What Should I Pack for a Family Vacation?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning a family vacation but feeling overwhelmed about what to pack? Fear not!

With a little bit of planning and organization, you can make sure you have everything you need for a stress-free and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips on what to pack for a family vacation.

Clothing

When it comes to packing clothes for your family vacation, think versatility and comfort. Pack clothing that can be mixed and matched, and that can be worn in layers to accommodate different temperatures. Depending on your destination, consider packing the following:

  • T-shirts
  • Shorts/pants/skirts
  • Sweaters/sweatshirts
  • Swimwear
  • Rain jackets/ponchos
  • Hats/sunglasses
  • Comfortable walking shoes/sandals

Toiletries and Medications

Don’t forget to pack all the necessary toiletries and medications for your family. To ensure nothing gets left behind, create a checklist before you start packing. Here are some things you might want to include:

  • Toothbrushes/toothpaste/floss/mouthwash
  • Shampoo/conditioner/body wash/soap
  • Hair styling tools (brush/hair ties)
  • Sunscreen/lip balm with SPF protection
  • Insect repellent/mosquito netting
  • Pain relievers/allergy medicines/first aid kit
  • Paper towels/tissues/wet wipes/hand sanitizer
  • Contact lenses/glasses/contact solution
  • Baby wipes/diapers/formula/bottles (if applicable)

Entertainment and Electronics

Long journeys can be tedious for kids, so it’s a good idea to pack some entertainment and electronics to keep them occupied. Here are some ideas:

  • Books/magazines
  • Coloring books/crayons/markers
  • Cards/games/puzzles
  • Portable DVD player/tablet/laptop
  • Chargers/batteries/power banks
  • Headphones/earphones

Miscellaneous Items

Finally, here are some miscellaneous items that might come in handy on your family vacation:

  • Cash/credit cards/traveler’s checks/passports/ID/documents
  • Folding umbrellas/tote bags/backpacks/day packs/fanny packs for day trips
  • Bathing suits/beach towels/sand toys/beach chairs for beach trips (if applicable)
  • Grocery bags/reusable water bottles/snacks/drinks for road trips or long car rides
  • Coolers/ice packs/travel mugs for camping/hiking trips (if applicable)

In Summary..

Packing for a family vacation can seem overwhelming, but with a little bit of planning and organization, you can make sure you have everything you need. Remember to pack versatile and comfortable clothing, all necessary toiletries and medications, entertainment and electronics for the kids, and any miscellaneous items that might come in handy. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a stress-free and enjoyable trip.