not be the best idea, giving your kid a tablet or smartphone is the easiest way to keep them entertained. I’m not a ‘child spending their time on a smartphone advocate’, but that’s what exceptions are for.
Wall chargers, car chargers, make sure you pack extras in case one pair gets miss placed.
Activities and games
The best alternative to tablets and smartphones are toys. What are your child’s favourite activities? Make sure you add them to the packing list. For example, flashcards, colouring books and crayons are educative activities that help your kid develop the brain.
Insurance card
You never know what life can bring you. It’s best to prepare for the worst-case scenario in the event of an accident. Check if your children’s insurance card is still active, and make sure you pack.
Sunscreen
How many sunscreen lotions would you normally pack? If your answer is one, I’d say you are a rebel. I suggest two bottles of sun protection cream. Protecting your kid from sunburns will is a must. Make sure you pack at least two bottles in case one of them goes missing, or worst, leak in your travel bag. Sunburns are very painful and uncomfortable, which means your kid will have a hard time sleeping, and that includes you in the equation.
Refreshments
You need to pack extra snacks and drinks for any trip. Don’t be afraid to go wild with the food. Children like to eat crazy snacks. Based on your kids’ age, make sure to take extra diapers, formula, bottles, and wet tissues. It’s better to have more stuff with you than run low.
Bath time
From bathing essentials to swimming suits, make sure you pack extras. Although most hotels offer body wash, soaps, lotion and towels, it could become a problem if you stay there for a few days. Not to say, the hotel supplies might not be kid-friendly, or worst, it could provoke allergies. Make sure to pack stuff you already know won’t affect your child’s skin.
This is the ultimate vacation checklist for moms. Make sure you double check everything before leaving home.